Best 3-Person Kayaks: Inflatable & Hard-Shell Options

Kayaking with friends or family is such a fun way to bond. But squeezing three peeps into a Best 3-Person Kayak takes the adventure up a notch! However, descent Best 3-Person Kayaks can be tricky to find compared to ones made for just 1 or 2 paddlers. 

We want your crew’s first-time triple kayaking to be epic, not stressful. So we put top-rated 3-seaters to the test on real waves considering performance, comfort, quality, and price: hard shells or inflatables.

Our research helps match fantastic Best 3-Person Kayaks to your needs and budget. Whether you just want a vessel for splashing around or need something durable that’ll handle rapids, our guide previews models guaranteed to take your trio’s water fun to new heights!

Check out our breakdown comparing all the key details before deciding which of the best 3-seaters fits your next adventure. Making group memories has never been easier!

Some key changes:

  Sea Eagle 420x Explorer

Specifications

Length	Width	Weight	Capacity
14′	39″	44 lbs	855 lbs

Overall our top 3 person kayaks is the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer. Its excellent stability stands out, keeping it balanced in whitewater or calm lakes so beginners can handle it. Despite fitting 3 grown adults, it only weighs 44 lbs for convenience. 

And the reinforced polyester body survives any conditions without puncturing while packing tons of gear. The downsides are slower speed and average maneuverability. But we’ll take supreme stability and durability over racing performance! Sea Eagle 420x Explorer has many pros and cons.

Old Town Dirigo Tandem Plus

                            Family-Friendly Sit-Inside

Length	Width	Weight	Capacity
15 feet 3 inches	29.5 inches	75 pounds	475 pounds

The Old Town Dirigo Tandem Plus in Best 3-Person Kayaks is great for family adventures thanks to the space for three inside. Two big cockpits with comfy seats fit adults, while a small jump seat works for kiddos. You can even tweak the back seat to fly solo!

This ride also lets you pack endless gear with a big back compartment fitting even coolers. Extra storage spots keep essentials bone dry too.

Regarding comfort, we’re talking about adjustable cushy chairs and footrests suitable for all heights. No sore bums here after hours of paddling! It does take more work steering this big boy. But it makes up for clunky turning by staying on course, thanks to excellent tracking abilities. It’s also basically indestructible against scratches and dings with hardy polyethylene.

The one catch is it’s fairly heavy. Hoisting 75 pounds on a car takes serious lifting power. But that rigid material also makes this kayak sturdy and durable long term.

So if you want room for three AND all your gear in a sit-inside kayak built like a tank, the Dirigo Tandem Plus fits the family fun bill!

Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL

                      Best Sit-On-Top for Family Adventures

Length	Width	Weight	Capacity
13 feet 4 inches	34 inches	68 pounds	500 pounds

The Ocean Best 3-Person Kayaks Malibu Two XL is a top-notch sit-on-top pick built with stability as a priority. This makes it ideal for families with little or furry pals tagging along.

While not the fastest runner, it handles flatwater paddling like a champ. It’s also shockingly sturdy in ocean waves given its bulkier shape. So don’t let rougher coastal waters scare ya!

Comfy, adjustable padded seats provide lower back relief even on all-day trips. With a roomy interior design, you and your copilot can stretch into perfect positions.

some kayaks have a 300lb capacity kayak.

There’s decent storage for hauling most gear or weekend camping equipment without feeling crowded. Convenient hatches placed by each seat keep essentials dry too.

We do have to warn that this tough guy weighs nearly 70 pounds. Yes, quite the heavy-lifting workout. But the tradeoff for ruggedness might be worth a little upper-body strain!

If stability with the family or pets is a concern though, the Malibu Two XL checks that box for sure. Prioritizing balance over speed gives this kayak super reliable handling that beginners will appreciate.

Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack

High-Performance Inflatable

Length	Width	Weight	Capacity
15’3″	36″	44 lbs	795 lbs

If you want a fast, packable, and crazy sturdy Best 3-Person Kayaks, say hello to the Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack! This bad boy takes all the best parts of its popular little bro, the 385ft version, then juices up size and performance.

It stretches over 15 feet long and 36 inches wide – a mega interior! Tons of space fits up to 795 pounds worth of friends, furry pals, and gear for camping or fishing ventures.

While inflatables sometimes lack balance, this one keeps steady. Stand up all you want without tipiness! Falling overboard is not easy to do. Yet it somehow avoids feeling overly bulky.

It earns its FastTrack name by gliding with pace, while the tracking stays locked on straight paths. Wind can’t compete! Maneuverability around tight turns feels a bit slower due to the size. But the tradeoff of excellent speed stability makes up for any clunky steering.

Let’s talk portability – under 45 pounds is awesome. Throw it in the trunk with zero sweat. Set up and tear down clocks for 10-15 minutes if you use the electric pump. Such little effort given the performance payoff!

Now to be transparent on cons – this gem has a premium price tag given all its perks. But to snag durability, zippy speed, huge carrying volume, plus inflation convenience? We say worth every penny if it fits your budget!

TAHE Beach LP3

Excellent Value for Money

Length	Width	Weight	Capacity
12’6″	40″	37 lbs	505 lbs

When it comes to affordable and reliable family kayaking, the TAHE Beach LP3 inflatable kicks butt. Sized for solo, duo, or even trio action, it’s got versatility on lock.

This rugged rubberized boat holds its thanks to the hydro-what?-hull shaping. Plus segmented air sections prevent sad deflations, while snap-on fins drive nice tracking so you go straight.

Portability is where the LP3 stands out. At just 37 pounds, it won’t weigh down your next adventure – spontaneous paddle sessions, check! The included backpack makes hauling it barely a chore. We’re talking a speedy 10-minute setup so more moments on the water. Such a score.

I’ll level on a couple of nitpicks to make your experience rad. The included paddles run kinda short for how wide this kayak beams out. Upgrading to longer oars saves achy arms.

It also retains moisture below post-paddling. Let it dry thoroughly inflated to prevent mold buildup if stored folded. A small cost for budget-friendly versatility!

Sevylor Big Basin

Budget-Friendly Choice

Length	Width	Weight	Capacity
12’3″	37″	35 lbs	490 lbs

If you’ve got a family of 3 on a budget, the Sevylor Big Basin Best 3-Person Kayaks delivers big space without the big price tag. Designed for calm waters, it glides well enough to relax on slow rivers or lakes.

While cheaper inflatables can ride like soggy noodles, this one carves fairly responsively. It travels reasonably straight too courtesy of snap-on fins, though hard shells track better. But it’s the stability that bowled us over – crazy steady, even fully loaded! Such a confidence boost for new paddlers.

We do need to level on a few drawbacks for fairness. The seats lack ample cushion and contouring, leading to sore bums on longer journeys. And practically speaking, only 2 people fit comfortably with gear crammed in. Lugging for camp trips is tight.

Drying everything out post-splash is also messy since water and inflatables love snuggling within zipped layers. Our pro tip is wiping it thoroughly before deflating, then air drying fully inflated at home pre-storage.

At the end of the day, scoring a Best 3-Person Kayaks with great stability at this price is major. Despite corners cut on seats and storage, the Big Basin undisputedly brings big value for casual family paddling on a budget.

Comparison and Analysis

Finding awesome 3-person kayaks takes serious sleuthing. We put loads of models to the test based on key features that impact overall quality and fun. Why such a nitpicky evaluation? Because details determine if you’re left struggling or living that paddling dream!

We ranked models on 7 must-have attributes:

Portability

Now quality construction and portability are neat. But crappy stability or comfort can ruin paradise vibes instantly. We weighted categories like those extra high accordingly. Choose wrong and all you’ll envision is returning your 3-person before the maiden voyage.

But when does the perfect on-water partner come along? Pure bliss has our thorough criteria behind it! Just read our reviews in detail before falling in love with any old kayak. You and that vessel need to jive on a deep level!

Best 3-Person Kayaks of Comparison Table

Model	Sea Eagle 420x Explorer	Old Town Dirigo Tandem Plus	Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL	Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack	TAHE Beach LP3	Sevylor Big Basin
Overall Score	72/100	72/100	72/100	71/100	66/100	59/100
Tracking & Glide	Moderate tracking & gliding	Excellent tracking & gliding	Good tracking & gliding	Good tracking & gliding	Fair tracking & gliding	Fair tracking & gliding
Maneuverability	Moderate maneuverability	Moderate maneuverability	Good maneuverability	Moderate maneuverability	Good maneuverability	Good maneuverability
Stability	Very stable	Stable	Very stable	Very stable	Very stable	Stable
Comfort	Comfortable	Very comfortable	Comfortable	Comfortable	Moderate comfort	Moderate comfort
Storage	Ample storage space	Ample storage space	Good storage space	Good storage space	Limited storage space	Limited storage space
Build Quality	Good build quality	Good build quality	Good build quality	Good build quality	Moderate build quality	Moderate build quality
Portability	Moderately portable	Less portable	Less portable	Moderately portable	Highly portable	Highly portable
Length	14 feet	15 feet 3 inches	13 feet 4 inches	15 feet 3 inches	12 feet 6 inches	12 feet 3 inches
Width	39 inches	29.5 inches	34 inches	36 inches	40 inches	37 inches
Weight	44 pounds	75 pounds	68 pounds	44 pounds	37 pounds	35 pounds
Weight Capacity	855 pounds	475 pounds	500 pounds	795 pounds	505 pounds	490 pounds
Material	Strong reinforced polyester	Three-layer polyethylene	Single-layer polyethylene	Strongly reinforced polyester	Polyurethane-coated nylon/tarpaulin	PVC

Tracking and Stability

A Best 3-Person Kayaks Ability to go straight and maintain speed matters big time – especially on long trips. You want that smooth, steady glide to make paddling almost effortless!

In testing, the Old Town Dirigo Tandem Plus led the fleet when it came to top tracking and gliding confidence. We’re talking barely a wiggle off course thanks to its optimal length and specially shaped hull. Go the distance in this hard shell beauty without exhaustion!

The Malibu Two XL took second place with reliable straight steering for its wider build. Inflatable-wise, the Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack impressed too courtesy of fixed fins that day no to veering. Breezy conditions barely blow this one off target!

While awesome instability, the Sea Eagle 420 Explorer prioritizes control over quickness given its design. Manageable for newbies rather than racing! But the clip-on skeg keeps moderate tracking integrity.

For cheaper options, the TAHE LP3 inlandable and Big Basin models don’t disappoint tracking either – especially the LP3. Removable fins assist steering without constant paddle corrections. Glide suffers some given affordability. But solid choices for casual paddling!

Bottom line? Consider interest in pacing and distance when shortlisting kayaks if wandering off course wrecks your peace!

Maneuverability

How easily and quickly a Best 3-Person Kayakszips around matters for navigating tight spots or obstacles. Shape, weight, width, etc enable turning agility (or lack of!). The compact, lightweight TAHE LP3 and Sevylor Big Basin aces steer as the squirrels in testing. Their smaller sizes allow tight squeezing into spaces and spinning fast when needed.

 The Malibu Two XL took bronze for respectable cornering and response thanks to dual rudders. We encountered moderate difficulty only given its wider berth. 

Middle contenders Sea Eagle FastTrack and Explorer balance reliable tracking with adequate handling for versatile performance across conditions. Traversing rivers and dodging debris put these to the maneuver test nicely.

As expected, the lengthy Old Town Dirigo Tandem ranks lowest for clunky agility. But satisfying enough control exists without quick turns being its strong suit. For laidback family outings, it fits the bill! So decide – is nimble handling mandatory to match your paddle plans? Prioritizing agility helps determine the ideal stability-to-speed ratio of your perfect partner!

Keeping Your Balance Stability

When riding rapids or waves, stability is key to keeping giggles going, not panic. Our top steadiness award goes to the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – riding easy even through whitewater chaos thanks to a wide, robust build. We’re talking standing and sightseeing level balance!

Fellow inflatables Sea Eagle FastTrack and TAHE LP3 took second and third thanks to rigid floors that handle leans and lunges like bosses. While hard shell Malibu Two XL and Big Basin models also react admirably to body adjustments and sudden splashes. Sorry to say the otherwise awesome Old Town Dirigo pitches easiest when stationary.

Comfort in Best 3-Person Kayaks

While spacious for crews, comfort nuances separated the kayak VIPs from those eliciting soreness complaints. The Dirigo Tandem Plus triumphed supremely on open and adjustable ergonomic seating tailored to height variances. Goodbye, leg cramps!

The Malibu Two XL satisfied backs too with specialized lumbar reinforcement. Sea Eagle models secured runner-up slots with decent built-in backrests. Although for long-haul journeys with antsy passengers, our winning adjustable seats remain unparalleled. Brand name inflatables surprisingly don’t equate cushiest rides!

Pack It In, Pack It Out

When it comes to hauling mass quantities of gear or camping s’mores rations, the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer and Old Town Dirigo Tandem Plus go big on packing potential. Both swallowed generous provisions leaving ample space for passengers. Open access hatches also help stash extras en route securely.

Middle contenders like the Malibu Two XL balance moderate cargo volumes against people power. While budget options TAHE LP3 and Big Basin better suit minimalist single outings unless you pack Spartan style! But truly – don’t forgo paddle trips for lack of a cooler room alone. Where there’s a will (to cram), there’s a way!

Withstanding Wear and Tear

Inflatable or hard shell, every Best 3-Person Kayak eventually shows some war wounds. But robust builds like the Dirigo Tandem’s triple layer “polymath-whatever” plastic and Sea Eagle FastTrack’s thick polyester make these tanks practically puncture and peel-proof. Resilient against dings with regular inflation maintenance factored in.

That said, even the least expensive models can still withstand occasional abrasions or deflations and keep on kicking. Maybe consider a few backup patches based on material just in case! Unless angling for class IV rapids, inexpensive shouldn’t automatically equate to flimsy floats. Judge construction smartly against needs and budget!

Easy Transportation = Exploration Nation

When it comes to schlepping cumbersome Best 3-Person Kayaks without a buddy team, convenience scores huge bonus points! Inflatable models specifically shine for compressing into car trunks and suitcases significantly slimmer than 12-foot hard shells – we felt those relieved shoulder muscles firsthand!

But for short solo hauls, be it beefy or bagged, focus on carrying ease first and what terrains make sense. Where there’s willpower (possibly plus a cute kayak wheelie cart) there WILL be water!

Portability in Best 3-Person Kayaks

Lugging bulky boats can burst your water fun bubble fast. But conveniently packable kayaks exist without sacrificing adventure!

The featherlight champ is absolutely the 37-pound TAHE LP3 inflatable, easily hoisted by lone wolves like yours truly. Equally impressive? The Sea Eagle FastTrack’s ability to condense into a slickest backpack after rapid deflation. These compressible wonders stow essentially anywhere.

Even bagless rigid models like the wider Malibu Two XL can solo carry with short distances and wheeled assistance. But attempting to heave its 68-pound mass atop an SUV solo? Consider me bowing out gracefully!

Truly though – don’t let transit logistics alone limit destinations, especially with conveyance carts abounding. Where there’s will (or wheeled power) there is a way! Focus instead on build quality and intended water challenges. Port aging plastic or punctured vinyl will quickly quash thrill-seeking!

The Verdict

Choosing the best 3-person kayak depends on more than just how comfy it is or how much stuff it can hold. It’s also about handling the weight right. There are different kayaks, like the strong Sea Eagle 420x Explorer for adventurous families, and the cheaper Sevylor Big Basin. Each one has good things and not-so-good things. But what matters is knowing how to manage the weight in the kayak.

A good tip is not to load more than 70-75% of what the Best 3-Person Kayaks can handle. If you put too much weight, it might be hard to control and could tip over. Also, try to spread the weight evenly. That helps the kayak stay balanced and easier to handle.