Pros:Ease of use, Durability, Good in a variety of conditions
Cons:Really cannot hold 2 large adults
The Bottom Line: Durable and inexpensive. Perfect entry level boat. Bring it to the beach with some kids or friends. Everyone will want to use it.
This was my first Ocean Kayak Purchase. Since getting the Malibu's I bought more boats for the family and decided to keep the Malibu's for friends to use. Purchased as a family boat. I Bought 2 for a family of 4. Now, I have 6 Ocean Kayaks (2 Malibu's, 2 Scrambler XT's and 2 Scupper Pro's) and enjoy them all. Please see my other reviews. Lots of fun and easy to handle. It takes two people to carry the boat using the bow and stern handles. I can carry it by myself (only short distances) by putting the boat on edge with the cockpit closest to me then reach over and grab a scupper(drain hole) with one hand and grasp the hull inside on the inside of the top deck along the cockpit with my other hand. Ocean Kayak recently released side handle options but I suggest they be dealer installed as the location is essential for balancing the boat. There are some very good folding kayak carts on the market. Good with 1 adult and 1 child and a cooler. Kids can jump in anytime and get back on easily. For two large adults I suggest a larger boat from Ocean Kayak (Cabo) as paddler weight can be an issue. Although the boat is rated for more I would limit passenger weight to 350Lbs. More than that and the boat will be far less stable. As a single you can sit in the middle (there seat molded in the center and you can get a special seat back for the middle) and load it with lots of gear. Good for limited distance touring. Great for most conditions. Had these for two seasons so far and they still look and function as new. Great starter boat. If kids are old enough you may wish to consider getting them their own boat. It also works perfect for a pair of kids. I found that when my kids bring a friend along they can keep up with me on a single without much difficulty. This is good if your kids get tired easily. Its fun for them as well. I suggest getting the deluxe backrest as it makes paddling more comfortable especially if you get a sore back. This boat can be really fun if you like to surf swells and light breaking surf. If surfing I would make sure both paddlers are experienced. Boat is hollow with NO positive flotation (most sit on top kayaks do not) so be sure you have a life jacket. This boat is very durable and impact resistant. As with most plastic kayaks keep out of the sun during storage. They should be kept covered to avoid fading and softening of the hull.
Recommended: Yes
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