Ocean Kayak (USA)

Fun, rugged, affordable, and easy to use. Ocean Kayak is unrivaled in the sit-on-top kayak market. 

 Ocean Kayak is an American company specializing in the production of high-quality sit-on-top kayaks, primarily designed for recreational paddling, fishing, and ocean touring. The brand is known for its durable, stable, and user-friendly designs, making its kayaks popular among both beginners and experienced paddlers. Ocean Kayak originated in the early 1970s in Malibu, California, and has since grown into one of the top manufacturers of sit-on-top kayaks in the world.

History of Ocean Kayak

Ocean Kayak started when its founder, who was an avid paddler, decided to modify a surfboard into a kayak by adding a seat. This innovation laid the foundation for the development of sit-on-top kayaks, which have since become a staple in the paddling world due to their versatility and ease of use. Today, the company is part of Johnson Outdoors, a larger outdoor recreation company, but still operates with a focus on designing kayaks that provide comfort, stability, and performance.

Types of Ocean Kayaks

Recreational Kayaks:

• Malibu Series: These kayaks are designed for casual paddling on calm waters, such as lakes, bays, and rivers. The Malibu 9.5 and Malibu 11.5 models are popular for their stability, easy maneuverability, and comfort. They are ideal for families or individuals looking for a fun day on the water.
• Scrambler Series: A versatile series for both beginners and more experienced paddlers, suitable for everything from calm water to light ocean surf. These kayaks offer great stability and are easy to paddle.

Fishing Kayaks:

• Prowler Series: These are specifically designed for fishing enthusiasts. The Prowler Big Game II is one of the top models, offering excellent stability, ample storage, rod holders, and comfortable seating. This model is perfect for fishing in both calm waters and more challenging ocean conditions.
• Trident Series: These kayaks, such as the Trident 11 and Trident 13, are highly regarded in the fishing community. They offer features like fish finders, gear storage, and rod holders, making them a top choice for serious anglers.

Tandem Kayaks:

• Malibu Two: One of the most popular tandem sit-on-top kayaks in the world, the Malibu Two can be paddled solo or tandem, offering great versatility for families, couples, or friends. It is stable and easy to maneuver, with comfortable seating for long trips.
• Zest Two Expedition: A longer tandem kayak designed for touring and long-distance paddling. The Zest Two offers great speed and tracking, making it perfect for ocean kayaking adventures.

Touring Kayaks:

• Tetra Series: These kayaks are designed for longer trips and touring. The Tetra 10 and Tetra 12 models offer great speed and tracking, ideal for paddlers looking for adventure in open waters or along coastal areas. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and perform well in various conditions.

Key Features of Ocean Kayak Boats

• Sit-On-Top Design: Ocean Kayak is known for its sit-on-top design, where the paddler sits on top of the kayak rather than inside it. This design provides several benefits:
• Ease of Use: These kayaks are easier to get in and out of, especially in open water. This is particularly useful for beginners and families.
• Self-Bailing: Sit-on-top kayaks have scupper holes that allow water to drain out of the kayak, making them ideal for ocean and surf conditions where waves can wash over the deck.
• Comfort: The open design offers more space and comfort, especially in warm weather. Many models feature adjustable seats for better back support.
• Durability: Ocean Kayaks are made from high-density polyethylene, a tough material that is resistant to impacts and abrasions. This makes them highly durable and capable of handling rugged use, whether in calm lakes or ocean surf.
• Stability: One of the standout features of Ocean Kayaks is their stability. Their wide hulls provide excellent balance, making them difficult to tip over, which is important for beginners and those paddling in choppy or ocean waters.
• Customizable Features: Many models, especially the fishing kayaks, are equipped with features like rod holders, gear tracks, and storage compartments. Some even come with built-in transducer mounts for fish finders, making these kayaks ideal for serious anglers.
• Lightweight and Portable: Despite their durability, many Ocean Kayak models are lightweight and easy to transport. This makes them a great choice for paddlers who need to carry or lift their kayaks onto cars or trailers.

Materials and Construction

Ocean Kayaks are primarily made from rotomolded polyethylene, a tough and long-lasting material that can withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater environments, rocky shores, and direct sunlight. The single-piece construction of the kayaks ensures they are less prone to leaks and can endure impacts with rocks or obstacles.

Popular Models

• Malibu Two: Known for its versatility, the Malibu Two is a top choice for tandem kayaking. It’s stable, comfortable, and suitable for both ocean and calm water.
• Prowler Big Game II: This fishing kayak offers a wide platform for anglers, making it highly stable and capable of handling larger waves and open ocean fishing conditions.
• Trident 13: A favorite among serious kayak anglers, this model provides excellent speed and tracking, along with ample storage and fishing-specific features.

Key Uses

• Recreational Paddling: Whether on a calm lake, river, or near the shore in the ocean, Ocean Kayaks offer an excellent experience for those who want to enjoy nature and paddle casually.
• Fishing: With specific models designed for anglers, such as the Prowler and Trident series, Ocean Kayak provides boats that are highly stable and equipped with fishing-specific features.
• Touring and Exploration: Models like the Zest Two Expedition and Tetra series are ideal for longer paddling journeys and open-water adventures.