The Sea Eagle 380X was the very first inflatable kayak I ever bought. That was well over a decade ago. I had that kayak for many years and went on countless awesome adventures with it.
Fast forward to present day and I now have the latest model and love it just as much.
This is a kayak that is so extremely versatile. It comfortably seats two adults but the seats can be moved and adjusted for solo paddling as well.
For me the thing that stands out the most with the 380X is how comfortable it is. From the high back seats, to the rigid floor, to the stable pontoon-like sides this kayak feels great to paddle.
It is ideal for paddling with dogs or kids plus it can be used on just about any type of water making it very versatile.
I kayaked a fair amount over the years before I purchased the 380X but always in regular hard-shell kayaks. This was the first inflatable that I tried.
I did a lot of research before buying it to make sure I was getting a good product. Over the years the 380X has exceeded my expectations in durability, performance, comfort and portability.
To be honest this kayak is special to me. My mother who passed away almost 9 years ago loved kayaking with me in the 380X. We spent a year before she passed paddling all over the place.
The 380X was the first kayak she had paddled and she fell in love with the sport. We loved throwing the 380X in the back of the car and taking road trips to different paddling destinations.
Over the years I moved on to faster models such as the Sea Eagle FastTrack and eventually their ultra sleek Razorlite kayak.
However I have now circled back around to often using my new 380X, especially when out paddling with my dogs. You just can’t beat the overall comfort level.
| SEA EAGLE 380X | SPECS |
|---|---|
| Length x Width (EXTERIOR) | 12’6″ x 11’9″ |
| Length x Width (INTERIOR) | 40″ x 15″ |
| Weight | 18 KG / 40 lbs |
| Max Load | 350 KG / 750 lbs |
| Air Chambers | 3 Chambers |
| Inflation Pressure | 3.2 PSI |
| Deflated Size | 31″ x 20″ x 9″ |
| Whitewater Rating | Up To Class IV Rapids |
| Stability |  |
| Performance |  |
| Price | Best Deal: SEAEAGLE.COM |
MATERIAL & SEAMS
The Sea Eagle 380x is really made tough. The material is very strong, resistant to punctures and UV damage.
The seams are quadruple overlapped glued making leaks uncommon.
The Sea Eagle company has been around for a very long time. They’ve had decades to perfect their construction so that it holds up exactly as you would want it to for an adventure kayak.
Check out the video below of me paddling the 380X with my pups!
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
There are several different package options to choose from with this kayak so you can customize it based on your needs. I have the Pro Kayak Package so I have based this review on that.
INCLUDED IN THE PRO KAYAK PACKAGE:
- 380X Explorer Hull With Separate High-Pressure Floor
- 2 Adjustable 4-Piece Paddles
- 2 Adjustable High-Back Seats
- 2 Kayak Stow Bags
- Foot Pump
- Slide-In Skeg
- Carry Bag
- Repair Kit
OTHER OPTIONAL PACKAGE ITEMS INCLUDE:
- Shorter Paddles
- Carbon Paddles
- Inflatable Seats
- Quiksail
- Motor With Motor Mount
- QuikRow Kit
SPECIAL FEATURES
Over the years the 380X has changed only slightly with a few little improvements here and there. Below are all of the important features to be aware of.
HIGH PRESSURE RIGID FLOOR
The older models (going back at least 5 years) had the standard inflatable floor that resembled an air mattress. These floors were comfortable to sit on but did nothing to help performance.
The more recent Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks use a separate high-pressure drop stitch floor that sits on top of the outside floor. This floor is much more rigid than it was in the past.
There are 3 main advantages to this high-pressure floor:
- It makes the kayak more durable and able to withstand more bumps, scrapes and overall abuse.
- It greatly helps with performance. I notice a big difference in how this kayak performs with the high-pressure rigid floor. It tracks better and the overall glide is smoother with less drag.
- Also the floor can be removed for easy cleaning and for making sure all areas of the kayak get dried properly after use.
16 DRAIN VALVES
There are 16 self bailing drain valves along the floor of the 380X with 8 along each side.
Most of my kayaking is done on fairly calm water so I have rarely had to use these drain valves.
However they can be opened and closed quite easily and are great if you are in whitewater or in heavy ocean chop where water enters the kayak.
With the drain valves open the water will easily drain out however be aware that with them open the floor of the kayak does get wet.
FRONT & REAR SPRAY SKIRTS
The attached front and rear spray skirts are invaluable as they deflect spray from entering the kayak when plowing through waves.
They also provide a small sheltered area underneath the spray skirts where you can store gear if needed.
Or if you have a little dog who likes to be navigator like my little Jax does then the front spray skirt also acts as a great seat!
Jax is ALWAYS sitting up there. He weighs 12 lbs. and it supports him well. 🙂
BUNGEE CORDS
Also on top of the spray skirts is some bungee cord that is secured by stainless steel D-rings.
The bungees can be used to secure the kayak stow bags that come with the package or for any dry bag or gear you need to bring along for the ride.
MULTIPLE D-RINGS
There are 10 stainless steel D-rings along the sides of the kayak, 5 on each side. There are also 4 D-rings being used by the front bungees and 4 being used by the back bungees.
The 5 bungees along each side of the kayak are there so you can place your seats where you want them. They are also perfect for safely securing gear inside the kayak when whitewater kayaking.
FRONT & BACK CARRY HANDLES
There is a durable carry handle on both the front and back of the kayak.
With these two handles it is easy to carry the 380X with two people.
3 ONE-WAY VALVES
Most inflatable kayaks have three air valves. With three separate air chambers the kayak is very safe because if there is ever a leak in one there will still be two more inflated to get you safely back to shore.
The 3 one-way H3 style air valves work great and no air escapes during inflation. These are a much nicer and upgraded version of the valves you typically see on the cheaper inflatable kayak models.
EASY SLIDE-IN SKEG
The large removable skeg easily slides into the fin box and clips into place. If you are paddling in calm water you will want the fin attached for better tracking and performance.
If paddling in whitewater or shallow areas then you may want to leave the fin off.
HIGH BACK SEAT
There are two seat options with the 380X package. You can get the Deluxe Inflatable seats or the Tall Back seats.
I have tried both and personally prefer the tall back seats.
The inflatable seats are comfortable and only take seconds to inflate. However I don’t find them to have the same amount of support that the tall-back seats offer.
The tall-back seats have a padded cushion and a rigid high back. The amount of rigidity and support you get can be adjusted with the straps that are attached to the D-rings.
I like mine to be very straight and rigid so I adjust the straps to keep them that way.
I have used far too many low back seats in the past in regular hard kayaks where my back would be killing me from lack of support during my paddling sessions.
These tall-back seats are awesome and better than most others that I have tried.
There are two straps on each side of the seat that can be attached to the D-rings on the side of the kayak.
There is also a fairly large removable zippered pouch on the back of the seats. This pouch is a really nice added touch that allows you to store things like snacks or a water bottle.
CARRY BAG
The carry bag that comes with the kayak is basic but works and mine has always held up fine.
The bag folds up on all four sides so you can place the rolled up kayak in the center of the bag then fold over the sides and secure the clips.
The hull of this kayak weighs 40 lbs., which is heavier than I would want to hike with for any long distance but light enough to easily carry to and from the water or to your vehicle.
With the two carry handles on the bag you can easily carry it on your shoulder. It’s actually amazing how small of a package this kayak folds into.
To make things even easier if you had two people you could each grab a handle and carry half the weight.
The bag adds protection for travel and for storage. I normally store the kayak, fin and seats inside the bag and keep the pump and paddles out.
SETUP
I have set this kayak up hundreds of times over the past ten years. Once you have done it once or twice it won’t take you any longer than ten minutes.
Once the kayak is out of the bag and unrolled you can begin by first inflating the floor.
Once the floor is done then inflate each side. You may have to push the floor down so that it sits properly in between each side.
The foot pump that comes with the package works fine. There is no pressure gauge on it so you just have to guess when it is done. In my experience once it becomes too hard to keep pumping it’s done.
It is nearly impossible to over inflate this kayak with the foot pump, it simply isn’t powerful enough. It takes me almost 8 minutes to fully inflate all three air chambers with the foot pump.
However if you would like to conserve your energy for the water then I highly recommend an electric pump. These are the best electric pump options.
Once you have tried an electric pump there is simply no going back to manually inflating. Also with the electric pump you can set the exact air pressure level and make sure the kayak is as rigid as it should be.
Once the kayak is fully inflated to 3.2 PSI you can then slide in and clip the bottom skeg and secure the seats to the D-rings. The whole process is easy and fast.
After use be sure to dry the kayak out as best as possible. I normally bring a couple old towels along to do the job. The drier the kayak the better the material and seams will hold up.
Storing your kayak away wet for longer periods of time could cause mold growth. No one wants that.
PERFORMANCE
The great thing about this kayak is that it is totally stable and great for beginners to advanced paddlers alike.
The versatile design makes it ideal for those who want to explore all different types of waterways.
Although I am not much of a whitewater kayaker myself, the 380X has what it takes to tackle up to class IV rapids.
For my own personal use I just love paddling around on lakes, rivers and along ocean bays. Usually you can see me out there with my two dogs, soaking up the beauty of nature and enjoying the complete calming effect that paddling has on me.
I find the 380X easy enough to paddle solo. In fact I use it often for solo adventures. However with two people you can really get moving and get into the rhythm and flow as the paddle strokes synchronize together.
With the fin attached and the rigid floor inflated properly, this kayak tracks quite well. It is a wider model so it isn’t going to move as sleekly through the water as a leaner kayak would.
However what it lacks in speed it makes up for in comfort, stability and versatility.
It feels safe and secure on choppy water and battles through waves and chop with great strength.
In windy conditions I find it harder to turn and maneuver when paddling solo. However with two people navigating the 380X there is a lot more power and you won’t have that issue.
PADDLING WITH DOGS
I have two little dogs who kayak with me all the time. They LOVE being in the kayak and are great company out on the water.
The Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks are very durable. The PVC material is strong. There are no issues with punctures or scrapes from dogs claws.
Even larger dogs are no problem. We used to have a German Shepard who kayaked with us and I have also had a lab in my kayak several times. No problem at all.
I would recommend placing a towel or mat on the floor of the kayak for them to sit on or lay comfortably.
LOAD CAPACITY
This kayak can hold a lot of gear! The weight limit of 750 lbs. of cargo capacity is far more than most would ever need but it is nice to have that option and know that it will still perform well even when loaded right up.
The high weight limit will be especially appreciated if you are planning to do any multi-day expeditions.
CONSTRUCTION
The Sea Eagle Explorer kayaks have always been made tough and use 1100 Decitex Reinforced PVC material.
I have been very fortunate over the years and never had a leak in this kayak, which I chalk up to a well made product and the fact that I do my best to care for it properly.
Over the years they have been able to improve the construction yet decrease the weight. My original model weighed 10 lbs. more than the 380X weighs now!
The lighter weight makes it far easier to paddle and transport. Yet it is still heavy enough to sit solid in the water and not get blown by wind.
WARRANTY
Unless you go for the much higher priced models, most inflatable kayaks will only come with a one year warranty.
Sea Eagle offers a great 3-year warranty on all of their kayaks as well as a 180 day guarantee.
Basically if you are not happy with your purchase at any time within 180 days then you can return it as long as it is in good condition for a full refund.
SIZE
The 380X is the perfect size for my needs. There is plenty of room to paddle it solo or tandem.
However there are other sizes to choose from.
- There is a smaller solo Explorer kayak called the 300X
- As well as a longer version called the 420X
- There is also the 350FX, which is a fully decked out version for anglers.
You can compare the specs below:
[supsystic-tables id=2]
PACKAGE OPTIONS
There are several package options to choose from for this inflatable kayak.
1. The Deluxe Package – The Deluxe package is the cheapest option and comes with 2 inflatable seats (they are quite comfortable), 2 AB30 7′ 10″ aluminum paddles that break down to 4 pieces for easy traveling, foot pump, carry bag and repair kit.
2. The Pro Package – The Pro package is the one I went for. It includes 2 high back adjustable seats, 2 AB40 8′ fiberglass paddles that break down to 4 pieces, 2 small kayak storage bags for the bow and stern, foot pump, carry bag and repair kit.
3. The Pro Carbon Package – This package cost an extra $100 over the Pro Package and gives you a set of upgraded great quality carbon-fiber paddles.
This package was not available when I purchased my 380X but I think it is well worth the money. The carbon-fiber paddles are really nice to use.
4. The QuickSail Package – The QuickSail package is a newer option that includes Sea Eagle’s fantastic universal kayak sail. It is ideal for anyone who likes to sail and wants the advantage of sailing their kayak in strong winds.
Besides the QuickSail this package also includes 2 adjustable tall back seats, 2 AB40 8′ fiberglass paddles that break down to 4 pieces, 2 small kayak storage bags for the bow and stern, foot pump, carry bag and repair kit.
5. The Pro Motor Package – This package is very well priced if you would like the option of using a little motor on your kayak.
It comes with 2 comfortable high back seats, 2 8′ AB40 paddles, a Watersnake ASP T24 electric motor, a motormount, the slide-in skeg, the kayak carry bag, a repair kit and the A41 foot pump.
SUMMARY
Honestly I would recommend this inflatable kayak to anyone of any age. It is easy to paddle, easy to transport and easy to setup.
It is not the fastest kayak on the market but it will get you anywhere you want to go safely and easily.
I have always considered this kayak like a jack of all trades but a master at none. It can handle many types of water including calm as well as windy conditions, wake and light surf, whitewater and ocean paddling.
The whole package is great quality for an affordable price and with the multiple package options you can customize it based on your needs.
I can guarantee I will be using my 380X for years to come.
WHERE TO BUY
When you purchase directly from the manufacturer you get to take advantage of their 3-year warranty and 180-day guarantee.
Click Here For The Best Deal On The 380X Explorer From The SeaEagle.com Website.
OR Another option is to check the prices at Outdoorplay.com who also sell the Sea Eagle 380X.
FOUND THIS REVIEW HELPFUL? READ ON!
Hopefully you found this review helpful. At the end of the day, I am a kayaker just like you looking for the most detail possible on a new purchase – so my review is written from the perspective of how I used the kayak and accessories.
The reviews are definitely a labor of love and generally take a fair bit of work and a lot of hours to put together.
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If you have any questions feel free to drop them below. I’ll be happy to try and answer them as quickly as possible.
Thanks for reading!
I am a older single woman (60s) with a large dog – Initially I was drawn to the sea eagle 300x because it weighs alot less – the folks at sea eagle say the 300x might be tight for me and my dog- I’m a beginner kayaker so I want to purchase the model that would be easiest for me to carry and use – on flatwater. – I’d appreciate any insights!! Thank you
Kathleen
I am 71 years old, my wife is 69. We live on the Arkansas river in Buena Vista, Colorado. We are looking at the 385 ft or the 380 x. The boat would be used on lakes and rivers. At my age I doubt that I would go beyond Class 3 sections of the Arkansas. Are both boats stable enough for stand up paddleing?
Thank you, Harvey
Hi Harvey, Yes both kayaks are stable enough for stand up paddling. I would say the 385ft is actually a little easier to paddle standing but the 380X is a little more stable – but it’s not a huge difference. I honestly really like both kayaks. I prefer the 385ft on calmer water plus I find it to be a little more efficient and take less effort to paddle. However if you’ll be on the river a lot and especially if loading up with lots of gear then the 380X is a nice one to have. Hope this helps.
I’m trying to decide between the Sea Eagle 380x and the 385 Fast Track. I mainly plan to use this to take my 3 year old son out on the lakes and slow moving rivers. Though there are ocational mild rapids, probably class I or II at most. I don’t want to feel like I’m dragging alone, so the fast track sounds like a good option for speed, but the stability of the 380x sounds appealing as well (especially with a three year old in the boat). How different are the two boats in terms of speed and stability? I’m also planning on getting the motor package, if that makes a difference.
The 380X definitely feels stable and secure. However all things considered the FastTrack is also really stable and I would have no hesitation taking out a 3-year old in that kayak. The sides tubes aren’t quite as large as they are on the 380X and I find the FastTrack to be slightly lower profile but it’s still a solid stable ride and a little more efficient when paddling. I have used both the 380X and the FastTrack extensively, they are both great kayaks so I don’t think you can go wrong either way but the FastTrack definitely glides a little easier and might be the better option if you will mainly be paddling on calm water.
Hi Allison! (I have a daughter named Allison as well)
I purchased an Explorer 380X last year for exactly the reasons you call out…versatility! I’ve paddled on lakes, rivers and the bay and I even have the bass fishing accessories and will often install the swivel seat and connect the motor for all day fishing on my local lake. This summer I’ll be doing my first overnight trip down a river with friends. I actually have two questions: 1- when on the river, which can be shallow in places, would it be o.k. to float without the skeg or would performance really suffer? 2- When I have the motor attached, do you think I can take the skeg off? Seems to me the motor is doing the steering. Thanks!
Hi Bert, great name choice for your daughter! 😉
Sounds like you get a lot of great use out of the 380X, love hearing that. To answer your questions..
1- I have taken the skeg off in really shallow water before a couple of times. It does affect performance and I find that it takes much more effort to keep the kayak tracking straight. That being said it wasn’t a big deal for shorter distances. Not sure I would want to paddle too far without the skeg though. I feel it would get frustrating especially if there is any current that you have to paddle against.
2- I think that yes you could use the motor with no skeg and like you said the motor should do the steering. I have never tried it on the 380X specifically but I have used the motor on other inflatable kayaks with no skeg and I don’t remember there being any issue. Would love to hear your thoughts if you give that a go!
Have a fantastic and safe overrnight trip down the river, that sounds like a lot of fun!
Hi Bert and Allison, i like the 380x a lot. I want to use it for fishing. I looked at the 350 and the 385 they are used for fishing but i liked the 380 better. Bert i would love to see a picture of your fishing set up. Allisom do you think the 380 would be a good fish kayak? And could i add a anchor to it?
Hi Keith, Yes I definitely think the 380 would work well for fishing. It has plenty of room, is very stable and the high-pressure floor is super durable. It should work well. I’ve had several people email me in the past saying they used the 380 for fishing, before Sea Eagle came out with their fishing specific kayaks. Adding an anchor is no problem. Sea Eagle sells a couple of them if you don’t have one. I believe their Squid Anchor or Mushroom Anchor Kit works with their Explorer kayaks.
My husband and I have an older 380X as well. We’ve done multiple overnight trips with it, mainly on lakes and rivers and have really enjoyed it over the years. We were thinking of keeping this one for the kids/grandkids to use and upgrading to the newer model ourselves. Really appreciate your informative review and love your little pups!
Hi Kyla, I really appreciate the nice comment, thank you! I’m glad to hear you have found the review helpful. If your current 380x is quite old I think you’ll really like the upgraded version. The high pressure floor and lighter weight really make a difference in ease of paddling. All the best and happy paddling!
Hi Allison,
I am considering getting my boyfriend an inflatable kayak for his birthday coming up later this month. He is a beginner so I’ve been looking at the Sea Eagle 370 model, however I did come across a pretty good deal on a 380x model so now I’m wondering if I should spend a little more and go for that or stick with the 370. He’s a rather large guy at 6’5 so comfort is a big factor and it will mainly be used on the lake and maybe our local rivers, there are no rapids in south Louisiana so it will probably never see those! Thanks for any input or other options to look at.
Hi Lindsay, There’s a little extra room in the 380X but it’s not a huge difference from the 370. When used as a solo kayak he should be good with either. The 380X is a definite step up from the 370. The material is more durable, the valves are better and it tracks straighter. However the 370 is good for the price and is super easy to paddle, it’s always a good one for a beginner. You can’t really go wrong either way, good luck!
Hi Allison,i had the 380x (older model) for 7 years.I am now getting problems(leaks) with it.Was very happy with performance of the seagle.Would like to hear if this is a normal lifetime for kayak used between 20-30 times..as the glue/welding in the seams give way.Am not sure if to replace with the new 380x or try find something more durable…in my case at least
Hi Jeff, I’m not really sure. It doesn’t sound like it was used that many times but it could depend on other factors such as weather, storage, etc. Leaks can happen of course although I have personally always found the Sea Eagle products to be quite durable. I have an older 380X as well (7 or 8 years) and it’s still kicking. You might want to contact Sea Eagle and get their opinion on it before deciding which way to go. Sorry I couldn’t help you more.
Does the new high pressure floor fit into the old 380x?
Hey Chris, I think so but I’m not 100% sure.. I don’t know anyone who’s tried that. You’ll have to contact Sea Eagle directly on that one.
Also I live by the ocean and would like to use this kayak in mild to low surf.
thanks
I have a 55 sq ft sail kit that will fit on either Sea Eagle boat, I also have the stabilizers. Would the 380 be a better sailor than the Fast track? Would the smaller tubes let in more water?
Thanks
It’s hard to say Wayne. The FastTrack goest faster and tracks better and I would think would sail better with the sail kit. The 380X however has had some major improvements done to it since I bought it years ago and it’s a great kayak. The sides are slightly higher which would keep a little more water out and it feels very secure in ocean surf. I still really like the FastTrack personally but the 380X might be the winner in mild to low surf.
I have noticed that with the drain plugs open that I am sitting an inch or so of water – it’s especially noticeable when on flat water. Have you experienced the same? Are there other WW IKs that don’t have this issue?
It’s a fairly common complaint with inflatable kayaks unfortunately. The only IK’s I know of that are a little better as far as the drain plugs are concerned are the Aire kayaks.
I enjoyed your review of the Sea Eagle 380x and will likely buy one myself. Like in about 15 more minutes. I have seen other videos as eell as other reviews. Oh, I forgot to mention that while in the Key West area we kayaked eith a couple who had thr 380x. We dillidled around in the mangroves and then I saw the eoman dtand up in the Sea Eagle and paddle that way. At that point I was nearly sold.. ill be purchasing via Sea Eagle Web site since there is sick good guarantee and warranty. I think I’ll max out with the sail package.
It’s really a great kayak and even more so today than when I bought it several years ago. Hope you enjoy!… the sail package is awesome.
Hi Allison,
I am thinking of getting the single explorer 300x… are you going to review that as well, maybe point out the difference between the single and the tandem? The material and constructions on either both are the same, right?
p.s. I really enjoy your reviews, very informative…
Hi Ed, Yes I do plan to eventually do an updated review of the 300X and I think comparisons between it and the tandem version is a great idea. The construction and material are exactly the same as the 380X, it is just a shorter version. So it will be just as tough and stable. The shorter length makes it a little slower in flat water but easier to turn and maneuver, which is great for rivers or surf. It will be more responsive than the tandem 380X and take very little effort to get moving. Plus it is highly portable.
Hi Allison,
I went with the 380x because I figured since my Innova Sunny has some years on it, get another tandem (so the wife can still paddle with me) when it finally goes. In the meantime, my wife tried it two weeks ago, while I went back on the innova. She said it’s slower than the innova because it’s wider. I on the other hand, miss the stability of the 380x. Next time, she’ll be on the innova, me on the 380x, yay!! I am thinking of bringing it to the beach this year to see how it fares on open water.
The 380x is one tough IK! On a few occasions on the banks of the lakes that I had gone to, hit some rocks and branches just slightly below surface and it just bounced off or slid past these obstacles. I was worried at first hearing the the rubber rub against them, but after checking the bottom at the boat ramp at the end of the day, some very minor scrapes, but nothing that affects the boat to speak of. Heck, they ran it over with a Jeep, hit it with the hammer, head and claw, then dropped a cinder block on it. “Keeps on ticking!”
Lastly, thanks very much for educating a kayak (knows-nothing) enthusiast like me! I’ve enjoyed reading your reviews on various IK, please don’t stop.
Thank-you Ed! So glad it has worked out for you. The Sunny is faster but the 380X more stable, exactly as you said. Glad you are both happy with the two kayaks. I agree the 380X is one tough kayak. I’ve had mine for years and it has very little wear and tear on it. It’ll do great in open water… I find it feels very secure. Enjoy and happy paddling!!
What is the price of the 380x please
Depending on the package you choose the price for the 380X can range from around $950 to just over $1500. Click on the Sea Eagle links on this page to see the full package and price details.