Inflatable Canoes – The Best of the Best

Inflatable canoes can often be interchangeable with inflatable kayaks. There are a few models however that definitely fall into the “canoe” category and make very compact and convenient boats for traveling, fishing, expeditions, and of course for summer fun.

An inflatable canoe will have an open concept. Some are designed more for flat water while others are constructed specifically for taking on some bigger rapids.

A canoe will not likely go as fast as a kayak as they tend to sit higher up in the water and are more exposed to the wind. They are however extremely popular for many people and owning an inflatable canoe allows for the ultimate in convenient transportation as well as very easy storage.

There are a few inflatable canoe models on the market that really stand out above the rest. Below are the top canoes for their respective category:

Best All-Around Inflatable Canoe

• Aire Traveler Inflatable Canoe – You won’t find a better quality inflatable canoe anywhere. The Aire Traveler offers the toughest material, the best 10 year warranty, two comfortable and adjustable bench seats, and an optional rowing frame. The quality far surpasses any others you might come across.
  
  The Aire Traveler is just as good for flat water paddling fun as it is for heavy expeditions down a moving river. The downside to the Aire Traveler is that it weighs 70 lbs which is heavy for an inflatable and costs over $2000. Ouch. However if you are looking for the best… this is it.

Best Inflatable Canoe for Expeditions and Big Rapids

• Innova Vagabond Inflatable Canoe – The Vagabond is a river trekking inflatable canoe that can handle up to class III rivers. The major pluses to this model are that it is light weight (only 38 lbs.) so works great for traveling, is set up for two people but can be converted for solo use, and it has an optional spray deck that offers excellent protection from the elements.
  
  The quality of the Vagabond is really excellent. The material is tough and it comes with a decent two year warranty. The downside to the Innova Vagabond is that it is not self-bailing. Inflatable canoes rarely are self-bailing, but if you are taking this boat into big rapids as advertised, drain holes would be a big help. However that is why the spray deck is offered and that can make all the difference.

Best Affordable Family Inflatable Canoe

• Sea Eagle 330 or 370 Inflatable Canoe – The Sea Eagle inflatable canoe…also called the Sea Eagle sport kayak, is excellent for families for a number of reasons. For one thing, the price is excellent and very affordable. For another it has tough as nails construction and will be able to take a good beating with no problems – including dogs claws. This canoe comes in two different sizes and has adjustable seats.
  
  The Sea Eagle 330 is good for two smaller people or for a solo paddler. The Sea Eagle 370 offers much more room for a more comfortable ride and would be the best model for parents with kids or a dog. Both of these models come with a great 3 year warranty and upgraded accessories if needed.

Cheapest Inflatable Canoe

• Sevylor Tahiti Inflatable Canoe – You don’t get much cheaper then the Sevylor Tahiti. This is one of the original Sevylor inflatable boats and it has been around since 1963. The fact that it is so cheap is a bit of a warning because it basically means that everything about this inflatable canoe is cheap including the construction, the seats, the comfort level, etc. I would not recommend this canoe to anyone.
  
  For only a slight bit more money you can purchase one of the Sea Eagle inflatable canoes and actually get yourself a canoe that will offer quality, comfort and will last for many years to come. There is no comparison in quality, performance and style between the Sevylor Tahiti and the Sea Eagle 330 or the 370.

Of course there are other inflatable canoe models to choose from. Please see our comprehensive reviews of inflatable canoes for more detailed information on each individual model.

Did You Know?

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