This is a comparison guide of the Intex Explorer vs Challenger vs Excursion Pro vs Dakota kayaks.
We list the main differences and similarities of these kayaks at the top of this guide.
And, we also provide individual review information for each of the kayak at the bottom of the guide. You can read more about the individual features of each kayak here.
Let’s take a look!
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Intex Explorer vs Challenger vs Excursion Pro vs Dakota Kayak Comparison
If you prefer, you can go straight to viewing these kayaks here:
- Intex Challenger K1 Kayak (on Amazon)
- Intex Challenger K2 Kayak (on Amazon)
- Intex Explorer K2 Kayak (on Amazon)
- Intex Excursion Pro K2 Kayak (on Amazon)
- Intex Dakota K2 Kayak (on Amazon)
Onto the comparison …
Intex Inflatable Kayaks – Summary, & Which To Get
The Challenger K1 is the only 1 person designed kayak of all these models, although the other models have removable inflatable seats, and can be used as 1 person kayaks too
Of the other 4 models that are 2 person kayaks (they each have 2 removable inflatable seats), the Excursion Pro is the largest kayak with the most features, such as in built fishing rod holders (amongst other features), but is also one of the most expensive models of all the models
Of the lower priced/more affordable models, the Explorer K2 and Challenger K2 are worth consideration
The Challenger K2 is slightly longer, whilst the Explorer K2 is slightly wider, slightly deeper, and has an additional air chamber
Intex Inflatable Kayaks – Main Differences
Some of the main differences between these kayaks might be:
Kayak Price
Currently, the Excursion Pro is the more expensive kayak, whilst the Explorer and Challenger models are all a similar price, and are more affordable/cheaper
Kayak Colors
The Challenger models are currently green (and some blue), the Explorer is yellow, the Excursion Pro is red, and the Dakota is grey
Kayak Shape
The Challenger models current have a flatter nose and tail, whilst the Explorer, Excursion Pro and Dakota models have upturned noses and tails on the kayak
Inflated Kayak Size – Dimensions
The Excursion Pro is currently the largest model in terms of length dimensions, followed by the Challenger K2, Explorer K2 and Dakota K2, and the Challenger K1 is the shortest
The Explorer K2 and and Dakota K2 are the deepest models, with the Excursion Pro a similar depth/height
Inflated Kayak Weight
The Excursion Pro is currently the heaviest of all the models, and the Challenger K1 is the lightest
Number Of People Kayak Is Designed To Hold
All of the kayaks except the K1 can currently fit up to 2 people, and have two seats. The K1 fits one person
The seats are removable though, so the K2 models can be used with one person too
Total Kayak Weight Limit/Capacity
All the K2 models can currently hold up to 400lbs (180kg) total, and the Challenger K1 can hold up to 220lbs (100kg)
Material Type
All models are currently made of puncture resistant vinyl, except the Excursion Pro which is made from 3 ply laminate construction with a polyester core
Number Of Air Chambers
The Explorer, Excursion Pro & Dakota models currently have 3 air chambers, whilst the two Challenger models have 2 air chambers
Number Of Paddles Included
All models currently come with 2 paddles, except the K1 Challenger which comes with 1 paddle
Number & Types Of Skegs Included
The Challenger and Explorer models currently come with one standard removable directional skeg, whilst the Excursion Pro and Dakota models come with a removable directional skeg and also a shallow water directional skeg
Cargo Net
Both Challenger models currently have a cargo net for gear storage, whereas the other models don’t
Grab Lines, & Handles
The Challenger models currently have a grab line and no handles, and the Excursion Pro, Explorer and Dakota models have grab lines and handles on both ends,
D Ring
Excursion Pro has stainless steel d rings for tying down dry bags and gear
Drain Plug
Excursion Pro currently has an integrated drain plug
Footrest
Excursion Pro currently has an adjustable footrest
Fishing Rod Accessories
The Excursion Pro currently has a mounting bracket for fishing accessories, and 2 fishing rod holders integrated into the kayak
Inflatable Booster Pad for Elevated Seating
Excursion Pro currently comes with an inflatable booster pad
Bag Inclusions
Excursion Pro currently comes with carry bags, and dry bags
Intex Inflatable Kayaks – Main Similarities
Some of the main similarities between these kayaks might be:
Type Of Kayak
All models are inflatable, soft material kayaks, as opposed to hard material kayaks
What The Kayaks Might Be Best For
All kayak models might be best suited for casual and recreational open water lake and ocean kayaking
If you want to ensure you have a kayak for the most demanding activities and conditions, that is also more puncture and damage proof to sticks, rocks and other objects, and might also have top of the line control and manoeuvrability, a hard kayak might be a better consideration than these kayaks
Seats
All the seats are currently inflatable, removable seats
Material Gauge
All models are currently made with 30 gauge material
I-beam
All models currently have an I-beam for increased rigidity
Paddle/Oar Length
All paddles are currently 86 inches (2.18 metres) long
Valves
All boats currently have valves for easy deflation
Pump
All models currently comes with a hi-Output Manual Hand Pump
Intex Kayak Reviews
Below is ‘review’ type information on the individual kayaks …
Intex Excursion Pro K2 Kayak Review
Below we outline the main features of this 2 person inflatable kayak, along with other relevant buyer’s information such as what it might be used for.
View
Main Features
Of all the Intek kayaks (Challenger, Tacoma, Dakota, etc), this one may be one of the best value for money and best designed/contructed
A 2 person inflatable kayak
Made of a laminate PVC material (3 ply) with a polyester core – made to be resistant to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight
Has high pressure sling loaded valves for inflation and deflation, and has 3 air chambers
Has stainless steel d rings for tying down gear and bags
Has 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, and a removable and adjustable mounting bracket for additional fishing accessories
Has a drain plug
Has an I-beam floor for increased rigidity
Has adjustable footrests
Comes with 86 inch aluminum oars (2 of them), a high output pump, 2 removable skegs (one shallow water skeg, and one directional skeg), 2 adjustable bucket seats, a carry bag, and also a repair patch
Comes with an inflatable booster pad for elevated seating – this pad is removable
Kayak has a carrying capacity of 400lbs (180kg)
Kayak itself weighs about 39lbs
Inflated size of the kayak is about 12’7″ X 3’1″ X 1’6″
Potential Drawbacks
Is an inflatable kayak and not a hard kayak – some users may find it’s more suitable for deep, flat water, and not as suitable as harder kayaks for intense rapids, or shallow water where there are sticks, rocks and other objects that might puncture or damage the kayak
Related to the above point, harder kayaks may have the advantage of being more sturdy, rigid and overall more harder wearing and durable in certain conditions and overall
Users may want to be careful of over inflating this kayak – follow the instructions on proper inflation
Some users might find that they want a longer paddle than what is provided – standard Intex paddles are 86 inches/2.18 metres
Some users may find that with any inflatable kayak that they may feel the water underneath them more than what they might with a more rigid or hard kayak
Other Notes
Make sure you are aware of the warranty and return conditions of the kayak before you buy through the seller you end up buying from
Where To Buy
View the Intex Excursion Pro K2 Kayak (on Amazon)
What It Might Be For
Might be a good kayak for the regular person who wants a kayak for casual kayaking in open, calmer, flatter and deeper water and conditions
Those who want one of the larger inflatable kayaks currently available from Intek, in terms of inflated size dimensions
Those who want a kayak with fishing rod holders
Those who want additional features and accessories in their Intek kayak – currently, the Excursion Pro offers the some of the most features and accessories of the Intek range
One or two people using the kayak at a time, with a weight limit up to 400lbs in total
Those looking for an inflatable kayak as opposed to a hard kayak
Those who want the benefit that an inflatable kayak offers in terms of being able to be deflated and stored in it’s deflated state
What It Might Not Be For
Those who want a very cheap inflatable kayak – there are currently cheaper inflatable kayaks on the market
Not for a total weight of more than 400lbs
Might not be as rigid, durable or hard wearing as kayaks made from harder materials
Might not be as suitable for shallow, more intense water and rapids, especially water with the chance of rough/sharp rocks and sticks coming into contact with the kayak
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for steering, control, and speed
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for above average windy conditions
Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Review
Below we outline the main features of this 1 person inflatable kayak, along with other relevant buyer’s information such as what it might, and might not be used for.
View This Kayak
Main Features
An inflatable, one person kayak
Weight limit/weight capacity of the kayak is 220lbs (100kg)
Inflated size of the kayak (dimensions) are around 9′ X 2’6″ X 1’1″ (30 by 15 by 108 inches (W x H x D)), or (274cm x 76cm, with internal cockpit dimensions of 153 x 58cms)
Weight of the kayak is around 23.9 lbs
The gauge of the kayak material is 30 gauge, and it’s made of vinyl contruction
Has a cargo net on the front of the kayak for gear storage
Has a grab line on both ends of the kayak
Has 2 air chambers
Has an inflatable I-beam floor for extra rigidity
Comes with a standard skeg that is removable
Comes with an 84 inch aluminum oar, hi-output manual pump, and carry bag
Comes with a repair patch
Potential Drawbacks
Is an inflatable kayak and not a hard kayak – some users may find it’s more suitable for deep, flat water, and not as suitable as harder kayaks for intense rapids, or shallow water where there are sticks, rocks and other objects that might puncture or damage the kayak
Related to the above point, harder kayaks may have the advantage of being more sturdy, rigid and overall more harder wearing and durable in certain conditions and overall
Users may want to be careful of over inflating this kayak – follow the instructions on proper inflation
Some users might find that they want a longer paddle than what is provided – standard Intex paddles are 86 inches/2.18 metres
Some users may find that with any inflatable kayak that they may feel the water underneath them more than what they might with a more rigid or hard kayak
Some users may want a seat with a more supportive or rigid back
Other Notes
Make sure you are aware of the warranty and return conditions of the kayak before you buy through the seller you end up buying from
Where To Buy
View the Intex Challenger K1 (on Amazon)
What It Might Be For
Made specifically for lakes and mild rivers
Might be a good kayak for the regular person who wants a kayak for casual kayaking in open, calmer, flatter and deeper water and conditions
One person using the kayak, with a weight limit up to 220lbs in total
Those looking for an inflatable kayak as opposed to a hard kayak
Those who want the benefit that an inflatable kayak offers in terms of being able to be deflated and stored in it’s deflated state
What It Might Not Be For
Not for a total weight of more than 220lbs.
Might not be as rigid, durable or hard wearing as kayaks made from harder materials
Might not be as suitable for shallow, more intense water and rapids, especially water with the chance of rough/sharp rocks and sticks coming into contact with the kayak
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for steering, control, and speed
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for above average windy conditions
What Is The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Weight Limit?
The weight limit for the Intex Explorer K1 Kayak is currently listed at 220lbs, or around 100kg.
Is The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak For Fishing?
Although it isn’t specifically designed for fishing, there is no reason you couldn’t use it for light fishing as long as you take your own precautions to store and use your fishing equipment properly.
It’s worth noting the Intex Excursion Pro comes with integrated fishing rod holders – you can view the Excursion Pro here:
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Review
Below we outline the main features of this 2 person inflatable kayak, along with other relevant buyer’s information such as what it might, and might not be used for.
View
Main Features
A 2 person, inflatable kayak
Is a bright green color for visibility
Dimensions are 11’6″ X 2’6″ X 1’3″, or 351cm x 76 cm
Has a weight limit/weight capacity of 400lbs, or 180kg
Kayak weight is about 33.53 lb
Made of a puncture resistant vinyl material, that is 30 material gauge
Has 2 separate air chambers
Has an inflatable I-beam floor for increased rigidity
Has a cargo net for gear storage
Hasa removable skeg
Has a grab line on both ends of the kayak
Comes with 2 x paddles that are 86 inches in length, or 218cm
Comes with a high output manual pump, carry bag, and repair patch kit
Potential Drawbacks
Is an inflatable kayak and not a hard kayak – some users may find it’s more suitable for deep, flat water, and not as suitable as harder kayaks for intense rapids, or shallow water where there are sticks, rocks and other objects that might puncture or damage the kayak
Related to the above point, harder kayaks may have the advantage of being more sturdy, rigid and overall more harder wearing and durable in certain conditions and overall
Users may want to be careful of over inflating this kayak – follow the instructions on proper inflation
Some users might find that they want a longer paddle than what is provided – standard Intex paddles are 86 inches/2.18 metres
Some users may find that with any inflatable kayak that they may feel the water underneath them more than what they might with a more rigid or hard kayak
Some users may want a seat with a more supportive or rigid back
Other Notes
Make sure you are aware of the warranty and return conditions of the kayak before you buy through the seller you end up buying from
Where To Buy
View the Intex Challenger K2 Kayak on Amazon
What It Might Be For
Made specifically for lakes and mild rivers
Might be a good kayak for the regular person who wants a kayak for casual kayaking in open, calmer, flatter and deeper water and conditions
One or two people using the kayak at a time, with a weight limit up to 400lbs in total
Those looking for an inflatable kayak as opposed to a hard kayak
Those who want the benefit that an inflatable kayak offers in terms of being able to be deflated and stored in it’s deflated state
What It Might Not Be For
Not for a total weight of more than 400lbs
Might not be as rigid, durable or hard wearing as kayaks made from harder materials
Might not be as suitable for shallow, more intense water and rapids, especially water with the chance of rough/sharp rocks and sticks coming into contact with the kayak
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for steering, control, and speed
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for above average windy conditions
What Is The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Weight Limit?
The weight limit for the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is currently listed at 400lbs, or, around 180kg.
Is The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak For Fishing?
Although it isn’t specifically designed for fishing, there is no reason you couldn’t use it for light fishing as long as you take your own precautions to store and use your fishing equipment properly.
It’s worth noting the Intex Excursion Pro comes with integrated fishing rod holders. You can view the Excursion Pro here:
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Review
Below we outline the main features of this 2 person inflatable kayak, along with other relevant buyer’s information such as what it might, and might not be used for.
View
If you prefer, you can go straight to viewing this kayak here:
Main Features
A 2 person inflatable kayak
Specifically made for lakes and mild rivers
Is bright yellow colar for increased visibility
Kayak has an inflated size/dimensions of about 10’3″ X 3′ X 1’8″ (3.12m x 91cms)
Weight capacity/limit of the kayak is about 400lbs (180kgs) in total
Has 3 air chambers
Seats are adjustable
There’s a grab line and grab handles on each end of the kayak for easy handling
Has an inflatable I-beam floor for extra rigidity
Has Boston valves for quicker inflation and deflation
Comes with one standard directional skeg, and this skeg is removable
Kayak weight is about 30.6lbs
A repair patch is included, along with a hi-output manual pump, and carry bag
Comes with 2 86 inch long (2.18m) paddles
Potential Drawbacks
Specifically made for lakes and mild rivers, and not for harsher or more intense bodies or water or environments
Is an inflatable kayak and not a hard kayak – some users may find it’s more suitable for deep, flat water, and not as suitable as harder kayaks for intense rapids, or shallow water where there are sticks, rocks and other objects that might puncture or damage the kayak
Related to the above point, harder kayaks may have the advantage of being more sturdy, rigid and overall more harder wearing and durable in certain conditions and overall
Users may want to be careful of over inflating this kayak – follow the instructions on proper inflation
Some users might find that they want a longer paddle than what is provided – standard Intex paddles are 86 inches/2.18 metres
Some users may find that with any inflatable kayak that they may feel the water underneath them more than what they might with a more rigid or hard kayak
Some users may want a seat with a more supportive or rigid back
Does not come with 3 ply laminate construction and polyester core, or the integrated fishing rod holders like the Excursion Pro does
Other Notes
Make sure you are aware of the warranty and return conditions of the kayak before you buy through the seller you end up buying from
Where To Buy
View the Intex Explorer K2 2 Man Inflatable Canoe (on Amazon)
What It Might Be For
Made specifically for lakes and mild rivers
Might be a good kayak for the regular person who wants a kayak for casual kayaking in open, calmer, flatter and deeper water and conditions
One or two people using the kayak at a time, with a weight limit up to 400lbs in total
Those looking for an inflatable kayak as opposed to a hard kayak
Those who want the benefit that an inflatable kayak offers in terms of being able to be deflated and stored in it’s deflated state
What It Might Not Be For
Not for a total weight of more than 400lbs
Might not be as rigid, durable or hard wearing as kayaks made from harder materials
Might not be as suitable for shallow, more intense water and rapids, especially water with the chance of rough/sharp rocks and sticks coming into contact with the kayak
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for steering, control, and speed
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for above average windy conditions
What Is The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Weight Limit?
The weight limit for the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is currently listed at 400lbs, or, around 180kg.
Is The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak For Fishing?
Although it isn’t specifically designed for fishing, there is no reason you couldn’t use it for light fishing as long as you take your own precautions to store and use your fishing equipment properly.
It’s worth noting the Intex Excursion Pro comes with integrated fishing rod holders. You can view the Excursion Pro here:
Intex Dakota K2 Kayak Review
Below we outline the main features of this 2 person inflatable kayak, along with other relevant buyer’s information such as what it might be used for.
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Main Features
An inflatable kayak designed for up to 2 people
Inflatable kayak means storing can be easier than a hard kayak when deflated, and, valves are Boston valves for inflation/deflation
Made of puncture resistant vinyl
Has inflatable seats with backrests and these seats are removable and adjustable as well
Has 3 separate air chambers, and also an inflatable I-beam floor for more rigidity
Holds up to 400lbs in total
Has a grab line and also carry handles on the front and back of the kayak for picking up and transporting
Comes with 86 inch paddles/oars (2 of them), an air pump, 2 dry bags and a carry bag for carrying the kayak and associated accessories
Comes with both a long and short skeg – long keg for straight line kayaking, and short skeg for change of direction and turning
Inflated size of the kayak is roughly 10’3″ X 3′ X 1’8″ in dimensions (or, 3.12m x 91cms)
Kayak weight is roughly 30.6lbs
Potential Drawbacks
Is an inflatable kayak and not a hard kayak – some users may find it’s more suitable for deep, flat water, and not as suitable as harder kayaks for intense rapids, or shallow water where there are sticks, rocks and other objects that might puncture or damage the kayak
Related to the above point, harder kayaks may have the advantage of being more sturdy, rigid and overall more harder wearing and durable in certain conditions and overall
Users may want to be careful of over inflating this kayak – follow the instructions on proper inflation
Some users might find that they want a longer paddle than what is provided – standard Intex paddles are 86 inches/2.18 metres
Some users may find that with any inflatable kayak that they may feel the water underneath them more than what they might with a more rigid or hard kayak
Other Notes
Make sure you are aware of the warranty and return conditions of the kayak before you buy through the seller you end up buying from
Where To Buy
View the Intex Dakota K2 Kayak (on Amazon)
What It Might Be For
Might be a good kayak for the regular person who wants a kayak for casual kayaking in open, calmer, flatter and deeper water and conditions
One or two people using the kayak at a time, with a weight limit up to 400lbs in total
Those looking for an inflatable kayak as opposed to a hard kayak
Those who want the benefit that an inflatable kayak offers in terms of being able to be deflated and stored in it’s deflated state
What It Might Not Be For
Not for a total weight of more than 400lbs
Might not be as rigid, durable or hard wearing as kayaks made from harder materials
Might not be as suitable for shallow, more intense water and rapids, especially water with the chance of rough/sharp rocks and sticks coming into contact with the kayak
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for steering, control, and speed
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for above average windy conditions
Comparison With Other Intex Kayaks
Compared to the Excursion Pro, it may not come with 3 ply laminate construction with polyester core, integrated fishing rod holders, or an inflatable booster pad for elevated seating
Additionally, the Excursion Pro might be bigger in terms of it’s inflated size dimensions
What About The Intex Tacoma K2 Kayak? – A Review
The Intex Tacoma K2 is another model of kayak that has been offered by Intex.
Below we outline the main features of this 2 person inflatable kayak, along with other relevant buyer’s information such as what it might, and might not be used for.
View
Intex Tacoma K2 Inflatable Kayak (on Amazon)
Main Features
A two person kayak (although, unofficially, some users have reported removing one seat and making it a one person kayak)
Made of heavy duty puncture resistant vinyl
Has three separate chambers
I-beam floor is also inflatable for more rigidity
Has Boston valves for quick inflation and deflation
Comes with paddles, an output pump (a manual pump), and bag
Because it’s deflatable, storing the kayak might be easier than some other kayaks
Unofficially – the dimensions of this kayak might be similar to the Explorer K2 – 10ft 3in x 3ft
Unofficially – the weight limit of this kayak might be 400lbs
Potential Drawbacks
Is an inflatable kayak and not a hard kayak – some users may find it’s more suitable for deep, flat water, and not as suitable as harder kayaks for intense rapids, or shallow water where there are sticks, rocks and other objects that might puncture or damage the kayak
Related to the above point, harder kayaks may have the advantage of being more sturdy, rigid and overall more harder wearing and durable in certain conditions and overall
Users may want to be careful of over inflating this kayak – follow the instructions on proper inflation
Some users might find that they want a longer paddle than what is provided – standard Intex paddles are 86 inches/2.18 metres
Some users may find that with any inflatable kayak that they may feel the water underneath them more than what they might with a more rigid or hard kayak
Other Notes
Make sure you are aware of the warranty and return conditions of the kayak before you buy through the seller you end up buying from
Where To Buy
View the Intex Tacoma K2 Inflatable Kayak (on Amazon)
What It Might Be For
Might be a good kayak for the regular person who wants a kayak for casual kayaking in open, calmer, flatter and deeper water and conditions
One or two people using the kayak at a time, with a weight limit up to 400lbs in total
Those looking for an inflatable kayak as opposed to a hard kayak
Those who want the benefit that an inflatable kayak offers in terms of being able to be deflated and stored in it’s deflated state
What It Might Not Be For
Not for a total weight of more than 400lbs
Might not be as rigid, durable or hard wearing as kayaks made from harder materials
Might not be as suitable for shallow, more intense water and rapids, especially water with the chance of rough/sharp rocks and sticks coming into contact with the kayak
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for steering, control, and speed
Some harder (and usually more expensive) kayaks might be better for above average windy conditions
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Thanks! I’ve been looking for this information EVERYWHERE!!!
You state these are good for lakes. I know this,seems silly,but are they okay for salt water?