Intex Explorer vs Challenger vs Excursion Pro vs Dakota Kayak Comparison

 

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!

 

(*Friendly Disclosure – links to retailers or brands on this page may include affiliate links, and we may receive a commission when you purchase through these links)

 

Intex Explorer vs Challenger vs Excursion Pro vs Dakota Kayak Comparison

If you prefer, you can go straight to viewing these kayaks here:

 

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.

 

View

 

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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