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.
We also link to individual guides of each kayak where you can read more about the individual features of each kayak.
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:
- 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
Intex Excursion Pro K2 Kayak Review
Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Review
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Review
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Review
What About The Intex Tacoma Kayak?
The Tacoma is another model of kayak that has been offered by Intex.
You can read a review of the Tacoma in this guide.
Friendly Disclaimers
Tooljuice.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.
Additionally, Tooljuice.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.
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?