{"id":1559,"date":"2024-03-31T00:13:37","date_gmt":"2024-03-31T00:13:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/?p=1559"},"modified":"2024-03-31T00:13:39","modified_gmt":"2024-03-31T00:13:39","slug":"aruba-8-ss-kayak-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/aruba-8-ss-kayak-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Kayak &#8211; Expert Review"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you\u2019re curious about kayaking but aren\u2019t sure how much paddling you\u2019ll be doing, <strong>I\u2019m guessing you don\u2019t want to spend too much money<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My first kayak, for example, was a basic sit-on-top kayak that I could transport by myself and paddle with ease.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s what Sun Dolphin had in mind with the Aruba 8. After my Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 ss kayak review, I came away more than satisfied that it can stand the rigors of an introductory kayak.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>stable design is forgiving for beginners, and the excellent maneuverability is invaluable<\/strong> if you\u2019re just starting out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a few warts. The <strong>seat design is not the best<\/strong> and will probably need some modifications to be comfortable for an extended period. You also won\u2019t be going anywhere fast, especially should any weather crop up.<strong> It\u2019s also not as stable as some introductory models.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if all you want is to get a paddle in the water on the local lakes or rivers and learn the basics of the sport, the Aruba 8 makes for a lightweight, portable, and accessible option.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/SUNDOLPHIN-Dolphin-Aruba-Kayak-8-Feet\/dp\/B005LUS5UG?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=happinessw0d5-20&amp;linkId=de4438d5863eff477fa3c9918a535547&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" style=\"border-radius:15px;background-color:#fe4a49\"><strong>Check Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Pros:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>One of the smallest and portable hard-sided kayaks on the market<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Top-notch maneuverability gives beginners an easy learning curve<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Small amount of watertight storage space<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>No scupper plugs included and oddly shaped scupper holes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tiny load capacity makes anything longer than a day trip impossible<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hard plastic seat bottom gets uncomfortable after an hour or so<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low top speed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Things to Consider Before Buying an Aruba 8 SS<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"330\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-8-ss-kayak.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of the Aruba 8 SS\" class=\"wp-image-1561\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-8-ss-kayak.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-8-ss-kayak-150x71.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Hard-sided kayaks<strong> don\u2019t get much smaller and lighter than the Aruba 8.<\/strong> But that being said, an 8-foot and 27-pound boat still <strong>needs storage space<\/strong>. Ideally, this will be in a dry location out of direct sunlight.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ll need to transport your kayak to the water, make sure you have a vehicle that can do so safely. This light kayak can <strong>even be carried via bicycle<\/strong> with the proper towing accessory. If you own a larger SUV or truck, the Aruba 8 may fit in the back or truck bed. But those with smaller vehicles will probably have to purchase a roof rack or something similar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a sit-in kayak, the Aruba 8 is more challenging to get in and out of. If you\u2019re not very flexible, have a pre-existing injury, or just tend to stiffen up quickly, it may be more comfortable to look at a sit-on-top model such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/sundolphin.com\/bali-10-ss\/\">Sun Dolphin Bali 10<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While it performs well in calm conditions, the <strong>boat lacks a ton of storage space, speed, or tracking<\/strong> to handle multi-day trips and dynamic ocean conditions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a recreational kayak that can handle a bit more weather, consider a better performing, albeit more expensive model like the <a href=\"https:\/\/oldtowncanoe.johnsonoutdoors.com\/kayaks\/recreation\/sorrento-106sk\">Old Town Sorrento 106sk<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Specifications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Length<\/strong>: 8 feet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Width<\/strong>: 28 inches<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cockpit Dimensions<\/strong>: 19 x 37 inches<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Weight<\/strong>: 27 pounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Load Capacity<\/strong>: 260 pounds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Kayak Design<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Like most beginner and recreational kayaks, the Aruba 8 is made of a <strong>durable plastic called polyethylene<\/strong>. This tough substance should be able to handle any incidental drops or bumps you experience carrying it to the water.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The stubby design works against the Aruba 8 in this case. The longer a boat\u2019s keel, the faster it can go over water. While the V-shaped design does make it more efficient than some squatter boats, it can\u2019t make up for the short keel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For simple recreational trips, this probably won\u2019t be a problem. Just know <strong>you should never be in a hurry<\/strong> when paddling an Aruba 8. If you\u2019re paddling with friends, be prepared to be bringing up the rear.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maneuverability<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-8-ss-maneuverability.jpg\" alt=\"Aruba 8 SS maneuverability\" class=\"wp-image-1563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-8-ss-maneuverability.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-8-ss-maneuverability-150x107.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The short keel and 28-inch wide hull make the Aruba 8 an easy boat to steer. Even without a rudder, it turns fine using just your paddle. If you\u2019re a more experienced kayaker you\u2019ll find that executing tight turns with your hips is easy and the kayak is very responsive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Comfort<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"432\" height=\"292\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-comfort.jpg\" alt=\"aruba 8\u202fss comfort\" class=\"wp-image-1564\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-comfort.jpg 432w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-comfort-150x101.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 432px) 100vw, 432px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The Aruba 8 has a <strong>padded, adjustable seat back<\/strong>. It\u2019s also high enough to provide plenty of back support and keep it comfortable as you paddle. There\u2019s enough wiggle room to accommodate most people.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, there\u2019s <strong>no seat bottom, leaving you to sit on the kayak\u2019s hull<\/strong>. While this isn\u2019t a big deal for short paddles, after an hour or so you can expect your posterior to go numb. This can be alleviated by bringing along some extra padding like a foam knee pad to serve as a cushion.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stability &amp; Tracking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While still reasonably stable,<strong> it\u2019s a little more tippy than other beginner kayaks<\/strong>. It shouldn\u2019t be much of a problem as long as you don\u2019t take it into rough or challenging water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The boat\u2019s tracking is directly proportional to the water conditions. In calm water, the V-shaped hull can hold a line just fine. But wind and waves quickly push this little kayak off course and can make for a frustrating and potentially dangerous paddle home.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Durability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>tough plastic hull can absorb most impacts and collisions<\/strong>. Good paddlers still exercise caution and keep their boat in as good a shape as possible. But it\u2019s still good to know that when you inevitably miss a submerged rock or another obstacle that it\u2019s not the end of the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can maximize the lifespan of your boat by carrying it to and from the water\u2019s edge. The tough plastic can handle being dragged short distances over sandy or small pebbled beaches, but it\u2019s not a good habit to get into.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Portability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At just eight feet long, the Aruba 8 is one of the shortest kayaks on the market. Weighing 27 pounds when empty means you should <strong>be able to move it from your vehicle to the water with little trouble<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on your vehicle situation, it may fit in the back of some trucks or even be squeezed in the back of an SUV.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aruba 8 SS Kayak Features &amp; Accessories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s <strong>no rudder or skeg<\/strong> installed on the Aruba 8, but chances are you won\u2019t miss it thanks to the boat\u2019s responsiveness and tight turn radius.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Storage capacity is minimal but adequate for day trips. There\u2019s a <strong>small watertight stern hatch<\/strong> that is suitable for holding personal effects and other small items you want to keep dry. Deck bungees are stretched across the stern and able to hold a small cooler or similar item.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A <strong>molded paddle holder<\/strong> in front of the seat allows you to have your hands free if you want to fish or just need a break.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The boat comes<strong> with scupper holes<\/strong> to drain water<strong> <\/strong>but <strong>no scupper plugs<\/strong>. Oddly, the <strong>scupper holes on the Aruba 8 aren\u2019t the standard size<\/strong> of most boat\u2019s scupper holes. This means that if you want to install plugs you\u2019ll probably need to modify them before installing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While some boats aimed at beginners sweeten the pot with throw-in accessories like a paddle or life jackets, you\u2019ll get no added goodies with your purchase.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Value<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Since the Aruba 8 can be found at a <strong>reasonable price from most retailers<\/strong>, it\u2019s an attractive option for beginners looking for a cost-efficient kayak. And while it performs fine as a recreational kayak, I wouldn\u2019t push it past that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This coupled with the odd-shaped scupper holes and no added accessories cap the boat\u2019s upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But despite these shortcomings, it\u2019s still a <strong>tough and reliable boat that\u2019s right at home on calm and protected waterways<\/strong> where the goal is to have fun and relax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-layout-2 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/SUNDOLPHIN-Dolphin-Aruba-Kayak-8-Feet\/dp\/B005LUS5UG?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=happinessw0d5-20&amp;linkId=de4438d5863eff477fa3c9918a535547&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" style=\"border-radius:15px;background-color:#fe4a49\"><strong>Check Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aruba 8 SS Kayak Testimonials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I spent some time looking online to see if there were other favorable reviews for the Aruba 8. Some noted that it\u2019s not as stable as many beginner models. But many lauded the portability and overall performance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"377\" height=\"705\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial.png\" alt=\"First testimonial\" class=\"wp-image-1585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial.png 377w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial-80x150.png 80w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 377px) 100vw, 377px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"411\" height=\"815\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial-2.png\" alt=\"Second testimonial\" class=\"wp-image-1586\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial-2.png 411w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial-2-76x150.png 76w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 411px) 100vw, 411px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"378\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial-3.png\" alt=\"Third testimonial\" class=\"wp-image-1587\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial-3.png 378w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Aruba-8-ss-testimonial-3-71x150.png 71w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 378px) 100vw, 378px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Alternatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sun Dolphin Aruba 10<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"176\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Sun-Dolphin-Aruba-10-.png\" alt=\"Picture of the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10\" class=\"wp-image-1433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Sun-Dolphin-Aruba-10-.png 700w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Sun-Dolphin-Aruba-10--150x38.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Two feet longer than the Aruba 8, the Aruba 10 <strong>manages to coax a little more speed even though it remains on the short side<\/strong>. The bigger frame makes it more difficult to transport, but it still <strong>weighs a svelte 40 pounds<\/strong> which many will find manageable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll find the <strong>same<\/strong> <strong>excellent maneuverability<\/strong> as the Aruba 8 along with a nice little stern hatch to hold a handful of items. A <strong>paddle holder<\/strong> like the Aruba 8 has is another nice touch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But despite being bigger, the Aruba 10 has a <strong>smaller load capacity than the Aruba 8<\/strong>, able to carry just 250 pounds compared to the Aruba 8\u2019s 260. Longer-legged paddlers may appreciate the extra legroom and the adjustable foot pegs do add a little versatility. But the seat has drawn negative feedback and chances are you\u2019ll want to modify it a little to make it more comfortable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Cheap and cost-efficient first kayak<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excellent maneuverability helps with the learning curve for newcomers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tiny load capacity and low top speed limits it to day trips&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/sun-dolphin-aruba-10-review\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1431\">Read our honest Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Intex Challenger K1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"711\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Intex-Challenger-K1-Kayak.jpg\" alt=\"Intex Challenger K1 Kayak picture\" class=\"wp-image-1073\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Intex-Challenger-K1-Kayak.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Intex-Challenger-K1-Kayak-150x104.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>An <strong>inflatable model<\/strong>, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.intexcorp.com\/products\/sporting-goods\/sport-series-boats\/challenger-k1-kayak\/\">Intex Challenger K1<\/a> is one of the cheapest recreational kayaks. While inflatables have a (mostly) unearned reputation as being flimsy, tippy, and unreliable, the Challenger K1 performs well in all three of those areas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s certainly<strong> more susceptible to damage than its hard-sided counterparts,<\/strong> but leverages this with easy portability and a lightweight design. While you will have to inflate and deflate the kayak before and after trips, Intex has made this process easy. When deflated the kayak fits in a shoulder bag and <strong>can be stored in a closet if necessary<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the water, the <strong>performance is somewhat comparable to the Aruba 8<\/strong>. The short keel provides good maneuverability and the multi-chambered design makes it a stable platform in calm and moderate conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But it struggles to maintain a course in wind and waves and the lack of storage space means you won\u2019t be doing any overnight trips in this one.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Inflatable design and easy set-up and take-down makes it very portable<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Surprising stability for an inflatable kayak<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Included paddle with most purchases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No watertight storage to speak of<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/intex-challenger-k1-kayak-review\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1060\">Read our full review of the Challenger K1.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sun Dolphin Bali 10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/bali-10-ss-kayak.jpg\" alt=\"Bali 10\u202fss picture\" class=\"wp-image-1211\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/bali-10-ss-kayak.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/bali-10-ss-kayak-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll find <strong>similar characteristics to Sun Dolphin\u2019s other kayak products<\/strong>. The seat on the <a href=\"https:\/\/sundolphin.com\/bali-10-ss\/\">Bali 10<\/a> is fully adjustable but will probably need some padding to be comfortable for more than a couple hours. It\u2019s another short model measuring 10 feet with a small load capacity of 250 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a <strong>sit-on-top kayak so you don\u2019t have a way to install a spray skirt<\/strong> like you can with the Aruba models. Chances are this won\u2019t matter for many, but if you plan on paddling in colder water I\u2019d lean towards the Aruba model so you have the option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the water, the Bali 10 <strong>performs similarly to the Aruba 8 and 10.<\/strong> The hull design does provide better tracking in wind and smaller waves while not compromising the boat\u2019s stability. Adjustable foot pegs and the open cockpit design makes it easier to enter, exit, and adjust where your legs are braced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The sit-on-top design makes it best for warm water<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improved tracking without sacrificing stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watertight stern hatch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Sit-In Kayak &#8211; Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking to dip your toes into the world of kayaking, the Aruba 8 from Sun Dolphin is a fine choice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It <strong>won\u2019t wow you with any high-end accessories<\/strong> and if you\u2019re hoping to attempt any high-performance paddles in you\u2019ll be disappointed. But as an <strong>introductory model, it shines with stability that compensates for any mistakes<\/strong> and the tight maneuverability that you\u2019ll appreciate when you\u2019re first starting out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you find that kayaking suits you, you\u2019ll probably want to move on to a more expensive and impressive design eventually. But for casual Saturdays at the lake and similar scenarios, the Aruba 8 provides a <strong>safe and enjoyable paddle while keeping money in your wallet<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-layout-3 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/SUNDOLPHIN-Dolphin-Aruba-Kayak-8-Feet\/dp\/B005LUS5UG?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=happinessw0d5-20&amp;linkId=de4438d5863eff477fa3c9918a535547&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" style=\"border-radius:15px;background-color:#fe4a49\"><strong>Check Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re curious about kayaking but aren\u2019t sure how much paddling you\u2019ll be doing, I\u2019m guessing you don\u2019t want to spend too much money. My first kayak, for example, was a basic sit-on-top kayak that I could transport by myself and paddle with ease.&nbsp; That\u2019s what Sun Dolphin had in mind with the Aruba 8. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1563,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"none","_seopress_titles_title":"Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS: My Updated %%currentyear%% Review","_seopress_titles_desc":"Interested in the Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS\u202fKayak? Let\u2019s see if it\u2019s a good kayak for beginners, and if it\u2019s stable enough despite its small 8 ft size.","_seopress_robots_index":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1559"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1559"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1559\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5873,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1559\/revisions\/5873"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1563"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1559"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1559"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1559"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}