Things to Consider Before Buying Your First Kayak<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Ocean-kayak](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OCEAN-KAYAK-malibu-two-2-705x661.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe most important thing to look for in a recreational kayak for beginners is stability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAfter all, you\u2019ll use the boat to have fun on the water, and you\u2019ll want to avoid capsizing at all costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a beginner having fun, you might also lean on the side quite often (talking with your partner) without realizing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Second, you want good tracking<\/strong>. As a beginner with poor technique, a boat with subpar tracking will have you making circles instead of actually going forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTracking will also be a life-saver in case the wind picks up while you\u2019re on the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, you should already have somewhere dry and out of the sun<\/strong> to keep your kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you leave your kayak unprotected in the sun, the hull may warp over time and you\u2019ll have to throw it away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Specifications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Pic](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OCEAN-KAYAK-MALIBU-TWO-1-705x396.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Length<\/strong>: 12 ft<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Width<\/strong>: 34 in<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Weight<\/strong>: 63 lb<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Load Capacity<\/strong>: 425 lb<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Design<\/h2>\n\n\n\nMaterial<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is a hard-sided kayak. As such, it is made of single-layer polyethylene<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis material is virtually indestructible<\/strong>. It will withstand on-water collisions<\/strong>, rocks<\/strong>, submerged tree branches<\/strong>\u2026 <\/strong>and anything you throw at it.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re looking for a kayak that can take a beating, then a polyethylene rotomolded kayak is what you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For a recreational kayak, the Malibu Two isn\u2019t as slow as you may think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sure, if you\u2019re paddling with people in sit-in touring kayaks\u2026 then it will be impossible to keep up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But for summer fun on calm waters, you\u2019ll find it fast enough<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis is due in part to the molded-in seat well that allows you to seat closer to the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most beginners will be able to get a comfortable cruising speed of 2.5 mph<\/strong> on a windless day.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMy wife and I who are more experienced can actually go at a decent 3.5 mph. (Far from the 5 mph we\u2019re used to in our longer touring kayaks).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pro Tip<\/strong>: If after a few trips you notice the kayak is heavier than usual, this might mean that some water has accumulated inside the hull. Therefore, you should unscrew the drain plug<\/strong> at the front so that the water can get out.<\/p>\n\n\n\nManeuverability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Ocean](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Oceankayak-malibu-two-705x703.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nBecause it\u2019s so short at 12 feet long, the Malibu Two is a very maneuverable kayak<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This means you could take it on narrow rivers without problems once you get the hang of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On open water, you\u2019ll also be able to avoid obstacles <\/strong>such as boats or people swimming.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHowever, if you\u2019ve never paddled a kayak before then you\u2019ll still need to work on your technique before being able to turn at will. But the same can be said of any kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Comfort<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While not as stable as high-end kayaks, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is still more comfortable than its competitors<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nI like the two removable seats<\/strong> that can be easily adjusted <\/strong>depending on your height.<\/p>\n\n\n\nI find them comfortable enough for a few hours, although I wouldn\u2019t take these camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The seats can be reclined if you just want to relax on the water and stop paddling. While paddling, you can simply straighten them up to have more power and control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, this boat was made to be incredibly versatile<\/strong>. It can be paddled tandem<\/strong>, or solo <\/strong>by simply placing a seat in the middle of the boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen paddling in tandem, you could also put a small child or pet<\/strong> in the center of the kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe molded-in<\/strong> footrests <\/strong>are comfortable but overall pretty basic. If you\u2019re a tall paddler, you might get cramped at the back. If so, I\u2019d recommend the longer Malibu Two XL\u202finstead (more on this below)<\/p>\n\n\n\nThese footrests have a patented overlapping design<\/strong>. If you are paddling solo, this will allow you to have comfortable foot bracing when seating at the center of the boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Malibu Two has four scupper holes<\/strong>, that are designed to take the water out. Overall the boat will still be quite wet (particularly at the feet) but that\u2019s also normal on a recreational kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe huge upside of these scuppers is that you can get back on the boat in case you capsize, and you won\u2019t need a bilge pump<\/strong> to take the water out.<\/p>\n\n\n\nStability and Tracking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you remember, we just said that the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two won\u2019t break any speed records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, that\u2019s actually due to its extreme stability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis kayak was made for beginners, and as such, they made it incredibly stable and impossible to flip<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEven if you lean a lot on one side \u2212 if you\u2019re talking to your partner<\/strong> behind for instance \u2212 you won\u2019t feel unstable.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you manage to flip this boat, I\u2019ll be amazed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regarding tracking, I\u2019d say it will be fine for recreational trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It definitely tracks much better than most inflatable kayaks<\/strong>. But don\u2019t expect it to track as well as a touring boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThat said, as a beginner going straight will always be a challenge. This is totally normal and you will improve your technique over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Durability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"OK](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Oc-Kay-malibu-two-1-705x391.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAs mentioned before in the Material section, the Malibu Two is a very durable boat<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThat said, some people have told me theirs cracked at the hull near the scupper holes after only a few years of use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That shouldn\u2019t happen in a boat that costs almost $1000, and as such it is covered by Ocean Kayaks\u2019 lifetime warranty<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor most people though, you\u2019ll be able to keep this boat for years without seeing any damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Portability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Ocean-kayak](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OK-malibu-two-705x659.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWeighing only 63 pounds, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is extremely easy to carry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It has two carrying handles at the bow and stern to carry it to and from the water.\u202fThe handles are not very high-quality, but I guess for a recreational boat that\u2019s to be expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You also have two side handles to help you load and unload your kayak on top of your car or SUV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, you won\u2019t need a kayak cart to carry your boat to and from the water. Even if you\u2019re paddling solo, you can simply drag the boat since it has a skid plate that protects the hull.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Malibu Two Ocean Kayak – Features and Accessories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Unlike many recreational kayaks, the Malibu Two doesn\u2019t come with a free paddle.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nIt also doesn\u2019t have any cup holder, so you\u2019ll have to place your water bottle at your feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It also has very limited storage space<\/strong>, with straps on the bow, stern, and center. These straps aren\u2019t as good as the bungee cords on the Malibu Two XL version. Why? Because they\u2019re too short to secure a big cooler, among other things.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOcean Kayaks has included three spots where you can drill to have dry hatches. However, since they took the time to include these spots I wonder why they didn\u2019t simply put dry hatches <\/strong>in there directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFinally, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL has two paddle holders<\/strong> (one for each paddler) so that you can sit back and relax on the water. These are perfect to take a break from paddling and maybe drink and eat without worrying about your paddle floating away from you.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFishing Ease (Malibu Two XL Angler Review)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/ocean-kayak-malibu-two-angler-705x477.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThis section is for the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL Angler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019ll start by saying the XL\u202fAngler has the exact same hull as the Malibu Two XL<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAs such, it is just as stable<\/strong>, as fast<\/strong>, and tracks the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe seats are also the same, and the open storage space is also the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That said, it does have a center dry hatch<\/strong> where you can put some fishing gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt also has four deck mounts<\/strong> and two Scotty rod holders<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLike the\u202fMalibu Two XL, it has two paddle holders <\/strong>which are incredibly important for hands-free fishing.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOverall, this is a pretty cheap tandem fishing kayak, so don\u2019t expect it to have as many features as more expensive tandem fishing kayaks<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nGet the Malibu Angler<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWho is the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two for?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Ocean-Kayak-Malibu-Two-side-view-705x151.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAs you may have guessed by now, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is made for recreational summer trips<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt will do just fine on calm water, and it will allow you to have fun with your partner or kids<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s also very versatile<\/strong>, which means you can use it solo on some weekends if you feel like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAs such, this is a perfect boat to take on holiday or to leave at your summer house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nGet Best Deal<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nOcean Kayak Malibu Two Alternatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\nOcean Kayak Malibu Two XL<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Ocean-kayak](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OCEAN-KAYAK-MALIBU-TWO-XL-705x126.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGet Best Price<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Malibu Two XL\u202fis fairly similar to the Malibu Two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, it is 1 foot and a half longer, which means it will be faster and track better<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt also has a 500\u202flb weight capacity, which is great for big guys <\/strong>or to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor tall guys<\/strong>, the Malibu Two XL\u202fwill be infinitely more comfortable <\/strong>as it will provide more legroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt also has two paddle holders <\/strong>which means you can stop paddling and take a break on the water<\/strong> to eat or drink something.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOverall, considering the small price difference, I think the Malibu Two XL\u202fis a better value<\/strong> than the standard version.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBrooklyn Kayak TK122U<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"BROOKLYN](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/BROOKLYN-TK122.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe BCK TK122 is very similar<\/strong> to the Malibu Two XL Angler.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAs such, it will cost a bit more<\/strong> than the standard version of the Malibu Two.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt has a huge 770 lb weight capacity<\/strong>, which also makes it incredibly stable<\/strong>, even for big guys.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt has two watertight hatches<\/strong>, four flush-mounted rod holders<\/strong>, and two paddle holders.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt also includes two free aluminum paddles<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOverall, the BCK TK122K is more expensive <\/strong>but gives you a lot more features <\/strong>than the Ocean Kayak Malibu.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPerception Rambler 13.5<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Pic](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PERCEPTION-KAYAK-RAMBLER-13.5-705x154.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe Rambler 13.5 is heavier<\/strong> than the Malibu Two XL at 78 lb.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt also has a slightly bigger weight capacity of 450\u202flb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can also use it as a tandem<\/strong>, solo<\/strong>, or three-person kayak (to carry a pet or child). That said, you need to buy 4 extra deck loops to use it a solo kayak, which may be a problem<\/strong> if they\u2019re out of stock.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHowever, I\u2019ve found the seats to not be as comfortable<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Rambler is also slower <\/strong>than the Malibu Two XL, and it doesn\u2019t have paddle holders.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOverall, I wasn\u2019t impressed with its performance<\/strong> and I much prefer the Malibu Two XL.<\/p>\n\n\n\nClick here to see even more cheap kayak alternatives.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nOcean Kayak Malibu 2 – Wrapping It Up<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Overall, it\u2019s no surprise why<\/strong> the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is so popular among kayak guiding companies<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWith its impressive stability<\/strong>, decent speed, and tracking, this makes it one of the best kayaks for beginners<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you plan on paddling for fun with your better half and children, I think the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL\u202fis the best bang for your buck<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe only downside is that because it\u2019s so popular, the Malibu Two tends to be out of stock<\/strong> during the summer months\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So if it\u2019s already unavailable when you read this review, then I\u2019m sorry. You\u2019ll have to wait until next year <\/strong>to get your <\/strong>hands on one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe most important thing to look for in a recreational kayak for beginners is stability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After all, you\u2019ll use the boat to have fun on the water, and you\u2019ll want to avoid capsizing at all costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a beginner having fun, you might also lean on the side quite often (talking with your partner) without realizing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Second, you want good tracking<\/strong>. As a beginner with poor technique, a boat with subpar tracking will have you making circles instead of actually going forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tracking will also be a life-saver in case the wind picks up while you\u2019re on the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finally, you should already have somewhere dry and out of the sun<\/strong> to keep your kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you leave your kayak unprotected in the sun, the hull may warp over time and you\u2019ll have to throw it away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is a hard-sided kayak. As such, it is made of single-layer polyethylene<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This material is virtually indestructible<\/strong>. It will withstand on-water collisions<\/strong>, rocks<\/strong>, submerged tree branches<\/strong>\u2026 <\/strong>and anything you throw at it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re looking for a kayak that can take a beating, then a polyethylene rotomolded kayak is what you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a recreational kayak, the Malibu Two isn\u2019t as slow as you may think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sure, if you\u2019re paddling with people in sit-in touring kayaks\u2026 then it will be impossible to keep up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But for summer fun on calm waters, you\u2019ll find it fast enough<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is due in part to the molded-in seat well that allows you to seat closer to the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most beginners will be able to get a comfortable cruising speed of 2.5 mph<\/strong> on a windless day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My wife and I who are more experienced can actually go at a decent 3.5 mph. (Far from the 5 mph we\u2019re used to in our longer touring kayaks).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pro Tip<\/strong>: If after a few trips you notice the kayak is heavier than usual, this might mean that some water has accumulated inside the hull. Therefore, you should unscrew the drain plug<\/strong> at the front so that the water can get out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because it\u2019s so short at 12 feet long, the Malibu Two is a very maneuverable kayak<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On open water, you\u2019ll also be able to avoid obstacles <\/strong>such as boats or people swimming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you\u2019ve never paddled a kayak before then you\u2019ll still need to work on your technique before being able to turn at will. But the same can be said of any kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While not as stable as high-end kayaks, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is still more comfortable than its competitors<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I like the two removable seats<\/strong> that can be easily adjusted <\/strong>depending on your height.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I find them comfortable enough for a few hours, although I wouldn\u2019t take these camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The seats can be reclined if you just want to relax on the water and stop paddling. While paddling, you can simply straighten them up to have more power and control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, this boat was made to be incredibly versatile<\/strong>. It can be paddled tandem<\/strong>, or solo <\/strong>by simply placing a seat in the middle of the boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When paddling in tandem, you could also put a small child or pet<\/strong> in the center of the kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The molded-in<\/strong> footrests <\/strong>are comfortable but overall pretty basic. If you\u2019re a tall paddler, you might get cramped at the back. If so, I\u2019d recommend the longer Malibu Two XL\u202finstead (more on this below)<\/p>\n\n\n\n These footrests have a patented overlapping design<\/strong>. If you are paddling solo, this will allow you to have comfortable foot bracing when seating at the center of the boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Malibu Two has four scupper holes<\/strong>, that are designed to take the water out. Overall the boat will still be quite wet (particularly at the feet) but that\u2019s also normal on a recreational kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The huge upside of these scuppers is that you can get back on the boat in case you capsize, and you won\u2019t need a bilge pump<\/strong> to take the water out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you remember, we just said that the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two won\u2019t break any speed records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Well, that\u2019s actually due to its extreme stability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This kayak was made for beginners, and as such, they made it incredibly stable and impossible to flip<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if you lean a lot on one side \u2212 if you\u2019re talking to your partner<\/strong> behind for instance \u2212 you won\u2019t feel unstable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you manage to flip this boat, I\u2019ll be amazed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Regarding tracking, I\u2019d say it will be fine for recreational trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It definitely tracks much better than most inflatable kayaks<\/strong>. But don\u2019t expect it to track as well as a touring boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That said, as a beginner going straight will always be a challenge. This is totally normal and you will improve your technique over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As mentioned before in the Material section, the Malibu Two is a very durable boat<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That said, some people have told me theirs cracked at the hull near the scupper holes after only a few years of use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That shouldn\u2019t happen in a boat that costs almost $1000, and as such it is covered by Ocean Kayaks\u2019 lifetime warranty<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For most people though, you\u2019ll be able to keep this boat for years without seeing any damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Weighing only 63 pounds, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is extremely easy to carry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It has two carrying handles at the bow and stern to carry it to and from the water.\u202fThe handles are not very high-quality, but I guess for a recreational boat that\u2019s to be expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You also have two side handles to help you load and unload your kayak on top of your car or SUV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fortunately, you won\u2019t need a kayak cart to carry your boat to and from the water. Even if you\u2019re paddling solo, you can simply drag the boat since it has a skid plate that protects the hull.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike many recreational kayaks, the Malibu Two doesn\u2019t come with a free paddle.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n It also doesn\u2019t have any cup holder, so you\u2019ll have to place your water bottle at your feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It also has very limited storage space<\/strong>, with straps on the bow, stern, and center. These straps aren\u2019t as good as the bungee cords on the Malibu Two XL version. Why? Because they\u2019re too short to secure a big cooler, among other things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ocean Kayaks has included three spots where you can drill to have dry hatches. However, since they took the time to include these spots I wonder why they didn\u2019t simply put dry hatches <\/strong>in there directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finally, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL has two paddle holders<\/strong> (one for each paddler) so that you can sit back and relax on the water. These are perfect to take a break from paddling and maybe drink and eat without worrying about your paddle floating away from you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This section is for the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL Angler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I\u2019ll start by saying the XL\u202fAngler has the exact same hull as the Malibu Two XL<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As such, it is just as stable<\/strong>, as fast<\/strong>, and tracks the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The seats are also the same, and the open storage space is also the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That said, it does have a center dry hatch<\/strong> where you can put some fishing gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It also has four deck mounts<\/strong> and two Scotty rod holders<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like the\u202fMalibu Two XL, it has two paddle holders <\/strong>which are incredibly important for hands-free fishing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, this is a pretty cheap tandem fishing kayak, so don\u2019t expect it to have as many features as more expensive tandem fishing kayaks<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you may have guessed by now, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is made for recreational summer trips<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It will do just fine on calm water, and it will allow you to have fun with your partner or kids<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also very versatile<\/strong>, which means you can use it solo on some weekends if you feel like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As such, this is a perfect boat to take on holiday or to leave at your summer house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Malibu Two XL\u202fis fairly similar to the Malibu Two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it is 1 foot and a half longer, which means it will be faster and track better<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It also has a 500\u202flb weight capacity, which is great for big guys <\/strong>or to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For tall guys<\/strong>, the Malibu Two XL\u202fwill be infinitely more comfortable <\/strong>as it will provide more legroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It also has two paddle holders <\/strong>which means you can stop paddling and take a break on the water<\/strong> to eat or drink something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, considering the small price difference, I think the Malibu Two XL\u202fis a better value<\/strong> than the standard version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BCK TK122 is very similar<\/strong> to the Malibu Two XL Angler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As such, it will cost a bit more<\/strong> than the standard version of the Malibu Two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It has a huge 770 lb weight capacity<\/strong>, which also makes it incredibly stable<\/strong>, even for big guys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It has two watertight hatches<\/strong>, four flush-mounted rod holders<\/strong>, and two paddle holders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It also includes two free aluminum paddles<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, the BCK TK122K is more expensive <\/strong>but gives you a lot more features <\/strong>than the Ocean Kayak Malibu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Rambler 13.5 is heavier<\/strong> than the Malibu Two XL at 78 lb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It also has a slightly bigger weight capacity of 450\u202flb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also use it as a tandem<\/strong>, solo<\/strong>, or three-person kayak (to carry a pet or child). That said, you need to buy 4 extra deck loops to use it a solo kayak, which may be a problem<\/strong> if they\u2019re out of stock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, I\u2019ve found the seats to not be as comfortable<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Rambler is also slower <\/strong>than the Malibu Two XL, and it doesn\u2019t have paddle holders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, I wasn\u2019t impressed with its performance<\/strong> and I much prefer the Malibu Two XL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Click here to see even more cheap kayak alternatives.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, it\u2019s no surprise why<\/strong> the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is so popular among kayak guiding companies<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With its impressive stability<\/strong>, decent speed, and tracking, this makes it one of the best kayaks for beginners<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you plan on paddling for fun with your better half and children, I think the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL\u202fis the best bang for your buck<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The only downside is that because it\u2019s so popular, the Malibu Two tends to be out of stock<\/strong> during the summer months\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\nOcean Kayak Malibu Two Specifications<\/h2>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Design<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Maneuverability<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
This means you could take it on narrow rivers without problems once you get the hang of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\nComfort<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Stability and Tracking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Durability<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nPortability<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nMalibu Two Ocean Kayak – Features and Accessories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Fishing Ease (Malibu Two XL Angler Review)<\/h2>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWho is the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two for?<\/h2>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nOcean Kayak Malibu Two Alternatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nBrooklyn Kayak TK122U<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nPerception Rambler 13.5<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nOcean Kayak Malibu 2 – Wrapping It Up<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
So if it\u2019s already unavailable when you read this review, then I\u2019m sorry. You\u2019ll have to wait until next year <\/strong>to get your <\/strong>hands on one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n