Clear Bottom Kayaks – Guide And Reviews

A transparent kayak can be a great tool for allowing you to explore more of the water while you’re paddling and get to see things from a different perspective compared to a traditional kayak.

This is because, unlike traditional boats, a kayak with a clear bottom can let you see under the water.

This can add a new dimension to your paddling experience and can add even more fun to your trip.

A clear kayak can be ideal if you’re paddling in areas of clear water with lots of underwater wildlife, as it might give you a better chance of viewing the creatures below you rather than trying to spot them on the surface.

Video: Ride In Clear Kayaks

However, because the hull is completely clear to allow you to see what’s underneath you, this can often result in there being less space to store your gear. On the other hand, you may find there is room for your gear but your gear might then block some of your visibility.

Another thing you might notice with transparent kayaks is that they are often made out of polycarbonate, which is a type of plastic that is naturally transparent. It’s also very durable, with a high level of impact resistance.

Some see-through kayaks will feature a metal frame and some will also feature additional buoyancy aids that can be installed in the bow and stern of the vessel to provide extra flotation.

With there being several types of clear yaks out there, we thought we’d put together a short guide to some of our favorites, to help you decide what might be right for you.

3 Rated Transparent Kayaks

ClearYup Electric Clear Bottom Kayak

• Length: 10 foot 3 inches
• Width: 35 inches
• Weight: 62 pounds (88 pounds with motor installed)
• Weight Capacity: 440 pounds

This transparent kayak features an electric trolling motor that can give you added power to get you across the water. However, this means extra carrying weight. It’s a tandem vessel that has two seats and also comes with two paddles.

The craft features a clear hull made from 8 millimeter polycarbonate, so you can see under the water while you’re paddling. It also benefits from having corrosion resistant hardware, which can add durability if you’re paddling in saltwater.

With air bags to boost buoyancy, this can be an ideal kayak if you have a second paddler. There’s also the benefit of a remote control so you can easily power the motor.

Pros

• Electric trolling motor included
• Air bags
• Stable
• Tandem

Cons

• Not built for speed
• Not the lightest

Crystal Kayak Crystal Explorer

• Length: 11 foot 1 inch
• Width: 33.5 inches
• Weight: 48 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 425 pounds

The Crystal Explorer can be paddled either on your own or with a second paddler, as the seats can easily be configured for a single paddler. It comes ready to launch with two seats and two paddles.

This transparent kayak is made from 6 millimeter Lexan polycarbonate to allow you to see underwater and it features an anodized aluminum frame for added corrosion resistance.

While there is no dedicated storage space, you should find there’s room for a couple of dry bags at the bow and stern.

Pros

• Paddles included
• Comes with two seats
• Can be paddled solo or tandem

Cons

• No dedicated storage
• Not for rough water

Driftsun Transparent Crystal Clear Kayak

• Length: 11 foot
• Width: 32.2 inches
• Weight: 48 pounds
• Weight Capacity: 425 pounds

This Driftsun kayak is designed to hold two paddlers but it can also be paddled on your own by reconfiguring the seating. It features a clear polycarbonate hull for all around visibility below the surface of the water and has a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame.

This yak comes with two padded seats that are adjustable for added comfort, and it comes with two paddles. It also features inflatable chambers to add additional buoyancy.

The Driftsun kayak has a good weight capacity, with space to store gear behind the rear seat if used as a tandem. It also comes with two sponges to help wipe down your yak after use or help mop up excess water inside the hull.

Pros

• Buoyancy pouches
• Corrosion resistant
• Adjustable padded seats
• Tandem or solo use

Cons

• Tracking is not great