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If you’re after an inexpensive vessel for recreational use then the Camino 8 SS kayak might be a good choice. With its compact, durable hull it could offer you the chance to get on the water easily.
But you want to know if it’s any good? We’ve checked it out to give you a low down on its main features to see if it might meet your needs.
- Length: 8 foot
- Width: 30 inches
- Depth: 12 inches
- Weight: 40 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 225 pounds
The Camino 8 SS Is Good For…
Recreational sit-on-tops can be great for getting out on the water easily and may require much less training compared to a sit-inside vessel. This can mean a sit-on-top can a good choice for anyone looking to try paddling for the first time or looking for a yak that they can get in and out of easily.
The Camino 8 SS is designed for stability on calm water and its short hull length should mean it’s easy to maneuver on the water, even for kids. As well as that, it may also be short enough to fit in the back of most pickups and SUVs.
If you’re after a compact yak for exploring calm bays or lakes, then this could be a good choice. With its sit-on-top design, it may be better suited to warm weather paddling.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a kayak that’s built for speed or touring, this one may not be it. A longer yak will likely be better suited for longer trips.
Sun Dolphin Camino 8 SS Kayak: Top Features
The Sun Dolphin Camino is an 8 foot sit-on-top recreational yak. It’s built for stability on calm water and ease of use for beginners, kids and anyone looking for an inexpensive compact vessel for getting out on the water.
Gentle Paddle: Camino 8 SS First Person Video
Stable Hull Design
The Camino 8 SS features a more unusual hull design, with a square stern. This can help to maximize the craft’s stability, making new paddlers feel a little more at ease as they take to the water.
The short and wide hull also adds to the stable nature of the vessel, as there is more of the craft in the water. The length of this yak can also make it easier to maneuver.
Comfort Features
While this yak may not have the fancy features of a touring vessel, it does have some features designed to make your time on the water more comfortable. One feature is the durable molded foot wells to suit different sized paddlers.
The seat is molded into the hull but it comes with a padded seat back that can be adjusted to your liking. For on board refreshments there’s space to keep a water bottle and there’s a handy sealed storage compartment for small essentials.
There’s also a storage well at the back, with bungee rigging so you can load on gear for day out and keep it secure while you’re on the water.
Portability
The Camino 8 is a short, lightweight yak, weighing just 40 pounds, which could make it easy to transport even if you’re on your own. The molded-in carry handles at the bow and stern are designed to make portaging easier, as well as making it a little more comfortable.
The 8 foot hull also means it can fit in the back of most trucks and SUVs, making transportation a little simpler.
Camino Alternatives
Ocean Kayak Frenzy
The Frenzy (full review here) is a 9 foot long, 31 inches wide yak that’s built for stability in a range of water conditions. Ideal for kids or adults for recreational use, this vessel has an adjustable padded seat and front and rear bungee rigging for storing gear.
Sun Dolphin Aruba 10
With an extra 10 feet in length, the Aruba 10 is a sit-inside recreational yak, so could give you a drier ride. The extra length could give it boosted speed over the Camino and it has the benefit of a rear enclosed storage compartment.
Lifetime Lotus 80
The Lotus is a similar style of vessel with the square stern for added primary stability. It’s the same length and width as the Camino and comes with an adjustable seat back and has a paddle included.
Camino Kayak: Questions And Answers
Can I take my dog onboard?
Yes, there’s room for your (small) dog, as long as your combined weight doesn’t exceed 225 pounds.
Is there a paddle included?
No, there’s no paddle included.
Is the seat rigid? Is it adjustable? Replaceable? Does it fold away?
The seat back is padded and adjustable and can be folded down. The seat is attached to D-rings so could be replaced.
Wrapping Up
Pros
- Compact
- Stable
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Not ideal for larger paddlers
- Not built for speed
The Camino 8 SS can be a great entry level kayak, whether you’re a child or an adult looking to have fun on the water. It’s a stable vessel that’s compact and easy to maneuver.
After reading our review, check it out for yourself here. We have a full list of Sun Dolphin kayak reviews. And if you want to help anyone else find the right kayak, share this review. Don’t forget to leave us a comment with your own paddling experiences.
