One of the most excellent reasons to spend your day on the lake is stand-up paddling. Water sports provide you with great endurance and strength training, particularly for the deep muscles.
Meanwhile, River SUP, Race SUP, SUP Yoga, SUP Surfing, and WindSUP have spawned a slew of new sub-disciplines, some of which need specialized equipment.
All the boards I have reviewed in this article are designed to be ridden by two people. After all, I have tested many two-person SUP boards and shortlisted three 2-persons paddle boards because they have proven themselves in practice.
These SUP boards differ in terms of features and specifications, such as weight capacity, stability, and a broad deck with adequate room for two persons. As a result, they are ideal for diverse regions of usage. Let’s dive in to explore more about them!
What to consider when buying a 2-person paddleboard?
Carrying Capacity:
The most crucial factor worth considering for 2 persons SUP is the carrying capacity, since the board must remain firm and not bend through on the water. In the beginning, I randomly practiced on some 2-person paddle boards with varying carrying capacity. I noticed that not having the right carrying capacity can result in a loss of speed, wet feet or in the worst case, damage to the board.
Weight Distribution:
Weigh yourself and your desired paddling partner. Don’t bother searching for boards with a too low carrying weight now that you know what maximum carrying capacity you want.
Load Capacity:
Be mindful of the load capacity as well. I noticed that some manufacturers are overconfident in their own boards’ load capability, while others are cautious. In addition, the number is determined by your body weight and the number of accessories and luggage you want to bring on the trip.
Tidbits:
Last, but of course not least, you must consider the entire package while buying a 2-person paddle board. Keep in mind your overall budget, since you will most likely need to purchase more paddles and leashes. It is simple if you already have a paddle and leash, but if you do not, it may be a costly overall cost that you should consider.
Other Considerations:
Aside from the above-listed points-to-note, I suggest you a few minor details to consider as well. For instance, I recommend opting for a board with a three-fin layout. Although not required, the design with one center and two side fins improve tipping stability, making it simpler to paddle with two people on board.
The extra carrying handles have already been discussed. Again, this is unnecessary, in my opinion, but additional grips on the stern and bow make the relatively heavier boards simpler to move.
The accessories supplied in the box are another feature that is always crucial in inflatable SUP boards. Many of the SUP 2 people paddle boards in the market come with a comprehensive delivery package that already contains all the necessary equipment.
You can save a lot of money if you buy them all together rather than buying them separately.
Mini-Review Best 2 Person Paddle Boards
1. Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′
When it comes to 2 person paddleboards, the Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′ is the first board that springs to mind. The maximum carrying capacity specified on this board is 240 kg (529 lbs), which should be sufficient for two people in practically all cases. My paddling buddy and I tested it over and over again. And it provided us with an amazing experience every time.
The dimensions of 15′ x 36′′ (456 cm × 91.5 cm) give a reasonably large platform with plenty of room for two people, baggage, and a pet or child. I took my pet!
Even though the board is relatively large, the long and sharp design allows you to attain good speeds.
The three fins will make it easy to maintain a straight path on the water, and the seven carrying handles will make getting the board to the water a breeze. In this situation, no paddleboard wheels or paddleboard carriers are required!
The Bluefin Cruise Tandem is ideal for anyone who wants to paddle in a group. The multi-person SUP board impresses with measurements of 456cm (ca. 180 inches inch) in length, 91.5cm (ca. 36 inch) in breadth, and 16cm (ca. 6 inches inch) in thickness. The Bluefin Cruise Tandem is also designed for novices who practice on a large SUP board.
The Bluefin Cruise Tandem’s deck pad comprises a non-slip Croko Diamond deck that gives a stable grip even in flooded water. It also has three fins that gave my paddling partner and me additional stability and steering with the Smart Lock System.
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Contra
2. Aqua Marina Super Trip
All novices searching for a wide all-rounder should take the Aqua Marina Super Trip. I find it very suitable for beginners to practice with its astounding proportions of 370cm (145.6 inch) in length, 87cm (34 inch) in breadth, and 15cm (5.9 inch) in thickness since jumping into the water is commonly avoided.
Because of its range, the Aqua Marina Super Trip floats on the water like a board. Also, I have not experienced any tip over while using Aqua Marina Super Trip. Because the SUP board’s 15cm thickness prevents it from bending. As a result, even heavy paddlers will use this board.
Due to its extreme stability, more than one person may be transported on the Aqua Marina Super Trip.
The Aqua Marina Super Trip’s non-slip deck pad guarantees a secure footing even in flooded water. Trips for two are no issue with a maximum load of 180 kg (396.8lbs). The Aqua Marina Super Trip is suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers.
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3. Bluefin Cruise Carbon Tandem 15′
To get down to business, this 2 person paddle board is the deluxe version of the Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′, which we’ve already reviewed above.
Its maximum carrying capacity of 240 kg (529 lbs) remains the same as in the case of Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′. A few distinctions between these boards distinguish them as the deluxe version, which I will discuss further down.
The Bluefin Cruise Carbon comes with nearly the same package as the Bluefin Cruise, but instead of two fiberglass paddles, it comes with two carbon paddles. These are the lightest and finest paddles available, allowing you to paddle for extended periods without your muscles becoming sore.
It includes a kick pad at the tail, and an action camera mounted on the front, just as the Bluefin Cruise Tandem. I personally find it very resilient and strong. Bluefin Cruise Carbon Tandem 15′ is practically unbreakable due to the additional carbon-reinforced material used in its construction, making it well worth the extra money.
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Frequently Asked Questions about 2 person PaddleBoards
1. Is it possible to accommodate two persons on a stand-up paddleboard?
One stand-up paddleboard can accommodate two individuals. However, to accommodate the added weight of two riders, you’ll need to buy a sizable board. I recommend you look for specialized stand-up paddleboards that are developed exclusively for tandem riders.
2. Is it possible to ride several persons on an inflatable SUP board?
Yes, a group of adults can ride on inflatables. The boards may be inflated to high air pressure and produce a lot of buoyancy thanks to the sophisticated production processes utilized to create current versions.
Not all types are appropriate for both inflatable and permanent boards. Each board has a different load capability and tipping stability. Only extremely tilt-resistant boards with a high buoyancy are acceptable for two adults to ride comfortably.
Tandem SUP is a stand-up paddleboard that allows two people to paddle.
Tandem SUP boards are broader, longer, and more stable than single-person SUP boards. Because it can carry greater weight, you can bring along additional goods (such as a cooler with food and beverages), snorkeling and fishing equipment, and even camping gear if you plan on going on longer adventures.
3. Can I bring my dog or child on a SUP board with me?
Remember I took my pet with me? Nothing stops you from taking your dog or a young child, as long as the maximum load isn’t surpassed (with the appropriate life jacket for children and safety measures).
Verdict
In the water, everything is about 2 person paddleboards. Now that we have shed light on all aspects, let’s declare the winner. In my opinion, the winner is Bluefin Cruise Carbon Tandem 15′, owing to its amazing features and productivity. It is unique from the other two paddle boards because of its carbon-reinforced body material. Its carrying capacity is also greater than Aqua Marina Super Trip. But like it or not, this is for experts.
If you are a beginner and just started off practicing paddleboarding, I highly recommend you Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′ or Aqua Marina Super Trip. But you need to take note of all the considerations I mentioned above while making a purchase. You have to estimate what carrying capacity would suit you the best. What should be the weight distribution, load capacity, and what do you get in the complete package. Look for how many fins the paddle board has. Because the stability is directly linked with the number and fin layout.
After considering everything, pick your best choice according to your budget and liking. I believe you will have a great 2 person paddle board and enjoy your next adventure with your partner. I would love to know your paddleboarding experience in the comment section.
