There are many options in inflatable and foldable kayak designs. While functional, none of them can perform like a real hard-side touring kayak and that’s the main draw for the Pakayak Bluefin 14, which combines comfortable touring performance with an impressively portable modular design.
Like other modular kayaks, it breaks apart into modules for easy transport, allowing you to bring it to the water without having to tow a cargo trailer. Unlike them, all the individual modules nest, allowing them to bundle into a single pile that you can strap on your shoulders for carrying like a backpack. Well, a giant backpack.
The Pakayak Bluefin 14 measures 14 feet long when assembled, with a large cockpit interior to ensure proper touring comfort. When broken apart, the kayak collapses into six different pieces, which can then be nested into a 3.5-foot package. Slip on the included carrying straps and you’ve got yourself a backpack form factor that you can hoist on your back. Do note, the whole thing weighs 55 pounds, so while you can carry it on your back, the darn thing won’t be easy.
Four-point clamping technology ensures all interlocking sections attach in a watertight manner, so it should be as stable as any standard kayak. Features include waterproof storage compartments both front and back, a padded seat with backrest, adjustable foot braces, reflective safety lines, and wheels on the carrying rig for dragging it on the ground, in case your back needs the respite.
Slated to come out later in the year, the Pakayak Bluefin 14 is priced at $1,695.