Inflatable kayaks are known for being the easier, more affordable choice, and that is true. Yet, nowadays, these boats are boasting more and more features, to the extent that they’re effortlessly battling hard-shell boats. The Intex Excursion Pro is one of those inflatables.
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Intex Excursion Pro Review: At A Glance
The Intex Excursion Pro is a lightweight, super-sturdy kayak that can support all kayakers with all levels of experience. It also comes with an incredible package that removes any need for further purchases.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Three separate compartments
- Manometer included
- Stable
- Solo, tandem, and pets
- Paddles included
- Robust construction
- Safety lines
Cons:
- Small flimsy pump
- Scrooged skeg holder
- Little support from the seat
Construction
The Intex Excursion Pro is all about generosity when it comes to sturdy construction. It’s made out of 3-ply, 30 gauge vinyl fabric reinforced with PVC coating all over. This is our first step into making it entirely suitable for all types of waters.
Although we wouldn’t say that it’s the most suitable kayak for longer trips, it has no problem going out into any kind of water as long as it’s for a smaller time frame, maxing out at one day.
The kind of construction we’ve spoken about is completely capable of handling different water banks, getting in and out of narrow spaces, and moving on different types of gravel.
Finally, this kayak is both compliant with the ISO 6185 international standard and certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association using ABYC standards.
Design
Generally, the design of the Intex Excursion Pro is lean and smooth. It gives the impression of being larger than it already is thanks to this design, specifically the deck, which is rather empty and vast.
This allows you to sit comfortably, even if you decide to have a plus1 or even a plus2. It can take up to three adults without them being squashed together. Otherwise, you’ll have tons of storage space in the form of dry bags that you can attach to the D-rings spaced out on the sides of the boat.
Furthermore, it’s one drain pump right at the front of the kayak. At the end of your trip, all you’ve to do is tip the boat to the front, and all the water will drain out.
Compartments
Thankfully, the Intex Excursion Pro has three compartments; each one is completely separated and has its valve. Additionally, these valves are high-pressure ones and are protected by a spring-loaded cap so that they’re not exposed at any time.
The protection applied to the valves makes them incredibly sturdy. That way, different collisions against any entities present underwater or above it don’t have a chance of breaking the outer cab or getting to the valve on the inside.
Seat
As for the seating, you’ll get two seats included in the package, and they’re both inflatables. The way you install them inside of the kayak is through a velcro strip at the bottom and two belts for the back.
What’s great about these seats is that they’re adjustable all the way. The straps used to adjust the back can be attached to any of the D-rings allowing you to lean back or sit up as much as you want.
Nonetheless, that does take away some of the support that the seats should offer. So, you’ll hardly feel any pressure points; yet, you might require an extra cushion for back and neck support.
However, don’t despair, the extra cushion actually comes included in the package of this boat, and it can be used for plenty of purposes. For example, you can put it under you to elevate you inside the kayak for better vision or use it for back support.
Footrest
More often than not, inflatable kayaks don’t come with footrests, which makes this addition quite valuable. The footrests that come with the Intex Excursion Pro are adjustable with three different levels for both rear and front paddlers.
So, they’re high-quality footrests. Still, if you’re on the taller side, then they might not be the best option for you because they’ll have you bend your legs for long periods.
Accessories
In all honesty, the package of the Intex Excursion Pro is one of its best attractions. You get so many knick-knacks that make your kayaking experience much more pleasurable.
Double-Bladed Paddles
Firstly, you receive two double-bladed paddles made out of aluminum, and they split into five pieces.
Now, this is both a blessing and a curse! The fact that you can pack and unpack the paddles makes them easily storage-able; hence, you can keep them safe at all times.
On the other side of the spectrum, this allows for many points of weakness along the paddles’ shaft. So, they’re rather flimsy when used. As a result, you might need to replace them early on.
Spray Skirts
Here, you get two spray skirts; one at the front and one at the back. They aren’t exactly huge; still, they can be used as coverage for a few dry bags, but that isn’t the point of the spray skirts.
What’s more important is what is attached to them, and that is the handles. You’ve two incredibly robust handles to help you carry the kayak with relative ease.
Safety Lines
Another addition to help you carry the kayak and even deal with it in cases of tipping over will be the safety lines installed all along the sides of the boat. This can easily be your way out of a disaster as you can stay attached to your kayak and even be able to drag it back to the safety of the shore.
Skegs
The Intex Excursion Pro doesn’t come with just one skeg; it comes with two. One of them is fit for shallow waters, while the other is fit for deep waters. These two skegs improve trackability to a great extent, allowing you to maneuver the kayak in more demanding situations even if you’re kayaking solo.
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t use the deep waters skeg unless the boat is already in the water and has a space of around 30-40 cm below it.
Removable Mounting Bracket
Additionally, the boat is fitted for various water sports, and that definitely includes fishing. Hence, it comes with a mounting bracket shaped like a rod, and it can be used to hold all of your fishing gear; such as fishfinders, rods, tackle, etc.
Carry Bag
Lastly, it comes with a rugged carrying bag that doesn’t feel like it’ll snap anytime soon. That makes carrying the kayak around, even if you’re going to hike with it, much more approachable.
Dimensions and Carrying Capacity
12’7″ X 3’1″ X 1’6″, with a carrying capacity of 400 lbs. The boat itself weighs about 39 lbs.
What Is in the Box?
- Kayak
- Two skegs (one for shallow water and one for deep water)
- Double-lifting air pump
- Manometer
- Two plug-in paddles
- Several rod holders
- Inflatable seat pad
- Footrest
- Carry bag
- Repair kit
- Valves key
In Conclusion
To wrap up, the Intex Excursion Pro is an inflatable kayak with many features borrowed from hard-shell kayaks, and it carries these options formidably. As a result, it’s not affected by scratches, collisions, tough weather, or even rough waters.