Bluewave Discovery Sit On Top Touring Kayak (Northern Lights, 2.63m)

What is the maximum weight this kayak can carry?

The Bluewave Discovery has a maximum load capacity of 150kg. This covers the combined weight of the paddler and any gear on board. It's worth leaving a reasonable margin below the maximum loading right to the limit causes the hull to sit lower in the water which reduces stability and makes paddling harder work. For most adult paddlers with a day's worth of kit this capacity is more than adequate.

Does this kayak come with a paddle and seat, or do I need to buy them separately?

This package includes both a two-piece paddle and a Bluewave deluxe padded seat with back support as standard. The seat also offers a wide range of foot positions so you can adjust for comfort on longer trips. You won't need to buy these separately, which represents a genuine saving compared to purchasing a hull-only kayak and then sourcing accessories.

What type of water is this kayak suitable for?

The Discovery is designed for use on rivers, lakes, estuaries and the sea. Its stable hull and manoeuvrable shorter length make it well suited to calm and moderately sheltered water. It's not designed for white water or rough open-ocean conditions. If you're planning coastal paddling it's always worth checking local conditions and tide times before heading out.

How heavy is the kayak and how easy is it to transport?

The kayak weighs 21kg. That's a reasonable weight for a roto-moulded plastic sit-on-top of this size. It has four built-in carry handles which make it manageable for two people to carry to and from the water. Its shorter 2.63m length also makes it easier to load onto roof bars or slide into the back of an estate car or van compared to longer touring kayaks.

What storage does the kayak have?

There are two storage areas. The first is a 6-inch waterproof sealed hatch suitable for keeping phones, wallets, keys and other items you need to keep dry. The second is a rear open luggage area with bungee straps which is better for bulkier items like dry bags, a change of clothes or a packed lunch. Eight D-rings are also fitted around the hull for attaching additional gear securely.

Is this kayak suitable for beginners and children?

Yes. The Discovery was specifically designed as an introductory kayak. Its high-riding hull gives it better stability than many similar-sized kayaks which makes it forgiving for people still learning to balance and paddle. The shorter overall length also makes it easier to turn and control. It's used by rental fleets for exactly this reason it's a practical choice for first-time paddlers of most ages and sizes.

What are the scupper holes and drain plug for?

Sit-on-top kayaks are open to the elements and water can wash onto the deck. Four scupper holes allow water to drain away through the hull passively without needing to bail. The scupper plugs (four are included) can be inserted to block these holes in calm conditions if you want to keep the deck drier. The drain plug at the rear allows you to empty any water that has collected inside the hull before transporting or storing the kayak.

What colour options are available for the Bluewave Discovery?

The Discovery is available in five colour options: Toxic (Blue/Green), Unicorn (Pink/Yellow), Blue, Northern Lights (Purple/Blue) and Mango. The listing here is for the Northern Lights colourway. It's worth noting that due to the roto-moulding manufacturing process exact colours and patterns can vary slightly between individual kayaks this is normal for this type of construction and not a manufacturing defect.