Crescent Splash II

Size and Weight

Most tandem kayaks are a bit heavier than their single-user counterparts, especially those considered to be “budget-minded” models. The Splash II has a length of 12’4” (375.9 cm) and a width of 34” (86.3 cm), which means that this kayak is fairly compact for a tandem watercraft. It’s weight of 69 lbs (31.2 kg) makes it one of the most lightweight tandem kayaks currently on the market. Despite its small and lightweight build, the Splash II is not short on performance and capabilities.

Capacity

Part of what makes a tandem kayak highly attractive is its ability to comfortably accommodate two users of just about any size. The Splash II does just that with an overall capacity of 500 lbs (226.7 kg). The combination of the Splash II’s smaller stature and stout capacity makes this a great choice for anyone looking for a solid recreational tandem kayak that will provide good stability, even with larger-sized users aboard.

Features

The most attractive feature of the Splash II is its ability to easily fit two users atop the kayak, or to have one single user sit in the middle seat position comfortably and still have the same quality performance capabilities on the water. The Splash II is a true 2+1 kayak.

From bow to stern the Splash II has a good amount of features that set it apart from other budget-minded tandem kayaks. Roped handles on the bow and stern mean that two users will be able to easily carry this kayak, even for long distances when needed thanks to it’s extremely lightweight design.

The bow has bungee cords that allow for quick and easy storage of most items to let users keep items secure. Like most other Crescent kayaks, the Splash II offers a molded-in foot peg system as opposed to removable foot pegs that might be susceptible to damage.

The Splash II offers two main seats on the front and back that are designed with Crescent’s patented curved, molded seat. Each main seat also comes with perforated-foam backband that is meant to provide added back support and make for a much more comfortable ride.

This kayak also features a third seat that’s located in the middle between the front and back main seats. The middle seat can serve as an extra space for another user to board the kayak, or for one single user to take control of the entire kayak. This feature makes the Splash II ideal for families who want to take a young child along with them on the water, or for 3 average-sized users to join one another and enjoy paddling together.

The Splash II features cupholders for every seat and paddle straps that are evenly-spaced around the vessel to give users a good amount of room, even with three people aboard the kayak. The stern also offers an open well that’s complete with bungee cords for storing gear or anything else users want to add.

Performance

One of the most prominent design features that lend credence to the Splash II’s ability to provide users with great performance is its bulbous nose and full-length keel. This gives the boat excellent stability, even with three users atop the kayak. The full-length keel means that the Splash II will have great tracking in mostly calm waters. Crescent’s stepped keel design also gives this kayak a good amount of stability that will allow users to sit comfortably in the Splash II and not worry too much about capsizing if both users lean too far to one side. This kayak doesn’t have excellent speed, but it’s level of maneuverability makes it lots of fun to paddle.