Hobie Mirage Passport 12.0

Size and Weight

The Mirage Passport 12.0 is 12’ (360 cm) long and 34” (86.3 cm) wide. With a fitted hull weight of 73 lbs (33.1 kg), the Passport 12.0 is still fairly easy to transport, although you may need a friend to help put it on top of your SUV.

Capacity

The total weight capacity of the Passport 12.0 is 400 lbs (181.4 kg), which makes it capable of handling a decent amount of gear for all-day use. The seating capacity, however, is rated at 275 lbs (124.7 kg), which means the Mirage Passport 12.0 is not exactly ideal for larger-sized individuals.

Features

The Mirage Passport 12.0 is designed to provide plenty of speed and agility that you would normally look for in a paddle kayak. This one is made for users who prefer the ease of a foot pedal system, and the MirageDrive Classic is more than capable of delivering a smooth, swift overall ride.

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The ease with which users can cover long distances with the MirageDrive Classic system makes the Passport 12.0 a solid choice for anglers and recreational users alike. The ST Fins are mostly what gives this kayak so much speed.

The pedal system is controlled by an easy-to-reach steering knob that’s located on the left side of the seat. Thanks to the Passport’s rudder system, the user will have a surprising amount of control over direction for both slow and faster speeds. The rudder is also stowable, which allows you to keep it safe and sound when traveling.

While the Passport 10.5 has long been a favorite of those looking for a smooth ride, the Passport 12.0 has lots of new features that are geared specifically toward fishing.

The EVA floor provides ample room for users to stand up and stretch, or even cast their favorite lure.

The Passport also has two H-track gear mounts on either side of the seat for mounting any electronics or other accessories. Users can also opt to add a molded-mesh pocket on the side of their Passport for more gear storage.

The kayak also features two flush-mounted rod holders behind the seat for quick and easy storage of fishing rods. The forward accessory mount is perfect for adding a sail or installing a front-facing camera.

The Passport 12.0 features spacious open bow and stern storage areas that are equipped with bungee cords for securing any kind of gear you might want to take along. There’s also the twist-and-seal hatch for dry storage of any valuables or other gear.

Anglers will appreciate the transducer cavity and mounting plate that make installation of a fishfinder very simple.

The suspended mesh aluminum frame seat is described as being quite comfortable, but some users report that the seat is just a bit too low, which can make standing up and sitting back down difficult for some.

Hobie Passport 12.0 comes with an aluminum paddle that can be used for maneuvering near the shore.

Performance

The MirageDrive Classic pedal system has a surprising ability to pick up speed with only a few pedal strokes. Users can reach a comfortable cruising pace with very little effort, making this a great choice for anyone looking for a pleasure kayak that’s capable of carrying a decent amount of gear.

The Passport 12.0 also has very good handling for a foot pedal kayak. Many users describe the Passport as having great stability and an overall comfortable experience.