Perception Access 11.5

Perception Access 11.5 is, in many ways, a unique beginner kayak. Some paddlers like the speed and tracking, others love the high seat, find it forgiving and safe for building their kayaking confidence. The Access 11.5 shines on slow-moving waters and calm inshore areas, but it handles well in moderate rapids, too.

Size and Weight

Perception Access 11.5 (Perception also offers a shorter version, the Access 9.5) measures 11’6″ (347 cm) long, 31″ (79 cm) wide, has a deck height of 18.75″ (48 cm) and weighs 55 lbs (25 kg). Access 11.5 is bulkier and bit more cumbersome due to its length, but still has no complaints from owners about transportation. However, it does have complaints about storing the kayak properly – it doesn’t stack well.

Access 11.5 has a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg), so it can easily carry you and some gear. To get the best performance, we recommend not to load the kayak to more than 80 percent of the total loading limit.

Materials

Perception makes their kayaks from a proprietary High-Density Polyethylene material using the company-specific, one-piece rotational molding technology. The process involves pouring beads of polyethylene into the mold, which gets heated up and slowly rotated so that the material fills up every nook and cranny. After the mold cools down, you get a one-piece, leak-proof construction that is extremely rugged and durable.

Features

The Access 11.5 comes with two molded carrying handles at the bow and stern, as well as two molded-in grips on the sides of the cockpit.

It includes a shallow but decent-sized tank well in the front and a second, oversized one in the rear. Both compartments are secured with bungee cords, so you can take a crate or a cooler, a sleeping bag, some tackle boxes, and any gear you may need for the trip. Remember to put your water-sensitive items in dry bags.

The generous-sized deck has two molded grooves where you can stow your rods. It includes a molded center console with two recesses where you can install different flush-mount bases from Scotty, RAM, or any brand you prefer. The console also integrates a molded-in cup holder. This area is perfect for adding equipment of your choice.

The Perception Access 11.5 also offers a small, round dry storage hatch with a catch bag inside where you can keep your phone, keys, and other valuables safe.

The Access 11.5 comes with molded footrests that offer five positions in which you can place your feet for the best leg comfort. However, you may feel your legs become numb occasionally. That is the difference between adjustable footpegs and footwells.

We don’t recommend standing up in this kayak because it’s tricky to sit back down without the risk of tipping over.

In many cases, the contoured high-back molded ergonomic seat is the main reason why people are drawn to the Access 11.5. Perception integrated a molded, foam-padded seat with padded back support that allows relaxed paddling for a couple of hours. Even though the kayak deserves praise for its performance and other features, it also gets some criticism for the seat. Taking an extra cushion for the base and a lumbar support pad will provide better comfort for longer trips. The easiest fix is the Harmony Standard Sit-on-top Seat.

Behind the seat, the kayak features two molded-in angled rod holders. They are shallow and hardly useful for most rod types. There are six scupper holes to drain the water.

Lastly, the keel is protected with a replaceable skid plate at the stern.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Access 11.5 has remarkable secondary stability that protects the kayaker in choppy or fast-moving waters. The primary stability isn’t as strong due to the narrow width of the boat and the high center of gravity.

Its superb balance and tracking keel provide smooth steering and sporty paddling without much effort. The length to width ratio, straight tracking, and high buoyancy make the boat speedy and fun to paddle.

Warranty

Perception kayaks are warranted against material or manufacturing defects in the hull and deck for five years from the date of the original purchase of the kayak. Parts, accessories, and outfitting are warranted for one year.

To learn more about Perception Kayaks’ warranty terms and conditions, click here.