Sun Dolphin Excursion 12 SS

Size and Weight 

The Excursion 12 SS is almost identical to another Sun Dolphin kayak, the Aruba 12 SS. They both measure 12 feet / 363 cm in length, 30 inches / 76 cm in width, and 14 inches / 36 cm in height. The only difference is that the Excursion has an additional articulating rod holder at the front of the cockpit. 

They both also weigh 47 lbs / 21 kg and are easily carried by one person during transportation and launch. 

The Excursion 12 SS is a similar weight to other recreational kayaks from competitor brands like the Eddyline Caribbean which weighs 45 lbs / 20 kg but is slightly lighter than the Pelican Covert which weighs 55 lbs / 25 kg. 

Everyday Fishkeeping

Capacity

The Excursion 12 SS has a maximum capacity of 395 lbs / 179 kgs, which is plenty to accommodate bigger paddlers and some gear. However, loading it more than 300 lbs / 143 kg might result in some sacrifice in speed and performance.

This kayak’s maximum payload is about the same as the Pelican Covert’s 350 lbs / 159 kg, but significantly more than the Eddyline Caribbean’s maximum of 275 lbs  125 lbs. 

Features

Like most of the Sun Dolphin kayaks, the Excursion 12 SS is made of rugged UV-resistant Fortiflex high-density polyethylene (HDPE) which is known for its remarkable durability and strength. 

At the tip of the bow, you’ll find a drain plug that you use to get rid of any water that manages to find its way to the inside of the kayak. Right beside that is the front carrying t-handle for easy transportation. 

Everyday Fishkeeping

Further along the bow is a watertight circular hatch for you to stash valuables like keys and phones. The hatch contains an included dry bag, and removing the bag will give you access to another storage area inside the kayak.

This roomy storage area is separated by a bulkhead so your stuff doesn’t roll around to hard-to-reach places. The whole bow area can be secured by a bungee tie-down system and j-hooks. 

At the front of the 39 x 20 inch / 99 x 51 cm cockpit, both the Aruba and the Excursion have a front storage compartment on the console, and the only distinguishing feature of the Excursion 12 from the Aruba 12 is the single articulating rod holder that the Excursion has and the Aruba doesn’t. 

Everyday Fishkeeping

In the cockpit, there are adjustable foot braces that can be tailored to paddlers of varying heights. Further along the coaming are protective thigh pads to cushion your legs. 

On the right gunnel, there is a paddle park system with a bungee cord and j-hook for you to stash your paddle when not in use. Right in front of the seat is a cup holder that is kinda small for a can or water bottle. 

The seat has a padded backrest and a bottom, unlike other more basic kayaks in the Sun Dolphin fleet. It isn’t the most comfortable, but you might not need extra padding as you would with other kayaks without a seat bottom. 

Everyday Fishkeeping

Right behind the seat are two flush-mounted, backward-facing rod holders that have no caps. That means water will get in, but it isn’t a through-hull, so the water will stay in the rod holders and will not get inside the kayak. You’ll still have to tip out the boat after each day though! 

Behind the rod holders towards the stern is a removable storage area with a circular watertight hatch. You can stash your stuff in the portable container and easily remove it with the rubber-lined handle. You can also leave the container secured on the kayak with the bungee tie-down system. 

Everyday Fishkeeping

If you need more room, you can tow the storage container behind you or stow it somewhere else on the kayak. You can then use the tankwell for some other things like dry bags or tents, using the bungees to secure them. 

At the very back are the second carrying t-handle and another drain plug. Depending on the individual retailer, the Excursion 12 SS typically comes with a basic two-piece aluminum paddle. 

Performance 

Lightweight and easily managed, the Excursion 12 SS is a suitable craft for solo paddlers that want to dabble in kayak fishing. 

Despite its length, it isn’t the best at tracking, but it is stable and maneuverable, even for beginner paddlers. This kayak will do better in calmer waters like lakes and gentle rivers, and will not be the best performer in more challenging conditions like oceans with bigger waves and strong winds. 

At this price point, this makes an excellent kayak for a beginner angler that wants a comfortable, durable craft to cast a few lines or a casual recreational paddler that wants a reliable boat to go exploring. 

However, more serious anglers and multi-day touring paddlers might need something more sea-worthy. In addition, the comfort isn’t great after a few hours on the water, so you might have to upgrade the seat or make some modifications if you are particularly susceptible to aches and strains.