Sun Dolphin Fiji 10 SS

Size and Weight 

The Fiji 10 is the same length as another similar kayak from Sun Dolphin – the Aruba 10. They both measure 9 feet 7 inches / 292 cm in length and the Fiji is ever so slightly wider at 29.5 inches / 75 cm compared to the Aruba which is half an inch narrower. The Fiji stands at a height of 17.5 inches / 44cm.

The Fiji is slightly heavier at 44 lbs / 20 kg compared to the Aruba’s 40 lbs / 18 kg. The Fiji’s weight is comparable to other recreational kayak models of similar length such as Perception’s Rambler which weighs 47 lbs / 21 kg. 

However, some other kayaks like the Pelican Argo 100x weigh significantly less at 36 lbs /16.3 kg. 

Capacity

The Fiji 10 has a maximum payload of 280 lbs / 127 lbs, which would suit a small to medium paddler with not very much gear. If you load the Fiji any more than 224 lbs / 102 kg, the kayak’s performance might have a noticeable decrease in performance, especially when it comes to speed and paddling effort. 

The Fiji holds its own against the Perception Rambler which can take 250 lbs / 113 kg and the Pelican Argo which can take 275 lbs / 125 kg. 

Features

Like the majority of Sun Dolphin kayaks, the Fiji 10 is constructed with rugged UV-resistant Fortiflex high-density polyethylene. Built to last, it will take a beating and tolerate all kinds of dings and scrapes well.

However, to prolong the lifespan of the kayak, it is recommended that use a marine silicone sealant around all the hardware like the D-rings, drain plugs, and j-hooks to further waterproof the kayak’s interior. 

At the bow of the boat is the front t-handle for easy carrying and transportation. Next to that, there’s a drain plug that allows you to remove excess water you might find in the hull of the boat. 

Moving back, you’ll find a bottle holder with a bungee cord system to secure a bottle or drink. On each side of the cockpit, there is a paddle park system where you can secure your paddle with a j-hook using a bungee. 

At the front of the cockpit on the dash are two cup holders and a hands-free electronics console. On the coaming, you’ll find two thigh pads for cushioning your legs and in the cockpit, you have two adjustable foot braces to suit paddlers of varying heights.

The seat has a padded backrest which you can adjust according to how much you want to lean in your seat. However, the seat doesn’t have a padded bottom, so you might need to get some additional cushioning if you want more comfort.

Behind the seat is a removable storage area with a water-resistant circular hatch that is secured by a removable bungee tie-down system. You can stash your gear in the storage area and simply close it, or you can pack the storage area, remove it, and tow it behind the kayak or store it somewhere else.

If you remove the storage container, you can use the tankwell as additional storage to strap in dry bags or other items and secure them with the bungees. 

On the stern are the second carry t-handle and another drain plug. Depending on each individual retailer, the Fiji 10 SS can come with a basic two-piece aluminum paddle. 

Performance

The Fiji 10 SS is a relatively stable kayak that will suit a beginner or casual paddler. It performs best on flat waters such as lakes and gentle rivers and will not do well in strong winds, high waves, and currents.

Relatively lightweight, the Fiji 10 is easy for a solo paddler to handle on and off the car, during the launch, or while portaging. 

It isn’t the fastest kayak in the Sun Dolphin fleet but it will make for a fun day out on the water. It has average tracking and it will take some getting used to, especially if you are used to paddling longer, less sensitive kayaks and tend to oversteer. 

However, the kayak is fairly maneuverable, and its open cockpit makes entry and exit a breeze. 

This kayak is easy to paddle but the seat isn’t all that comfortable, especially after a long day. You might need to get some additional padding or modify the seat if comfort is important to you.

The seat also rides high in the kayak which means a higher center of gravity, and those that aren’t used to it might find the kayak a little tippy. 

Overall, it makes an affordable choice for someone looking for a casual play boat to take out on a lake or river for a couple of hours, but for all-day excursions or overnighters, you might need a more advanced boat that can handle a larger range of water conditions.