Review of the Best Paddle Boards for Two People
Few experiences rival the joy of heading out on the water with a paddleboard, especially when you have great company.
The challenge comes when two people try to share a standard board,it can throw off balance and affect performance.
If you want to avoid this problem, it’s worth considering a paddleboard built specifically to carry two people comfortably and efficiently.
A two-person paddleboard is specifically engineered to support more weight and distribute it evenly.
This means it can easily handle the combined weight of you and your partner while staying agile and responsive on the water.
Even some larger single-person boards struggle to carry two riders effectively. For couples or friends wanting to paddle together, a dedicated two-person board is the best choice.
Of course, selecting the right board also depends on the size of the riders. For instance, the Bluefin Cruise works well for two lighter paddlers, while bigger or heavier riders will need a sturdier, more robust option.
Important Pointers When Shopping for a 2 Person SUP
When choosing a paddleboard, there are several key factors to consider. In the next section, we’ll break down the main features that make a board suitable for two people. Each point is explained in detail below, giving you all the information you need to make the right choice.
Pay Attention to the Carrying Capacity of the Board
The first thing to pay attention to is the board’s maximum weight capacity. If the combined weight of two riders exceeds this limit, the board will flex like a standard paddleboard, which reduces performance and slows you down on the water.
Before shopping, weigh yourself and your partner, and add about 10% to account for any gear or extras you plan to bring along.
Once you have the total weight, you can focus on boards designed to support that load, ensuring a smooth, stable ride for both paddlers.
Size and Shape of the SUP
It’s just as important to make sure the board is spacious enough for both riders. Having the right thickness and buoyancy is only part of the equation, you also want enough room so that neither of you is constantly bumping into the other while paddling.
For two people, a board longer than 11 feet is generally recommended.
The board’s shape also plays a big role in how it performs for your activities. Some boards have rounded ends and a wider body, offering extra stability, while others feature pointed tips and a narrower profile for speed and efficiency.
If you and your partner are aiming for fast paddling and longer glides, a narrow, pointed board is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want a versatile board for fishing, yoga, or just lounging and sunbathing, a wider board with a flat tip provides more stability and space.
The Whole Package
Last but by no means least, you will want to make sure that the paddle board you choose for your two person paddling comes with all the bells and whistles. This is surprisingly something that many boards don’t have and many people do not think they would have to buy paddles, leashes and other items separately.
But, it is important to check what comes in each package and make sure you budget effectively so that you can have the complete set ready to hit the waves.
Naturally if you already have all of these things, you can skip that. But, if you don’t the entire costs of paddles, leashes and anything else you would like on the board can add up to a considerable cost.
The Best Two Person or Tandem Paddle Boards Available
Now that we have a slightly clearer of what we are looking for, we can begin to look at some of the best options on the market today. Some of the information you find here will seem a little specific and the exact options might not be available in every area.
Nevertheless, the important pointers found here can help you find the closest option to the products we will review.
It is our goal to provide you with two-person paddle boards available all over the world. But, if you find that the board described is not available in your area or that you have found an even better option we would love to hear about this.
Features:
When it comes to two-person paddle boards, the Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′ immediately comes to mind. With a maximum weight capacity of 529 lbs., it can easily accommodate two adults in nearly any situation.
Its size is generous, 15′ long and 36″ wide, providing ample space for two paddlers, a child, and some extra gear. Despite its width, the pointed tip ensures the board can still achieve impressive speeds on the water.
The Bluefin Tandem features a three-fin setup that keeps it tracking straight, while seven convenient handles make carrying and transporting the board effortless, no additional cases or carriers required.
The package includes two high-quality fiberglass paddles and two comfortable kayak-style seats, allowing you and your partner to relax or paddle at speed together.
While only one leash is included, additional leashes can easily be attached to the sturdy D-rings or handles. A camera mount is also built in, perfect for capturing your adventures.
Note that the 2020 version comes with one paddle and just five handles across the board, so be sure to check which model you’re getting. Keep an eye out for special offers, as they can provide great savings.
Overall, for a reliable, fun, and versatile two-person paddle board, the Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′ is our top recommendation.
Pros of this board
Features:
The Blackfin Model XL is a super beefy large paddle board that can hold a lot of weight. The build quality is reminiscent of a rafts that can handle Class 3 to 4 rapids.
The Blackfin is the top level premium series of inflatable paddleboards made by iRocker SUP, and the quality shows with the Model XL.
This large stable SUP can easily accommodate two people (although it only comes with 1 paddle, so you'll need to purchase an extra paddle for the second rider) and extra gear because it can hold a huge 485 lbs of weight.
The Model XL can comfortably handle 2 paddlers who want bring extra gear for longer day tours, fishing, or even camping. While the Model XL does handle 2 riders well, it is still great for a solo paddler to handle as that is how most owners use the XL.
Do you like to use a GoPro while paddling? The Model XL has 8 multi-use action points which can be used to mount a GoPro or fishing rods or many other accessories.
The Model XL comes with three simple to use flip lock fins that you can add or remove quickly depending on the conditions.
They really thought of everything when designing the Blackfin, all the way down to smallest details like the shoulder straps on the backpack that are both cushioned and adjustable. The pack also has a nice front pocket to hold the pump and maybe our favorite feature: wheels on the pack!
If we could choose for a backpack for an inflatable SUP to have wheels or not, we'd choose wheels every time. Wheels have many advantages including making it easy to pull along while traveling through an airport.
To sum it up, the Model XL has a super stable deck with the length to allow for 2 people and a faster rate of travel to get you where you want to be with all of your gear safely secured on board.
iRocker also has great customer service. You don't get over 600 positive reviews (be sure to read some of the reviews when you go to the website) without having a quality product, and caring about your customers.
If this sounds like a paddleboard that appeals to you, be sure to click the link below that says, "Click Here to Purchase Blackfin Model XL".
Pros of this board
Cons of this option
Features:
Another excellent choice is the Thurso Max Multipurpose SUP, a versatile board perfect for a range of activities, whether you’re paddling with children, pets, or both.
Slightly smaller than the Bluefin Cruise Tandem, this board measures 11’5″ in length and 34″ in width. Despite its more compact size, it supports up to 370 lbs (170 kg), making it more than capable of carrying two people comfortably on most outings.
For trips with just one child, a single paddle is sufficient, though purchasing a second paddle can help you glide across the water more efficiently and increase your speed.
The Thurso Max comes equipped with five generously sized carrying handles, making transport simple, and front and rear cargo nets to hold your essentials for longer adventures. This design also makes it ideal for romantic paddling excursions.
A single leash is included with the board, so if both riders want to stay secured, a second leash will be needed. Thurso Surf maintains the same high-quality standards across both the board and accessories, ensuring durability and reliability.
Whether it’s a family outing or a leisurely day on the water with a partner, the Thurso Max Multipurpose SUP provides a safe, stable, and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Pros of this board
Cons of this option
Features:
What we see displayed in the attractive Bluefin Cruise Carbon Tandem 15′ two-person paddle board is actually the premium version of the Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′ seen earlier in the article.
This also has a maximum carrying capacity of 529 lbs., so it will support just about any set of riders. But, there are a few important distinctions to know.
You will find the same attractive package included in the Bluefin Cruise, however rather than the fiberglass paddles, you will find two upgraded carbon paddles. These are the best options to use because the light weight and flex will allow you to paddle longer with low exhaustion.
You will also find an additional two nets on the bow and stern of the paddle board so that you can carry anything else you would like to bring along. The three fin system does a lot to keep the board stable in the water and it also has the two kayak seats that can allow for seated paddling.
Like the Bluefin Cruise this option also has the camera mount so that all your aquatic adventures can. The reinforcement of carbon fiber makes the board highly resistant to impacts and damage and this alone makes it a better option.
Have we mentioned that both the Bluefin Cruise and Bluefin Carbon come with a 5 year warranty? This means you are sure to enjoy this item for the foreseeable future.
Pros of this board
Cons of this option
Final Thoughts
No matter which you choose, all of the options mentioned here are great choices. Your decision should be made on the weight capacity, personal preference and activities you plan on practicing.
For the all-around best option, we highly-recommend the Bluefin Cruise Tandem 15′. The two kayak seats and two paddles mean it is good to go from the package. Plus this option allows you both SUP and kayak modes of water conveyance.
Finally, be safe out on the water and make sure you bring along a Restube or similarly effective PFD device just in case you fall in the water. If you are looking for something even larger than what you see here, be sure to check out our other product reviews for something that everyone can ride on.
Bruce Paulson is the owner of PaddleboardSurf and an avid water sports enthusiast with a lifelong passion for all things aquatic. From stand-up paddleboarding and surfing to boating, kayaking, and canoeing, he thrives on the joy of being on the water. As an advocate for water conservation and environmental stewardship, Bruce shares his adventures and insights through his writing, inspiring others to embrace the beauty and excitement of life on the water.