Sea Eagle 473rl Inflatable Kayaks and Canoe Reviews
3 Discount Packages available. starting at $1,399
Well made, portable, ideal if you life in a small apartment in a big city
I paddle surfskis and high-end sea kayaks. I wanted a tandem that I could handle by myself when I go out with my kids, so a heavy poly boat wouldn't work. I am impressed by the 473rl performance. Great boat, durable construction, setup takes less than 10 minutes with an electric pump. Exceeded my expectations.
show full review ▼I love this kayak, there is only one thing that will make you hate it at first, that being the foot rest or Flex-brace system as they call it. So, if you find yourself setting up your kayak in 10 just minutes but spending 20 minutes or more installing or removing the aluminum rods from the feet flex-brace don't panic, after cutting my fingers trying to do so I contacted SeaEagle, they suggested to cut half a cm of each rod which makes the task easier, now you know. Besides this the kayak is great, quick set-up, with their car electric pump it takes 5 minutes to inflate. Glides easily and fast on the water. It's on the shaky side, so it takes a bit to get your balance, if you're a nervous person better pick a wider one like the Fast-track or explorer models. As for the looks, you'll never think is inflatable, it's fun when people see you deflating it in 5 seconds before start folding it. It's on the heavy side, hard for just one person to carry, so I got a cart for it. The carrying bag should be bigger.
We have used the 473 RazorLite for one year now and it is truly wonderful. It is the fastest inflatable kayak we have ever used, is nearly as fast as a hard shell kayak, tracks superbly and will accommodate 2 people with gear. We have used it in varying conditions, including 3-foot waves and winds to 20 knots. For training and safety, we have tested re-entry in 3-foot waves; it is easy to re-enter the boat if capsized (we recommend attaching the boat to your life jacket with a rope if there is heavy wind so that you are not separated from the boat, and having leashes for your paddles and scupper, the latter to remove the remaining water). In order to be fast, it has to be narrow (30 inches) and so it is a bit less stable than wide slower kayaks; you get to appreciate the speed and ease of paddle from its narrow hull. It is wonderfully light and easy to carry / portage. It folds easily and fits neatly in its bag opening endless possibilities beyond those of hardshell kayaks. Highly recommended.