If you want to get up to a bit of fun and connect with nature at the same time, consider getting a kayak for yourself.
A used kayak will cost about $500 and will range from $100-$15000 depending on type and condition. I did some research on craiglist and found the average price was $499 as shown in this chart:
| Used Kayak | Price in USD | |
| 12 foot oceanic kayak | $400 | |
| Ocean Kayak Prowler Trident 13 | $550 | |
| 13-ft Pelican Elite Kayak | $850 | |
Cobra Tourer Kayak |
$850 | |
| 13.5′ Perception Swing | $320 | |
Perception Sport Doubleplay 12.0 Tandem Sit-on-Top Kayak |
$350 | |
| Cayman Fishing kayak | $550 | |
| inflatable Sevylor Professional SB 2 person kayak | $50 | |
Tarpon 120 Kayak |
$550 | |
17’ Dagger Apostle Kayak |
$500 | |
Dagger Kingpin 6.3 kayak |
$420 | |
Lifetime Monterey Kayak |
$80 | |
Perception Bimini kayak 15 |
$350 | |
Magellan Origins 12 |
$300 | |
Dirigo 106 Old Town Kayak |
$450 | |
17’ Dagger Apostle |
$500 | |
Equinox Angler 12ft kayak |
$450 | |
Nucanoe Pursuit |
$1100 | |
Wilderness Systems Sealution XL |
$1200 | |
Intex K2 Challenger Inflatable |
$50 | |
Tarpon 140 |
$600 | |
| Average cost: | $499 |
You can get good deals at moving sales, ebay, and craigslist.
It is a good way to get your blood roaring while having the cool spray of water stinging your face the entire time. However, if you want to go for it only occasionally and have it as a mere side hobby, you might prefer to buy a used kayak and not waste as much money.
A newer kayak though may have an entirely different feeling and could give you a better experience; sometimes it is an old one that is preferable. If you are wondering just what kind of a price range you can expect to find considering them, we just may be able to help you out with that.
A kayak can last anywhere from 5-15 years or more. It depends on the material used in manufacturing as well as the care and maintenance it receives over time.
FAQ
Q: What should I look for when buying a used kayak?
A: When buying a used kayak, you should inspect it for any signs of damage such as cracks, repairs, or deformities. Also, consider its size, weight, and type based on your kayaking needs. Remember, buying a used kayak is like going on a blind date; you never really know what you’re going to get.
Q: How can I tell if a used kayak is in good condition?
A: Check for any obvious damage like holes, deep scratches, or cracks. The hull should be fairly smooth, and the seams should be intact. Also, check the condition of the seats, hatches, foot braces, and other hardware. Remember, beauty is only skin deep, but a good kayak is solid through and through.
Q: How much does a used kayak typically cost?
A: The price of a used kayak can vary widely depending on its condition, type, and brand. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Keep in mind, a kayak is like a good wine; it’s worth paying a bit more for quality.
Q: Where can I buy a used kayak?
A: You can find used kayaks for sale in many places, including outdoor sports stores, online marketplaces, and classified ads. Also, check out local paddling clubs or forums. Buying a used kayak is a bit like a treasure hunt, so keep your eyes open.
Q: What are the advantages of buying a used kayak?
A: The main advantage is cost savings. You can often find a high-quality used kayak for much less than a new one. Plus, it’s a more sustainable choice. Remember, one person’s old kayak can be your new adventure buddy.
Q: What are the disadvantages of buying a used kayak?
A: One of the main disadvantages is that there might be hidden damage that isn’t immediately visible. Also, used kayaks often come “as is” without a warranty. Remember, a cheap kayak might be enticing, but you don’t want it to turn into a sunk cost…literally.
Q: Can I test a used kayak before buying it?
A: Absolutely, and it’s a good idea to do so if possible. Just like test-driving a car, it’s beneficial to “test-paddle” a used kayak. This will give you a feel for how it handles and if there are any issues while it’s in the water. But remember, don’t paddle too far away – you have to give it back!
Q: What type of kayak should I look for?
A: That depends on what you plan to use it for. There are different types of kayaks for various activities like touring, whitewater, fishing, and recreation. Consider your skill level, where you’ll be using it, and personal comfort. It’s like picking out a new pair of shoes; it has to fit just right.
Q: How do I transport a used kayak?
A: You’ll typically need a roof rack or trailer to transport a kayak. Make sure you have the necessary straps and lines to secure it properly. Always ensure the kayak is secure before hitting the road. Remember, you want to paddle the kayak in the water, not chase it down the highway.
Q: Can a used kayak be repaired if it has minor damages?
A: Yes, many minor damages like scratches or small cracks can be repaired. You can use a kayak repair kit for small jobs or take it to a professional for more significant damages. Remember, a kayak is like a trusty steed, treat it well, and it will carry you safely.
Q: How long does a kayak typically last?
A: With proper care and storage, a kayak can last for many years, even decades. This can vary based on the material of the kayak and how often it’s used. So even if you’re buying a used kayak, it could still have a lot of life left in it.
Q: How should I store a used kayak?
A: When not in use, a kayak should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. It’s best to store it on its side or upside down to avoid deforming the hull. Just remember, treat your kayak like a vampire – keep it out of the sunlight and off its back!
Q: How can I make sure I’m not getting scammed when buying a used kayak?
A: To avoid scams, try to buy from a reputable source. If you’re buying from an individual, ask lots of questions about the kayak’s history and why they’re selling it. Always meet in a public place and inspect the kayak thoroughly before handing over any money. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Q: How do I negotiate the price of a used kayak?
A: Do your research ahead of time to know the approximate value of the kayak model you’re interested in. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially if you’ve noticed some wear and tear or other issues. Remember, buying a used kayak should feel like a win-win situation, not a duel!
Q: What safety equipment should come with a used kayak?
A: At the very least, you should have a personal flotation device (PFD), paddle, and bilge pump. If these are not included, you will need to purchase them separately. Remember, a kayak without safety gear is like a car without seatbelts – unsafe and not worth the risk.
Q: Can I upgrade or modify a used kayak?
A: Yes, many kayakers customize their boats to suit their needs. This could include adding fishing rod holders, additional storage, or even a new seat. Just remember, every modification should enhance your experience, not compromise the kayak’s performance or safety.
Q: How can I tell if a used kayak is the right size for me?
A: Kayak size can depend on your height, weight, and what you feel comfortable in. A good rule of thumb is to sit in the kayak (if possible) before buying it. Your legs should comfortably reach the foot pegs, and you should feel stable. Remember, a good fit in a kayak is like a good fit in a pair of jeans – it should feel ‘just right’!
Q: Is it necessary to clean a used kayak before using it?
A: It’s always a good idea to give a used kayak a thorough cleaning before you hit the water. This can help you spot any hidden damage and will also remove any dirt or debris. Plus, it’s nice to start fresh with your new-to-you boat. Think of it as a welcome bath for your new water companion.
Determine The State Of The Kayak:
There are certain things that you need to observe and identify in order to know how much a kayak is truly worth. To start with there are a number of different kinds of kayaks that you need to choose from ranging from touring kayaks to racing ones and even recreational kayaks. Be sure to trail your hands over the body of the kayak to find out if there are any dents or vulnerabilities. However, just looking it over carefully should do that enough. The way that it was stored by the previous owner also matters a great deal.
Allowing it to stay out for months on end with a simple tarp shielding it could mean that plenty of moisture would be trapped there in all that time. If they stored it on its hull, a great deal of the weight would be attributed to it that may also not be entirely ideal.
Test Out The State Of The Kayak:
Though all the noticeable aspects are likely to clue you in about how much value the kayak truly has, it is still advisable to seat yourself in it and give it a test ride. It is unlikely that the owner will mind much as it is an important part of making your decision.
Once you get it up and going, you need to be wary about certain points. No water should be leaking once you start paddling, as that is fairly undesirable.
The seating should be comfortable enough for you to be able to spend a considerable portion of your day there without feeling uncomfortable. It must also be stable and easy enough for you to maneuver to prevent any kind of incident. All such factors will help you realize just whether the money stated is worth it based on the condition of the kayak.
Pricing To Expect If A Kayak Is Used:
A lot of shops selling kayaks use a certain strategy when it comes to selling used kayaks and it is one you should be aware of when going out to buy it. There is a 50% rule that is in place for a whole lot of them that requires them to sell used kayaks for at least 50% of the original retail price. That seems like a fair offer depending on what the condition of the kayak actually is. A new one costs a lot more.
If you are getting it for 70% of the retail price, it means that the model is not too old and is in fairly good shape so it depends on your preference and just how much you are willing to put up with it.
Knowing just how old it is may also be a helpful factor as those that date back to 10 years will definitely be available for cheaper. Depending on the model, you may even get a rate of around 33% if it is old enough.
If you do not want to blow too much cash on getting a kayak, you can acquire a used one for a reasonable price based on the pricing rule the shops around you follow. Just be sure to keep an eye out for any kind of deformities or uncomfortable features that might disappoint you later on.
Be absolutely vigilant and careful, as you may not know what to expect with a used kayak. If you do find the perfect one, be sure to have tons of fun and go all out.
Buying guide
- Stability
Most people who get to buy their kayak for their first-time lack the basics of stability, and they end up buying the wrong kayak that causes inefficiency. If you’re a beginner, you probably need to know that your first kayak should be stable enough to relax in the calm water.
They need to allow you easily maneuver but still of the right track when on the water while going in a straight direction in mild conditions. When in the first kayak, you can quickly learn to roll in, and if not, then you should find recommendations from other instructors.
The tall seatbacks and the ones that flop forward easily usually result in giving you a hard time when you want to enter the kayak during both off-shore and onshore entry. The tall seats don’t provide efficiency in rolling and paddling. A kayak that has places that lack hip support while the cockpits don’t have knee braces will make leaning, edging, hip-snapping, bracing, and rolling harder for the beginner not possible.
- Getting the right kayak
The worst mistake people do thinks that they have found the right kayak that can work for them now and have everything they need in the boat. Having such a mentality will make a beginner spend too much on their purchases when they realize it’s hard to learn. It’s too big, and the trips they make with the kayak aren’t the right ones that they desire.
It doesn’t matter if you knew of neither how good the design is nor the interests in your kayak that led you to pick a good one, but your skill level is usually not ready when you’re a beginner. The performance on the sea needs a slow progression of your skills as you advance your kayak with time.
- Efficiency
Beginners on their first purchase of a kayak look for one that is fast and stable. Such kayaking boats exist, but they need a lot of work to paddle, and they lack a resale value.
Buying a kayak for the first time requires you to get one that may slow down, and its efficient enough with realistic touring speeds as well as having ease when maneuvering. There is a big difference between skilled and fast, which includes efficiency in keeping us and controlling and handling yourself through the waves and wind. Only when you develop your kayaking skills fully will you get a fast kayak.
- Size mistakes
One should get a kayak that fits their size because kayaks come in different sizes.
Choose one that fits well with your body and avoid buying one that is of high volume because maybe you have an extended expedition plan to go on or high volume that is suitable for big people with a stocky build or long legs. Also, upgrade your camping gear if you have a problem when packing your clothing that doesn’t fit in the kayak.
- Budgeting
There’s no perfect kayak in the market, and there will never be. A beginner needs to find one that they will hold onto while advancing their skills with time. Buy a kayak with excellent cockpit ergonomics and generally fits well to avoid looking at many models at once. There are good kayak models in the market, but the best for beginners is a fiberglass seas kayak with a keg that only you can buy if your budget allows.
Some kayaks that you purchase will not be worthy enough because during the time, you will outgrow after a while, and that means you would have wasted your money on the unseaworthy boat.
