The Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL Sit-On-Top Kayak is the perfect kayak for those who are looking for a boat that performs well both in tandem and solo. This is mostly thanks to the adjustable seat positions and the great feature of overlapping leg wells.
Kayaking is fun when you have someone accompanying you. But for doing this with someone you will either need another kayak or a tandem model kayak. The problem with most tandem kayaks is that they do not perform very well when they are piloted by only one person. Ocean Kayak Malibu has fixed this problem. It offers some of the most sought qualities that a kayak needs: storage capacity, build quality, balance, comfort, etc.
Unfortunately, the kayak size makes it difficult for one angler to handle it, especially when it comes to launching and landing it. The vessel also has a Cross Lock Buckle System that might pose a challenge when trying to access the contents of the storage compartment. But, nonetheless, Ocean Kayak Malibu is one of the most prized kayaks on the market.
Build Quality
The Malibu Two XL Angler is the impersonation of a modern tank. Heavy and big, with measurements that reach 13 feet and 4 inches long, and 34 inches wide, the kayak is quite large for its category. But being built from strong plastic material that offers durability. This also contributes to its unequipped weight of just under 75 pounds. The high-quality hardware along with the protective skid plate absorb much of the wear and tear that might occur during the lifespan of a kayak.
Storage Capacity
Being a kayak of an impressive size, Malibu Two XL Angler only provides a relatively small amount of storage capacity. That is necessary for ensuring the boat’s stability and performance when used by a solo angler. The boat also has two bungee-secured cargo areas equipped. The bungees are smaller than other cargo areas found in the same category of kayaks.
The vessel also has only a single storage compartment that is located in the center of the boat, which is also being kept closed by the Cross Lock Buckle System. Two-rod holders are also included that are articulated. The rod holders can be mounted in four separate locations, depending on the need. On each side of the kayak, anglers will find a paddle keeper included.
Comfort
Different types of kayaks have different sizes of cockpits, some may be smaller, some may be tighter, but rest assured that this isn’t the case with our kayak. Malibu Two XL Angler cockpit is spacious enough even for those of you of a bigger size. The three sets of overlapping footwells that are included make sure to give the users a seat wherever they want of the three possible locations. Being front, back, or center, the footwells allow plenty of options for leg resting.
The seats are also adjustable and thus they provide enough support for the anglers along with an easy way to move from one position to another. Unfortunately, the seats do not provide much padding for the rear end, because they are rather thin.
Stability and Maneuverability
The stability of the Malibu Two XL Angler is somewhat good. It provides a stable ride so you don’t need to worry about falling or other bad things and thus allows you to concentrate strictly on fishing. It can also be used while standing up as it offers enough stability, although you don’t have a great place to place your feet. The kayak is best suited for calm lakes and ponds and can also be used in small rivers too. The craft can test the ocean waters too, at least the more calm ones.
The boat isn’t known for its nimble side but it still proves to be a quite maneuverable kayak. It doesn’t matter if it’s used solo or in tandem, the maneuverability won’t suffer from this. Unfortunately, the kayak doesn’t fit in tight or crowded spaces, and it is better to stay away from such places. The tracking of the kayak and its tracking performs very well.
Conclusion
The Malibu Two XL Angler Kayak is a good boat suitable for anglers who need a tandem-style kayak. The kayak’s flexibility, being able to be used in tandem and solo makes it very valuable for those who want to enjoy both kinds of excursions. The seats together with the overlapping footwells make the kayak easy to use in both fashions. Another advantage is that although it is big the kayak cuts throw the water fairly effortlessly.
The kayak is not suited for those anglers who like to stand or who need an abundance of storage space. Just make sure that you don’t exaggerate with the gear you bring and everything will be fine.
Specs:
| Brand | Ocean Kayak |
| Model | Malibu Two XL Angler |
| Check Price | rei.com & austinkayak.com |
| Type | Sit-on-top |
| Color(s) | Brown Camo, Urban Camo |
| Length (ft / cm) | 13’4″ / 406cm |
| Width (in / cm) | 34″ / 86.4cm |
| Height (in / cm) | N/A |
| Kayak Weight (lbs/kg) | 74 lbs / 33.6kg |
| Weight Capacity (lbs / kg) | 500 lbs / 226.8kg |
| Cockpit Size (in / cm) | N/A |
| Hull Material | Polyethylene |
| Transducer Compatible | No |
| Number of People | 2 |
| Inflatable | No |
| Salt Water Friendly | Yes |
| Peddles | No |
| Tracking Enhancement | N/A |
| Adjustable Seat | Yes |
| Rod Holders | 2 |
| Adjustable Foot Braces | No |
| Paddles Included | No |
| Other Included Items | None |
