In this Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 Recreational Kayak review, we will take a closer look at this particular kayak model and see how it faces other recreational kayaks. This review will thoroughly examine all the important key features of the Aruba 12 and how it matches the rest of the options available from Sun Dolphin and other brands.
Aruba 12 is a versatile kayak, ideal for beginners. Not only does this kayak serve as a wonderful recreational kayak for sailing on calmer waters, but it is also an adept fishing kayak that is perfect for going out on the lake with your fishing gear. There are even rod holders to hold your fishing rods and plenty of storage space for other tools and equipment.
Key features
Let’s take a look at the key features of Aruba 12 and how it fits in with what we expected from the Sun Dolphin brand.
- Comfort: The Aruba 12 is a comfortable ride for those who fit its size. It’s not really large, but if you’re very tall, we can see how it can get a little annoying and uncomfortable.
- Portability: Although it is 12 feet long, the Aruba 12 is easy to carry and perfectly portable. This is essential in a kayak designed to double as a fishing kayak.
- Convenience: With built-in support, rod supports and deck mounting, it offers fantastic comfort. Like other Sun Dolphin kayaks, this is a versatile kayak that can be used in a variety of situations and will serve just as well for different types of users.
- Handling: Although this kayak is sometimes prone when it comes to strong winds, the Aruba 12 SS generally handles very nicely in calm waters.
Extra features
- UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyethylene material
- Paddle holder
- Adjustable straps
- P.A.C. (Portable Accessory Carrier) for more storage space
- Thigh protectors
- Mount rod support
- Storage compartment
- Adjustable chair
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Covered console
Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 Aruba is relatively streamlined for a recreational kayak but offers a good amount of storage space if you want to go on day trips with this kayak. The straight-line keel helps to follow in calmer waters, without compromising much maneuverability.
If you want to paddle the lake for the day, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 SS has a large amount of storage space available, including a small spring hatch, rod holders, ample cabin space, and finally P.A.C. or Portable Accessory Carrier which is a smart storage compartment that you can take in and out of the kayak with relative ease. There you can put things that are meant to be dry, such as clothes, food, wallets, etc.
If you are interested in lake fishing, this kayak may be right for you thanks to the two built-in rod holders, extra storage space (PAC can be removed to make room for more space), and the tray compartment which is located at the top of the cockpit. The tray can be used for small things, such as tools, lines, and hooks that are easily accessible.
One thing that is overlooked with the Aruba 12 SS is that the seat is raised from the bottom of the boat. This allows your behind to stay dry as you ride around the lake. Seat and foot pads are also adjustable to fit people of different sizes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent budget option: Aruba 12 is one of the best budget options offered by the Sun Dolphin brand. Anyone looking for an affordable kayak for beginners will be well served.
- An easy ride in calm waters: In calm waters, there are few kayaks that do as well as this one. At every other review of the Aruba 12, we saw that everyone praised its great performance in calm waters.
- Can be used as a fishing kayak: With plenty of storage space and rod holders to store rods, this kayak is a primary recreational craft for beginners and also for fishing enthusiasts.
- Good storage capacity: The Aruba 12 SS can support up to 250 pounds, including yourself and any extra cargo. This is plenty of storage space for most uses and is great for a beginner kayak.
- Good overall stability: as long as you don’t try to push it too far, it will remain stable in most conditions you may encounter.
- Check the best current price: go to amazon.com
Cons
- It’s not the most comfortable ride: Again, if you’re very tall, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 might become a little uncomfortable compared to most other kayaks in this price range.
- It is not suitable for larger kayak riders: Many of the best kayak manufacturers are still struggling to serve their larger customers efficiently, and Sun Dolphin Aruba continues this tradition.
- The plastic could be of higher quality: Although the construction quality of this kayak is generally very good, the plastic that Sun Dolphin used could have been of a higher quality. It’s pretty decent, considering its price, but we’re used to slightly superior models.
- It can struggle in rough waters: Aruba 12 SS is a smooth ride in calmer waters, but if you try to get it out on rougher seas, you will soon find yourself forced to turn around.
- Slightly pushed around by the wind: A disadvantage for a light boat like this is that strong winds can easily remove you from the course. Keep this in mind if you are out on the water for a while. Overall, the Aruba 12 is one of the best beginner kayaks offered by the Sun Dolphin. We can wholeheartedly recommend Aruba to any kayaking beginner.
Frequent Customers Q&A
What are Sun Dolphin kayaks like?
Sun Dolphin has a well-known and solid reputation for producing high-quality kayaks; this is a business from which you can buy with confidence. Aruba 12 from Sun Dolphin is a solid option that has been well received by both critics and users. Sun Dolphin has produced various types of kayaks, including both pedal and paddle options. The Aruba 12 brings together design elements we’ve seen elsewhere in the Sun Dolphin range and combines them into a versatile and easy-to-handle kayak. It is also an excellent accessory carrier for any fisherman out there.
How much weight can Aruba 12 hold?
Aruba 12 has a capacity of 250 lbs, which should be enough for most light fishing trips. This ability is certainly pleasant to see in a relatively light and easy-to-carry kayak.
How much does the Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 cost?
The cost of Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 Recreational Kayak can vary considerably depending on where you order it. If you buy the kayak directly from Sun Dolphin or from a retailer, you will have to pay the full price, but you will get out of it with a brand new kayak. On the other hand, if you are satisfied with a second-hand option, you can considerably reduce the cost.
