WEST MARINE
Abaco 9.5 Sit-On-Top Kayak

We're including a padded back support and seat with one of our most popular sit-on-top kayaks.

Our Abaco 9.5 Sit-On-Top Kayak is lightweight, easy to paddle and designed so that both novice and experienced paddlers alike will enjoy recreational paddling in conditions ranging from flat water to flowing rivers to small surf. The compact 9'6" length means it's not only easy to store, all you have to do to head to the water is strap it on top of your vehicle or in the back of your pickup.

If you're new to kayaking, why choose a sit-on-top over a sit-inside kayak? While you're more likely to capsize with a sit-on-top kayak, getting back in is much easier for beginners than learning the eskimo roll with a sit-inside. The center of gravity is higher and a little less stable, but you have a better view of the water (and potential obstacles) around you. Since you are also more open to the elements, expect to get wet. You'll want to wear clothing that dries quickly if the water's warm or provides warmth when you're in cold water environments.

Hull Design

Designed, molded and hand assembled in the USA, the hull on the Abaco 9.5 combines high stability, maneuverability and speed for fun and adventure on the water for everyone in the family. This buoyant design also gives you the capacity to carry up to 250 pounds including you and your gear. Made from roto-molded polyethylene, it's flexible and impact resistant so it will endure many years of the drops, dings, scrapes and various other "oops" moments in the typical life of a recreational kayak.

Comfort

The Abaco 9.5 features a roomy cockpit with several details that make it comfortable for most paddlers out on the water all day. The adjustable, padded back support and seat bottom is removable so you can put it indoors if you have to store your kayak outside for extended periods. A molded-in foot brace system allows you to adjust your leg positions for optimal paddling and then shift positions or stretch out during the day as needed. Scupper holes are found in several places so water that finds its way over the deck will automatically drain out so you won't sit in a puddle of water all day.

Deck

Deluxe stern rigging gives you a place to stow items like dry bags (sold separately), jackets and other essentials within easy reach. Molded-in bow, stern and side handles not only help with portaging, they also provide handy tie-off points for docking or anchoring your kayak. The side handles are placed at the proper balance point for one person to carry it. The open bow deck well features a groove that allows it to drain water to the cockpit floor and exit through the scupper holes. A stern deck well with its own scupper holes completes the feature set.

If you don't already own them or it's time to replace the ones you have, remember to order a kayak paddle and life jacket (both sold separately) so you'll be ready to splash your kayak as soon as possible!