- Editor Rating
- Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T Tandem
- Reviewed by:
- Published on:
- Last modified:
- Build Quality
- Storage Capacity
- Comfort
- Stability
- Maneuverability
Tandem kayaks give you the chance to hit the water with a buddy, but they often present a few challenges. First of all, tandem kayaks are often a bit pricey, thanks to their larger size and the second seat. Additionally, while most work well when piloted by two riders, they are often awkward to paddle by yourself.However, the Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T Tandem sidesteps these issues.
Read our in depth Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T review and see our feedback on this fishing kayak’s build quality, storage capacity, comfort, balance, and more. It is not only priced very affordably for such a high-quality kayak, it offers three different seat positions so that you can remove one of the seats, move the other one to the middle position and paddle the lengthy kayak with ease.
Pros
- Three seat positions allow you to use the kayak in either solo or tandem configurations
- Roomy cockpit provides plenty of room for tall anglers
- More storage space provided than many other tandem kayaks
Cons
- No skid plate is included, so care is required in shallow water
- There’s not a lot of space in the cargo area, so you won’t be able to bring along large live wells or coolers
- Maybe too heavy for a single angler to carry to the water
Build Quality
Constructed from a single piece of rotomolded polyethylene. The Skipjack 120T is a rigid and durable craft that performs better than you’d expect from such a reasonably priced vessel. It features four scupper holes (with included plugs) to help you drain any water that splashes into this sit-on-top kayak.
It does not feature a skid plate, so you’ll want to be careful when paddling through shallow water.
Storage Capacity
The Skipjack 120T provides a relatively generous amount of storage space for a tandem-style kayak, although you may have to plan carefully to bring as much equipment as you’d like. Two large hatches are provided and located in front of each seat, while a relatively small cargo area is located at the stern.
Bungee cords are included with the cargo area to help keep your gear secure, even in rough waters. Two flush-mount rod holders are provided, as are four mounting points for aftermarket accessories. Two paddle parks are included as well, and a cup holder is provided for each rider.
Comfort
The Skipjack 120T provides a relatively roomy ride when used tandem style, and it provides more space than you could possibly need when rigged for a single paddler. The seats are adjustable and provide a comfortable ride, and the included foot wells ensure that you’ll be able to find a comfortable paddling position.
No knee or thigh pads are included, but this is a minor concern for such an otherwise-comfortable kayak.
Stability
Like most Vibe Kayaks, the Skipjack 120T is a very stable vessel. It not only handles swells and rough waters with ease, it boasts a 500-pound capacity, which means that solo anglers will be able to bring along everything they like, and there’s still plenty of capacity for gear when used by two riders at a time.
The Skipjack 120T is also stable enough that most riders will feel comfortable standing up while fishing.
Maneuverability
Few tandem-style kayaks can be described as agile, but the Skipjack 120T is actually pretty easy to maneuver for such a long vessel. It is relatively easy to pilot through tight spaces, and it tracks reasonably well when crossing long distances.
At 72 pounds, it isn’t terribly heavy for such a big vessel, and two anglers should be able to carry it with ease, thanks to the four carrying handles included with the kayak. You may even be able to carry it yourself, although it will be a bit heavy for smaller users. Unfortunately, the Skipjack 120T doesn’t come with a rudder system, like many other Vibe Kayaks do.
Summary
The Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T is a very capable kayak that works well for one or two riders. It is well-built, performs well on the water and provides a reasonable amount of storage space for your gear.
It doesn’t have any of the impressive extras that are included with many other Vibe Kayaks, such as a toe-controlled rudder or skid plate, but that’s part of the tradeoff you make when shopping for an affordable tandem-style kayak. Nevertheless, while it isn’t the best-equipped kayak on the water, it will serve as a great choice for most angler who like to fish with a friend.
Brand | Vibe Kayaks |
Model | Skipjack 120T Tandem |
Price | Check on Amazon |
Type | sit-on-top |
Color(s) | blue camo, hunter camo, sea breeze |
Length (ft / cm) | 12'2" / 370cm |
Width (in / cm) | 33" / 83.8cm |
Height (in / cm) | N/A |
Kayak Weight (lbs / kg) | 72 lbs / 32.6kg |
Weight Capacity (lbs / kg) | 500 lbs / 226.8kg |
Cockpit Size (in / cm) | N/A |
Hull Material | rotomolded polyethylene |
Transducer Compatible | No |
Number of People | 2 |
Inflatable | No |
Salt Water Friendly | Yes |
Peddles | No |
Tracking Enhancement | None |
Adjustable Seat | Yes |
Rod Holders | 2 |
Adjustable Foot Braces | No |
Paddles Included | Yes |
Other Included Items | 2 vibe deluxe seats, 2 vibe journey paddles |