Our verdict: An ideal choice for those starting their paddling career, but not the most comfortable option for two people
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First impressions
This attractive kayak had a pleasing look and feel but was heavy to manoeuvre and pack. I instantly liked the inflatable seat pad and multiple seat position options and was pleased to see it came with a paddle. I thought the waterproof phone case was a great addition, as was the zip pocket on the hull. This kayak looked on the small side for two people and Bluefin’s website description was unclear, suggesting both solo adventures and adding an additional seat.
Set up and inflation
With plenty of capacity in its backpack, the Scout was easy to lay out. The floor was already in position. It took me a few moments to work out how to assemble the hand pump and find the inflation rates printed next to the valves, but inflation was quick once I had done so. The pump has a pressure gauge but without Halkey-Roberts style valves, I found it tricky to get an exact PSI. I initially inflated the seat before trying to position it, which didn't work, but once I had corrected this error, insertion was easy, and I was able to adjust the seat position to suit my size and paddling style. There were no footrests to set up and we didn’t use the fin because it was too difficult to insert.
Is it comfortable to sit in?
Used to hard-shell kayaks, the lack of footrest was an issue for me, but I did manage to gain a traditional, knees-bent paddling position by wedging my feet under the tubes. The inflatable high-backed seat was very comfortable, and its wrap-around sides gave a reassuring feeling of control. The included paddle was adjustable for length and, to some extent, feather (angle) but it was shaped more like a SUP paddle than a kayak paddle and didn’t give as much purchase in the water as I would have liked. When paddling solo, I felt my comfort and performance would have been considerably compromised with the addition of another person, even a child.
How does it perform on the water?
We were pleasantly surprised by the performance of this kayak. For an inflatable, it tracked well in the water, and we were able to hold direction even when the wind was side on. Neither the tubes nor the floor allowed for particularly high inflation pressure, but the boat’s shorter length meant the flexibility caused by this didn’t adversely affect performance. When we tried the Bluefin Scout with two adults (one paddling), it was a squeeze, but we made progress and felt safe. We didn’t take on water and the kayak felt steady enough for a beginner paddler.
Is it easy to pack down and carry?
The kayak, pump, seat and paddle all packed neatly into the generous backpack, which has a hip belt as well as shoulder straps to help distribute the load. That said, for me this was a very heavy load, especially when wet, and I wouldn’t have wanted to carry it far. Deflation was quick and straightforward, but the valves and caps are vulnerable to getting lost because they detach completely from the hull. This kayak was easy to rinse but there were hidden pockets of water to deal with before putting it away.
Durability and sustainability
This kayak has three air chambers, two tubes and a floor, all of which take 1.5 PSI of pressure. It is constructed from polyester and reinforced coated PVC. The outer protective layer sits rather loosely on the hull. There is no additional outer reinforcement on either the bow or stern. The seat is well made but attaches with Velcro, which could become compromised over time. Bluefin offer an impressive 5-year warranty and work with Clearcycle to refurbish returned boards and kayaks.
Good value?
With a paddle included, we thought the Scout inflatable kayak represented good value, especially for beginner paddlers. Its performance on the water was better than some of its more expensive competitors and it was comfortable to paddle. When paddling, I would always recommend wearing a personal flotation device and avoiding offshore winds.
Best suited for:
Suitable for beginner paddlers on lakes or from the beach if the wind was onshore and gentle. I would give this kayak a go on flat rivers but for me, it feels too flexible for white water.
Facts at a glance: Bluefin Scout Inflatable Kayak
- Kayak type: Inflatable
- Kayak size: 1 person (with the occasional extra)
- Packed measurements: 89 x 40 x 36 cm
- Kayak measurements: 333 x 90 x 34 cm
- Material: Polyester and reinforced 3-ply PVC
- Weight: 18 kg (packed)
- RRP: £299
- Items included: 1 seat, 1 paddle, 1 fin, hand pump, backpack, waterproof phone case
