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The Sea Eagle 300x Explorer is the smallest 1-person, inflatable kayak in the Explorer series and the best in its class offering superior design, durability, stability, and performance. Explorer kayaks are the most versatile Sea Eagle offers. Designed to tackle whitewater, flatwater, and ocean kayaking.

If you like a variety of adventures, this is the perfect solo kayak. It’s a great wet or dry kayak capable of handling up to Class IV rapids.

On flat water, the 300x Explorer is extremely safe and stable offering improved tracking on open water when the removable skeg is in place.

If you are looking for versatility, maneuverability, and control in a solo kayak, look no further. Not sure if the 300x is right for you? Check out the Best Sea Eagle Kayaks For 2024 with Buyer’s Guide.

Popular 300x Explorer Kayak Packages

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer Deluxe Package, Model Number 300XK_D.

The Deluxe Package is the perfect, solo, inflatable kayak package for the all-around paddler who wants to experience everything from flatwater to Class IV rapids. With a hull weight of 30 lbs, it’s a breeze to store and transport! It features bow and stern spray skirts, a deluxe inflatable kayak seat, SUP pump, repair kit, carrying bag, and easy-to-store, four-part, paddle.

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer Pro Kayak Package, Model Number 300XK_P.

The Pro Kayak Package upgrades the Deluxe Package with a Tall Back Kayak Seat, four-part, high-performance, paddle, and an onboard kayak stow bag for storing your essentials.

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer Bixpy Motor Package, Model Number 300XK_BX.

The Bixpy Motor Package comes with an ultralight Bixpy outboard motor that attaches to the fin box. This motor has 12 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds, 33lb of thrust, and runs at top speed for about 80 minutes and up to 12 hours at slower speeds.

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer Review Ratings

Portability
Stability
Performance
Comfort
Durability
Features
Value

Summary


The Sea Eagle 300x Explorer is the smallest of the Explorer line of inflatable kayaks. It’s the perfect choice for the solo kayaker who wants an all-round kayak with the versatility to handle water conditions from flatwater to Class IV whitewater.

4.9

For a better understanding of the whitewater rating system, visit American Whitewater.

About the Sea Eagle Explorer Inflatable Kayaks

Sea Eagle Boats is a family-owned and run company located in New York. They have a stellar reputation for making high-quality inflatable boats since 1968 and the Explorer kayak series is proof of their excellence in the inflatable boat industry.

Sea Eagle Explorers are ingeniously designed wet or dry kayaks built to transition from whitewater to flatwater. Sixteen super-fast, self-bailing drain valves in the floor of the kayak can be opened to drain the waves and spray from rapids or closed to remain dry on open water.

Certifications: Sea Eagle kayaks have been certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). This certification confirms that they have been manufactured to meet the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) standards for design, construction, and safety.

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Top, Front, and Side Views

Top view of an Explorer 300x.
Top View
Side view of an Explorer 300x.
Side View
Front view of an Explorer 300x.
Front View

Specifications

(Compare all Sea Eagle kayaks and canoes)

Person Capacity1
Hull Weight30 lbs
Length9′ 10″
Width3′ 3″
Interior8′ 9″ x 16″
Load Capacity1 Person or 395 lbs
D-Rings18 D-Rings
Deflated24″ x 16″ x 6″
Chambers3 (port, starboard, floor)
Tube Diameter11.5″
Air Valves3 Recessed, One-Way Air Valves
Inflation Time5 min
SeamGlued, Quadruple Overlap
Material1000 Denier Reinforced Fabric
FloorRemovable, High-Pressure, Drop-Stitch Floor
Drain Valves16 High-Capacity, Self-Bailing Drain Valves
Whitewater RatingSuitable Up to Class IV Rapids
Inflation Pressure3.2 psi

Standard Features

A kayaker carries an Explorer 300x alongside a whitewater river.
  • NMMA Certified
  • 16 high-capacity, self-bailing drain valves
  • Large, removable slide skeg for improved tracking during flatwater touring
  • Front and rear spray skirts with carry handles, storage space below the skirts, and bungee cords for securing gear
  • 18 D-rings to secure seat and gear as well
  • Three separate, independent air chambers with one-way air valves for added safety
  • Removable, high-pressure, drop-stitch floor for rigidity and easy cleaning
  • Printed owner’s manual with instructions

For a wealth of additional information, check out the Sea Eagle Explorer 300x Kayak Owner’s Manual.

Key Features

A man stands and fishes from an Explorer 300x.

The following three key features of the Sea Eagle 300x deserve closer attention.

Separate Drop-Stitch Floor Provides Double Protection

Figure showing the modular, rigid, drop stitch floor and outside floor of Sea Eagle kayaks.

The modular design of Sea Eagle Explorer kayaks consists of an extremely rigid, high-pressure, Drop-Stitch floor that tucks into a reinforced outside fabric floor for a double layer of protection against abrasion and puncture from rocks, logs, and other debris.

The drop-stitch floor is rigid enough to stand up in while also yielding unparalleled stability and super responsive paddling performance.

To achieve this, the floor is created by joining two layers of poly-based fabric with tens of thousands of polyester threads to form a base floor layer to which an air-tight coating is applied.

There is a bonus to this modular design. Removal of the DS floor allows quick and thorough cleaning of every crevice of the kayak. Proper cleaning improves the longevity of inflatable kayaks.

Easy-To-Open & Shut Drain Valves for Whitewater

Sea Eagle Explorer bottom view showing its 16 rapid, self-bailing drain valves.

Sea Eagle Explorer inflatable kayaks have 16 rapid, self-bailing, easy-to-open and shut drain valves. When the valves are open, the water drains out as fast as it comes in. Perfect for wet whitewater and ocean kayaking. With the drain hole covers on, you can have a dry flat water paddling experience in cold water.

Removable Skeg for Flat Water

Sea Eagle Explorer large, removable, rear, center, slide-in skeg for flatwater touring.

Sea Eagle Explorer kayaks have another design feature worth mentioning. Its large, removable, rear, center skeg can be easily added or removed to accommodate different water conditions and ease of storage.

To install, simply slide the skeg into the track on the bottom of the kayak and lock it in place. This can be done with the Explorer inflated or deflated.

When installed, the skeg improves tracking on flat water by reducing yaw, the annoying left and right twisting as you paddle.

Remove the skeg when on whitewater and skinny water adventures in shallow conditions. You don’t want to drag or tear up the skeg on rocks or the water bottom.

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer Discount Kayak Packages for 2024

A kayaker ocean wave surfing in a 300x Explorer.
Sea Eagle Explorer 300x with a GoPro. For more on GoPro kayak mounts, check out the Best GoPro Mounts for Kayaking.

Explorer discount packages are designed with the paddler in mind. Basic accessories in each package are the SUP pump, repair kit, carrying bag, large slide-in skeg, and easy-to-store paddle with drip rings for staying dry.

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer – Deluxe Package

A 300x Explorer Deluxe Package, Model Number 300XK_D.

The Deluxe Package (Model Number 300XK_D) is the perfect option for ease of storage and transport! It has bow and stern spray skirts and features the deluxe inflatable kayak seat, SUP pump, repair kit, carrying bag, and easy-to-store, four-part, paddle.

Features:

  • 300x Explorer Hull
  • AB30 7’10” 4-Part Paddle
  • Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seat
  • SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
  • Large Slide-in Skeg
  • Repair Kit
  • Carry Bag

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer – Pro Kayak Package

A 300x Explorer Pro Package, Model Number 300XK_P.

The Pro Kayak Package (Model Number 300XK_P) features the Tall Back Kayak Seat and four-part, high-performance, paddle. Both are perfect for reducing fatigue on longer paddling trips.

The Pro Kayak Package also comes with an onboard kayak stow bag for storing your essentials.

Features:

  • 300x Explorer Hull
  • AB40 8′ 4-Part Paddle
  • Tall Back Seat
  • SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
  • Large Slide-in Skeg
  • Stow Bag
  • Repair Kit
  • Carry Bag

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer – Pro Carbon Package

A 300x Explorer Pro Carbon Package, Model Number 300XK_PC.

The Pro Carbon Package (Model Number 300XK_PC) has the pro package with the addition of an upgraded, top-end, ultra-light, carbon fiber paddle.

Features:

  • 300x Explorer Hull
  • AB50 8′ 2-Part Paddle
  • Tall Back Seat
  • SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
  • Large Slide-in Skeg
  • Stow Bag
  • Repair Kit
  • Carry Bag

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer – Bixpy Motor Package

A 300x Explorer Bixpy Motor Package, Model Number 300XK_BX.

The Bixpy Motor Package (Model Number 300XK_BX) is for the enthusiast who’s into it all: whitewater, flatwater, and motoring!

The ultralight Bixpy J-2 PowerShroud outboard motor attaches to the skeg track by use of a slide-n-lock skeg adaptor. This motor has 12 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds, 33lb of thrust, and runs at top speed for about 80 minutes and up to 12 hours at slower speeds.

The Bixpy motor is operated by the use of a wristband remote control while steering is accomplished by the use of the paddle.

Features:

  • 300x Explorer Hull
  • Bixpy J-2 Electric Motor Kit
  • AB50 8′ 2-Part Paddle
  • Tall Back Seat
  • SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
  • Large Slide-in Skeg
  • Stow Bag
  • Repair Kit
  • Carry Bag

Sea Eagle Explorer Inflatable Kayak Instructional Video

Want to see how simple the Sea Eagle Explorer 300x inflatable kayak is to inflate, set up, operate, disassemble, deflate, and store? Check out the how-to video from Sea Eagle.

Who Are Sea Eagle Boats?

Sea Eagle Boats is a family-owned and run company located in New York. They have had a stellar reputation for making high-quality inflatable boats since 1968 and each of the boats in their lineup is a testimony to their excellence in the inflatable watercraft industry.

Sea Eagle Boats are lightweight, extremely durable, compact, easy to carry and transport, and above all fun! These inflatable boats pack down into carry bags and can be stowed as luggage when traveling or stored in a car, SUV, van, truck, RV, or yacht. You can transport them to almost any body of water for leisure, recreation, fishing, tending, rescue, and more.

Sea Eagle Guarantee and Warranties

4-Month Trial Guarantee: Try Risk-Free for 120 days! “If you’re not totally happy with your boat, just return it in good condition for a full refund of your purchase price.”

3-Year Limited Warranty: 3-year limited warranty against any manufacturing defects.

3-Year Extended Hull Warranty: In addition to the limited 3-year warranty, Sea Eagle Boats offers a 3-Year Extended Hull Warranty for added protection giving you 6 years of total warranty against any manufacturing defects.

Sea Eagle 300x Explorer Alternatives

BOTE Zeppelin Aero 10′

Front view of the BOTE Zeppelin Aero 10′ Classic Seafoam Inflatable Kayak.

The BOTE Zeppelin Areo 10′ is a great inflatable boat for flatwater kayaking. It is a rugged, feature-rich kayak with excellent performance capabilities.

The Zeppelin Areo has an incredibly comfortable high-mount inflatable seat and a drop-stitch floor that makes it stable enough to stand on while its self-draining system keeps you high and dry.

Bow and stern accessory mounting points, Rac receivers for upgraded features, and the built-in Magnepod feature for securing BOTE magnetic drinkware and other magnetic items make this kayak worth a look if you are interested in kayaking on moderate waters.

Check out my BOTE Zeppelin Aero Review for more information.

Aquaglide Chelan 120 Inflatable Kayak

Side view of the Aquaglide Chelan 120.

The Aquaglide Chelan 120 is a one-person performance touring kayak that’s perfect for all types of paddling from flatwater to rough.

Constructed from rugged, heavy-duty 1000 Denier polyester fabric coated with PVC and a high-pressure drop-stitch floor, this kayak is lightweight (28 lbs), stiff, and extremely durable.

It has sleek narrow tubes designed to increase glide and speed, a bow rocker for riding over waves, a lower rocker in the stern for improved tracking, heavy-duty nose cones in the bow and stern to protect from impacts, and a bow drag plate to protect the hull when landing.

Additional features include a removable tracking fin, an adjustable seat with inflatable cushion, deck cargo bungees, D-rings, webbing tie-downs, self-bailing floor drains, Molle plates, Universal Mounts plates for accessories, molded carry handles, bow and stern cockpit splash guards, and a 2-year warranty.

Star Raven Pro I Inflatable Kayak

Side view of the STAR Raven I Pro.

The Star Raven I Pro is a solo performance kayak designed for recreational activities from flatwater lakes to running whitewater rivers.

Constructed of durable, heavy-duty 1000 Denier fabric coated with PVC and a high-pressure drop-stitch floor, this rigid kayak weighs only 39 lbs.

It has 10.5″ tubes with reinforced seams, pronounced rockers in the bow and stern, foot braces, thigh straps, and drain holes for taking on more challenging whitewater.

Additional features include a high-back seat, D-rings, carry handles, and a 3-year warranty.

Sea Eagle 300x Review Conclusion

A fisherman paddles a 300x Explorer on a calm lake.

The Sea Eagle 300x Explorer inflatable kayak is an impressive solo kayak suitable for a wide range of paddlers including beginners.

The Explorer series has been around since the 1960s! That alone is impressive! The 300x Explorer is a well-designed and well-tested boat crafted from the highest quality materials to provide you with many years of enjoyment in a variety of waters from long flat water touring up to class four whitewater.

With a length of 9′ 10″, the increased maneuverability and control help tackle whitewater, and at 30 lbs, it’s easy to carry.

This versatile kayak has only one caveat. If you are looking for speed on open water, it’s not the fastest Sea Eagle kayak. For speed, you’ll want to look at the FastTrack.

If you want to paddle solo, you can’t go wrong with the Explorer 300x.

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Steve Hood

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30 Comments

  1. Avatar for KayakQueen KayakQueen says:

    Absolutely diggin’ the detailed breakdown of the 300x Explorer features, especially the bit about the drop-stitch floor. Makes it sound indestructible. Props to Steve Hood for highlighting those kayak packages, too. I’m eyeing the Pro Carbon Package – seems like it’s worth every penny for the extras.

  2. Avatar for TrailMixMax TrailMixMax says:

    Has anyone tried out the Bixpy Motor Package with the Sea Eagle 300x? Curious about the battery life and if it genuinely improves the kayaking experience for longer trips. Cheers, Max.

  3. Avatar for WavesMaster WavesMaster says:

    Really impressed with the detailed outline on the Sea Eagle 300x! I’ve been kayaking for years but haven’t tried an inflatable one yet. The section about the drop-stitch floor and easy-to-use drain valves sold me. Thinking of grabbing the Pro Kayak Package. Cheers, Steve Hood, for the comprehensive info!

  4. Avatar for PaddlePals PaddlePals says:

    hey Steve Hood,quick q, does the bixpy motor package make a big diff in speed or what? haven’t used a motor with a yak before but sounds cool

  5. i love the idea of a removable skeg for flat water on the Sea Eagle. makes it versatile for someone like me who’s into both lake and river kayaking. gotta say, flexibility is key.

    1. Totally agree with you on that. I’m more of a lake person but the option to switch things up is tempting. Might be time to upgrade my gear.

  6. Avatar for TrailBlazer TrailBlazer says:

    hey, does anyone know if the Sea Eagle can handle really rough whitewater? I’m talking about class IV rapids. Been looking for something portable that won’t bail on me halfway. thx!

  7. Avatar for ThriftyNick ThriftyNick says:

    saw the part about discount packages for 2024. wondering if the deluxe is enough or should save up for the pro package. anybody tried both and can advise?

  8. Avatar for SkegSkeptic SkegSkeptic says:

    I find the emphasis on the removable skeg intriguing, but is it truly a game-changer? Stability and tracking can often be compensated with skill, so I’m wondering if the benefits are as significant as they claim.

  9. Avatar for RapidRider RapidRider says:

    interesting read but i’m skeptical about inflatables in serious whitewater. i’ll stick to my hardshell for now. props for covering the drain valves feature though, clever design.

  10. Avatar for SkepticalSue SkepticalSue says:

    Not sure if inflatable kayaks can really handle rough whitewater. I’ve read about the Sea Eagle 300x Explorer’s supposed durability, but has anyone actually tested this in challenging conditions? Would love to hear real stories.

  11. Avatar for WhitewaterWendy WhitewaterWendy says:

    The drop-stitch floor tech sounds like a solid innovation for anyone hitting rougher waters. Hats off to Sea Eagle for keeping the adventurer in mind!

  12. Avatar for LazyPaddler LazyPaddler says:

    kayaks look cool but seems like a lot of info to digest. anyone tried the bixpy motor package? sounds like my kinda kayaking where the boat does most work lol

  13. Avatar for SkegSkeptic SkegSkeptic says:

    The removable skeg for flat water sounds useful but wonder how it holds up against strong currents. In my experience, these add-ons tend to underperform. Anyone has hands-on experience to share?

    1. Avatar for CurrentKing CurrentKing says:

      I’ve used the removable skeg on several trips now, and it’s been great, even in tougher currents. Surprisingly sturdy and makes a big difference in tracking.

  14. Avatar for KayakKween KayakKween says:

    Seeing the Sea Eagle 300x makes me think about the visuals. Would love to see more pics, maybe even in action. Anyone got some to share? Could be some great inspo for my next series.

  15. Avatar for Anonymous Anonymous says:

    dudes, the part where they talk about the easy-to-open and shut drain valves is legit! anyone else tried those out on real rapids? made clean up so much easier after a day on the river

    1. Avatar for ThrasherTom ThrasherTom says:

      Yep, RiverRatRicky, those valves are a game changer. Been caught in some gnarly spots and they work like a charm.

  16. Avatar for PeddlePundit PeddlePundit says:

    While the motor package sounds convenient, I wonder about the environmental footprint of using such propulsion on pristine water bodies. Maybe stick to the paddles?

  17. Avatar for EcoExplorer EcoExplorer says:

    Love that the Sea Eagle can be packed away – means less space and less impact on the environment when it’s not being used. Great for those of us who are conscious about our ecological footprint.

  18. Avatar for GizmoGeek GizmoGeek says:

    Regarding the Bixpy Motor Package, isn’t the beauty of kayaking in the paddle’s simplicity and the direct connection with water? I’m all for innovation, but wonder if we’re risking the essence of the sport with motors. Thoughts?

  19. Steve Hood, in your article regarding the Sea Eagle 300x Explorer’s ‘Key Features’, you mention the easy-to-open & shut drain valves. Could you provide more detail on how these function in practice, particularly in whitewater scenarios? Accuracy is crucial for my upcoming review.

  20. Avatar for GizmoGeek GizmoGeek says:

    The Bixpy Motor Package section caught my eye. Always curious about how tech can enhance traditional outdoor activities. Wonder if it’s as efficient as they say for long paddles.

  21. Avatar for CritiqueQueen CritiqueQueen says:

    Oh, great, another inflatable kayak. Because what we really needed was more choices to make the decision even harder. Here’s hoping the ‘Pro Carbon Package’ is worth its weight in gold, or at least in carbon. Right, Steve Hood?

  22. Avatar for PaddlePals PaddlePals says:

    Just got into kayaking and im so excited to try out one of these Sea Eagle kayaks. anyone have tips for a newbie?

  23. Avatar for CalmWaters CalmWaters says:

    The removable skeg for flat water mentioned in the article caught my attention. It’s thoughtful features like this that make the 300x Explorer versatile for peaceful lake trips. Appreciate the insight, Steve Hood.

  24. Avatar for RiverRunner RiverRunner says:

    finally, a kayak that seems to get the balance right between speed and stability. been looking for something like the 300x explorer for ages. those drain valves are a game changer for someone like me who loves pushing the limits on rapids.

  25. Avatar for FlatwaterPhil FlatwaterPhil says:

    Ah, the removable skeg for flat water. Because we all know how hard it is to keep a kayak straight without it. Next, they’ll be selling stabilizers and GPS-guided paddles.