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If you’re looking for an extremely stable 2-person or 3-person inflatable kayak, the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer inflatable kayak is the best family kayak for versatility in adventures. The rugged design masters whitewater, flatwater, and almost everything in-between including fishing, sailing, and rowing.
No need for roof racks, a trailer, or an extra storage area in the garage. The 420x Explorer from Sea Eagle Boats deflates to the compact size of 31″ x 21″ x 10″.
Pretty cool right? It fits in a car trunk when out on adventures and in a closet at home.
For a better understanding of the whitewater rating system, visit American Whitewater.
About the Sea Eagle Explorer Series of Inflatable Kayaks
Since 1968, Sea Eagle Boats has been developing inflatable boats that set precedence in the industry and this New York-based, family-owned company has outdone themselves with the Explorer kayak series.
Sea Eagle Explorer kayaks are intelligent crafted wet or dry kayaks built to transform from a whitewater kayak to a flatwater kayak. Attach the removable skeg for improved tracking on flatwater and close the valves for a dry paddling experience or remove the skeg and open the 16 self-bailing drain valves on whitewater.
Sea Eagle Explorer inflatable kayaks can be used on whitewater rivers, flatwater rivers, open water touring, Ocean surf, exploring, fishing, camping, and more. The versatility of these boats makes them the perfect choice for all-around kayaking.
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Sea Eagle Explorer Inflatable Kayaks Are Best Used For:
- Ocean
- Whitewater Rivers
- Fishing
- Bays
- Lakes
- Flatwater Rivers
- Camping
Top, Front and Side Views – Sea Eagle 420x Explorer Inflatable Kayak
Specifications – Sea Eagle 420x Explorer Inflatable Kayak
(compare all Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks and canoes)
| Person Capacity | 3 |
|---|---|
| Hull Weight | 44 lbs |
| Length | 14′ |
| Width | 3′ 3″ |
| Interior | 13′ 4″ x 15″ |
| Load Capacity | 3 Person or 855 lbs |
| D-Rings | 26 D-Rings |
| Deflated | 31″ x 21″ x 10″ |
| Chambers | 3 (port, starboard, floor) |
| Tube Diameter | 11.5″ |
| Air Valves | 3 Recessed, One-Way Air Valves |
| Inflation Time | 9 min |
| Seam | Glued, Quadruple Overlap |
| Material | 1000 Denier Reinforced |
| Engine Capacity | 34 lb Thrust, Electric Motor (max engine weight 15 lbs) |
| Floor | Removable, High-Pressure, Drop-Stitch Floor |
| Drain Valves | 16 High-Capacity, Self-Bailing Drain Valves |
| Whitewater Rating | Suitable Up to Class IV Rapids |
| Inflation Pressure | 3.2 psi |
Standard Features of the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer Inflatable Kayak
- NMMA Certified
- 16 high-capacity, self-bailing drain valves
- Large, removable, rear skeg for improved tracking during flatwater touring
- Front and rear spray skirts with carrying handles, storage below the skirts, and bungee cord lacing on top for securing additional gear
- Three separate, independent air chambers (port, starboard, floor) with one-way air valves for added safety
- Separate high-pressure, drop-stitch floor for rigidity
- 26 D-rings to secure seats, accessories, and gear
- Printed owner’s manual with instructions
For a wealth of additional information, check out the Sea Eagle Explorer Kayak Owner’s Manual.
Key Features of the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer Inflatable Kayak
The following three, key features of Sea Eagle 420x Explorer inflatable kayaks deserve closer attention.
Modular, Rigid, Drop-Stitch Floor Provides Double Protection
The unique two-part modular design of Sea Eagle Explorer inflatable kayaks provides a double layer of protection from punctures and abrasion from rocks, logs, and other debris. This is achieved by tucking an extremely rigid, high-pressure, Drop-Stitch floor into a reinforced outer fabric floor.
The high-pressure, drop-stitch floor is made by joining the top and bottom layers of poly-based fabric floor with tens of thousands of polyester threads to form a base floor layer to which an air-tight coating is applied. This creates a rigid surface with unparalleled stability and performance that is hard enough to stand on when on the water.
The removable floor also aids in a quick and easy cleanup of every nook and cranny of the kayak. A clean inflatable kayak will last longer.
16 Rapid, Self-Bailing, Easy-To-Open & Shut Drain Valves
Sea Eagle Explorer inflatable kayaks are self-bailing when the 16 easy-to-open and shut rapid, self-bailing, drain valves are open. Water drains as fast as it enters making the open position perfect for whitewater kayaking. When kayaking on flatwater in the cold, keep the valves closed to stay warm and dry.
Large, Removable, Rear, Center Skeg
The large, removable, rear, center skeg is an important design feature of Sea Eagle Explorer kayaks. The ease of installation and removal makes it simple to accommodate various water conditions and storage. To install the skeg, simply slide it into the track on the bottom of the kayak and lock it in place.
Installation of the skeg can take place whether the kayak is inflated or deflated. The great advantage of its use is the improved performance when paddling on flatwater by reducing yaw, that side to side motion that can be so annoying.
Removal of the skeg is needed for whitewater and shallow water conditions where the skeg could be damaged on rocks and other debris. Removal of the skeg also makes storage easier.
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer Discount Kayak Packages
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer kayak discount packages are designed to accommodate the needs of different types of paddlers. The basic accessories of each package are the foot pump, repair kit, kayak carrying bag, and easy-to-store kayak paddles with drip rings for staying dry.
There is room for the family dog or a third seat in the 420x Explorer making it the perfect all-around kayak for families who want to experience both flatwater and rapids up to Class IV.
The packages shown do not offer a third seat. If desired, you’ll want to add an extra seat to your order and possibly another paddle.
Related Content: Best Inflatable Kayaks and Canoes for Families
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Deluxe Kayak Package
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Deluxe Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_D) is a great inflatable tandem kayak package for all-around paddlers who want to experience both flatwater and rapids up to Class IV.
This tandem kayak features two inflatable kayak seats, a foot pump, repair kit, kayak carrying bag, and two easy-to-store, four-part, kayak paddles.
Want an inflatable 3-person kayak? Just add another seat. There’s room.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two AB30 7’10” 4 Part Paddles
- Two Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seats
- A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Kayak Package
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_P) is a spacious inflatable 2-person kayak with two Tall Back Seats that provide extra back support for those longer outings and two four-part, high-performance, kayak paddles for improved efforts when padding.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two Tall Back Kayak Seats
- Two AB40 8′ 4 Part Paddles
- Two Kayak Stow Bags
- A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Carbon Kayak Package
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Carbon Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_PC) features everything in the Pro Kayak Package substituting a pair of upgraded, top-end, carbon-fiber paddles for the kayakers in this 2-person kayak setup.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two AB50 8′ 2 Part Paddles
- Two Tall Back Kayak Seats
- Two Kayak Stow Bags
- A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – QuikSail Kayak Package
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – QuikSail Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_QS) comes with the QuikSail Universal Kayak Sail Kit. It’s a fun way to transform your kayak into a personal sailboat without the need for permanent modifications.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two Tall Back Kayak Seats
- Two AB40 8′ 4 Part Paddles
- QuikSail- Universal Kayak Sail
- Two Kayak Stow Bags
- A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Related Content: Sea Eagle QuikSail Universal Kayak Sail Kits
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Motor Kayak Package
If you want to cover a lot of water and don’t want to overexert yourself, the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Motor Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_PM) is the way to go.
This kayak package offers the best of both worlds… paddle for exercise and fun, or attach the electric motor and zip along in style and comfort.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two Tall Back Kayak Seats
- Two AB40 8′ 4 Part Paddles
- Watersnake Asp T24 (Fresh & Saltwater) Kayak Motor
- Kayak Motor Mount
- A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Two 4 FT. STRAPs
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – QuikRow Kayak Package
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – QuikRow Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_QR) offers multiple possibilities! Set it up as a 2-person inflatable kayak, buy an extra seat to make it a 3-person inflatable kayak, or attach the Universal QuikRow Kit and transform the 420x kayak into a rowboat that has a swivel seat, a set of oars, and two fishing rod holders.
How fun is that?! The QuikRow Kayak Package is perfect for flatwater, whitewater, fishing, or rowing.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Universal QuikRow Kit
- Two AB40 8′ 4 Part Paddles
- Two Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seats
- Two Scotty Rod Holders
- A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Motor Fishing Rig Kayak Package
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Motor Fishing Rig Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_PMFR) is the best fresh and saltwater, inflatable, tandem, fishing kayak package of all time!
Two swivel seats, four fishing rod holders, motor mount, WaterSnake Venom 34 lb thrust electric motor, multi-purpose storage box, and more!
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two Swivel Seat Fishing Rigs w/ Scotty Rod Holders
- Watersnake Venom SX 34 lb Thrust Electric Motor for Fresh & Saltwater
- Two AB40 8′ 4 Part Paddles
- Kayak Motor Mount
- Multi-Purpose Kayak Storage Box
- A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Related Content: Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer Inflatable Kayak Review
Certifications
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer inflatable kayaks have met the manufacturing standards of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) for design, construction, and safety and have been certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
Sea Eagle Guarantee and Warranties
Sea Eagle 4-Month Trial Guarantee: Try a Sea Eagle 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.”
Sea Eagle 3-Year Limited Warranty: 3-year limited warranty against any manufacturing defects.
Sea Eagle 3-Year Extended Hull Warranty: In addition to the limited 3-year warranty, Sea Eagle offers a 3-Year Extended Hull Warranty to give you 6-years of total warranty against any manufacturing defects.
Sea Eagle Explorer Inflatable Kayak Instructional Video
Here’s a video from Sea Eagle that demonstrates the simplicity of operating Sea Eagle Explorer inflatable kayaks. Inflation, setup, operation, deflation, breaking down, and storing are all covered here…
Conclusion
Wanting a roomy 2-person kayak or a 3-person kayak for your family and friends?
The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer inflatable kayak is the way to go for an all-around inflatable kayak with the greatest versatility. Ocean, whitewater rivers, fishing, bays, lakes, flatwater rivers, and camping… this kayak does it all.
There’s only one limitation to this model. If you’re looking for speed on open water, the Sea Eagle FastTrack is faster. For speed, you’ll want to look at the Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack inflatable kayak.
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