Disclosure: I am compensated for purchases made through some links on this site. Click for details.
If you’re looking for an extremely stable 2-person or 3-person kayak, the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer inflatable kayak is the best family kayak. Its versatility and rugged design master whitewater, flatwater, and almost everything in-between including fishing, sailing, and rowing.
No need for roof racks, a trailer, or for extra storage space in the garage. The 420x Explorer from Sea Eagle Boats deflates to the compact size of 31″ x 21″ x 10″.
Pretty cool right? This lightweight kayak folds down to fit in the trunk of your car and in a closet at home.
Not sure if the 420x is right for you? Check out the Best Sea Eagle Kayaks For 2024 with Buyer’s Guide.
Popular 420x Explorer Kayak Packages
The Deluxe Solo Package is the perfect, solo, inflatable kayak package for the all-around paddler who wants to experience everything from flatwater to Class II rapids.
The Deluxe Package is the perfect, tandem, inflatable kayak package for all-around paddlers who want to experience everything from flatwater to Class II rapids.
The Pro Carbon Package comes with Tall Back Seats for extra back support on those longer trips and a set of upgraded high-end Carbon-Fiber Paddles, each a half-pound lighter than the standard paddle for reduced fatigue.
For a better understanding of the whitewater rating system, visit American Whitewater.
About the Sea Eagle Explorer 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 itself with the Explorer kayak series.
Sea Eagle Explorer kayaks are intelligently crafted wet or dry kayaks built to transition from whitewater to flatwater. Attach the removable slide 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.
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.
Best For:
Related Content:
- Sea Eagle Explorer Kayaks Compared
- Sea Eagle 300x Explorer Review
- Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer Review
- Sea Eagle 380x Explorer Review
Top, Front, and Side Views
Specifications
(Compare all Sea Eagle 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
- 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 carry handles, extra storage space below the skirts, and bungee cords for securing 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 more information, check out the Sea Eagle Explorer Kayak Owner’s Manual.
Key Features
The following three, key features of the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer deserve closer attention.
Separate 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.
Easy-To-Open & Shut Drain Valves for Whitewater Kayaking
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.
Removable Skeg for Flat Water
The large, removable, rear, center skeg is an important design feature of the Sea Eagle Explorer series. 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 kayaking 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 Discount Kayak Packages for 2024
Sea Eagle 420x discount packages are designed to accommodate the needs of different types of paddlers. The basic accessories of each package are the SUP pump with pressure gauge, repair kit, kayak carrying bag, and easy-to-store paddles with drip rings for staying dry.
One of the main changes in the kayak packages for 2024 is the inclusion of the SUP pump in place of the foot pump.
There is room for the family dog or a third seat in the 420x Explorer kayak making it the perfect all-around kayak for families who want to experience anything from flatwater to Class IV rapids.
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 Package
The tandem Deluxe Package (Model Number 420XK_D) features two deluxe inflatable kayak seats, a SUP pump, a repair kit, a kayak carrying bag, and two easy-to-store, four-part, kayak paddles.
Want an inflatable 3-person kayak? Just add another inflatable seat. There’s room.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two AB30 7’10” 4-Part Paddles
- Two Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seats
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Kayak Package
The Pro Kayak Package (Model Number 420XK_P) is a spacious inflatable 2-person kayak with two Tall Back Kayak 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 Seats
- Two AB40 8′ 4-Part Paddles
- Two Kayak Stow Bags
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Carbon Package
The Pro Carbon Package (Model Number 420XK_PC) is the same as the Pro Package with a pair of upgraded, carbon-fiber paddles.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Two AB50 8′ 2-Part Paddles
- Two Tall Back Seats
- Two Kayak Stow Bags
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – QuikSail Package
The QuikSail 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 Seats
- Two AB40 8′ 4-Part Paddles
- QuikSail- Universal Kayak Sail
- Two Kayak Stow Bags
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Motor Package
If you want to cover a lot of water and don’t want to overexert yourself, the Pro Motor 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 Seats
- Two AB40 8′ 4-Part Paddles
- Watersnake Asp T24 (Fresh & Saltwater) Trolling Motor
- Kayak Motor Mount
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Two 4 ft STRAPs
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – QuikRow Package
The QuikRow Package (Model Number 420XK_QR) offers multiple possibilities! Set it up as a 2-person kayak, buy an extra seat to make it a 3-person 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 flat water, whitewater, fishing, or rowing.
Features:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Universal QuikRow Kit
- Two AB40 8′ 4-Part Paddles
- Two Deluxe Inflatable Seats
- Two Scotty Rod Holders
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Pro Motor Fishing Rig Package
The Pro Motor Fishing Rig 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, 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 Motormount
- Multi-Purpose Kayak Storage Box
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer – Bixby Motor Package
The Bixby Motor Package (Model Number 420XK_BX) is the Pro Carbon Package with the addition of an electric Bixpy motor.
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:
- 420x Explorer Hull
- Bixpy J-2 Electric Motor Kit
- Two Tall Back Seats
- Two AB50 8′ 2-Part Paddles
- SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge
- Large Slide-in Skeg
- Two Kayak Stow Bags
- Repair Kit
- Kayak Carry Bag
Sea Eagle Explorer Inflatable Kayak Instructional Video
Here’s a video from Sea Eagle that demonstrates the simplicity of operating the Explorer kayak. Inflation, setup, operation, deflation, breaking down, and storing are all covered here…
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.
If you’d like to learn more, I’ve put together the Best Sea Eagle Kayaks For 2024 with Buyer’s Guide. In this guide, I ranked and reviewed the best Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks, along with my top 5 choices, so you can pick the best one.
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 offers a 3-Year Extended Hull Warranty for added protection giving you 6 years of total warranty against any manufacturing defects.
Sea Eagle 420x Explorer Alternatives
Advanced Elements StraitEdge2 Pro
The Advanced Elements StraitEdge 2 Pro is a tandem inflatable kayak with a load capacity of 500 lbs. The kayak’s 13′ in length with a 35″ beam. Its size in combination with a drop-stitch floor provides excellent stability when paddling choppy waters.
Its best use is for lakes, bays, Class I-III rivers, and coastal waters.
It is constructed of a heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin hull material with electronically welded seams and features aluminum rib frames in the bow and stern. These provide extra strength and rigidity and allow the kayak to cut through the water with ease for improved speed and performance. The rib frames along with a removable fin also improve tracking.
Additional features include self-bailing ports, deck cargo bungees, paddle holders, molded rubber handles, adjustable foot pegs, rod holders, carry bag, repair kit, and 1-year warranty.
Itiwit X100 Inflatable Touring Kayak
The Itiwit X100 from Decathlon may be the best-priced 3-person inflatable kayak on the market with a high-pressure drop-stitch floor. It offers superb stability and tracking. Like all larger inflatable kayaks, it’s not built for speed but it’s a pleasure to paddle.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a pump or paddles. They will set you back a little more.
Sea Eagle FastTrack 465
One, two, or three paddlers, the Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack kayak is fast, lightweight, incredibly stable, and super durable. It is the best inflatable kayak in its class and perfect for families who paddle on flatwater lakes, bays, marshes, calm rivers, and whitewater up to Class II rapids. And just like the 420x Explorer, there are upgrades for sailing and rowing.
Check out my Sea Eagle 465ft FastTRack review for more information.
Sea Eagle 420x Review Conclusion
Do you want 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 a large-capacity boat with the greatest versatility. Ocean kayaking, whitewater rivers, fishing, bays, lakes, flatwater rivers, overnight trips, 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 465ft FastTrack inflatable kayak is faster and geared more for recreational paddling.
Related Content:
- Best Inflatable Kayaks and Canoes for Families
- Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayaks Compared
- Sea Eagle RazorLite Inflatable Kayaks Compared
- Sea Eagle FastTrack Inflatable Kayaks Compared
Follow me on: Linkedin
