Looking Beyond the Old Town Ocean Kayak? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How the Alternatives Compare

Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu 9.5 Sit-on-Top

The Old Town Malibu 9.5 is shorter at 9.5 feet and wider at 36 inches compared to the 13-foot, 34-inch original. It weighs significantly more at 150 pounds, making it harder to carry but potentially more stable in choppy conditions. This model targets solo paddlers who prioritize a comfortable, adjustable seat over maximum storage space. You give up the extra length for tracking and the stackable design convenience. It is a solid entry-level choice if you do not need the high capacity of the XL version. The wider beam offers a steadier platform for beginners, though the added weight is a trade-off for portability.

Old Town Sonata 106 MK Motorized Kayak

The Old Town Sonata 106 MK introduces integrated electric power, a feature the manual original lacks entirely. At 10 feet long, it is shorter and likely lighter, though specific weight data is not provided here. This model suits anglers who want range and convenience without manual paddling effort. You trade the simplicity and lower weight of the original for motorized assistance and premium entertainment features. It is designed for solo use, focusing on hands-free operation. If you plan to cover long distances or fish in areas where paddling is tiring, this powered option provides a different experience. It is a premium choice for those willing to manage electronic systems for extended range.

Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem

The Old Town Malibu Two Tandem is designed for two people, whereas the original is a single-seater. It is 12 feet long and 36 inches wide, offering a slightly shorter but wider platform than the 13-foot, 34-inch original. It weighs 150 pounds, which is heavier and harder to lift alone. This kayak provides stable tandem capacity for shared ocean touring. You gain the ability to paddle with a partner and share gear, but you lose the ease of solo transport and the specific foot-bracing design for a center seated paddler. It fits pairs who prioritize shared experiences over individual speed or lightweight portability. The stackable design remains a convenience for storage.

Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak

The Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Kayak replaces hand paddling with a pedal drive system for hands-free movement. It is 12 feet long, slightly shorter than the 13-foot original, and shares the sit-on-top style. This model is built for anglers who need their hands free for fishing while maintaining efficient movement. You give up the simplicity of a paddle and the lighter 90-pound weight for a more complex propulsion system. It offers similar stability and gear capacity but focuses on convenience for fishing. The pedal drive allows for precise positioning, which is useful for targeting fish. It is ideal if you value hands-free operation over manual effort and lightweight portability.

Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 Sit-on-Top

The Old Town Malibu 11.5 is shorter at 11 feet 5 inches but wider at 36 inches compared to the original's 13-foot length and 34-inch width. It weighs 150 pounds, making it much heavier than the 90-pound original. This model offers a stable platform for solo paddlers who value adjustable comfort. You trade the extra length for better tracking and the lighter weight for a wider, steadier base. It is a reliable ocean kayak without the complexity of motorized or pedal systems. The additional width provides stability, which may be preferred by those who prioritize comfort over speed. It is a good alternative if you want a mid-size option between the 9.5 and the full 13-foot length.

Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 Powered Pedal Kayak

The Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 offers power-assisted travel via a pedal system, unlike the manual original. It is 12 feet long, slightly shorter than the 13-foot original. This kayak is designed for solo anglers seeking extended range with motor-like performance. You give up the simplicity and lighter weight of the original for power assistance that reduces manual effort. It fits those who want to cover more distance without the bulk of a full electric drive. The power-assisted feature allows for easier travel over long distances. It is a premium option for anglers who prioritize range and convenience. The design focuses on efficiency, making it suitable for those who want to conserve energy while exploring larger areas.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top

Best for: stable ocean paddling with high storage

Seating Style

Sit-on-Top

Length

13 ft 3.96 in

Capacity

491 lb

Person Capacity

2 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Use

Recreation, Ocean

View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top

This Old Town Malibu Two XL is a 13-foot sit-on-top kayak designed for ocean use. It features a 34-inch width and weighs 90 pounds. The Comfort Plus Seat offers support, while QuickStash Dry Hatch and open tankwells provide ample storage. Its stackable design aids transport. This model suits paddlers seeking stability and gear capacity for long days on the water.

Pros

• 13-foot length offers stability and tracking
• 34-inch width provides a wide, stable platform
• QuickStash Dry Hatch keeps gear dry
• Stackable design simplifies storage and transport

Cons

• 90-pound weight requires effort to carry
• No pedal drive system included
• Limited color options of Horizon and Lava

Good fit if

• You want a stable platform for ocean fishing
• You need extra storage for long trips
• You prefer a sit-on-top design for easy entry

Skip if

• You prioritize lightweight portability under 50 pounds
• You require a self-bailing cockpit design
• You need a pedal propulsion system

Verdict: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13ft is a stable, storage-rich option for paddlers who value capacity over weight. It fits those who plan to launch from shore and carry the kayak short distances.

2 Best budget

Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu 9.5 Sit-on-Top

Best for: Solo paddlers seeking stability and comfort

Seating Style

Sit-on-Top

Length

9 ft 5.04 in

Capacity

325 lb

Person Capacity

Solo

Propulsion

Paddle

Seat Type

AirComfort adjustable back rest

View on Amazon: Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu 9.5 Sit-on-Top

The Old Town Malibu 9.5 is a 9-foot 5-inch sit-on-top kayak designed for solo paddlers. It features a surf-stable hull and a 325-pound capacity. The AirComfort adjustable back rest and molded-in foot wells with calf rests enhance comfort. This model includes a QuickStash dry hatch and integrated storage. It suits those seeking a stable, entry-level ocean kayak with reliable features.

Pros

• Surf-stable hull for enhanced stability in wave conditions
• AirComfort adjustable back rest for personalized support
• 325-pound total weight capacity for solo use
• QuickStash dry hatch for splash-resistant waterproof storage
• Molded-in foot wells with calf rests for leg support

Cons

• Shorter 9-foot 5-inch length limits tracking distance compared to longer models
• Heavier 54-pound weight makes transport more difficult
• No pedal propulsion system included

Good fit if

• You want a stable kayak for calm to moderate ocean conditions
• You prefer an adjustable back rest for long paddling sessions
• You need a compact kayak that is easy to store

Skip if

• You require pedal propulsion for hands-free paddling
• You need a kayak for two paddlers
• You prioritize a lightweight design for frequent carrying

Verdict: Old Town Malibu 9.5 Sit-on-Top Kayak is a solid choice for solo paddlers who value stability and adjustable comfort over speed or pedal convenience. It fits those who want a reliable, entry-level ocean kayak without the complexity of motorized systems.

3 Best premium

Old Town Sonata 106 MK Motorized Kayak

Best for: Solo anglers wanting integrated electric power

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Length

10 ft 6 in

Capacity

638 lb

Propulsion

Minn Kota motor

Seat Type

Breathable frame seat

Fishing Features

Built-in rod holders

View on Amazon: Old Town Sonata 106 MK Motorized Kayak

The Old Town Sonata 106 MK is a 10-foot sit-on-top kayak designed for solo use. It features an integrated Minn Kota motor with forward and reverse control, offering up to 20 hours of runtime. You get four wireless Bluetooth speakers and LED cockpit lighting for evening visibility. With a 638-pound capacity and stern tankwells, it handles gear and pets well, though the battery is sold separately.

Pros

• Integrated Minn Kota motor with forward/reverse throttle
• Up to 20-hour motor runtime
• Four wireless Bluetooth marine speakers
• Built-in LED cockpit lighting
• 638-pound total weight capacity

Cons

• Battery is sold separately
• Limited to solo use only
• LED lighting has fixed brightness

Good fit if

• You want motorized propulsion without external mounting
• You need ample storage for gear or pets
• You value built-in audio and lighting

Skip if

• You plan to kayak with a partner
• You prefer manual paddle-only propulsion
• You need variable lighting brightness

Verdict: Old Town Sonata 106 Motorized Sit-on-Top is a premium solo option for anglers who want integrated electric power and entertainment features. It suits single paddlers who prioritize convenience and range over manual effort.

4 Also great

Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem

Best for: Tandem ocean touring and storage

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Length

12 ft

Capacity

453 lb

Person Capacity

2 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Seat Type

Padded seats with backrests

View on Amazon: Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem

This 12-foot sit-on-top kayak seats two paddlers with a 453-pound capacity. It features padded seats with backrests and dual cup holders for comfort. The design includes overlapping footwells for solo bracing and QuickStash dry hatch storage. Stackable construction aids compact storage. It suits pairs seeking stable ocean touring gear.

Pros

• 453-pound weight limit for two paddlers
• Padded seats with backrests for comfort
• Stackable design for space-saving storage
• QuickStash dry hatch for splash-resistant storage
• Overlapping footwells for solo bracing

Cons

• 78-pound weight makes transport difficult
• No pedal drive system included
• Fixed seat positions limit solo layout flexibility

Good fit if

• You need a tandem kayak for two people
• You want stable sit-on-top ocean touring
• You value stackable storage for multiple kayaks

Skip if

• You require a lightweight single-person kayak
• You prefer pedal propulsion over paddling
• You need a closed-deck sea kayak

Verdict: Old Town Malibu Two 12ft Tandem offers stable tandem capacity with stackable convenience. It fits pairs prioritizing shared ocean touring over solo speed.

5 Best pedal drive

Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak

Best for: Solo ocean kayakers wanting hands-free pedal propulsion

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Length

12 ft

Capacity

250 lb

Propulsion

Pedal drive

Seat Type

Element Beach seat

Use

Recreation, Ocean

View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak

This 12-foot sit-on-top ocean kayak features a forward-and-reverse pedal drive for hands-free movement on the water. It includes three flush-mount rod holders, two 18-inch accessory tracks, and a large stern tankwell for your gear. You get an adjustable Element Beach seat that you can detach for shore use. It suits solo paddlers who want pedal propulsion and rod mounts.

Pros

• Hands-free pedal drive operates in forward and reverse
• Three flush-mount rod holders with two aft and one forward
• Two 18-inch accessory tracks for cockpit gear rigging
• Adjustable Element Beach seat removes for beach seating

Cons

• Configured for a single paddler without tandem seating options
• Lacks an enclosed dry storage hatch in the hull

Good fit if

• You want hands-free forward and reverse pedal propulsion
• You need integrated rod holders and accessory tracks for fishing gear
• You want a removable seat that functions on land

Skip if

• You need a tandem kayak to carry a second passenger
• You prefer standard paddle propulsion over a mechanical pedal drive

Verdict: Old Town Malibu Pedal 12 ft Sit-on-Top Kayak provides dedicated hands-free forward and reverse propulsion for ocean paddlers who prioritize built-in fishing rod mounts and track rigging.

6 Also great

Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 Sit-on-Top

Best for: Solo paddlers needing stability and comfort

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Length

11 ft 5 in

Capacity

360 lb

Person Capacity

Solo

Propulsion

Paddle

Hull Type

Surf-stable hull

View on Amazon: Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 Sit-on-Top

The Old Town Malibu 11.5 is an 11-foot 5-inch sit-on-top kayak designed for ocean use. It features a surf-stable hull and a 360-pound capacity. The AirComfort adjustable backrest offers personalized support. Molded-in foot wells with calf rests improve paddling efficiency. This model suits solo paddlers seeking stability and comfort in varied water conditions.

Pros

• Surf-stable hull enhances stability in wave conditions
• AirComfort adjustable backrest allows precise positioning
• 360-pound total weight limit supports solo use
• Molded-in foot wells with calf rests improve efficiency

Cons

• Heavier at 150 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
• Propulsion relies solely on paddle without pedal drive
• No mention of integrated tracking or performance sensors

Good fit if

• You want a surf-stable hull for ocean paddling
• You need an adjustable backrest for long trips
• You prefer a sit-on-top design for easy entry

Skip if

• You require pedal propulsion for hands-free paddling
• You need a lightweight kayak under 60 pounds
• You prefer a sit-in-top design for wet conditions

Verdict: Old Town Malibu 11.5 Sit-on-Top Kayak provides a stable platform for solo paddlers who value adjustable comfort and ocean-ready stability over lightweight portability.

7 Also great

Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 Powered Pedal Kayak

Best for: Solo anglers seeking power-assisted range

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Length

12 ft

Capacity

349 lb

Propulsion

Pedal, 5-speed power assist, motorized

Seat Type

Removable adjustable frame seat

Fishing Features

Built-in rod holders, transducer mount

View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 Powered Pedal Kayak

This 12-foot sit-on-top kayak offers power-assisted pedaling with a 5-speed system. It features a 36V lithium-ion battery providing up to 46 hours of runtime in cruise control mode. The 349-pound weight capacity supports gear and pets. Removable frame seats and integrated rod holders enhance comfort and utility. It suits anglers seeking extended range without paddling fatigue.

Pros

• 12-foot length provides stability and tracking
• 5-speed power assist reduces pedaling effort
• 36V battery offers 46 hours of cruise control runtime
• 349-pound total weight capacity allows for heavy loads
• Pre-installed transducer mount fits fish finders

Cons

• 349-pound capacity is lower than the Malibu Two XL
• Single-person design limits group outings
• Heavier build due to integrated motor and battery system

Good fit if

• You want electric assistance for long distances
• You need secure hull storage for the battery
• You fish solo and require rod holders

Skip if

• You prefer manual paddling only
• You need a seat for two people
• You require a lighter, portable kayak

Verdict: Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 Pedal Kayak is ideal for solo anglers who prioritize extended range and power-assisted travel over maximum payload capacity. It fits those who want motor-like performance without the bulk of a full electric drive.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions