Costway 2P Inflatable Kayak
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | $376.95
Our Overall Rating | 69 out of 100
Pros - Stability, surprisingly rigid, durable construction, compact
Cons - Uncomfortable paddle, seats can get wet, carry bag slightly too small
Overall - Fantastic value for money, with minor flaws that are easy to fix
Technical Specifications
Open Size - 382x94cm
Weight - 17.5kg
Load Capacity - 230kg
Packed Size - 87x27x46cm
Our Analysis & Ratings
The Costway GoPlus 2-person inflatable kayak strikes a compelling balance between affordability and performance, making it a strong contender for anyone searching for the best inflatable 2 person kayak in Australia. It’s not without its faults, but the overall package is impressive. It gives you a stable, rigid platform that often feels more like a hard-shell kayak than an inflatable, which is the highest compliment you can give in this category.
Performance - The stability is this kayak’s standout feature; getting in and out is a confident process and it handles small waves without feeling tippy. It tracks really well, meaning it moves in a straight line without constant corrective paddling. We found that using just one of the two provided fins in the rear is enough for great tracking and helps avoid getting snagged in shallow or weedy areas. While the included aluminium oars get the job done and are commendably light, they are a weak point, as the metal fittings can be uncomfortable in your hands and the locking mechanism doesn't always feel completely secure. For frequent use, we’d recommend swapping to a higher-quality paddle.
Construction - In terms of the build quality of the GoPlus inflatable kayak, the reinforced laminated PVC material feels tough and puncture-resistant, so you should be fine when navigating rocky shorelines. On a kayak of this price, it’s great to see a drop-stitch floor. Inflated to a high 8 PSI, it becomes incredibly firm, creating a rigid structure that means it has better handling on the water, where it won’t be flopping about. The 3-chamber construction adds a valuable layer of safety and easy inflation, and the included repair kit provides peace of mind for minor accidents. The bungee cords at the bow and stern are perfect for securing a dry bag or a cooler.
Setup/Pack Down - The inflation process is straightforward, though the user manual could be more helpful. We found the best method is to partially inflate the two main side chambers, then insert and fully inflate the drop-stitch floor to 8 PSI, before finishing the sides. With the provided hand pump, setup takes about 15–20 minutes. An electric pump, especially one with a precise PSI setting, cuts this time down significantly and is a highly recommended accessory. Deflation is as simple as pressing down the valve pins and rolling it up. The entire process, from water to bag, is manageable for two people.
Portability - The kayak packs down into a compact, durable carry bag, allowing you to store it in a closet or transport it in a car boot with ease. At around 17.5kg, the packed kayak is manageable, but it can be a bit awkward for a single person to carry over long distances. This is why the four grab handles are great for short carries with a partner. We do wish that the carry bag was slightly larger, though, as while it fits the kayak and fins perfectly, stowing the pump, paddles and seats requires a bit of strategic packing.
Comfort - The adjustable EVA seats with backrest have decent padding and give you good lower back support. The footrests are a nice touch, allowing you to find a comfortable leg position. There are, however, two notable comfort issues. First, the D-ring straps on the sides that secure the seats can dig into your hips and legs after a while. Wearing longer shorts or placing a towel over them easily solves this. Second, the seats sit low and without any additional cushioning, they can get wet from water that inevitably drips from the paddles. A simple DIY ribbed or foam seat cushion will keep you dry and add an extra layer of comfort.
Overall - When you look at the complete package, the good construction, the excellent on-water stability and the sheer convenience of inflatable storage, the Costway GoPlus kayak is a fantastic value. The minor design flaws, like the paddle mounts being in the way for some or the slightly undersized carry bag, are far from deal-breakers. They are easily worked around for the performance and freedom this kayak provides. For its price point, it is a strong, reliable and fun kayak that truly lives up to its promise, making it one of the most recommended options for couples and families looking to get out on the water.
