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 (speed, tracking, manoeuvrability, stability, load handling): 3/10
Stability: This is the kayak's standout feature. Getting in and out is a confident process, and it handles small waves without feeling tippy.
Tracking: It tracks really well, moving 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 it also helps avoid getting snagged in shallow or weedy areas.
Manoeuvrability and other factors: The included aluminium oars get the job done and are commendably light, but they're a weak point overall. 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.
Overall, this kayak's on-water manners are strong, held back only by the oars that come with it rather than the hull itself.
Construction (materials, seams, valve quality, durability and fittings): 2/10
The reinforced laminated PVC material feels tough and puncture-resistant, so you should be fine 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 improves handling on the water so it doesn't flop 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 also a nice touch, perfect for securing a dry bag or a cooler.
Setup/Pack Down (inflation time, valves, folding, and drying): 5/10
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 to 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 (weight, packed size, ease of carrying): 6/10
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 the carry bag was slightly larger, though. While it fits the kayak and fins perfectly, stowing the pump, paddles and seats requires a bit of strategic packing.
Comfort (seat support, legroom, fatigue over distance): 3/10
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.
Value for money:
For its price point, the Costway GoPlus offers a fantastic value. You get decent build-quality, great stability and the sheer convenience of inflatable storage, all wrapped up in a reliable, fun package.
Best for:
Couples and families looking to get out on the water together
Paddlers who want a stable, confidence-inspiring platform
Calm water with small waves
Budget-conscious buyers who still want solid construction
Short to medium carries with two people sharing the load
Overall:
When you look at the complete package, the good construction, the excellent on-water stability and the 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're 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.
