Is the Sun Dolphin Bali SS good for beginners?

Yes. The sit-on-top deck and wide hull make it stable and easy to mount, even from the water. It is best kept to calm lakes and slow rivers.

Does it come with a paddle?

Yes, a paddle is included in the box with the kayak. Owners often upgrade it because it is heavy and short.

How does it handle in wind and waves?

It struggles. The flat hull tracks loosely and weathercocks, so open water and windy days are hard work.

Can one person carry it?

Yes. It is light enough for most adults to lift onto a car roof and carry short distances, though it is bulky.

Is there room for gear?

Yes. It has shock cord deck rigging and storage compartments for a dry bag, snacks and fishing gear.

Does it need a rudder?

It cannot be fitted with one from the factory. If you want precise tracking, a longer kayak with a rudder or skeg is a better fit.

Where can I buy the Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak?

2 stores we checked sell it, including Tractor Supply Co, Campingworld.

Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-On-Top Kayak Price History: Lowest $179.99

Q: Where is the Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak cheapest?

At Tractor Supply Co, for $179.99, as of our latest check.

What reviewers say

Owners treat the Bali SS as a cheap, stable starter kayak and rate it for easy handling on calm water. Many complain about the seat, the loose tracking and the included paddle, and some report water in the hull.

What people mention

StabilityPraisedOwners say the wide hull feels steady and is hard to tip, which helps new paddlers.
TrackingCriticisedReviewers say it wanders off course and needs constant correction, especially in wind.
SeatCriticisedThe stock seat is thin and many owners swap it for a padded aftermarket seat.
PortabilityPraisedOwners like that one person can lift it onto a roof rack and carry it to the water.
PaddleMixedThe included paddle gets people on the water, but owners call it heavy and short.
Hull leaksCriticisedSome owners report water getting inside the hull through hatches or fittings.

From Campingworld

Great for rivers and lakes
Lightweight, easy-to-carry design
Open cockpit allows easiest entry and exit
Paddle holder and shock cord deck rigging
Adjustable foot braces and protective thigh pads
Multiple storage compartments; tracks and paddles with ease with maximum stability

Materials: UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyethylene
Fit: Length 114.5 in, width 29.5 in, height 15.75 in; capacity 250 lbs; weight 44 lbs
Returns: Most unused items may be returned for a refund or exchange, minus shipping, within 90 days of purchase; kayaks are returnable within 30 days if unopened and unu
Shipping: Ships from vendor; free in-store pickup not available; additional shipping charges may apply; shipping not available to Canada, Alaska or Hawaii.
In the box: Kayak, Paddle

About the Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak

The Sun Dolphin Bali SS is a sit-on-top recreational kayak for rivers and lakes. It has an open cockpit for easy entry and exit, and the design is lightweight and easy to carry. It is built for stable handling and tracks and paddles with ease.

The hull is made of UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyethylene. Adjustable foot braces and protective thigh pads support the paddler. A paddle holder and shock cord deck rigging help keep gear secure, and the kayak has multiple storage compartments.

Type: Sit-on-top recreational kayak
Material: UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyethylene
Length: 114.5 in
Width: 29.5 in
Height: 15.75 in
Weight: 44 lbs
Capacity: 250 lbs
Features: Paddle holder, shock cord deck rigging, adjustable foot braces, thigh pads
Use: Rivers and lakes
In the box: Kayak, paddle