Double Kayaks vs Singles: What Works Best on a Guided Tour

Why we generally recommend single kayaks

1) Easier to paddle
Two people in one boat means more weight. More weight means more effort to get moving and to keep speed. A single responds quickly and rewards light, steady strokes.

2) Better handling and control
Double kayaks are longer. Longer boats track straight but are harder to turn. Singles turn easily, slip into small spaces, and feel nimble in light wind or current.

3) A more enjoyable experience
With your own paddle rhythm and your own boat, you get a stronger sense of flow. You can pause for a photo, glide quietly, or practice a skill without worrying about syncing strokes.

Common myths

Myth: A double is easier because two people paddle.
Reality: Extra length and weight offset the extra power. For most first-timers, a single feels lighter, turns faster, and takes less coordination.

Myth: A double is always better if my companion is young, nervous or less confident.
Reality: On the longer Summer Kayak Tour, a double sea kayak still needs to keep pace with the group and is not automatically the easiest option. For younger children or guests who specifically want a short, relaxed experience in a shared kayak, our 1.5-hour Kayaking Experience may be a better fit.

Myth: Singles are unstable.
Reality: Modern touring singles have wide, confidence-inspiring hulls. With a few beginner tips, most guests feel comfortable within minutes.

Myth: A double means I can relax more, paddle less and just enjoy the view.
Reality: Tandems require synchronized strokes, so you spend more time coordinating with your partner and less time looking around.

Myth: I will be left behind if I choose a single.
Reality: Guides pace the tour for the group. No one is left behind. We stop often and keep the focus on the experience.

Fitness and pace concerns

You do not need to be super fit or have strong arms. Our tours are relaxed. We make regular stops for views and stories, and your guide sets a pace that suits the group. It is a lake tour, not a race.

Worried about capsizing or not a confident swimmer?

Tell your guide at the start. We have very stable single sea kayaks that suit complete beginners. Your guide will coach you on posture, blade entry, and balance before we head out. With a few simple tips you will feel secure and in control.

If you would prefer a shorter, more relaxed introduction using stable sit-on-top kayaks, take a look at our 1.5-hour Kayaking Experience on Lake Brienz.

What about double kayaks?

We do have a limited number of double sea kayaks, and there are a few situations where your guide may decide that one is the best option on the day. However, for the 3-hour Summer Kayak Tour, we generally recommend single sea kayaks because they are easier to handle, easier to keep moving with the group, and offer the best overall experience on the longer scenic route.

If being together in a double kayak is important to you

Our 1.5-hour Kayaking Experience on Lake Brienz may be the better choice.

This shorter, relaxed experience uses stable sit-on-top kayaks and stays close to our base in Bönigen. It is designed for beginners, families and guests who mainly want an easy, fun introduction to kayaking on Lake Brienz. Double sit-on-top kayaks are particularly suited to adults paddling with younger children.

If using a double kayak is essential for your booking, please contact us before booking so we can help you choose the most suitable experience.

How we match you to the right kayak on the Summer Kayak Tour

1. We have a quick chat at check-in about your experience, confidence and any concerns.
2. Kayaks are assigned according to guests' experience level, confidence and size.
3. For most guests, your guide will recommend a single sea kayak for the longer guided tour.
4. A double sea kayak may be assigned where your guide considers it the safest and most suitable option.
5. Before launching, you receive a short briefing, cockpit adjustments and practical paddling tips so you feel comfortable on the water.

The bottom line

For most guests on our 3-hour Summer Kayak Tour, a single sea kayak offers easier paddling, better steering and a more rewarding experience on the longer scenic route.

If you are specifically looking for a relaxed experience where sharing a double kayak is important, our 1.5-hour Kayaking Experience may be the better match.

Still unsure which option is right for you?

Take a look at our 1.5-hour Kayaking Experience on Lake Brienz, or contact us before booking and we will help you choose the most suitable experience.