Pelican IESCAPE 110 Convertible Inflatable Tandem Kayak Review

The Pelican iEscape 110 Convertible Inflatable Tandem Kayak offers an easy, space-saving way to enjoy the water. Designed for both solo and tandem use, it’s lightweight, durable, and quick to set up. With strong materials, multiple safety features, and a compact design, it’s ideal for beginners, travelers, and anyone wanting the freedom to paddle without the hassle of storing or transporting a hard-shell kayak.

Overview

The Pelican iEscape 110 Convertible Inflatable Tandem Kayak is an 11-foot-long recreational inflatable kayak designed for both beginners and casual paddlers. Its main selling point is the convertible seating system, which allows it to be used either as a tandem kayak for two people or as a solo kayak for one person.

When deflated, it folds into a compact size that fits into the included transport bag. That means no more awkward roof racks, no heavy lifting onto car tops, and no storage headaches. You could keep it in an apartment closet, the trunk of your car, or tucked away in an RV storage compartment.

Its 900D Durazone polyester construction makes it tough enough to handle the occasional scrape from rocks or branches, and the seams are heat-welded for extra strength. Inside, three separate air chambers provide safety if one chamber loses air, the others will still keep you afloat.

The kayak also comes with a removable tracking fin for improved straight-line paddling, adjustable seats with back support, and built-in pressure relief valves to prevent overinflation. It inflates in about 12 minutes using the included double-action pump. Once on the water, it offers good stability and decent tracking for an inflatable, making it well-suited for lakes, calm rivers, and sheltered coastal areas.

Key Features

1. Convertible Seating System

The adjustable seating arrangement is one of the kayak’s best features. In tandem mode, you can paddle with a friend, family member, or even your pet. In solo mode, the seat moves to a central position, giving you better balance and control. The seats themselves are adjustable with supportive backrests, so you can fine-tune your paddling position for comfort.

2. Durable 900D Durazone Polyester Construction

This material offers excellent resistance to punctures and abrasions. While it’s not indestructible (no inflatable is), it’s designed to handle the typical bumps and scrapes of recreational paddling.

3. Three Independent Air Chambers

Safety is a big plus here. With two side chambers and an inflatable floor, the iEscape 110 ensures that even if one section gets punctured, you’ll still have enough buoyancy to get to shore.

4. Built-in Pressure Relief Valves

Air expands when it heats up, which can be a problem on sunny days. These valves automatically release excess pressure to protect the kayak from damage.

5. Removable Tracking Fin

Inflatable kayaks sometimes struggle to paddle in a straight line, especially in wind. The included fin improves tracking, making your strokes more efficient.

6. Quick Inflation and Deflation

With the double-action pump, inflation takes roughly 12 minutes. Deflation is just as quick — open the valves, roll the kayak from the opposite end, and the air pushes out.

7. Complete Starter Kit

The kayak comes with a pump, transport bag, tracking fin, and a small repair kit. You’ll only need paddles and personal flotation devices (PFDs) to get on the water.

How to Set It Up

Setting up the Pelican iEscape 110 is straightforward and takes very little time, even for a beginner. Once you arrive at your launch site, take the carry bag from your vehicle and find a flat, debris-free spot near the water. Open the bag and remove the kayak, unrolling it completely so it lies flat. If you plan to use the removable tracking fin, attach it now before inflating; it’s much easier to do when the kayak is still soft.

Next, connect the included double-action pump to the first valve and begin inflating the side chambers. These should be inflated evenly to maintain balance. Once both side chambers are firm but not rock-hard, move on to the inflatable floor. The built-in pressure relief valves will prevent overinflation by releasing excess air automatically.

After inflation, position the seats based on your paddling plan. For tandem use, place one seat near the front and the other toward the rear, adjusting the straps for proper back support. For solo paddling, attach the seat in the central position to maintain balance and improve control. Make sure all seat clips are secure and straps are tight enough to keep the seat from shifting.

Finally, load any gear you’re bringing along, securing it with the bungee cords or in available storage areas. Once everything is set, carry the kayak to the water. It’s light enough for one person to handle, and you’re ready to paddle.

Versatile Use

The iEscape 110’s versatility is one of its strongest selling points. In tandem mode, it’s perfect for paddling with a partner, whether that’s a friend, family member, or your child. In solo mode, it’s equally capable, giving you freedom to head out for a peaceful, independent trip.

It’s well-suited for calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, and sheltered coastal waters. You can use it for casual paddling, light fishing, wildlife viewing, or just relaxing on the water. Its stability makes it beginner-friendly, while its portability makes it a great choice for travelers or people with limited storage space.

Flexibility

This kayak adapts to different lifestyles and situations. For city dwellers, it offers a way to enjoy kayaking without worrying about where to keep a 12-foot hard-shell boat. For RV owners and campers, it’s a portable adventure tool that can be taken anywhere. If you enjoy both solo and tandem paddling, it saves you from having to buy two separate kayaks.

Its quick setup means spontaneous trips are easy, you don’t need to plan days or arrange special transport. Just grab the bag, head to the water, and inflate.

Pros and Cons

Final Thought

The Pelican iEscape 110 Convertible Inflatable Tandem Kayak is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a portable, versatile, and easy-to-use kayak for recreational paddling. It’s stable enough for beginners, light enough to carry alone, and adaptable enough to suit both solo and tandem outings.

While it’s not built for challenging waters, it excels in its intended environment, calm lakes, gentle rivers, and sheltered coastal areas. The combination of a durable build, safety features, and a quick setup process makes it a hassle-free way to enjoy the water.

If you’ve been holding back from getting a kayak because of storage space, transportation, or cost, the iEscape 110 could be your answer. It offers the freedom to paddle almost anywhere without the burdens that come with a traditional kayak, and that’s what makes it such a great buy.