No longer in our top ten
This kayak is no longer in our top ten. We keep the review online for reference — see our current picks for the closest alternatives.
See the current top ten →Sun Dolphin
Bali SS 12
A wide, stable sit-on-top that is a lot of kayak for the money. Not fast, not fancy, but a friendly starter boat with real capacity.
Specifications
- beam
- 30"
- type
- Sit-on-top
- length
- 12' 0"
- weight
- 44 lb
- capacity
- 395 lb
- material
- Fortiflex HDPE
Sun Dolphin has built entry-level kayaks in Michigan since the 1980s and the Bali SS 12 is one of their most enduring models. It's a wide, flat-bottomed sit-on-top designed for absolute beginners and paddlers who prioritize stability over speed.
Where it wins
The 30-inch beam and flat hull make it exceptionally stable in calm water. Kids and first-time adults sit down and immediately feel at ease. The 12-foot length gives you a bit more tracking than shorter rec sit-on-tops.
Where it doesn't
The hull is basic. It ships with a padded seat back but no proper padded seat base — you're sitting on rotomolded plastic. It tracks less cleanly than premium boats and turns slowly. The included paddle is entry-level and worth upgrading.
Storage and features
- Rear tank well with bungee cord
- Two flush-mount rod holders (standard)
- Cup holder
- Molded-in footrests
Real trade-offs
If your budget is tight and you want a sit-on-top that will handle calm water for a family of casual paddlers, the Bali SS 12 delivers. If you paddle twice a month or more, spend up for the Pescador or Malibu Two.
Pros
- +Very stable flat-bottom hull
- +12 feet of length for better tracking than most cheap sit-on-tops
- +Two factory rod holders
- +Excellent primary stability for beginners
Cons
- −Basic seat and paddle — plan to upgrade
- −Slow in wind and current
- −Hull is less refined than premium boats
Best for
First-time buyers, casual family paddlers, and anyone paddling calm lakes.
Who should skip it
Serious paddlers who log real miles or fight wind on big water.
