SOT's for the bigger guys

I've not given up on my X-Factor just yet, but was tempted to start looking for a replacement and am not really finding a lot of options that are comparable still to this day to the X-Factor.  The weight, length, width, and capacity seem to be unmatched by other kayak manufacturers.  Although I've lost now around 80lbs, I still feel more comfortable with a max capacity that is at least 100lbs more than me, as I've had that much gear and fish onboard at one time, and the feeling of the kayak was very unstable and not fun at all.

So I'm looking for recommendations on new and old SOT's that would fit the specs:
1) 13ft or longer standard SOT
2) Standard Seat (not a fan of raised seats)
3) ~ 400lb capacity rating
4) Total weight as close to 70LBS or less

I was very tempted to go for FT's T160I, although a little ways off from the weight, that's always been a favorite of mine.
The Eddyline Caribbean 14 is very tempting, although I need to loose another 50lbs to make the capacity difference be 100lbs. 
The Stealth Profisha 525 and 555 looks great on specs, but I'm a bit hesitant as it just doesn't look like much in the way of rigging/storage or comfort.

Any others out there that are worth checking out? 

Have you looked at the Vibe Sea Ghost 130?  I have the 110 and have not had any problems with it for the last 3 years. 

Dimensions and Specs
Length   13'
Width   33.5"
Capacity   550 pounds
Hull Weight   71 pounds
Fully Loaded Weight   92 pounds

Thank you, I'll check that one out! 

Old Town Bigwater 132. Seat has 2 height positions.

Wow, that is definitely one that I will want to check out for sure!  Impressive set of features and a well thought out design.  Thanks ST! 

Old Town Bigwater 132. Seat has 2 height positions.

Even with height positions, I feel like the raised seats are just too high compared to a standard seat.  Specs are pretty good though, tad bit heavy, but looks really comfortable.  Think they have them at MBK, i'll take a look at one soon.  Thanks!

Hey Al,

I have a Buddy thats looking to sell his Ocean Kayak Ultra 4.7 Camo. I believed its for much bigger man in general Let me know. Im sure I can convince him for a brotherly price.

It's not as flashy as the other recommendations, but since I happily paddled one for several years I have to give a shout out to the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem XL Angler.  It's very easy to add additional gear tracks, although the stock features are quite a bit less than the other models you are considering.  At ~71 lbs without the seat its much easier to handle than my Hobie Outback.  It also has "useable weight capacity" of 427 lbs whatever that means.

The main downside for me was it sits a little high out of the water and can catch the wind.  The main upside was flexibility to take out the kids as a tandem or set up in the middle seat for a very stable solo ride.  I once took out another fairly large adult outside of Gerstle Cove and it was surprisingly stable with ~350lbs of dude on it.

https://oceankayak.johnsonoutdoors.com/kayaking/tandem/malibu-two-xl-angler

all the recent cove action inspired me to dig out this pic

Good luck with the search for a new kayak Al.

Man do i miss my old ocean scrambler. Lightweight, great load capacity and a ruder to boot. Wasn't fast but definitely a work horse.  Don't think it would have taken much for a GWS bite to send it under though. Definitely a pool noodle yak.

You can borrow my 2010 Trident 4.7 anytime to see if that's the kind of boat you want!

Gonna keep it tho

OK Big Game. I'm 6'4" and approaching 270 and it's been perfect for me. Even when loaded with multiple crab pots, I've never felt tippy or unsafe. I can hang both feet over one side or reach back into the tank well for tackle without worry of shifting my COG and ending up in the water. It's a bit of a pig to paddle but I'll gladly take the extra stability in exchange.

Many years ago, I forget if it was Loleta Eric or Sincoast?... had a Cobra marauder tandem? alongside on the beach. I had thought my 16' Hobie adventure was big at first...When I looked over and spotted it, I remember saying "that kayak is HUGE" it was a massive ship. Or maybe it was a malibu2 or xfactor tandem. Was flabbergasted anyhow

Al-

You might like the regular OT Predator 13.  The camp chair style seat sits right on the deck in the 'low' position.  super super stable awhile remaining a pretty darn good paddler.  I have a couple of the 11's.  You're welcome to try out anytime. You are looking for paddle not pedal. right?


ps I have a 4.7 you can borrow as well, just like Ablone Johnny's.

Bushy

Wow, that is definitely one that I will want to check out for sure!  Impressive set of features and a well thought out design.  Thanks ST! 

Is that what Mark (eelkram) has which he won at SF3?