Ocean newbies on a tandem?

So I'm trying to talk a couple of buddies into going to Albion with me. You guys think it would be a bad idea to put them out on a tandem? I've never paddled one myself so I wouldn't know what to expect as far as difficulty paddling, self rescue, launching, etc. 

Oh, they'll be fine Jon. They learn quicker that way!

So I'm trying to talk a couple of buddies into going to Albion with me. You guys think it would be a bad idea to put them out on a tandem? I've never paddled one myself so I wouldn't know what to expect as far as difficulty paddling, self rescue, launching, etc.

You better make sure they can self rescue buddy.

Of course they will have practiced self rescue and have all the safety equipment. Just no kayak experience on big blue.  Just curious if anyone had personal experience with a tandem.

One of them may have a line on a trident 13 so the other guy may just have to rent a kayak for the event.

Another question has anybody tried paddling a tandem (ocean kayak malibu2) with just one person?

I have used the Malibu 2 in the single position when crabbing, not the fastest kayak but super stable. Take them to a lake and practice self rescue first. Regardless of kayak.

I had a tandem, hated it. They call them divorce boats! They work, it is kinda nice to have the company, but very difficult to maneuver in rough water. Very slow kayaks usually, so you gotta watch your drift. You can be in the rocks before you can get paddled out of them if you are not careful. You can also drift far n fast when the wind clicks on too. Other than that, self rescue with both people at same time, one first, then the next. Because if one goes in, you both will. Just be aware and know the limitations,  and you will be fine.

Ok good info thanks Rich!

I paddled JK Big Tuna alone in ocean, it's not bad.
can't comment on paddling tandem with 2 ppl since not much expirience

With 2 guys paddling tandems are pretty fast and really stable.

Just make sure they secure the gear! I have flipped a two banger twice. Both times in Stillwater Cove. The time we lost 3 abs, 2 mask/snorkels, gloves and shades was the worst. I love the term divorce boat. They would be better off taking turns!

Hey John are they local? They are welcome to use one of my demos. We have the new Viking kayaks that I would be willing to let them demo in exchange for some photos. They are super stable.

I've got a hobie tandem I use regularly with my buddy and my son. My buddy and I go on the ocean quite often. Hardest part is launching if its a beach break...takes a little practice with timing the waves and getting into the boat...good luck

Yeah Dan they are both local and I have sent them both in to see you at one time or another. One of the guys could be trading for a nice predator 13 so the other one should be coming in to rent a big rig.

One of them may have a line on a trident 13 so the other guy may just have to rent a kayak for the event.

Another question has anybody tried paddling a tandem (ocean kayak malibu2) with just one person?

I am rockin a malibu2, and paddle it with my wife ( its like free couples counseling), friends and by myself both crabbing and fishing. I think it is an amazing boat, but you need to be able to work with the other person on board.

If you get two people that can work well together, then it is a great way to get onto the ocean.

Aloha,

Isao