As a kayak owner, you know that your watercraft can be bulky and challenging to carry. Hence, walking from your car to the lake with your kayak can feel taxing or feet-dragging. Moreover, taking your watercraft without any piece of helpful equipment can strain your physique. You may suffer body aches after a while, regardless if you know the correct technique of carrying your boat.
Kayak owners should not view the typical challenge of carrying their boat from point A to point B as a serious problem. After all, the existence of the best kayak carts is the readily available solution. Investing in the most optimal piece of this watercraft carrying equipment is undoubtedly a must for you as a kayak owner, especially if kayaking is your favorite leisure pursuit.
Kayak carts are pieces of watercraft carrying equipment designed for you to place under your canoe, kayak, or other boats. It is a framework comprising of two tires or wheels, and it takes a watercraft’s weight as it rolls. Also, kayak carts are available in various kinds, and you can choose from a variety of them.
This brief online discussion is your guide to the best kayak carts available today. It will help you learn about the highly-rated pieces of watercraft carriers, their specifications, and their features.
Table of Contents
Top 7 Best Kayak Carts Reviewed
- Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly
- Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels
- Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer
- Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier
- Suspenz End Cart with Airless Wheels
- Sea Eagle EZ Cart for Wide Boats
- A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly
#1. Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly
Specifications:
- Maximum Width: 4 X 4 Boat Launching Dolly; 25 x 7 x 13 inches
- Weight: 16 Pounds
- Weight Limit: 600 pounds
- Wheel Diameter: 14-inch Wheels System
- Frame: Marine-grade, T6 aluminum alloy with Computer Numerical Control or CNC processing
- Recommended for: Inflatable boats,  All-aluminum boats, Use in saltwater, Fiberglass boats
- Other features: Lab-tested, air-filled tires, Two years limited warranty
The Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly is one of the best kayak carts in the market today. Buyers have lauded its superior durability and performance. The manufacturer of the Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly made it using marine-grade, T6 aluminum alloy. Plus, they blended this material with Computer Numerical Control or CNC processing and glossy-looking, anodized coating to safeguard the kayak cart against corrosion.
You will benefit from using the Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly’s 14-inch wheels system. These tires feature four stages of length and four-wheel arm position. Plus, the manufacturer subjected the air-filled tires to lab-testing. Thus, the Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly’s wheels will impress you further for its capacity to carry 600 pounds of maximum load in all conditions.
The Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly can truly bring various performance positions excellently for boat or kayak-launching. Furthermore, this commercial-grade, quality kayak dolly has durable tiny components made using reinforced Nylon and reliable stainless steel.
The Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly is the best kayak cart and a fantastic add-on to aluminum, inflatable, and fiberglass boats. It is ideal for saltwater use, and you can adjust it while afloat in the kayak, coming into or leaving the dock.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to launch, retrieve, and reposition even with the boat in the water | Isolated customer complaints about "bent aluminum legs" and "shifting locking pins" |
| Excellent performance | Minor buyer complaints about wheel size being "odd" |
| Outstanding quality |
|
| Easy to install |
|
#2. Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels
Specifications:
- Maximum Width: Product Dimensions – 32 x 34 x 16 inches
- Weight: 15 Pounds
- Weight Limit: 330 pounds
- Wheel Diameter: 13 inches diameter, 7.5 inches wide
- Frame: High-strength, marine-grade, and heat-treated aluminum alloy
- Recommended for:Â Canoes, Kayaks, Moving angler gear and fishing kayaks
- Other features: Inflatable beach tires, Adjustable width, Bunker bar frame
The Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels by Wilderness Systems is among the top-rated and considered the best kayak carts today. In 2018, Paddling Magazine recognized it. The Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels bagged the prize for being the best dolly for launching, transporting, and storage.
The Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels by Wilderness Systems is a workhorse cart. You will benefit from it tremendously as a kayak owner because it is capable of handling massive loads. Also, the Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels is well-suited and created for transporting the heaviest kayaks of up to 330 pounds.
Not only that, but this kayak cart powerhouse’s carrying capacity can increase to 450 pounds with the huge, balloon-style beach wheels installed. The Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels’ collapsible tires never go flat as well. They can roll smoothly on the sand and other terrains. You can also remove them for storage.
Moreover, the Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels by Wilderness Systems is durable. Its manufacturer utilized heat-treated, marine-grade, and high-strength aluminum alloy. Besides, you can quickly assemble and disassemble it. The Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels breaks down easily for storage in your home or your watercraft during your journey. Plus, it can fit into the hatches of larger kayaks.
The Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels by Wilderness Systems facilitates easy unloading and loading in the kayak. You do not need scupper posts or kickstands. Plus, the Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels features two height options. The 16-inch-low choice is for a lower center of gravity to avoid tip-overs. On the other hand, the 18-inch-high variant is for oddly shaped hulls and would typically rub on the kayak trolley’s tires.
Finally, the Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart has an adjustable width. This advantage prevents your watercraft from slipping sideways or twisting. You will enjoy and benefit tremendously using the Wilderness Systems Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with Beach Wheels when you move angler gear and your fishing kayak.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers tremendous value for customer's hard-earned money | Absence of instruction manual for assembly |
| In the soft gravel of sand, beach tires can easily roll down | |
| Adaptable axles for beach wheels modification |
|
| Easy to assemble |
|
#3. Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer
Specifications:
- Weight: 162 pounds
- Weight Limit: 300 pounds
- Wheel Diameter: 4.80-8(D) Tubeless, 4 Ply Rating (PR)
- Frame: Powder-coated carbon steel
- Recommended for: Kayaks, Wakeboards, Stand Up Paddleboards or SUPs, Sunfish sailboats, Bikes, Small boats, Cargo boxes
- Other features: Fold-up locking tongue stand, Soft springs
Are you looking for a highly versatile kayak cart? The Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer will impress you. Being one of the highly-rated kayak trolleys in the market today, you will feel wowed with it because it can carry various loads. They include Sunfish sailboats, kayaks, wakeboards, Stand Up Paddleboards or SUPs, small boats, cargo boxes, bikes, and many more.
Moreover, the Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer is worth your hard-earned money because it can carry three to six bikes. You can utilize it effectively by placing two fishing kayaks side by side as well. The Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer is ideal for pulling small cars. It is fantastic for being lightweight and capable of loading quickly.
The Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer has a strong frame with a dependable powder-coated finish, making it capable of absorbing road vibration. Furthermore, this top-rated kayak cart is more fuel-efficient, thanks to the 64-inch-wide crossbars. These advantages allow the Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer to become capable of supporting all roof rack accessories from Thule and Yakama brands.
Aside from the round crossbars, this kayak cart comes with soft springs and fold-up locking tongue stand. These features all aid in carrying your gear and eliminate the hassle of loading a roof rack. The Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer is undoubtedly a marvelous trailer system that you must try for your next lake adventures.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers tremendous value for money | Minor customer complaint about missing parts |
| Well-made |
|
| Durable | |
| Stable | |
#4. Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier
Specifications:
- Maximum Width: Axle-end to axle-end: 27 inches or 68.5 centimeters
- Weight: 8.8 pounds
- Weight Limit: 165 pounds
- Wheel Diameter: 10 inches
- Frame: Solid aluminum frame
- Recommended for: Canoes, Kayaks, Jon Boats, Floating mats, Paddleboards
- Other features: No-flat, dependable, and airless tires, Two pieces of ratchet straps, Kickstands shape, Aluminum frame
One of the best kayak carts available today is the Universal Boat Carrier that Bonnlo manufactured. This kayak dolly is very convenient to use. First of all, it does not require too much effort to assemble. Also, you do not need any tools to set up the Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier.
As for disassembly, this kayak carrier breaks down for convenient and effortless transport and storage. You can load the Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier from your house or the parking lot to the ocean, river, and lake with ease.
Furthermore, the Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier features wheels that are easy to assemble. You simply need to slide the tires onto the axles. Then, using the included pins, you can secure the tires. Plus, the Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier’s solid wheels are removable using the lynchpin, and you can remove them quite fast. Unlike other products, you can also feel assured that you will not get inconvenienced by any foul, chemical smell.
The Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier’s tires can roll smoothly across wooded areas, gravel, and sand. You can secure it using the two pieces of 12-foot spare, tie-down, high-quality straps. These features are sufficiently long, and you can utilize them to completely secure your full-sized watercraft and transport or store it hassle-free.
Plus, you can fold the Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier and keep the tires and the rest in your watercraft’s body. Using a bungee cord, you can also strap this kayak dolly on the back. It is possible to store the Bonnlo Universal Boat Carrier in your huge backpack and take it with you as you engage in lake exploration.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers tremendous value for customers' hard-earned money | Minor customer complaint about the kayak cart collapsing under load |
| Easy to assemble |
|
| Good quality | |
| Easy to use |
|
#5. Suspenz End Cart with Airless Wheels
Specifications:
- Maximum width: 24 inches
- Weight: 11 Pounds
- Weight Limit: 150 pounds
- Wheel Diameter: 10-inch premium-quality, never-flat airless wheels
- Frame: Oval T7 7000 epoxy powder-coated aluminum frame
- Recommended for: Kayaks, Canoes
- Other features: Available in Extra Large and Large sizes, Airless kayak carrier tires that will never go flat with hardware, Easy height adjustment from 11 to 20 inches high, Fast-loading and no straps needed
Durability and ease of use are the combined main benefits that the Suspenz End Cart with Airless Wheels. This kayak cart is strong and corrosion-resistant, thanks to its aluminum epoxy powder-coated frame called Oval T7 7000. Furthermore, the Suspenz End Cart with Airless Wheels is very effortless to utilize. You merely need to position one end of your kayak on the yellow aluminum kayak cart, and off you go!
The fast-loading Suspenz End Cart with Airless Wheels lets you load your water boat in merely 15 seconds, and you do not need any straps at all. The enhanced oval tubing facilitates easy height adjustment from 11 to 20 inches high as well. This advantageous feature of the Suspenz End Cart with Airless Wheels lets you get a perfect fit for your kayak.
Moreover, the Suspenz End Cart with Airless Wheels has airless tires that will never go flat. With these benefits, you surely will relish your trip to the lake with this kayak dolly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers tremendous value for buyers' hard-earned money | We got notin' |
| Ready and easy to use and stow away |
|
| Highly functional and works well |
|
| No slippage over rough terrain | |
#6. Sea Eagle EZ Cart for Wide Boats
Specifications:
- Maximum Width: 68 to 72 inches
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Weight Limit: 125 pounds
- Wheel Diameter: 14 X 2 inches wide
- Frame: Information not available
- Recommended for:Â Inflatable motor mount boats, Sport runabouts, Yacht tenders, Inflatable fishing boats that are frameless
- Other features: Comes with two straps, Rust-proof
If you want more quality time in the water with your kayak, the Sea Eagle EZ Cart for Wide Boats is the right piece of kayaking equipment for you. As one of the best kayak carts in the market today, you can spend more of your valuable time with the Sea Eagle EZ Cart for Wide Boats. It is effortless to assemble.
Furthermore, the Sea Eagle EZ Cart for Wide Boats is straightforward to use. This kayak cart lets you roll your kayak from where you assembled or inflated it to where you launched it. Also, for effortless transport, the 8-pound Sea Eagle EZ Cart for Wide Boats packs down.
This rust-proof kayak cart includes two straps. You can best utilize it with inflatable and frameless fishing boats, inflatable motor mount boats, yacht tenders, and sport runabouts. The Sea Eagle EZ Cart for Wide Boats is also affordable, and you can avail of it with a budget of merely below $160.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Buyers can connect it to another cart like a golf cart | Minor customer complaint about the small straps |
| Well-made and well-designed | Not for heavy boats, vehicle, or a trailer |
| Works fantastically |
|
| Easy to use |
|
#7. A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly
Specifications:
- Maximum width: 15.5 inches wide
- Weight: Information Not Available
- Weight Limit: 150 pounds
- Wheel Diameter: Large 9-1/2-inch diameter inflatable pneumatic tires
- Frame: Solid metal; 20 X 2 millimeter anodized aluminum pipe, stainless steel
- Recommended for:Â Canoes, Kayaks
- Other features: Foam bumpers on each arm for kayak hull and canoe protection, Tie-down strap measuring 12 feet long, Double-leg kickstand
If you want a hassle-free and quick transportation of your beloved kayak or canoe from the parking lot to the lake, you do not have to worry. The A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly is the solution for your concern. This top-rated kayak trolley is relatively easy to assemble and utilize.
The A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly is a durable trailer that lets you load your watercraft quickly on it. Also, you do not have to feel bothered about assembling it because doing so is fast. You only need to attach the wheels! The A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly holds canoe or kayak by the hull via a V-contoured cradle.
The 9-1/4-inch-high, spring-loaded stand is a component of this kayak cart’s support stand features. It keeps the A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly propped up on the lake. You can load your watercraft quickly out of the water then. Plus, on each arm, the foam bumpers safeguard your kayak hull or canoe.
The A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly features a solid metal frame, and you can fold it for convenient and easy transportation and storage. Also, the huge, 9.5-inch diameter pneumatic tires are inflatable and are 3.5-inch wide. These features of the kayak cart offer stable support on uneven locales. Hence, you can expect your A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly to roll smoothly across sandy locations and gravel areas.
As you can see, with the A&F New Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier Dolly, you can easily rest your canoe or kayak on it. Then, you can strap it down. Then, off you go to your lake adventure!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Facilitates transport of kayak to and from the lake effortlessly | Minor buyer complaint about "fresh rubber" smell |
| Easy to use |
|
| Durable | |
Our Favorite Kayak Cart
The Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly is the winner in this list as the best kayak cart. The other products may be similarly versatile and durable, but this kayak dolly tops them all. The Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly has a weight capacity of 600 pounds. This advantage makes it a watercraft carrier powerhouse.
You can use the Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly to carry a wide variety of boats, including inflatable watercraft, fiberglass boats, and all-aluminum boats. Plus, it functions quite well in saltwater terrains. Besides various watercraft, the 600-pound weight limit of the Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly can accommodate your other cargo of varying sizes.
The winner of this brief guide about the best kayak carts today is also durable. Its manufacturer’s utilization of marine-grade T6 aluminum alloy, and the anodized coating that safeguards this kayak dolly against rust effectively.
With the high weight capacity, versatility, and durability, your hard-earned money will surely not go to waste with the Seamax Marine Deluxe Boat Launching Dolly. You can also count on its enduring performance for many years.
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Kayak Carts
5 Essential Elements to Consider Before You Buy a Kayak Cart
Kayak carts help watercraft owners like you in transporting your kayak to and from the water. If it is your first time to avail of this piece of watercraft carrying equipment, considering the following factors can help you find a suitable product.
Weight Limit or Capacity
When searching for the best kayak cart, one of the elements you need to look into is the product’s weight capacity or limit. Also, the kayak dolly you are buying should be capable of withstanding external stimuli, and it should not break. After all, some kayaks weigh heavily.
Plus, you should take into account the other equipment you are bringing in the lake with you. You should remember that kayak trolley’s usual maximum weight capacity or support is in the neighborhood of 100 to 300 pounds.
Frame Material
You surely want to get the value of your hard-earned money when buying a kayak cart. Hence, you should look for a product that will last long. The manufacturers of these kayak carts utilize various frame materials.
Kayak carts made of aluminum are durable and lightweight. They are suitable options for you, especially if you intend to bring them along with you in your watercraft. Meanwhile, kayak carts made of stainless steel are also sturdy, but you may not select them because they are usually heavy.
Aside from the frame material, you should also ensure that the product you are purchasing is resistant to corrosion. After all, it is highly likely that your kayak cart will be soaked quite frequently.
Versatility
When you are on the lake, you can ensure that your kayak cart is safe if it is a versatile one. Typical products of this nature are foldable and adjustable. You can break these kayak carts down for more effortless storage in your watercraft or vehicle.
Some kayak dollies have adjustable widths as well. They are a fantastic solution for you if you will be utilizing them for different watercraft. Kayak carts with adjustable widths facilitate the mounting of various kinds of vessels on it.
Tires
Selecting the kayak cart with wheels capable of rolling even on sand effectively is among the primary elements you need to consider when availing of the best kayak dolly. Kayak carts come in various kinds of wheels.
On uneven terrain, inflatable tires offer you more stability. Meanwhile, rubber wheels are puncture-proof. Selecting one of these recommended wheel options will help you transport your kayak from your car to the lake and back without any problems.
Straps
When using a kayak cart, you need to strap your watercraft to it. Some kayaks consist of straps that are more than sufficient to utilize and tie down your boat correctly.
If you want perfect straps that bind everything tightly, you should avail of a kayak cart with ratchet straps. On the other hand, if your kayak dolly does not have any straps on it, the quick and straightforward straps will do. These features will perform the job of tying down your kayak on the kayak dolly just fine, especially if your watercraft is not very heavy.
The kayak trolley’s weight limit or capacity, frame material, versatility, tires, and straps are among the significant factors you need to consider when making your first-ever purchase. They assist you in finding the durable kayak cart. Plus, these essential elements will help you in saving your hard-earned money and getting more value from it when shopping.
Conclusion
 Kayak carts are essential pieces of watercraft carrying equipment that you must have as a kayak owner. Your boat may not be cumbersome. However, the parking lot where your car is and the lake can be far from each other. Furthermore, aside from your kayak, you may be bringing other cargo or belongings with you that are not light to carry.
Therefore, these scenarios call for the use of kayak carts. These pieces of watercraft carrying equipment vary in styles, frame materials used, brands, and prices. You can find the most optimal kayak dolly for you by reading this brief guide and considering significant factors when shopping.
You should keep in mind that you should prepare a budget of about $250 to $300 to get the best kayak cart that is durable, easy to use, highly functional, and is not a waste of your hard-earned money. It is also helpful to read more product reviews to discover more potential kayak carts from which you can choose.
Happy shopping for the best kayak cart today!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)Â
Q: When I am at the lake kayaking, what is the best thing that I should do with my kayak cart?
You can keep your kayak cart safe by walking back to your car and keeping it in the hood. Another safe option you have is to ensure that the kayak cart you purchased is foldable and lightweight.
Therefore, you can fold your piece of watercraft carrying equipment. You can then take it with you in your kayak and enjoy your day at the lake.
Q: Is a kayak cart essential for me as a watercraft owner?
Portage pertains to the action of carrying a watercraft or boat or its cargo between two navigable bodies of water. As a kayaking enthusiast, you may face a long portage. Plus, you may require going to the lake with plenty of gear.
Therefore, a kayak cart can be a tremendous help for you. Even if you possess a very light boat, you can enjoy a convenient day out in the water with this piece of watercraft carrying equipment.
Q: How can I secure my kayak to a kayak cart?
You can make sure that your kayak cart is secure with your boat by doing the following steps:
- a) Wrap the strap around one of the posts in your kayak cart. Then, bring the strap back to you.
- b) Take the strap over your watercraft. Then, wrap it around the matching post on the other section. Tighten the strap.
These two steps can help keep your kayak cart secure and in place with your kayak. You can feel peace of mind while on your day out in the lake.
Related Resources
- Inflatable Fishing Kayaks
- Trolling Motors for Kayaks
- River Runner Kayaks
- Motorized Kayaks
- Crossover Kayaks
- Dagger Kayaks
- Whitewater Kayaks
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