Sit-on-top kayaks continue to gain popularity with paddlers of all levels who appreciate their exceptional stability, ease of use, safety and affordability.

In response to demand from kayak enthusiasts ranging from recreational paddlers to sports fishermen, Pelican International’s Elie brand recently expanded its line of sit-on-top kayaks with the addition of two new ten-foot models, the Gulf 100 XE and the 100XE Angler.

Comfort

While the hulls of sit-on-top kayaks are similar in shape to those of their traditional counterparts, rather than sitting inside the kayak, sit-on-top paddlers sit on a molded-in depression on top of the vessel. This feature offers added comfort, particularly for those with larger body types, long legs or limited flexibility, who may feel less confined paddling a sit-on-top.

Ease of use

Sit-on-top kayaks are ideal for new or intermediate paddlers or for those who use their kayaks only for recreational outings, rather than for paddling expeditions. With a sit-on-top kayak there is no need to practice Eskimo rolls or wet exits, because with an open deck rather than an enclosed one, there is no risk of becoming trapped in the boat if it tips over.

Affordability

Sit-on-top kayaks are not only more comfortable and easier to maneuver than traditional kayaks; they can also be less expensive.  While some are constructed of fiberglass, most are made from highly durable, inexpensive plastic.

Unsurpassed performance and durability

Like all Elie kayaks, the entire Gulf line is built using Pelican’s lightweight, yet exceptionally durable Poly-XR™ material.  Pelican is the leading North American kayak manufacturer to use Twin Sheet Thermoforming (TST) technology, which allows the company to use this higher grade of plastic, resulting in lightweight kayaks that offer unparalleled rigidity, exceptional impact and breakage resistance and superior safety.  These qualities, along with their generous list of features, continue to make the Gulf line of sit-on-top kayaks the best value on the water today.

NEW FOR 2012: Ten-Foot Models

Gulf 100XE

Lightweight and easy to handle, the all new 10-foot Gulf 100XE is a stable, easy to paddle sit-on-top kayak.  Ideal for exploring local lakes and calm rivers, this model offers outstanding value.  It is self-bailing, comes with the Ergoflex Seating System™ with tilt-lock, a bow and center Quick Lock hatch, a day hatch with dry bag and a large stern platform with bungee system. It also features two side open storage compartments, accessory eyelets, adjustable oversize foot pegs, a bottle holder, keel extension and bow and stern ergonomic carrying handles.

Gulf 100XE Angler

The Gulf 100XE Angler was designed for those seeking a higher performance fishing kayak on a smaller scale. This 10-foot self-bailing kayak is exceptionally stable and equipped with performance, comfort and fishing features that include the Ergoflex Seating System™ with tilt-lock, a bow and center Quick Lock hatch, day hatch with dry bag, a stern storage platform with bungee system, two side open storage compartments, accessory eyelets, adjustable oversize foot pegs, a bottle holder, bow and stern ergonomic carrying handles, side ergonomic carrying handles with paddle tie-downs, keel extension and cleat.  Its high end fishing features include a Scotty^TM swivel rod holder and two additional rod holders.

ALSO AVAILABLE: Twelve-Foot Models

Gulf 120XE

The Gulf 120XE was designed for paddlers seeking a higher performance sit-on-top kayak. This ultra-stable, 12-foot, self-bailing kayak is built for comfort, ergonomics and performance.  Its comfortable Ergoflex Seating System™ with tilt lock prevents thigh fatigue. Bow and center Quick Lock hatches, a day hatch with dry bag, a stern storage platform with bungee system and two side open compartments provide ample space to stow gear.  It also features accessory eyelets, adjustable oversize foot pegs, a bottle holder, a keel extension and side ergonomic carrying handles with paddle tie-downs.

Gulf 120XE Angler

This 12-foot self-bailing kayak is a fully equipped kayak fishing boat.  Built for comfort, ergonomics and performance, its unique features include an easy-access angled front hatch, the Ergoflex Seating System™ with tilt-lock to prevent thigh fatigue and a storage platform with bungee system.  It also features a Fluid Steering System™ rudder, a bow and center Quick Lock hatch, day hatch with dry bag, two side open storage compartments, accessory eyelets, adjustable oversize foot pegs, bottle holder, keel extension, cleat, bow and stern ergonomic carrying handles, side ergonomic carrying handles with paddle tie-downs, as well as high end fishing features, including a Scotty^TM swivel rod holder and two additional rod holders.