Thoughts on the Vibe Sea Ghost 130

The Vibe Sea Ghost 130 is your standard sit on top kayak design. It has a package price point of $799 which includes the kayak, seat, paddle and rudder. There is also an option for a paddle and seat upgrade for a little extra cash. It has four flush mount rod holders and 3 hatches for storage.

The Good Vibe

For an entry level marketed kayak this boat nails the price point with a nice solid hull design that boasts ample storage. It’s a very riggable platform that gives everyone from the entry level angler to the most seasoned one the option to build the boat they desire.


The Sea Ghost is very responsive for a 13ft design. It was able to eddy out quickly and efficiently in moving water and the tracking was very nice. Flat water is easily navigated with plenty of speed. With the assistance of the rudder the response of the Vibe is clean.


The hull design offers a good deal of stability and if you have decent balance it’s possible to stand in. I would practice without any gear in the boat first as people are sized differently and with varying balance.


I highly recommend the gear tracks that are designed specifically for this hull. They are simple to install and add yet another rigging possibility.

The Needs Improvement Vibe

I would like to see more room in the footwell area as they were a bit tight for my liking. Using the rudder system requires a bit more foot accuracy.


I would change the center console a bit and go with a hinge and single strap design. (I almost kicked the hatch overboard twice)


The rudder cable material Vibe uses is a bit spongy and lacks the fast response I desire but if you tinker with them a bit it can be made suitable.


Incorporated gear tracks would be a great addition to the design but that isn’t a deal breaker for me. (I don’t mind drilling holes in my kayak).


The cam lock hatch behind the seat isn’t super useful to me other than rigging access. It could be easily lost to add more room in the rear tank well.

Verdict

Overall I would recommend this boat to anyone on a sub $1000 budget or just getting into the sport. It’s a very solid built kayak for the money.