7 Best Kayak Cup Holder: Top Picks for Hands-Free Hydration

by | Last updated Jul 14, 2024

Best Overall YakAttack MultiMount
YakAttack MultiMount

Securely holds a variety of drink sizes, easy tool-free installation, lifetime warranty, and backed by excellent customer service.

Best Value Scotty 311
Scotty 311

Rock-solid stability, durable construction, lifetime warranty, and budget-friendly price. A good deal to buy.

Most Featured RAILBLAZA
RAILBLAZA

Versatile 2-in-1 design for drinks and fishing rods, 360-degree rotation, durable, and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Kayak Cup Holder

Tired of your drink diving every time you hit a wave?

A kayak cup holder isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for staying hydrated and focused on your adventure.

We’ve tested and reviewed the top 7 options to keep your drink secure, no matter how rough the water gets. Say goodbye to juggling and hello to hands-free hydration!

What is the Best Kayak Cup Holder?

The answer varry on your needs and budget. Some prioritize stability, others versatility, and some want a simple holder for their water bottle. To help you choose, we’ve paddled through the options and picked out the seven best kayak cup holders for every type of kayaker.

1. YakAttack MultiMount

The YakAttack MultiMount Cup Holder is like the Swiss Army knife of kayak cup holders. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to install, and built to last.

YakAttack MultiMount

Our Take

0out of 10

This cup holder is a solid investment for anyone who wants a versatile, reliable, and well-made holder for their kayak. The only downside is the price, but the quality and features make it worth it.

Key Benefits

  • Unbeatable Stability: This cup holder has a locking system that keeps your drink secure, even in rough waters. No more spills!
  • Durable Material: Made from high-quality plastic that can withstand sun, salt, and anything else you throw at it.
  • Tool-Free Installation: Attaches to most track systems in seconds; no drilling required.
  • Size & Fit: Adjustable to fit most cups, bottles, and even fishing rods.
  • Lifetime Warranty: YakAttack stands behind its products so that you can buy with confidence.

Pricing

  • Price: Starting at $14.94
YakAttack MultiMount

Pros

  • Secure fit
  • durable
  • versatile
  • easy to install and move

Cons

  • A bit pricey compared to some simpler holders.

2. Scotty 311

Scotty is a well-known brand for fishing accessories, and their Baitcaster Cup Holder is a favorite among anglers. But even if you're not fishing, this cup holder is sturdy and reliable for any kayaking adventure.

Scotty 311

Our Take

0out of 10

A fantastic option for anglers or anyone who prioritizes stability. It's simple, durable, and gets the job done.

Key Benefits

  • Rock-Solid Stability: Designed for kayak cup holders, it holds cups even tighter.
  • Durable Material: Made from high-strength polymer that resists UV damage and corrosion.
  • Easy Installation: Scotty's post-mount system is used for a secure fit.
  • Size & Fit: Accommodates a variety of cup and bottle sizes.
  • Lifetime Warranty: Scotty backs their products with a lifetime warranty.

Pricing

  • Price: Starting at $19.99
Scotty 311

Pros

  • Super sturdy
  • easy to install and use
  • lifetime warranty.

Cons

  • Requires a Scotty mount base
  • which may need to be purchased separately

3. RAILBLAZA

This is a two-in-one solution for kayakers who also enjoy fishing. The RAILBLAZA CUP Holder II converts to a cup holder with a simple extension, making it a versatile choice.

RAILBLAZA

Our Take

0out of 10

Great for kayak anglers, but less practical if you don't fish.

Key Benefits

  • Two-in-One: Use it for your fishing cup or your drink.
  • 360° Rotation: Adjust your rod or drink to any angle you like.
  • Sturdy Construction: Built from UV-stabilized, fiber-reinforced plastic.
  • Easy Installation: Mounts to RAILBLAZA StarPort bases or other compatible systems.
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty: RAILBLAZA offers a limited lifetime warranty on this product.

Pricing

  • Price: Starting at $14.99
RAILBLAZA

Pros

  • Versatile
  • durable
  • easy to adjust and install

Cons

  • More expensive than single-purpose cup holders

4. YAK-GEAR Holder

If you're looking for a customizable storage solution, the YAK-GEAR Build-A-Crate system is a great choice. It allows you to create a personalized crate for your kayak, and the cup holder is a handy addition.

YAK-GEAR Holder

Our Take

0out of 10

A great option for those who want a fully customizable kayak storage system.

Key Benefits

  • Modular Design: Create your custom storage solution.
  • Durable Material: Made from heavy-duty polyethylene plastic.
  • Secure Fit: Attaches to the Build-A-Crate system with included hardware.
  • Size & Fit: Fits most standard cup and bottle sizes.

Pricing

  • Price: Starting at $19.99
YAK-GEAR Holder

Pros

  • Customizable
  • durable
  • integrates with the Build-A-Crate system

Cons

  • Only useful if you already have or plan to purchase the Build-A-Crate system

5. Wilderness Holder

This is another modular storage option similar to the YAK-GEAR system. The Wilderness Systems Kayak Krate comes with a built-in cup holder and plenty of storage for other gear.

Wilderness Holder

Our Take

0out of 10

A good choice for those who want a combined storage and cup holder solution.

Key Benefits

  • Integrated Storage: The cup holder is built into the crate for convenience.
  • Durable Material: Made from rugged polyethylene plastic.
  • Easy Installation: Attaches to most kayaks with straps or bungee cords.
  • Size & Fit: The cup holder fits most standard cup and bottle sizes.

Pricing

  • Price: Starting at $78.99
Wilderness Holder

Pros

  • Convenient storage solution
  • durable
  • easy to install

Cons

  • It takes up more space than a standalone cup holder.

6. Accmor Stroller

The Seattle Sports Universal Kayak Cup Holder is a simple, affordable option that will get the job done. It's easy to install and fits a huge range of cup and bottle sizes.

Accmor Stroller

Our Take

0out of 10

A great budget-friendly choice for casual kayakers.

Key Benefits

  • Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly options on the market.
  • Universal Fit: Attaches to most kayaks with straps or bungee cords.
  • Size & Fit: Accommodates a variety of drink sizes.
  • Collapsible: Folds flat for easy storage.

Pricing

  • Price: Starting at $5.99
Accmor Stroller

Pros

  • Affordable
  • easy to install and use
  • folds flat for storage

Cons

  • Some other options are more stable

7. Brocraft Holder

The Brocraft Kayak Cup Holder is another affordable option that's designed to be mounted on a flat surface. It's a good choice for those who want a simple, no-frills holder.

Brocraft Holder

Our Take

0out of 10

A decent option for those on a tight budget.

Key Benefits

  • Affordable: Another budget-friendly option.
  • Simple Design: Easy to install and use.
  • Size & Fit: Fits most standard cup and bottle sizes.

Pricing

  • Price: Starting at $20.99
Brocraft Holder

Pros

  • hands
  • Affordable
  • simpleeasy to install.

Cons

  • It is not as stable as some other options and requires a flat mounting surface

What to Look for When Buying a Kayak Cup Holder?

  • Stability: Your cup holder needs to keep your drink upright even in choppy waters.
  • Material: Choose durable materials like marine-grade plastic or stainless steel that can withstand the elements.
  • Installation: Opt for easy installation, ideally without needing to drill holes in your kayak.
  • Size & Fit: Consider the size of your drinks and ensure the holder can accommodate them.
  • Versatility: Some cup holders offer additional features like the ability to hold fishing rods or other accessories.
  • Price: Determine your budget and find a cup holder that offers good value for its features.

Benefits of having a Cup Holder on a Kayak?

A kayak cup holder might seem like just what you need for your favorite beverage, but it's more than a convenience. It's a safety feature.

kayak cup holder

Have you ever tried paddling with one hand while clutching a water bottle?

It's not ideal. A cup holder frees up your hands so you could focus on navigating and enjoying the scenery. Plus, it prevents spills, keeping your boat dry and your gear safe.

Don't underestimate the impact of staying hydrated on your kayaking adventures.

Our review shows that having a reliable cup holder within easy reach encourages you to drink more water, which can make a big difference on those long paddles.

It's a small investment that can greatly increase your overall kayaking experience.

Buyers Guide

When doing our research to find the best product, we are confirmed about using these factors:

kayak cup holder
  • Pricing: How much did each product cost? We compared prices across different retailers to find the best deals.
  • Features: What were the best features of each product? We looked at everything from stability and material to size and versatility.
  • Negatives: What was missing from each product? We considered any potential drawbacks, such as limited compatibility or lack of features.
  • Reviews: We scoured online reviews from real kayakers in places like California and other paddling hotspots to see how these cup holders performed in the real world.
  • Support or Refund: Do they offer a community, refund or support, policy? We checked for warranties, return policies, and customer support options.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the best kayak cup holder doesn't have to be a guessing game.

With our comprehensive guide, you can confidently select the perfect holder to keep your drinks secure and within reach on your next paddling adventure.

kayak cup holder

Whether you're a casual paddler or a serious angler, there's a cup holder out there that's just right for you.

Don't forget to check out the rest of our site for more kayak gear reviews and tips.

We're always testing and reviewing the latest products to help you get the most out of your time on the water. So grab your paddle, pack your bag, and don't forget your favorite beverage in a trusty cup holder – it's time to hit the water!

Remember: A good kayak cup holder isn't just a box for your drink; it's an investment in your comfort, enjoyment and safety on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all kayaks come with cup holders?

No, most kayaks do not come with built-in cup holders. However, many kayaks have pre-drilled holes or mounting tracks that make it easy to install a cup holder.

Can I use a regular cup holder in a kayak?

While you could technically use a regular cup holder, it's not recommended. Kayaks are exposed to the elements and experience a lot of movement, so a regular cup holder might need to be more sturdy to keep your drink secure.

Where should I place my kayak cup holder?

The best location for your cup holder depends on your kayak and personal preference. Many people prefer to mount it within easy reach on the side of the kayak or near the seat.

Are kayak cup holders universal?

Most kayak cup holders are designed to fit a variety of cup and bottle sizes. However, it's always a good idea to check the product specifications to ensure compatibility.

How do I clean my kayak cup holder?

Most kayak cup holders can be easily cleaned with soap and water. If your cup holder is removable, you can take it off and thoroughly clean it. Some holders are even dishwasher-safe!

Fahim Joharder

Fahim Joharder

Author

An avid kayaker & fisherman, explores waterways globally, sharing his passion for water sports and conservation through captivating stories and tips.

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