The Advanced Frame Expedition is a thirteen foot hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak. As with all Advanced Frame models, the Expedition incorporates an aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern providing increased paddling performance. Its increased length adds to the tracking performance and hull speed. There is plenty of on-board storage room for extended trips. It sets up in just a few minutes and is compact enough to take along on a weekend or week-long adventure.
The Advanced Frame Expedition is a thirteen foot hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak. As with all Advanced Frame models, the Expedition incorporates an aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern providing increased paddling performance. Its increased length adds to the tracking performance and hull speed. There is plenty of on-board storage room for extended trips. It sets up in just a few minutes and is compact enough to take along on a weekend or week-long adventure.
The Advanced Frame Expedition is a thirteen foot hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak. As with all Advanced Frame models, the Expedition incorporates an aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern providing increased paddling performance. Its increased length adds to the tracking performance and hull speed. There is plenty of on-board storage room for extended trips. It sets up in just a few minutes and is compact enough to take along on a weekend or week-long adventure.
The Advanced Frame Expedition is a thirteen foot hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak. As with all Advanced Frame models, the Expedition incorporates an aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern providing increased paddling performance. Its increased length adds to the tracking performance and hull speed. There is plenty of on-board storage room for extended trips. It sets up in just a few minutes and is compact enough to take along on a weekend or week-long adventure.
Last updated at 06/24/2026 03:03:53
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak
Free delivery between Wed – Mon
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Inflatable Kayak
Free delivery between 29 June – 1 July
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak
Free delivery between 30 June – 8 July
originally posted on sandbaysports.com
Overall I'm still very happy with it. Had it for over a month now with 4-5 trips under it's belt. Likes: -Tracking is great for an inflatable, been able to take on the wind without issue. Wouldn't say it glides as well as a hard body though, but close enough. More weight will ultimately make paddling more difficult if you bring heavy things. -Inflation is relatively easy and quick, I can get it fully inflated in under 20 minutes. -Folds up into fourths and fits the bag better than other advanced elements kayaks. -Bag has straps on it so it can be packed, just it's very tough to do with the weight being 42+ lbs. -Lots of room for storage compared to other advanced elements models, good for big trips. -Been on this for 6+ hours at a time, and comfort is great with the ... MoreOverall I'm still very happy with it. Had it for over a month now with 4-5 trips under it's belt. Likes: -Tracking is great for an inflatable, been able to take on the wind without issue. Wouldn't say it glides as well as a hard body though, but close enough. More weight will ultimately make paddling more difficult if you bring heavy things. -Inflation is relatively easy and quick, I can get it fully inflated in under 20 minutes. -Folds up into fourths and fits the bag better than other advanced elements kayaks. -Bag has straps on it so it can be packed, just it's very tough to do with the weight being 42+ lbs. -Lots of room for storage compared to other advanced elements models, good for big trips. -Been on this for 6+ hours at a time, and comfort is great with the high back support seat, no issues to speak of. -Parts and bag seem to be of quality. -Zipper on front allows for much more room if you need. -Foot rest works as intended, may need to make sure your seat is all the way back if you're taller/have long legs to use it. Dislikes: -If you get into waves or rough water, water can get into the bow and stern parts, it takes time to dry out those parts and they're difficult to reach. (I put my feet on the top of it when I get in so they can dry them off before putting them in the kayak) Keep in mind when I say water can get in, barely any does it's not gonna fill with water - or at least I haven't had anything close to that happening. -The high pressure inflation valve on the floor can be a bit tricky to detach the pump without having to redo it a few times till you get it right. -The side chambers make a 'bulge' look that sometimes is a little off-center if you don't put the inflation chambers in evenly in the bow and stern -The bottom high pressures floor can sometimes get a little off center or not exactly where you want it - while it usually works fine it can be tricky to readjust if you're going for an optimal paddle. -The glue on the back plastic part seems to slipping a little already, though it still holds in place so I'm not concerned.
originally posted on airkayaks.com
Preface: Although this is a negative review based on my situation and experience, I recommend you consider all the reviews. I am 48 and after many years of paddling a hard shell, I bought this inflatable which I thought would be easier to transport. I have never had problems with a hard shell but literally the first time I launched the AE1009, it got a small tear. I still don’t know how it happened but it was during the launch. I was very careful and there were no stumps or rocks but clearly it touched something. It still paddles but I am not very confident in it now. I don’t want to worry about patching it regularly. Maybe I am over-reacting but if this happens the first launch, how durable is it? (You can judge the picture for yourself.)Inflation first seemed ... MorePreface: Although this is a negative review based on my situation and experience, I recommend you consider all the reviews. I am 48 and after many years of paddling a hard shell, I bought this inflatable which I thought would be easier to transport. I have never had problems with a hard shell but literally the first time I launched the AE1009, it got a small tear. I still don’t know how it happened but it was during the launch. I was very careful and there were no stumps or rocks but clearly it touched something. It still paddles but I am not very confident in it now. I don’t want to worry about patching it regularly. Maybe I am over-reacting but if this happens the first launch, how durable is it? (You can judge the picture for yourself.)Inflation first seemed simpler than I expected so ten minutes is very realistic once you have the hang of it. An electric pump isn’t necessary imo. However, it felt slightly misshapen in places. I deflated and started over but I think i need to align the inside parts better. There is probably a remedy for this.I’m 6’0” and leg space was tight but okay. The seat is comfortable. Plenty of storage room.It paddled fine on flat water but I was a little disappointed tbh. It’s definitely not as fast as my 14’ and I can’t compare to other inflatables.It is also surprisingly heavy. When it’s inflated, it is fine and obviously lighter than my hard shell but trying to fold it back into the bag was awkward and nearly impossible. But again, I have back pain so bear that in mind.Because of the rip, Air Kayaks is working with the manufacturer to get this resolved for me. I am disappointed in the kayak but happy they’re working on a satisfactory resolution.
originally posted on airkayaks.com
100% amazing kayak. Pros: set up takes me about ten minutes, quick and easy. Solid and stable even on a choppy windy Wyoming day on the water (lakes and reservoirs so far, have not taken it out on a river), adjustable seat with lumbar support and foot brace makes it easy to customize the fit, 400 pound weight limit allows for plenty of gear with no worries about exceeding weight limit, fits in the trunk and easy to transport, drop stitch floor is solid, I’m 6 feet tall and my wife is 5’3” and we can both comfortably use (not together) with plenty of leg room, takes about ten minutes to deflate and pack up.Cons: going home when I want to spend more time in the kayak.
| Length | 13′ (3.96m) |
| Maximum Capacity | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Max. Paddler Height | 6'8" |
| Deflated and Packed Dimensions | 32′′ x 20′′ x 10′′ (83cm x 52cm x 26cm) |
| Warranty Period | 12 Months |
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak
Free delivery between Wed – Mon
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Inflatable Kayak
Free delivery between 29 June – 1 July
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak
Free delivery between 30 June – 8 July
Overall I'm still very happy with it. Had it for over a month now with 4-5 trips under it's belt. Likes: -Tracking is great for an inflatable, been able to take on the wind without issue. Wouldn't say it glides as well as a hard body though, but close enough. More weight will ultimately make paddling more difficult if you bring heavy things. -Inflation is relatively easy and quick, I can get it fully inflated in under 20 minutes. -Folds up into fourths and fits the bag better than other advanced elements kayaks. -Bag has straps on it so it can be packed, just it's very tough to do with the weight being 42+ lbs. -Lots of room for storage compared to other advanced elements models, good for big trips. -Been on this for 6+ hours at a time, and comfort is great with the ... MoreOverall I'm still very happy with it. Had it for over a month now with 4-5 trips under it's belt. Likes: -Tracking is great for an inflatable, been able to take on the wind without issue. Wouldn't say it glides as well as a hard body though, but close enough. More weight will ultimately make paddling more difficult if you bring heavy things. -Inflation is relatively easy and quick, I can get it fully inflated in under 20 minutes. -Folds up into fourths and fits the bag better than other advanced elements kayaks. -Bag has straps on it so it can be packed, just it's very tough to do with the weight being 42+ lbs. -Lots of room for storage compared to other advanced elements models, good for big trips. -Been on this for 6+ hours at a time, and comfort is great with the high back support seat, no issues to speak of. -Parts and bag seem to be of quality. -Zipper on front allows for much more room if you need. -Foot rest works as intended, may need to make sure your seat is all the way back if you're taller/have long legs to use it. Dislikes: -If you get into waves or rough water, water can get into the bow and stern parts, it takes time to dry out those parts and they're difficult to reach. (I put my feet on the top of it when I get in so they can dry them off before putting them in the kayak) Keep in mind when I say water can get in, barely any does it's not gonna fill with water - or at least I haven't had anything close to that happening. -The high pressure inflation valve on the floor can be a bit tricky to detach the pump without having to redo it a few times till you get it right. -The side chambers make a 'bulge' look that sometimes is a little off-center if you don't put the inflation chambers in evenly in the bow and stern -The bottom high pressures floor can sometimes get a little off center or not exactly where you want it - while it usually works fine it can be tricky to readjust if you're going for an optimal paddle. -The glue on the back plastic part seems to slipping a little already, though it still holds in place so I'm not concerned.
Preface: Although this is a negative review based on my situation and experience, I recommend you consider all the reviews. I am 48 and after many years of paddling a hard shell, I bought this inflatable which I thought would be easier to transport. I have never had problems with a hard shell but literally the first time I launched the AE1009, it got a small tear. I still don’t know how it happened but it was during the launch. I was very careful and there were no stumps or rocks but clearly it touched something. It still paddles but I am not very confident in it now. I don’t want to worry about patching it regularly. Maybe I am over-reacting but if this happens the first launch, how durable is it? (You can judge the picture for yourself.)Inflation first seemed ... MorePreface: Although this is a negative review based on my situation and experience, I recommend you consider all the reviews. I am 48 and after many years of paddling a hard shell, I bought this inflatable which I thought would be easier to transport. I have never had problems with a hard shell but literally the first time I launched the AE1009, it got a small tear. I still don’t know how it happened but it was during the launch. I was very careful and there were no stumps or rocks but clearly it touched something. It still paddles but I am not very confident in it now. I don’t want to worry about patching it regularly. Maybe I am over-reacting but if this happens the first launch, how durable is it? (You can judge the picture for yourself.)Inflation first seemed simpler than I expected so ten minutes is very realistic once you have the hang of it. An electric pump isn’t necessary imo. However, it felt slightly misshapen in places. I deflated and started over but I think i need to align the inside parts better. There is probably a remedy for this.I’m 6’0” and leg space was tight but okay. The seat is comfortable. Plenty of storage room.It paddled fine on flat water but I was a little disappointed tbh. It’s definitely not as fast as my 14’ and I can’t compare to other inflatables.It is also surprisingly heavy. When it’s inflated, it is fine and obviously lighter than my hard shell but trying to fold it back into the bag was awkward and nearly impossible. But again, I have back pain so bear that in mind.Because of the rip, Air Kayaks is working with the manufacturer to get this resolved for me. I am disappointed in the kayak but happy they’re working on a satisfactory resolution.
100% amazing kayak. Pros: set up takes me about ten minutes, quick and easy. Solid and stable even on a choppy windy Wyoming day on the water (lakes and reservoirs so far, have not taken it out on a river), adjustable seat with lumbar support and foot brace makes it easy to customize the fit, 400 pound weight limit allows for plenty of gear with no worries about exceeding weight limit, fits in the trunk and easy to transport, drop stitch floor is solid, I’m 6 feet tall and my wife is 5’3” and we can both comfortably use (not together) with plenty of leg room, takes about ten minutes to deflate and pack up.Cons: going home when I want to spend more time in the kayak.
Bought a pair of these for my wife and myself. We have a couple of hard shell Perception, but wanted to add a portable/ packable option for our excursions. My real rating 3.75.Pros: This is a fairly well designed boat. Very stable due to the broad mostly flat hull and the general width of the boat. Materials are well chosen balancing weight/ durability. It tracks and water friction- speed/ efficiency 90 - 95% as well as our hard shell boats. Good touch with the relatively small keel fin. Storage decent, not waterproof\, but resistant and use of a good dry bag solves that.Cons: a couple of notes... The chamber valves are secured to the fabric shell with a large plastic threaded nut. On one of the boats the chamber 1 nut was loose in the box. Not a huge effort ... MoreBought a pair of these for my wife and myself. We have a couple of hard shell Perception, but wanted to add a portable/ packable option for our excursions. My real rating 3.75.Pros: This is a fairly well designed boat. Very stable due to the broad mostly flat hull and the general width of the boat. Materials are well chosen balancing weight/ durability. It tracks and water friction- speed/ efficiency 90 - 95% as well as our hard shell boats. Good touch with the relatively small keel fin. Storage decent, not waterproof\, but resistant and use of a good dry bag solves that.Cons: a couple of notes... The chamber valves are secured to the fabric shell with a large plastic threaded nut. On one of the boats the chamber 1 nut was loose in the box. Not a huge effort fix, but a little quality control would be appreciated.Design... the floor chamber inflation value could easily be moved 5-6" forward for ease of access without any impact to user's comfort. This is a portable boat to be inflated- deflated with frequency.The kayak has bilateral velcro tabs for securing a paddle. This should be moved back at least 6", the rear tab is exactly where my elbows swing on every paddle draw. First use, both insides of my elbows are raw. I'm 6' with long legs, so my seat is at the rear-most position at the rim of the cockpit. My wife is 5', 5" and has no problem in this regard. A similar comment concerns the neoprene forearm protector on each side of the cockpit... it needs to extend 10" further back to effectively do its job.A note on the carry bag. It's has a useful pack strap feature. Good idea.Now as with most items once home from the store and unpacked, they never fold as perfectly, nor as neatly and tidy as factory issue. As with a vacation time suitcase, kneeling to compress is helpful. If the carry bag was designed for horizontal, rather than vertical loading with a 'U' shaped zipper, packing would be 100x easier.The main selling point of this boat is portability. It is certainly functional in that regard, but a few tweaks and a bit more quality control would make it worthy of an additional review star.
I rated this kayak a 5 based on the following: I am 5' 9", 190 lbs and an experienced kayaker (ridged hulled). This is my first inflatable kayak. I have inflated/deflated twice and taken it on 1 one open water paddle. Therefore, a lot is missing from this review...after this summer and at least 2 months of constant use I'll update. I'm not going to whine about little things. This kayak was easy to inflate and deflate and stow in the bag/backpack that is provided. The bag is also big enough to carry a pump which is sold separately. It would be nice if the bag had a way to attach paddles to the outside for hiking. The only addition here would be to annotate the correct psi for each port as each is different. However, once you do it a couple times you easily remember. ... MoreI rated this kayak a 5 based on the following: I am 5' 9", 190 lbs and an experienced kayaker (ridged hulled). This is my first inflatable kayak. I have inflated/deflated twice and taken it on 1 one open water paddle. Therefore, a lot is missing from this review...after this summer and at least 2 months of constant use I'll update. I'm not going to whine about little things. This kayak was easy to inflate and deflate and stow in the bag/backpack that is provided. The bag is also big enough to carry a pump which is sold separately. It would be nice if the bag had a way to attach paddles to the outside for hiking. The only addition here would be to annotate the correct psi for each port as each is different. However, once you do it a couple times you easily remember. This kayak tracked well in the Chesapeake Bay with a 1' chop and 5 kt cross wind. Of course, being only 13' and not a ridged hulled kayak it didn't track as easy as my other kayaks, but I was impressed and this kayak is rted as a flat water kayak. No water came into the cockpit other than when I got into the kayak. You may want to bring along a sponge, especially before deflating. The floorboard remained ridged and didn't appear to buckle as I had read on other reviews of other inflatable kayaks. Good stability and plenty of storage on the aft which is accessible from the top of the kayak or aft of the removable and inflatable seat.
I thought it would be easier to travel with this boat compared to my rigid kayaks. However, when deflated they are still close to 45 pounds and a bit bulky. Translation not all that easy to handle. Then the big disappointment was the handling out on the water. Not terrible but certainly not a strong tracker. I did not even try to get it up on the edge. A very big disappointment especially at this price.
DO NOT BUY THIS BOAT. I purchased two two years ago; the first one's main bladder failed irrepably a week after the warranty expired. Advanced Elements responded by sending us glue that didn't fix the issue, and it took the intervention of a representative from the Pack&Paddle where we bought it for them to do right by the customer and send us a replacement air bladder. The build quality is generally poor, and the attachment points for the air bladders to the interior of the hull have all but ripped out. These boats are nothing but trouble, and not nearly worth the money or hassle.
The Expedition Elite kayak by Advanced Elements is very usable. Out of the box it took one hour to put in the water. The second time about 20 minutes and after 4 goes about 15 minutes. Handles well in the water, very pleased, as a kayak novice moving from many years in canoes, at the stability. Not quick, but it is not a hard shell so I was not expecting great speed. Some of the instructions leave a little to the imagination. If you are not of a practical nature you might, at first, struggle a little.Good seat and the inflatable thwart is a nice touch. I am 6`1" with long legs and entry and exit are very acceptable. The high vis colour scheme is good.I have some minor issues. 2 more `D` rings closer to the cockpit front would be good. The safety strings on the ... MoreThe Expedition Elite kayak by Advanced Elements is very usable. Out of the box it took one hour to put in the water. The second time about 20 minutes and after 4 goes about 15 minutes. Handles well in the water, very pleased, as a kayak novice moving from many years in canoes, at the stability. Not quick, but it is not a hard shell so I was not expecting great speed. Some of the instructions leave a little to the imagination. If you are not of a practical nature you might, at first, struggle a little.Good seat and the inflatable thwart is a nice touch. I am 6`1" with long legs and entry and exit are very acceptable. The high vis colour scheme is good.I have some minor issues. 2 more `D` rings closer to the cockpit front would be good. The safety strings on the valves are way too short. The AE pump is probably an essential item: I purchased mine with the kayak and it is brilliant but the connectors need some improving. Packing the craft back into its backpack is entertaining and the pack straps need some work. They would be better, for me, if they were not detachable.I have two significant complaints. I have big feet and the toe space is cramped. The kayak was purchased with the intention of doing some longer river trips, 7+ days. The storage space is woefully limited. That means a significant amount of deck storage will be required and I wonder about the stability. If the boat was a foot longer and just a couple of inches broader things might be much better.Good value, seems very robust. Provides entertainment for onlookers when unpacking and packing.4 out of 5
This is a great inflatable kayak! I was looking for something that would transport and store easily and this fit the bill. I was worried about the overall quality as I've never had an inflatable AE kayak before but this thing is great. First time setup took about 40 mins at home as I read through the manual and figured out what was what. Once through the setup, you'll have no problem figuring out what to do when you take it out. Setup time is really short.I recommend that if you get this kayak and don't yet have a pump, that you get the Advanced Elements Kayak Pump w/ gauge as it'll make life easier. The manual says, referring to this pump specifically, to pump chamber One 35 times... or inflate chamber Two to 2 psi, etc. The pump lets you do that very clearly ... MoreThis is a great inflatable kayak! I was looking for something that would transport and store easily and this fit the bill. I was worried about the overall quality as I've never had an inflatable AE kayak before but this thing is great. First time setup took about 40 mins at home as I read through the manual and figured out what was what. Once through the setup, you'll have no problem figuring out what to do when you take it out. Setup time is really short.I recommend that if you get this kayak and don't yet have a pump, that you get the Advanced Elements Kayak Pump w/ gauge as it'll make life easier. The manual says, referring to this pump specifically, to pump chamber One 35 times... or inflate chamber Two to 2 psi, etc. The pump lets you do that very clearly without worrying about overinflating.Regarding processing and shipping, I was very happy with Outdoorplay.com. Ordered the craft and it was shipped out the next day. Took four or five days to get here via UPS but that was ok. Packaged well and no issues with things.Five stars. Highly recommend especially if you want something that doesn't require you to invest in a roof rack or some other car set up. This kayak packs down, weighs about 40 pounds and can be carried in it's bag, inflated quickly, and works well on the water.
I started using my kayak about 2 months ago. I have been out on it about 5 times. It is a good kayak and is true to everything that i had read about it online. I am a 5'10" 165 pound middle aged male in decent shape. I like to kayak on large lakes, sea shoreline, flat water rivers but only go out for 2-3 hours at a time. i own two hard shell kayaks, 9.5 foot and 16 foot Perceptions. I was looking for something in between those in length and liked the idea of easy storage and portability.I was drawn to this kayak by its looks, the reputation of Advanced Elements for having quality boats, and the favorable reviews. I looked online at anything I could find regarding all inflatable kayaks for over a year before I purchased this. Although that makes me informed, it ... MoreI started using my kayak about 2 months ago. I have been out on it about 5 times. It is a good kayak and is true to everything that i had read about it online. I am a 5'10" 165 pound middle aged male in decent shape. I like to kayak on large lakes, sea shoreline, flat water rivers but only go out for 2-3 hours at a time. i own two hard shell kayaks, 9.5 foot and 16 foot Perceptions. I was looking for something in between those in length and liked the idea of easy storage and portability.I was drawn to this kayak by its looks, the reputation of Advanced Elements for having quality boats, and the favorable reviews. I looked online at anything I could find regarding all inflatable kayaks for over a year before I purchased this. Although that makes me informed, it might also make me less likely to admit to its faults, but I will try to be objective. In general, I really like this boat. It tracks well but not quite as well as my 16 foot which has a skeg. That was expected, and overall I feel that the tracking is pretty good. This is my first inflatable so I cannot compare to others but it tracks about as well as I thought it would. It is very stable - much more stable than either of my hard kayaks. I think it looks great. Before using it, I rubbed it down with water proofer, anti-sun damage product, and weather protectant. I am hoping it doesn't fade too soon.I am accustomed to dragging my hard plastic kayaks over rocks, asphalt, and thorny brush, but with this inflatable by dragging it, I already punctured the hard rubber covering to the end but not through the entire lining so it's just cosmetic and it was easy to put patching tape over it and it is holding fine. But I suggest not dragging it too much no matter what some of the videos claim.I would say that the kayak is just what it is made out to be online except for just one surprise I had: storage. I was not looking for a kayak that I could carry much because I don't go on expeditions. I rarely even go on all day long trips due to lack of opportunity. So I usually don't carry almost anything and so was not disappointed by this, but just surprised after seeing online the videos and blogs about people carrying multi-day camping gear, etc. It doesn't really have much more space than my 9.5 foot kayak. I guess one can strap an awful lot to the top of any kayak, but inside not much space. Which is ok with me, but again it was the one thing that didn't match my expectations.Regarding accessories, I use the seat that came with it and the yellow AE air pump. The pump works great. Here, I guess this was a second surprise - that it takes a lot less effort to inflate than I was expecting. I was apprehensive about buying this kayak from day one when I read that there are something like 9 chambers to inflate. I guess that's so, but like 6 of them are done with my mouth and take 5 or less breaths each. The three large chambers all take about 15 -20 pumps each with the double action pump. This all takes little time once I got the hang of the valves - initially when I would twist off the air tubing that comes out of the pump from the boat, the valve adaptor would stay attached to the boat thereby letting all the air out. You just have to makes sure to hold tight to the adaptor so it twists off and stays attached to the air hose when you remove the air hose.The seat is comfortable although a thicker bottom to get one's bottom less wet might be an improvement, and a thicker seat bottom would also lift one's bottom higher than one's feet and that might be better for the lower back.Drying the boat afterwards is as much as a challenge as described online. Waterproofing the top helped a bit but it still gets soaked in some, and getting the moisture from under the drop stitch floor takes more time than I wish, but not a huge deal.Overall, very satisfied with it.
| Length | 13′ (3.96m) |
| Maximum Capacity | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Max. Paddler Height | 6'8" |
| Deflated and Packed Dimensions | 32′′ x 20′′ x 10′′ (83cm x 52cm x 26cm) |
| Warranty Period | 12 Months |
