Starboard Touring Deluxe DC SUP Review

Starboard Touring Deluxe Double Chamber 12’6″ Inflatable SUP Review

Starboard Touring Deluxe DC SUP Review 1
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PROS

👍 Top Of The Line Brand
👍 Well Constructed
👍 Glides Fast and Easy
👍 Balanced Performance
👍 Handles All Water Conditions
👍 Inflates to 18psi
👍 Lightweight
👍 Deluxe Double Chamber Technology
👍 Heat Welded Rails
👍 Woven Dropstitch Technology
👍 Carbon Rail Bands
👍 Rail Edge Technology
👍 Dual Bungee Systems
👍 FCS Nose Insert
👍 Star Action Mounts
👍 Light Core Bio Resin Fin
👍 Metal Water Bottle and Magnetic Bottle Mount
👍 Shoulder Carry Strap
👍 High Quality Carry/Backpack
👍 Nice Double Action Hand Pump
👍 Great For Long Distance Paddling
👍 Great For SUP Camping Expeditions
👍 Great For Intermediate and Advanced Paddlers
👍 This board comes in a 14' Model for even better glide and more weight capacity!

CONS

Expensive. Still a great value. This is one of the best inflatable touring paddle board you can buy.
Weight Capacity Of Only 240lbs
Package Does Not Include Paddle

Read: How to choose a sup paddle

Starboard Touring Deluxe Double Chamber 12’6″

Starboard Touring Deluxe DC SUP Review 1
  • Length: 12’6″
  • Width: 30″
  • Thickness: 6″
  • Weight: 24.2 lbs
  • Max Weight Capacity: 240 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years

Better in Every Way

Starboard makes what many consider the best inflatable paddle boards on the market. Their only rival for the top spot is Red Paddle Co.

Compared to your typical inflatable sup board a Starboard is better in every way.

For example the drop stitching inside the body holds the top and bottom together. The dropstitching on the Touring Double Chamber is woven instead of the traditional knitted drop stitch. This Starboard weave is lighter, stronger, stiffer and more responsive. It’s makes a big difference.

The seams are heat welded instead of glued for a stronger permanent bond. And the rails are reinforced with a carbon band.

The double chamber is a second air chamber in the center of the board. Surrounded by the larger outside chamber. Around this inner chamber are i-beams. These i-beams add stiffness to the paddle board.

The recommended air pressure is 18psi compared to the standard 15psi. The higher air pressure will add more stiffness.

On the tail of the board is a raised edge that releases water more efficiently for better glide and speed.

The Starboard Touring Deluxe DC is loaded with extra features. And the carry/bag and hand pump are the best in the industry.

What stands out for me when looking at Starboard inflatables is the attention to detail and thoughtful design. Starboard does not cut any corners.

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Performance

Stability 8.5 out of 10 stars (8.5 / 10)

Glide 9.5 out of 10 stars (9.5 / 10)

Maneuverability 8.5 out of 10 stars (8.5 / 10)

Surf 4 out of 10 stars (4 / 10)

Construction 9.5 out of 10 stars (9.5 / 10)

Value 9 out of 10 stars (9 / 10)

In the water the Starboard Touring Deluxe DC has a nice balance. Superior glide with good stability.

It tracks a straight line well. It handles choppy water very well. Even moving straight into the wind it manages to glide.

It handles and maneuver surprisingly well for a 12’6″ touring board.

The glide, speed and tracking are all superior. And the Touring Deluxe DC still remains stable and maneuverable.

This is the paddle board was built for long distance paddling. It’s a top performer for a sup camping expedition.

You can use this board for intense fitness runs or a nice easy afternoon paddle. The Starboard Touring Deluxe DC is a fun board. It glides easy. It picks up speed quickly with little effort.

Some consider this the best all around inflatable touring paddle board on the market. The Touring Deluxe DC also comes in a 14′ long model. Same width of 30″ but 1.5′ longer for even more glide and speed.

The buyer looking for the best inflatable touring paddle board needs to consider the Starboard Touring Deluxe Double Chamber.

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