By Gary Symons
TLL Editor in Chief
Talk about enhancing your “island lifestyle!”
The island lifestyle brand Tommy Bahama will be releasing a new line of innovative SUP-kayak boards and accessories in July.
The new boards are built by Isle Surf & SUP, and combine an advanced Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) that transforms into a one or two person, sit-on-top kayak. The collection will also include limited edition waterproof bags, to bring your gear out onto the water.
Each kayak features the proprietary ISLE-Link connect system, which can be used to mount kayak seats, storage units, and a variety of other accessories. The system also provides a simple way to store your paddle when you stop for a rest or a bit of paddleboard yoga. You can also strap two boards together for an impromptu, stable raft for relaxing out on the water.
One version of the paddleboards can even be equipped with a motor mount system that will handle a 3 HP electric engine.
“For over 30 years, Tommy Bahama has invited everyone to enjoy the island-inspired lifestyle where and how they live,” said Gina Wilcox, Vice President of Licensing at Tommy Bahama. “Having fun in the sun is a huge part of that lifestyle. These hybrid SUP-Kayak boards and waterproof bags bring the ultimate in outdoor fun. We’re excited to partner with ISLE to further define our lifestyle brand and offer our guests a fresh chance to embrace our brand and embark on exciting water adventures.”
I live on an island myself, and right now I own a paddleboard, a kayak, and a motorboat to get out fishing or travel to other nearby islands. Who knew you could get all three in one package?
Diving into the details, the Tommy Bahama collection includes two innovative models. The 11’6” limited edition Tommy Bahama Switch 3 Hybrid SUP-Kayak retails for $895 and will be available in two colorways. It’s an inflatable, ultra-light, super stable, and versatile hybrid board featuring ISLE’s patent-pending ‘ISLE-Link connect system’ that allows paddlers to seamlessly convert from SUP to solo or tandem kayak on or off the water.
In addition to being very flexible, Isle boards are known for their strength and durability thanks to the company’s proprietary ‘welded rail technology’, which eliminates the potential for air links, and makes the board much more durable and rigid. The deck is also specially designed with a soft and grippy traction pad that opens the entire deck for yoga, pets, kids and lounging.
Additionally, Isle will offer a 15’ limited edition, the Tommy Bahama Megalodon 3 paddle board, which will retail for $1,195. It is said to be the fastest inflatable paddle board on the market, and this version is also electric-assist ready with Isle’s exclusive motor mount system and a custom steering system.
“The Switch and Megalodon 3 models are thoughtfully designed with a focus on innovation and versatility,” said Jimmy Blakeney, Vice President of Product at Isle. “Paddlers can customize and configure their set-up for the best experience possible, whether that be by stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, or electric-assist steering.
“We’re excited to partner with Tommy Bahama to offer limited-edition colorways that represent that versatility and spirit of adventure.”
To complement the boards, ISLE has designed a collection of limited edition Tommy Bahama waterproof bags. The Tommy Bahama collection launches July 2024, and will be available on the Isle website and
Tommy Bahama site, as well as select outdoor retailers in the United States.