First Look: Swell Watercraft Scupper 12 – The Most Unique Sit On Top I've Ever Paddled

Lego and I paddling the Scupper 12

This week we’re excited to spotlight the newest addition to our Nor-Cal demo fleet: the Swell Scupper 12. At first glance, it may look like just another sit-on-top, but after taking it out on the water, I can confidently say this little kayak stands in a league of its own.

Narrow, Low, and Full of Surprises

Unlike most sit-on-top recreational kayaks, the Scupper 12 is narrower, lower to the water, and built with performance in mind. Thanks to Swell's innovative one-way scupper system, the cockpit floor is significantly lower than most SOTs, which allows for a sleeker hull without sacrificing too much stability.

The result? A surprisingly agile and responsive ride. While the initial stability is mild, the secondary stability is confident—more reminiscent of a forgiving touring kayak than a casual rec boat.

Andrea very happy in the demo Scupper 12

Wind-Tested and Approved

During our demo session, the wind picked up—and this is where the Scupper 12 really shined. Compared to the wider, chair-style sit-on-tops we had on the water (Vibe Yellowfin and Hurricane Osprey 120) the Scupper felt noticeably more manageable in breezy conditions. Its narrower profile and low center of gravity make it an excellent option for paddlers who want a performance feel with the easy going nature of a sit on top kayak.

The Trade-Off: Weight

If there’s a downside to the Swell Scupper 12, it’s the weight. At 72 pounds fully rigged with the Adventure Package and rudder, it’s not exactly a featherweight. That said, this is pretty typical for fully outfitted sit-on-tops, and the performance gains arguably make it worth the heft—especially if you're not planning to car-top it solo on the regular. If car topping is in your future you may want to look at something like the Hurricane Skimmer 126.

Great to get some sun on the feet!

Final Thoughts

The Swell Scupper 12 impressed me more than I expected. It blends performance, control, and comfort in a way that’s rare for this category. Whether you're a coastal paddler, fitness paddler, or just looking for something a little zippier than the average rec kayak, it’s worth a look.

Curious to try it for yourself? Head over to our contact page to ask questions or schedule a demo. We think you’ll be as stoked as we are.