Bluefin Cruise Review 2024: #1 Inflatable SUP? (with Video)

The Bluefin Cruise is one of the most popular paddleboards out there. Check out our Bluefin Cruise review now.

Ever since launching this blog in 2016, I, Max Kuch, have put over 100 paddle boards to the test.

But the Bluefin Cruise? It’s in a league of its own.

Our hands-on experience proves this is one of the best paddle boards.

The Bluefin Cruise is setting standards with its stiffness, five-year-warranty, and variety of sizes and color options.

Let’s dive into our Bluefin Cruise review.

Check out the best price for the Bluefin Cruise here

Bluefin Cruise Review Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zc3Kt-qlzLM

Overview

Data & Facts

The Bluefin SUP lineup is notable for its versatile range of inflatable paddleboards designed for paddlers across different skill levels. Here are key specifications you should consider:

• Board Type: Inflatable (iSUP)
• Brand: Bluefin
• Suitability: Beginners to Advanced users
• Price Range: Upper-middle class
• Usage: Ideal for cruising pursuits
• Maximum Paddler Weight:
  • ○ 9'8": Rs 70-80 kg
  • ○ 10'4": Rs 80-90 kg
  • ○ 10'8": Rs 100-110 kg
  • ○ 12': Rs 120-130 kg
• Dimensions:
  • ○ Length: 295 cm (9'8") to 366 cm (12'0")
  • ○ Width: 76 cm (30") to 82 cm (32")
  • ○ Thickness: 15 cm (6")
• Estimated Volume:
  • ○ 250 liters (9'8")
  • ○ 270 liters (10'4")
  • ○ 290 liters (10’8”)
  • ○ 320 liters (12')
• Weight:
  • ○ 18 kg (9'8")
  • ○ 41 kg (10'4")
  • ○ 93 kg (10'8")
  • ○ 38 kg (12')

Each SUP package comes with:

• A user manual in various languages
• A SUP backpack for transportation
• A 3-piece fiberglass paddle
• 3 detachable fins using a Smartlock system
• A double action pump with pressure gauge
• A coiled leash for safety
• A waterproof phone case
• A repair kit

Built

The construction of Cruising-Boards blends a Touring-style shape, characterized by a pointed nose and a straight tail, with dimensions that are generally seen in Allround boards.

This design grants you the duality of maintaining rigidity and stability while achieving enhanced gliding properties.

Your balance and control are also influenced by the board's proportions. Across varying lengths, the boards are consistently wide to offer a stable platform, especially beneficial if you're a paddle board beginner.

• Fin configuration: 3 removable fins
• Attachment system: Smartlock
• Benefit: Customizable tracking based on personal preference and local conditions

Further customization stems from the volume of the individual air chambers, which naturally differs with the board's size, influencing buoyancy.

Even the latest Bluefin Cruise Boards incorporate a "Noserocker" — a design feature where the tip curves slightly upward.

This refinement helps your board to smoothly cruise over choppy water and waves, ensuring a more enjoyable ride.

Check out the best price for the Bluefin Cruise here

Weight Limit

When selecting a Bluefin Cruise board, consider how the weight limit impacts stability and performance.

Model	Official Weight Limit	Recommended Comfort Zone
9.8	130 kg (286 lbs)	70 – 80 kg (154 – 176 lbs)
10.4	140 kg (308 lbs)	80 – 90 kg (176 – 198 lbs)
10.8	150 kg (330 lbs)	100 – 110 kg (220 – 242 lbs)
12.0	175 kg (385 lbs)	120 – 130 kg (264 – 286 lbs)

Your paddleboard should remain stable and easy to handle; hence, staying within the comfort zone ensures peak performance.

Overloading may cause the board to submerge more, diminishing its desired qualities.

Weight distribution also plays a critical role in maintaining stability—concentrated weight from a single paddler affects the board differently than if the load is shared, for instance, when paddleboarding with a partner or with a pet.

For an excellent gliding experience, consider opting for a larger model if you're close to the higher end of the weight spectrum.

This proactive approach allows for better handling and a more enjoyable stand-up paddling session.

Intended Use & Riding Characteristics

Whether you're starting your paddling journey or aiming to elevate your skills, your choice of board will significantly influence your experience on the water.

The Bluefin Cruise line is renowned for its commendable blend of stability for the beginner and glide characteristics that appeal to more advanced enthusiasts.

Let's explore the riding characteristics and intended use for each board dimension within the Bluefin Cruise range:

Bluefin Cruise 9’8”

• Best for: Smaller paddlers, children, and teens
• Characteristics: Lightweight, nimble, and achieves a smooth glide for easy handling
• Perfect for: Quick turns, agility on waves, and manoeuvrability

Bluefin Cruise 10’4”

• Best for: Paddlers seeking stability without sacrificing agility
• Characteristics: Longer, slightly wider, higher load capacity, and enhanced straight-line performance
• Perfect for: Recreational paddling on lakes and calm rivers, ensuring a swift and stable ride

Bluefin Cruise 10’8”

• Best for: Larger paddlers or those intending to carry additional weight
• Characteristics: Merges exceptional stability with smooth gliding
• Perfect for: An all-around SUP experience, from SUP yoga to leisure adventures

Bluefin Cruise 12’

• Best for: Long-distance touring and faster speeds
• Characteristics: Efficient, straight glide, designed for longer routes
• Perfect for: Touring on varied bodies of water where speed and distance are priorities

Fins Configuration Impact

• Three detachable fins: Offers tip stability and improved maneuverability for quick, sharp turns.
• Single fin setup: Results in better tracking and decreased drag, ideal for touring at higher speeds.
• Smaller side fins only: An option for shallow waters, reducing the chance of snagging on sand or debris.

Versatility & Additional Features

• Kickpad: An elevation at the tail end enhances your capacity for performing quick turns and tricks.
• SUP-Kayak Conversion: Attachable side D-rings allow for a switch to a SUP kayak with an additional Bluefin Kayak kit, which includes the necessary seat and double paddle (sold separately).

Remember, the choice of your Bluefin Cruise board will directly affect your ability to handle wind, waves, and maintain your desired level of performance whether you're interested in calm lake paddling or ocean-bound adventures.

Choose the model that aligns with your aspirations and water conditions to maximize your paddling pleasure.

Check out the best price for the Bluefin Cruise here

Material

Core Construction:

• The board features a dense dropstitch core, creating a composite that offers excellent stability.

MSL Fusion:

• The "ESL Fusion Construction" utilizes military-grade PVC in its build, merging it with the fabric skin core via heat and pressure, not glue.
• The fusion process creates a durable, inseparable bond while reducing weight, enhancing portability and handling.

Surface and Grip:

• The outer shell is UV-resistant, contributing to the board's longevity.
• A deck pad provides a comfortable and secure grip, important for maintaining balance and control.

Weight Attributes:

• The reduced material use in the fusion technique is also more environmentally sensitive.
• Boards now weigh:
  • ○ 9'8 - 9.18 kg
  • ○ 10'4 - 10.41 kg
  • ○ 10'8 - 10.93 kg
  • ○ 12' - 12.38 kg

Ensuring that you can easily transport your board to your next adventure.

Quality

• Construction: Integrated with advanced ESL Fusion Technology for enhanced lifespan.
• Warranty: Bluefin offers a 5-year guarantee, assuring long-term value.
• Portability: Thoughtfully designed for ease of transportation.
• Durability: Commitment to high-quality, sturdy materials ensures lasting use.
• Sustainability Efforts:
  • ○ Replacement of plastic packaging with paper and cardboard
  • ○ Planting a tree for each board sold contributes to a healthier environment.

Design

Your choice of color for the Bluefin Cruise now spans across six vibrant options:

• Berry Red
• Gecko Blue
• Legacy Blue
• Miami Pink
• Paddle Purple
• Sunburst Orange

The deckpad contrasts in black and gray, featuring the board's name, size, and distinctive diagonal slashes.

The primary color sets the tone and is highlighted by geometric patterns adorning the pointed nose.

Simpler side surfaces showcase the manufacturer's details and model name.

A stylish design band with the Bluefin Cruise logo spans the side rails, while geometric patterns and slashes from the top side surface reappear in complementary colors.

This fresh approach in design and color combinations stands out against previous iterations, making your Bluefin Cruise a striking addition to your water sports gear.

Choose a color that best suits your personal style and hit the waters with a board that looks as dynamic as the space it navigates.

Check out the best price for the Bluefin Cruise here

Features

Experience enhanced stability and grip as you paddle with the EVA foam deckpad, complete with a diamond and crocodile skin texture to effectively channel water away.

For those tight maneuvers and quick turns, the board's extended standing area now includes a kick pad designed for responsiveness.

Managing your board on and off the water is a breeze with three carrying handles.

The central handle, wrapped in a neopren cuff and doubling as a paddle holder adorned with a Bluefin patch, marks the board's balance point.

It not only assists in carrying but also identifies the optimal standing position or "Sweet-Spot." Padded neopren handles located at the front and rear further facilitate transportation.

Customize your paddling experience with ease; five free D-rings are strategically placed for attachments.

Secure your spiral safety leash to the stern's robust D-ring, while the side D-rings, each with a labeled rubber patch, are ready for an optional-kayak seat.

For adventurers who film their journey, an additional action camera mount—complete with screw thread and a small D-ring—is located at the nose of the board, offering a variety of angles for capturing your water expeditions.

Two more are integrated into the cargo net setup, and Bluefin even offers their own action camera.

For paddleboarders exploring serene lakes or navigating brisk currents, the trio of detachable fins offer refined control and increased stability.

The side fins and large center fin can be easily removed through the Smartlock system, allowing you to adapt quickly to varying conditions.

Stash your gear safely under the removable cargo net at the board's front, anchored to D-rings complete with reflectors for visibility.

A neoprene-covered strap reinforces the net's side edges, ensuring that your belongings, from equipment to snacks, stay secure.

To keep essentials dry, consider stowing them in a waterproof Drybag or Bluefin's Dri-Tide waterproof bag.

Each feature is thoughtfully engineered to enhance your paddling session, from convenience and comfort to performance and personalization.

Whether for leisurely cruises or more spirited adventures, these details work together to provide a standout experience on the water.

Accessory

Your paddle boarding experience can be greatly enhanced with the right accessories.

Each item is designed to maximize functionality and ease of use during your adventures on the water.

Backpack: A spacious backpack is provided with each Bluefin Cruise model.

It features large zip compartments, side pockets for paddle parts, and adjustable straps for secure storage of your board and accessories during transport.

The backpack is crafted with quality materials to withstand the rigors of travel and is equipped with padded shoulder straps, a chest strap, and a hip belt for comfortable carrying.

Dimensions are 90 x 46 x 30 cm, ensuring ample space for all your gear.

Feature	Description
Material	Durable fabric in black, anthracite, and light blue
Straps	Double adjustable, padded with chest and hip belts
Compartments	Multiple with zip closures and easy-grip loops
Side Pockets	For paddle sections with adjustable straps
Ventilation	Padded back for comfort
Stability	Rubberized feet for upright positioning
Special	Lower compartment with a drainage hole

Paddle: The fiberglass paddle is lightweight and performance-oriented compared to aluminum models from other brands.

Its three-piece design allows for easy adjustment and storage, ranging from 175 to 210 cm in length.

An ergonomic grip and sturdy nylon blade ensure efficient paddling and longevity.

A kayak conversion kit with a second paddle blade and a kayak seat is available for those who want to switch between stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.

Pump: The Bluefin Cruise 'Swift Pro' is a dual-action pump that speeds up the inflation process.

Initially, it inflates on both up and down strokes to fill most of the board’s volume quickly.

You can switch to single-action mode towards the end for easier pumping.

The pump is equipped with a pressure gauge and detachable handles and base for easy transport.

Leash: A coiled leash keeps your board tethered to you and extends to its full length if you fall in the water.

Comfort is ensured by a broad, cushioned Velcro cuff which can be attached around the ankle or below the knee.

A small pocket is concealed within the cuff for keys or a little change.

Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your smartphone with a waterproof case that allows interaction through a transparent, stretchable window.

Repair Kit: An essential repair kit includes color-matched PVC patches, replacement reflectors, spare screws, and a valve wrench. While adhesive is not included, it can be purchased separately.

Fins: Three removable Smartlock fins are quick to install and remove, seamlessly integrating into the tail end of your board for improved navigation.

The combination of these accessories ensures that your paddleboarding is not only enjoyable but also safe and convenient.

The thoughtful design of each component reflects an understanding of paddle boarders’ needs and an uncompromising commitment to quality.

Conclusion

The Bluefin Cruise series has expanded its offerings, introducing new sizes and vibrant colors to appeal to a broader range of paddlers. Whether you are a beginner looking for a stable option or an experienced paddler seeking versatility, there is a Bluefin Cruise that can meet your needs.

These boards range from the agile 9'8" model to the longer 12' with touring capabilities, each equipped with three removable fins for adaptable use in various water conditions.

The latest Fusion construction provides a lighter weight while maintaining excellent rigidity, addressing one of the few criticisms of previous models regarding their heavier build.

Despite the commendable improvements, it's important to note that the new packages no longer include a kayak seat or a second paddle blade. However, these can be purchased as an additional set if required.

Bluefin's dedication to quality and detail shines through in the included components.

Features that stand out are the three carrying handles with a paddle holder, the extended rear deck pad, and removable cargo net with reflectors.

Unique to the Bluefin Cruise are the three Action Cam mounts, going above and beyond what is typically offered in the paddleboard market.

It appears that Bluefin has made substantial enhancements to their popular lineup without compromising the integrity and performance that users have come to expect.

The confidence in their product is further exemplified by the five-year warranty, setting a commendable standard in the industry.

Emphasizing a favorable balance between cost and quality, the Bluefin Cruise models maintain their reputation as highly recommended boards.

Check out the best price for the Bluefin Cruise here

 

 

Disclaimer : The above is a sponsored article and the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of The Tribune editorial in any manner.