Includes Reverse KU Drive!
The Hobie Passport 12 is a versatile, user-friendly pedal kayak designed to deliver genuine Hobie performance at an outstanding value-for-money price point. Whether you’re new to pedal kayaks or an experienced paddler looking for a reliable, do-everything platform, the Passport 12 strikes an ideal balance between stability, comfort, and efficiency. This package is made even more appealing with the inclusion of the MirageDrive MD180 KU, offering full forward and reverse pedal capability.
At 12 feet long, the Passport 12 provides excellent glide and tracking while remaining easy to handle on and off the water. Its wide, stable hull gives confidence to beginners and anglers alike, making it suitable for calm estuaries, rivers, lakes, dams, and protected coastal waters. The stability also allows anglers to shift position, lean over the side, or even stand briefly in calm conditions without feeling uneasy.
The real highlight of this Hobie Passport 12 package is the MD180 KU (Kick-Up) system. Unlike standard forward-only pedal drives, the MD180 allows instant reverse by simply pulling a lever. This is a game-changer when fishing structure, maneuvering around pontoons, launching and landing, or holding position against wind and current. The Kick-Up fins automatically retract when they hit an obstacle, making shallow water exploration safer and reducing the risk of damage.
Comfort is another strong point of the Passport 12. The elevated mesh seat with an aluminum frame provides excellent back support and breathability, keeping you comfortable during long sessions on the water. The seating position also improves visibility and pedaling efficiency, making full-day adventures far more enjoyable than traditional sit-inside or low-seat kayaks.
From a fishing and utility perspective, the Passport 12 is well equipped straight out of the box. It features accessory mounting tracks for rod holders, fish finders, cameras, or phone mounts, along with molded rod holders for quick storage. The bow and stern storage areas with bungee tie-downs allow you to carry tackle crates, dry bags, or camping gear with ease, while the twist-and-seal hatch offers secure internal storage for valuables.
One of the Passport 12’s biggest strengths is its value for money. Hobie’s renowned MirageDrive technology, proven hull design, and build quality are typically found in higher-priced models. By combining simplicity with essential features, the Passport 12 delivers genuine Hobie performance without the premium price tag. The inclusion of the MD180 KU drive further elevates this package, offering features normally reserved for more expensive kayaks.
Whether you’re cruising scenic waterways, chasing bream, flathead, whiting, and estuary species, or heading further afield in search of pelagics in protected waters, the Hobie Passport 12 is adaptable enough to grow with your skills and ambitions.
Value for Money:
When evaluating value for money, several factors make this Hobie Passport 12 package attractive:
1. Performance vs Price
Compared to kayaks with similar features, the Passport 12 often lands at a more approachable price point — especially considering the inclusion of a high-quality pedal drive with reverse. The MD180KU, if bought separately for other kayaks, typically represents a significant cost, so having it included adds real value.
2. Versatility
This isn’t a niche boat. The Passport 12 transitions from casual touring to active fishing to light overnight adventures with ease — making it ideal for paddlers who want one kayak to do many jobs.
3. Comfort and Longevity
The seat comfort, build quality, and accessory potential mean you’re less likely to feel the need to upgrade quickly — a common issue with cheaper, fiberglass or lower-grade polyethylene kayaks.
4. Resale & Upgradability
Hobie kayaks hold resale value well. Plus, the integrated accessory tracks and design mean you can always add more — from fish finders to Power-Pole anchors — without major modification.
Who Is It For?
This Hobie Passport 12 is perfect for:
Recreational paddlers wanting a comfortable, stable kayak with minimal physical strain thanks to pedal propulsion.
Anglers who want a capable platform without stepping up to a pricey Pro Angler model.
Explorers & adventure seekers who enjoy long journeys with the ability to lug gear and stay comfortable.
Looking For Brand New? https://www.sunstatehobie.com.au/shop/hobie-mirage-passport-12-r/
