bluefin cruise 10.8 psi

Bluefin Cruise 10’8 SUP Review

By David De Haan

Last update: January 29, 2024

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 is a versatile inflatable SUP for paddlers of all skill levels. Its SUP package is one of the things that make it stand out. It comes with more than just the basic accessories. The manufacturer claims that the Bluefin Cruise is the toughest and most rigid inflatable you will come across. They also say that everything in the SUP bundle is of premium quality. How true are the claims? We are about to find out in this in-depth Bluefin Cruise 10’8 SUP review.

A little information about the manufacturer…

Bluefin SUP Boards company was founded in 2013 by Will and Charlotte. They both love water sports and this was a project they enjoyed doing. The founders wanted to make high-quality paddleboards for the whole family. So far, they are doing a fantastic job. All their SUPs, including the Bluefin Cruise 10’8, are proof of that.

RELATED: Check out 9 best affordable inflatable paddle board options of 2024

Let’s quickly look at the pros, cons, and board specs before we dive in.

• Full SUP package and kayak conversion kit
• Outstanding construction, super tough and rigid
• Paddle comes with an ergonomic shaft
• Kick pad feature for quick turns
• Comfortable and durable Thermo sealed crocodile deck pad
• Side fins are not removable
• No universal fin box

Paddle Board Specs

• Length: 10’8 (324 cm)
• Width: 32” (82 cm)
• Thickness: 6” (16 cm)
• Weight capacity: 330 lbs (150 kg)

Who Should Buy The Bluefin Cruise SUP?

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 is suitable for beginners and any paddler seeking an all-around SUP.

No beginner wants to spend a ton of money when getting started. You most probably don’t know what you like, yet, and what kind of board would be best for you. It would, therefore, be wise to buy a SUP that can do everything. The Bluefin Cruise is an all-around board and you can explore all SUP variations with it.

Additionally, the paddleboard is super durable and you will be using it for years to come. Don’t forget it comes with SUP accessories and even a kayak conversion kit. You only need to get a life jacket and you’re good to go.

Another thing that makes the Cruise 10’8 great for newbie paddlers is its size. It is of medium length and width. SUPers will find it very stable and easy to control. Learning how to attain and maintain balance as a beginner can be a challenge. It is advisable to get a wide board and 32 inches is just right.

Most paddlers are not into anything in particular. They may decide to do yoga on one day, cruise around with their pet on the next, explore a SUP spot on the other side of the country, etc. For someone like that, the Bluefin Cruise 10’8 would be perfect.

It is rugged enough for any kind of SUP adventure. Once deflated and packed, you can travel with it anywhere in the world.

Performance

A. stability.

The Bluefin 10’8 is remarkably stable and rigid. It rides above the water and doesn’t feel wobbly. 

The width, thickness, and construction quality of a SUP are important when it comes to stability.

For maximum stability, you are advised to go for a wider paddleboard. The surface is larger and it becomes easier for you to balance. However, you don’t have to buy the widest SUP on the market. There are 36-inch boards but they are not for everybody. The Cruise 10’8 has a 32-inch width— it is neither too wide nor too narrow.

Another feature that makes the Bluefin stable is its thickness. Thicker inflatable paddleboards have a higher volume and this usually means they can handle more weight. They tend to be rigid and buoyant. You don’t want a paddleboard that bends in the middle or sinks. Not only is this annoying, but it also interferes with stability. The Bluefin Cruise is remarkably rigid and buoyant.

The construction of the Cruise 10’8 is impressive. You will be amazed at how stiff it is once inflated. It is awesome to be able to roll up your SUP and put it in a bag. But when paddling, you want it to be as solid as a hard paddleboard. If the iSUP is soft, you won’t have an easy time. The board will flex and that will be a very unstable ride.

ALSO READ: Why are paddle boards so expensive?

b. Maneuverability

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 is quite maneuverable— I’m impressed.

One of the things that affect maneuverability is the length of a paddleboard. The longer it is, the more effort it will take to handle it. Paddlers, especially short ones and teens, will have a great time controlling the Cruise 10’8. The kick pad feature helps you make quick, sharp turns.

c. Tracking

This inflatable paddleboard tracks really well. It is frustrating to paddle a SUP that won’t maintain the course. Thankfully, that is not something you have to worry about with the Bluefin Cruise. It comes with a large center fin and two side fins. The central fin is largely responsible for keeping the board in line. The longer the fin, the better the tracking. The Cruise 10’8 has an 8-inch one that does a fantastic job.

The Bluefin Cruise glides with decent speed. Its pointed nose helps it cut through the water. I also love that it is not too wide. While wider boards are great for stability, they tend to be slow because of more resistance. So the wider a paddleboard is, the slower it will be. The Cruise 10’8 has a width that allows it to be both stable and fast enough.

Check Price of the Bluefin Cruise 10’8

Build Quality

This Bluefin inflatable paddle board comes with a five-year warranty. That says a lot about their construction quality.

The company claims to be the only one using Pro Weave Dropstitch technology and 1000D laminate PVC. The paddleboard is so sturdy you can inflate it to 28 PSI. (The recommended PSI is 15 to 18). This iSUP’s double layer rails are heat welded and reinforced using PVC fabric. The deck is UV proofed.

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 inflatable paddleboard is one of the toughest SUPs in the market. The construction and materials used are of high quality.

Tougher inflatable paddleboards are more rigid and stable. They also last longer.

Any adventurous paddler will love the Bluefin Cruise. If you are the kind of SUPer that goes where the wind blows, you’ll need a SUP that can withstand anything. There is no condition too rough for the Bluefin Cruise. It won’t get dings or dents.

The Bluefin Cruise has a rounded square tail and a pointy nose. It is shaped more like a cruise paddleboard but its overall design makes it versatile. There are no color options but the paddleboard is gorgeous.  

Board Features

The Cruise 10’8 has a three-fin setup: a large center fin and two side fins. The central fin is removable and features a smart lock system. We would have loved to see a universal fin box but we’re not complaining. The Bluefin lock system makes detachment and attachment very easy.

Removable side fins would have been nice too so the board would fold compact. However, the Bluefin Cruise folds just fine.

2. Deck Pad

The paddle board comes with a croco-diamond deck pad. It is very comfortable—whether you are standing or kneeling. And it is pet-friendly.

The thermo-sealed deck pad offers traction to prevent you from slipping when your feet are wet.

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 comes with three grab handles; at the front, center, and rear. The center handle is for carrying your board solo. It also helps you know where to stand, especially if you are a complete beginner.

4. D-rings and Mounts

This paddle board has several D-rings. Four of them are at the front and have a bungee cord attached for your luggage. There is another one at the rear for your leash. The rest of the D-rings are placed conveniently for your kayak seat attachment.

There is a fixed action camera mount at the front. It is compatible with most cameras.

SUP Board Accessories

The best thing about the Bluefin Cruise 10’8 is probably its package. For the affordable price, you get a bag, paddle, pump, leash, smartphone case, repair kit, and kayak conversion kit.

a. The Pump

The single-chamber dual-action pump makes your work easier because it inflates on the downward and upward stroke. It is slim and lightweight with an ergonomic grip. It slips nicely into the bag, thanks to the compact design.

b. The Paddle

The Bluefin Cruise paddle has a fiberglass shaft and polyurethane blade. It is 45% lighter than your average aluminum paddle.

The blade is impeccably strong—it will not warp or chip. It also has a no-flutter design for efficient strokes.

This paddle is adjustable and collapsible.

It is large and fits all the accessories plus the paddleboard.

The premium quality backpack has extra padding on the straps and back for comfort. The straps are wide so they won’t dig into your shoulders. There are several outside pockets and reinforced zipper webbing.

d. The Leash

It has a neoprene band to keep you comfortable the entire time. You will even forget that you’re wearing a leash. The coils are dense to minimize drag and the Velcro is reliable.

e. The Kayak Conversion Kit

This kit consists of a seat and a kayak paddle end. The seat is comfortable and padded. After you’ve adjusted the straps once to their proper lengths, you can literally attach the seat to the D-rings in a matter of seconds. Pull out the top end of the paddle and replace it with the second blade and you’re good to go.

What Users Are Saying

A SUP beginner on Reddit was asking for opinions about a certain less-known SUP brand.

Someone responded saying that they don’t know about that brand, but the original poster should look at Bluefin Cruise SUPs. Another Redditor replied that he just bought the 10’8 Cruise. Although he hadn’t used it at the time, the quality impressed him. In his opinion, it is worth the price. He also loves that the oversized backpack has hip straps.

Check Price of the Bluefin Cruise

Hellen and her husband decided to buy the Bluefin Cruise boards. They love paddleboarding but they are also kayaking enthusiasts. The Bluefin 10’8 is just perfect because they can switch from SUP to kayaking in an instant. They say that the paddleboard is stable and maneuverable, even in tricky areas. The customer service was awesome. They highly recommend the iSUP.

Kris was a beginner when she got the Bluefin Cruise 10’8 and she’d never owned a SUP before. She loves the included accessories and the fact that everything fits into the backpack. Once inflated, she says the board is super stiff and stable.

Irene and her husband got two Bluefin Cruise paddleboards. She agrees that the customer service is commendable. She contacted them more than once and they were so nice. The husband uses the Cruise for fishing and they are happy with their choice.

Nick was on a tight budget but he still wanted a quality iSUP. He decided to get the Bluefin Cruise 10’8. The kayak conversion kit and the price caught his attention. He managed to inflate the SUP in only 5 minutes. If it takes longer for you, he advises reading the manual so you know how to plug in the pump. The quality of the Bluefin is impeccable. Although his pump came with a broken gauge, he highly recommends the board.

Bluefin Cruise Alternatives

Bluefin cruise 10’8 vs atoll inflatable paddleboard.

The Atoll is another popular iSUP and it’s one of the best inflatable SUPs on the market. So let us see how it compares to the Bluefin Cruise.

The Atoll paddleboard measures 11’ x 32” x 6”. It weighs 21 pounds and has a rider weight capacity of 400 pounds. (It has been tested at 700 pounds with multiple paddlers). The board is available in four colors. It has a six-point bungee cord at the front for luggage and 9 more D-rings for extra gear attachment.

The inflatable paddle board is constructed using Korean Dropstitch technology and machine-laminated PVC. It has a tri-fin system and the center fin is removable. The Atoll comes with all the basic accessories. The paddle is made using carbon fiberglass and has a nylon blade.

The Bluefin offers a kayak conversion kit and it costs less than the Atoll. It also has a five-year warranty while the Atoll has a two-year warranty.

The Atoll paddleboard can hold way more than the Bluefin, which has a weight limit of 330 pounds. 

Atoll has found that hard-to-find balance between speed and stability. 

You get color options if you decide to buy the Atoll. The storage area is also a bit bigger and you can bring more luggage. Notice that the Atoll has more D-rings too.

Both the Atoll and the Bluefin are great boards. Choose the Atoll for the higher weight capacity, the performance, and the color options. Go with the Bluefin for the included kayak kit and the lower price.

You may also like our Freein Explorer stand up paddle board review .

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 is an outstanding inflatable paddleboard, more so if you’re on a budget. Its quality is great and it comes with a five-year warranty. Everything you will need to get started with SUP is included in the package, with the bonus of a kayak conversion kit. In this price range, you have to give it to Bluefin for offering high-quality accessories, especially the fiberglass paddle.

Do you have any questions about the Bluefin Cruise 10’8? Let us know below. We will be happy to answer them.

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Bluefin Cruise 10’8 Paddle Board Review

This article may contain affiliate links to which we are compensated if you buy. This comes at no extra cost to you.

In this review, we will be going over the Bluefin Cruise 10’8 which I had a chance to test in coastal river conditions that have a mix of calm conditions as well as some slight wind.  

We also managed to test this board side by side with the Cruise Carbon 10’8″ in calm lake conditions. We put both through the ringer as we put them through a bunch of on-water tests.

We will be going over what we liked, and disliked, who we believe the SUP is for as well as dig fully in-depth on both the board and the accessories it comes with.

Bluefin SUP has recently been making an effort to capture the north american market with distribution spanning from UK, Europe, and Australia to now having distribution in the United States and Canada. 

Let’s dive in and see how the Cruise really performs as we try to compare this board to other North American equivalents.

Click here to compare and contrast with our Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Review !

What Did We Think of the Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ SUP?

We thought the Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ paddle board is a great pic for both beginner and intermediate paddlers alike . The boards exo laminate fusion technology (dual layer PVC heat pressed together) coupled with its drop stitch per yearn density makes the board rigid. Especially for its price point.

We also felt that the accessories package was packed with value, especially if you got the Royal Blue package that includes the kayak conversion attachment paddle and seat . We did feel that the bag was awkward to carry as the board likes to fall onto the opposite end when not strapped into the bag. Which can make this very awkward when walking more than half a kilometer.

Having compared the Cruise 10’8″ to the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ directly we found that while there were some key differences that favored the Bluefin Cruise Carbon. It was not enough to warrant the big price difference. So for the average paddler, the Cruise is more than acceptable pick if you were going through the “All Around” route.

Bluefin Cruise 10’8 Paddle Board Review Ratings

Below is how I rated the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” SUP. Click the links below to jump to each section.

Total Score 8.3 (Averages of Below Scores)

• Stability: 8
• Tracking: 8.5
• Maneuverability: 8 
• SUP Construction – 9
• Deck Pad: 9
• D Rings: 7.5
• Deck Bungees: 7
• Action Mounts: 8
• Handles: 8.5
• Backpack: 8
• Set-Up/ Take Down – 8
• The Board is very stable
• Has good construction for its price tag
• Kickpad is a good addition for more advanced paddlers
• Has a great mixture of maneuverability and tracking
• One of my favorite deck pads due to the grip level
• The board performs well with kayak set-up
• Clip-on side fins give extra tracking ability
• Bluefin now plants a tree/ mangrove for every board sold
• Good board for 80% of paddlers new or experienced
• A great board for lakes and calm water conditions
• Decided to include a kayak conversion kit on Royal Blue models
• The paddle has no height range
• Can feel unsteady when paddling through waves
• Could use more deck bungees particularly in the back and an extra row in the front

Who is the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” For? 

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8” Paddle board will be good for a good amount of different-sized and skilled paddlers in calm water conditions. 

I found the board stable enough to stand on and I’m at about 6’1 180 lbs. I feel smaller to medium-large paddlers will feel confident paddling this board even if they are new to paddle boarding. 

The Cruise 10’8 is also a good board that you can grow with that will last you a good amount of time. The board has a sleek shape which I found provided a good mixture of tracking and maneuverability. Plus if you wanted to start learning more difficult maneuvers such as pivot turns there’s a kick pad in the back that will help aid you in stomping the tail down to turn on a dime. 

What SUP Activities Can the Bluefin Cruise be Used for? 

The Bluefin Cruise is a solid all-around board for most calmer water conditions. Here are some activities it can be used for. 

Recreational Paddling

This is what most people starting out with this board will be using it for. The Cruise 10’8 is a great board to paddle in calmer waters due to its primary stability. Places such as:

• Slow moving rivers
• Calm Coastal Conditions
• Calm Beaches

When there are some waves about I found as a taller person that standing is doable but added concentration is needed. Thankfully you can always sit or kneel when you come across more tricky conditions.

Paddle Board Hybrid

We named the Bluefin Cruise as one of the best paddle board kayak hybrids of 2023 . Not only does the board perform well in a kayak setup, but it also comes with a kayak kit. Be wary though that to get this kit in the UK, USA, and Europe you need the SUP to be in Royal Blue to receive the kayak seat and conversion package . 

Paddling with Smaller Passengers

You can use the Bluefin Cruise to take smaller passengers such as dogs or kids. The deck pad is certainly grippy enough for them! The board also has handles on the front bungee area to allow the little ones to hang on. 

I definitely advise putting kids and dogs at the front of the board as you can keep a close eye on them though!

On-Water Performance

I did some paddling with the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” to see how it performed. We also did some basic tests such as stability, maneuverability, tracking, and speed runs to see how this board compares . 

Stability Score: 8/10

The Bluefin Cruise felt pretty stable throughout a few different conditions . I first tried standing on the board in wavey conditions and minus the odd wobble, I was able to stand on it and paddle away. Having said that, I have some experience with paddling boards in coastal conditions so if you are new I would start off standing in calm conditions first. 

Of course, when I stood on the board in the calmer waters of the Nikomekl River, it was easier to get up and stand from a kneeling position . I did have the kayak seat to navigate while standing but overall it was a positive experience. It didn’t feel twitch and the side-to-side movement felt controlled. 

When compared to its more expensive brother the Cruise Carbon 10’8″ I did feel that the Cruise Carbon had more noticable stability due to the boards rigidity . Which ultimatly came down to its construction of havonh 3 bladders and carbon side rails for extra support.

Tracking Score: 8/10

We did two sets of tracking tests with the Bluefin Cruise 10’8”. We first tried tracking the board without any side fins (a friend with an iRocker board forgot his fins!). 

• Without Side Fins: 5 Strokes a side until you need to correct
• With Side Fins: 7 Strokes a side until you need to correct

So I think the moral of the story here is don’t forget your side fins! Now mind you the test was a tad bit flawed due to the wind pushing towards the back right of the board making it favor the right side more. The actual results of the tracking test was 8 per side on the left and 6 per side on the right which made me round to the 7.  

In calm water conditions in Ruth Lake the board tracked 5 strokes a side casually paddling. The result was the same across the board with the Cruise Carbon 10’8″ SUP.

Speed Score: 8/10

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8” is an all-around board so it won’t be the fastest SUP in the world. But it did admirably and felt good to paddle at a prolonged quicker clip . It should be noted though, that I did feel like my stroke felt a bit disturbed. I found out after the video that it was indeed the height I had set the paddle was a bit shorter than I usually like it. 

One thing I did notice when paddling faster is that the nose digs into the water more than many other all-around boards. Thankfully the nose has a bit more of a pointed profile which allows the board to part the water a bit easier compared to a board that has a more rounded nose with the same rocker profile. 

When compared to the Cruise Carbon 10’8″ I found the original Cruise (model we are reviewing here) to be the quicker accelerator. While the Cruise Carbon had a slightly higher top end paddling speed. We think this is down to the weight and rigidity of the boards.

The Cruise 10’8″ is a lighter weight board so as a result it will be the faster accelerator. However the Cruise Carbon 10’8″ will have a higher top speed due to its rigidity and extra weight which gives it more momentum as it gets going. Having said this the differences are still pretty slight between the two boards.

Maneuverability

Maneuverability Score: 8/10

What I like about clip-on-side fins is the fact that it allows you to tweak the board handling to your liking. We tested a few basic maneuvers such as side paddles and reverse sweep strokes with and without the 5” side fins. Here’s how the board did:

In wavey ocean conditions we got some different results

• Reverse Side Paddles Without Side Fins: 12 to get to a 360
• Reverse Side Paddles With Side Fins: 15 to get to a 360

Again the wind and tide were not doing me any favors on the last test but I figured it rounded out. 

Now we tried out reverse sweep strokes both with and without side fins. Here’s how the board did:

• Reverse Sweep Stroke Without Side Fins: 4 to get to a 360
• Reverse Sweep Strokes With Side Fins: 5 to get to a 360 

The 5 reverse sweep strokes are about what is average for what 10’6” boards with side fins have. 

So what can you get out of these tests? Well if you are in more open water conditions and want the board to go in a straighter line. Attach those side fins! If you are in tighter corners like mangroves, tighter rivers, or hugging the shore during low tide in coastal conditions use the center fin!

For shallower water, you can also get a river fin from Bluefin and keep the side fins on to ensure tracking performance does not go downhill too much. 

Bluefin Cruise 10’8” Stats Deconstructed

• Type of Board: Recreational 
• Length: 10’8″
• Width: 32″
• Thickness: 6″
• Volume: 111 L
• Weight: 24 Lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 330 Lbs

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 SUP uses Exo-Surface Lamanate technology. So what does that mean? It’s a double layer PVC that is heat pressed together (similar to many of the “fusion processes of today). Bluefin boasts 11200 stitches of 500 denier space yarn per square meter which helps the board keep its rigidity . 

This year’s Bluefin Cruise is a few pounds lighter than the last few year’s models as well. This is most likely due to them using this fusion process as opposed to a full dual-layer process that requires more glue and manual work. 

The Bluefin Cruise, much like other higher-quality board manufacturer these days offer heat-welded double side rails . The rails of the SUP are typically the areas that will get the most wear and tear due to contact with objects or even resting the board on its side. They also are the part that holds the board’s shape together when it has 15 + PSI in it. 

Bluefin Cruise 10’8” Board Profile

The great thing with the Bluefin Cruise line is that you have a lot of options as to what kind of board you want. 

• Are you and average sized paddler starting out? Get the Bluefin Cruise 10’8! 
• Want a board that will be more comfortable for smaller paddlers? Get the Cruise 10’4!
• Want a board that will be better to paddle for longer distances? Get the Cruise 12’! 
• Want a tandem board that both of you can share? Get the Cruise 15’! 

But since this is about the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” let’s stick to this board. The Cruise 10’8” features a pointier nose followed by a squared-off tail which gives it a good amount of stability in calm water conditions. For those who are bigger/ taller, you may want to size up to the 12’ Cruise. 

You can also look at the Cruise Carbon series if you are looking for a more rigid board with higher-quality materials and a bit better glide per stroke. 

What’s On Deck

The Bluefin cruise has a few things up its sleeve that make it a viable option for a wide range of paddlers. 

*But perhaps the most important thing to note is the fact that for the new Cruise line-ups, it is only the Legacy Blue packages that come with the kayak conversion kits across different countries. If you select a different color’ you won’t receive it included with the package.   – Editors Notes

This has been one of Bluefins selling points over the years and I do feel its a bit of a shame to not include the conversion kit with other colors.  

Bluefin Cruise Deck Pad

Deck Pad Score: 9/10

I must say right off the bat that the Bluefin crew makes some of the most grippy deck pads I’ve tried! Bluefin features a thermostatic crocodile deck pads which helps your feet keep a grip onto the board, even if it gets wet.

The deck pad takes up about 2/3rds of the board and goes further to the edges than previous Bluefin Cruise models. Which we think is an improvement as you get more grip for a wide variety of stances you want to try or use. 

This deck pad would be ideal for activities that require you to move your feet around. Such as SUP Yoga or even doing pivot turns. Speaking of pivot turns the Bluefin Cruise features a kick pad at the back that makes learning them just a bit easier . 

The kick pad gives you some extra leverage for stomping the tail into the water allowing you to do 360’s on a dime!

Bluefin Cruise D Rings

D-Rings Score: 7.5/10

The Bluefin Cruise features 9 total D rings on the SUP. Four of which are free for the kayak conversion kit.  

Those 4 free D rings can also be used for things such as shoulder straps, strapping bigger coolers, or strapping bigger gear that you need. Although the Bluefin Cruise would not be my first choice for that due to the Bungee deck storage. This brings us to our next section… 

Bluefin Bungee Deck Storage

Deck Bungee Score: 7/10

This is one area where I felt the Bluefin Cruise is limited compared to other competitor SUPs within its price range . The Cruise has 2 rows of bungee deck webbing near the front which really limits what you can bring and even what you can use this SUP for. 

“ For me, I was able to store my sandals, dry bag, and a water bottle. I definitely would have appreciated some rear bungee cargo room at the back for other miscellaneous items such as small cooler bags, speakers etc. This also limits the board for use of up to a couple of hours unless you strap a bigger hard cooler where the kayak’s conversion D rings are. ” – Editors Notes

Bluefin Cruise Mounts

Action Mounts Score: 8/10

The Bluefin Cruise features 3 action mounts near the front of the board. Which I think is the right amount and places in the right locations. 

The Action Mounts are located: (See Above Pic)

• 1 on the Nose of the board
• 2 on the Last row of bungee deck webbing

You can purchase camera mounts from Bluefin’s site . 

Bluefin Cruise Handles

Handles Score: 8.5/10

The Bluefin Cruise features 3 main handles at the front, back, and center as well as “child’s handles” at the cargo area in the front. 

The handles are padded with neoprene and feel comfortable to carry in your hands. 

Bluefin Cruise Accessories Explained

Depending on the package you choose, Bluefin has a good amount of good-quality accessories included to help get you in the water. 

Bluefin Backpack

Backpack Score: 8/10

In my mind, one of the most important factors I look for in a bag that is included with an ISUP is: “ Will the board fit back into the bag after you are done using it? ”  

In this case yes, even with a less than perfect fold you can fit the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” back in its bag with relative ease . Its dimensions are 35.4″ L × 18.1″ W × 12″ D  (90cm x 46cm x 30cm) which makes it easy to fit in most trunks or back seats. 

The bag is boxy but comfortable to wear and I would say it’s one of the nicer SUP backpacks that comes with the package. The back features a good amount of padding to make the board comfortable to carry on shorter walks to the shore.

I do like that the package comes with a big spacious front pocket as well . I personally like to use it to store an electric pump and leash but it will fit a manual pump inside as well. The bigger the front pocket = the more stuff you can take with you!

If I had one thing I would change, I would put loops inside the bag or some sort of paddle attachment to keep the paddles secure. I also wish there were some designated fin pockets inside out outside of the bag as things can get lost pretty easily if you have 3 fins flying around in one big pocket area or the main storage compartment of the bag. 

Bluefin Paddle

Paddle Score: 8/10

I was personally impressed with the design and use of the Bluefin paddle although it is on the heavier side in terms of fiberglass paddles. At 2.1 Lbs (975 grams) it can start to feel a bit heavier when you are paddling faster but at this point we are picking at straws.

The paddles shaft is made of fiberglass while the blade is a polyurethane tear drop shaped blade that can float in the water . I will say that I really like the design of the handle. You get a rubbery grip surface with a handle that I found contoured my hand well. Definitely, a plus when you are doing faster strokes. 

The paddle measures 68” to 82” which is about standard. However, there is no height indicator on the paddle which we felt to be a bit of a con .It’s not the end of the world but it is nice to know what height number you can set the paddle at for future reference. 

One thing I also liked was the fact that there was a paddle lock at the base of the shaft. This helps make the paddle more firm when doing strokes in the water. 

“ I’d recommend checking the paddle locking mechanisms and insuring that they are the right tightness before going out though, as the lock I had was a bit flimsy and needed some tightening. ” – Editors Notes

Bluefin Hand Pump

Pump Score: 7.5/10

The pump that comes with the Bluefin Cruise is a single-chamber dual-action pump. Meaning you can inflate the board on the up and down stroke or just the down stroke . Starting up, you usually want it on the dual action as that pumps the most air into the board. As you get to about the 5-7 PSI range you will want to switch it to single action to make pumping easier. 

I personally now mostly use electric pumps. I detail why this is in the Set-Up section. 

Bluefin Fins

Fins Score: 8/10

The Bluefin Cruise features a proprietary fin system much like other brands such as iRocker. The package comes with 3 snap-on fins. A 9” center fin and two 5” side fins help the board track better. 

In Fact, I’ve tested using one fin vs 3 fins (a friend with an iRocker board forgot his fins) and I found that the 3 fin setup will give you a 2-3 more stroke per side compared to just having the one center fin . The advantage to having just the center fin attached is that the board will be more maneuverable which is something to keep in mind when you are in tighter quarters. See more on the tests in the On-Water section!

Unfortunately having a proprietary fin system does limit your options as to what fins you can attach as you are restricted as to what Bluefin has to offer. If the board had a US fin box you would have the choice of many more fins from both paddle board and surf manufacturers. 

Bluefin Leash

The ankle leash is comfortable to wear and features two swivel bases to make sure that it does not get tangled. 

Bluefin Cruise 10’8” Set-Up/ Take-Down

Setting up the Bluefin Cruise from Box to shore is relatively straightforward. The paddle, pump, and accessories usually come outside of the bag in the box. Thankfully because the board has all the air deflated completely out of it, it’s easy to fit these things into the bag. 

I personally kept the manual pump and home because I have an electric pump I like to use. I do this because:

• It gives you time to unpack and set up the board while the electric pump is doing its thing.
• Anyone who’s had a back injury over the years (especially if you are taller) knows how much of a pain it is to do this up-and-down motion furiously.
• Why take away some of the vital energy you need for paddling?

There. Consider that my electric pump speal! I use the Outdoor Master Shark II Electric pump but Bluefin also sells one called the E-Swift or you can use their standard handle one . 

Packing up the board is relatively easy. First, since this board came from the ocean in my on-water testing I gave it a good rinse! saltwater can deteriorate your boards so be sure to do this after use! I let the boards dry with the sun and towel. 

Now, this is another area where electric SUP pumps can come in handy (I’m relentless aren’t I?). Many SUP pumps have a deflating end that sucks the air out of the board . I personally am usually too lazy to do this but I will say it helps massively with the folding process!

The main nemesis is air, the more you can get out of the board the easier it will fold! So I usually like to lie on the board first to get the air from the nose to mid-board out. I like to fold the board so that things like action mounts or fin boxes are on the front or bottom and not the side folds. Because if they are placed on the sides there is more pressure on them. 

After the board is all rolled up I put the board in the main compartment of the bag followed by the paddle and kayak blade attachment. I keep the kayak seat separate as it’s a bit too big to fit into the bag.

All the little odds and ends like fins, leash, and repair kit get put into the front pocket and away we go!

About Bluefin SUPs

Bluefin is one of the SUP giants in Europe and is expanding its reach to North America. Bluefin was founded in the beginning of the 2010’s . Their first version of the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” was released in 2018.

Bluefin has recently teamed up with Ecologi where for every product sold they plant a tree in the woodlands, forests, or mangroves. 

Bluefin Warranty and Returns Policy

Bluefin offers an astounding 5 year warranty which is one of the best in the industry! They also offer a 60 day return policy which is also one of the better ones in the SUP industry!  

What Customers Think

When we had several testers try out the Cruise 10’8″ and Cruise Carbon 10’8″ boards many of them felt that the differences between the two boards were slight. With most agreeing that the Cruise Carbon had better stability over the original Cruise SUP.

Because the Cruise and Cruise Carbon have similar shapes there is no massive difference in on-water perfomance besides a stroke to a stroke and a half difference in some manueverability tests.

Bluefin has gotten praise from bigger SUP publications such as SUPBoarder for their construction. But what about other customers who have recently bought Bluefun SUPs? 

“ Yesterday was my first time paddleboarding. It only took a minute to get the hang of balancing on this board. It’s easy to get back onto if you jump off to swim around. I have found my new favorite pastime. ” – Cynthia (Verified Customer)

“I didn’t dislike anything, so there you have it. I wanted a hobby, a distraction, a peaceful getaway in the open to help me balance the struggles of today’s society. Well, if that’s you, the board would easily provide you with these benefits. The assembly is simple! I wish that I had something negative to say, but I have nothing. Sorry, so enjoy life to its fullest, and paddle away! ” – Neil (Verified Customer)

These are a couple from Bluefin’s website. If you were looking for a more unbiased source Bluefin has a Trustpilot page where they have a remarkable 4.4 star rating out of 712 reviews. Which is one of the highest I’ve seen for anything on Trustpilot!

Where to Buy the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” SUP

You can buy the Cruise 10’8” SUP from Bluefin’s website or on Amazon . Bluefin has distribution in the following countries:

• United Kingdom
• United States
• Netherlands

If you click the website you will be directed to the closest Bluefin site for you. 

Comparable Boards

Below are some comparable boards that we think rival the Bluefin Cruise 10’8” paddle board

Red Paddle Co Ride 10’8”

The Red Paddle Co Ride is a rounder board that is 4.7” thick compared to your standard 6” thick paddle board. Red Paddle also has a similar warranty length to Bluefin at 5 years and is a UK-based company that has distribution throughout the world!

iRocker Cruiser 10’6”

The Bluefin Cruise profile reminds me a lot of the iRocker Cruiser. Slightly pointed nose in the front followed by a squared-off tail to ensure stability. The iRocker Cruiser has similar dimensions as well as more onboard accessories compared to the Bluefin Cruise. However, the Cruiser only has a 3-year warranty and a 45-day return policy. 

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Bluefin Cruise SUP Boards | Premium Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board | Stable Design | Non-Slip Design with Fibreglass Paddle & Accessories | 5 Year Warranty | Multiple Sizes for Adults

A New Cruise 10'8

B New Cruise 12'

C Cruise 10'8

D New Cruise 10'8 Berry Red

E New Cruise 10'8 Gecko Blue

F New Cruise 10'8 Miami Pink

G New Cruise 10'8 Paddle Purple

H New Cruise 10'8 Sunburst Orange

J New Cruise Carbon 10'8

K New Cruise Carbon 12'

L Cruise Carbon Tandem 15'

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• AWARD-WINNING DESIGN. Bluefin uses ESL fused PVC and the densest drop-stitch on the market for the most reliable, stable & versatile Stand Up Paddleboards. This comprehensive Bluefin Cruise SUP package has been built by SUP lovers for SUP lovers.
• FOR EVERY PURCHASE WE PLANT A TREE. The environment is at the heart of everything we do. While we seek to use recycled materials in our manufacturing processes, we remain committed to planting a tree for every purchase made, helping to give back to our planet.
• DRIVE PADDLE. Height-adjustable from 175cm-210cm, this three-piece paddle comprises a new rubberised grip, lightweight fibreglass shaft and glass-filled nylon blade for less water resistance, more glide and smoother, more efficient paddle strokes.
• ENHANCED SAFETY. The new Cruise inflatable sup board has patented reflective D-ring mounts for improved SUP safety and visibility. An ankle leash with a comfortable neoprene-wrapped webbing strap and coiled TPR cord is included in every package.
• KAYAK CONVERSION KIT & HELMLOCK ATTACHMENT POINT Use our reflective D-rings to transform your SUP into a SUP kayak in seconds! Clip on our comfortable padded sup seat & swap the handle for our specialist kayak paddle blade.
• PREMIUM PADDLE BOARD ACCESSORIES. All you need for SUP. Our kit includes Drive paddle, 2+1 Smart Lock Fin system, ankle leash, waterproof phone case, repair kit, Swift Pro pump, and Kayak conversion kit with paddle board seat attachment.
• WHO IS THIS SUP FOR? The Cruise 10'8 SUP is suited to beginners 6' and under, and up to 90Kg. Its streamlined shape is built for fast and stable cruising. A 2+1 smart lock fin setup provides maximum stability, tracking and ease of use.
• PORTABLE & TRAVEL SAFE. The included backpack ensures SUPs stay pristine, wherever you travel. Fully padded with comfy carry straps, the main pocket has inner straps for tying the SUP in. Use the paddle slots & ample front pocket for accessories.
• WHY CHOOSE BLUEFIN? Join the SUP community with our accessible range of award-winning inflatable paddleboards. All our boards are built to last and patented with a five-year warranty as standard. Multi-channel customer support is readily available.
• ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING. All Cruise paddle boards and accessories arrive securely wrapped in 100% recycled paper. Non-woven bags are used to encase accessories such as the pump and are widely recyclable.

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Product Description

Product information

Technical details, additional information, product guides and documents, looking for specific info, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, versatility, and accessories of the paddleboard. They mention that it's well made, versatile, and has lots of features. They appreciate the roomy backpack that comes with the product. They also appreciate that it inflates quickly and easily. Customers are happy with maneuverability, and value. However, some customers have issues with leakage and disagree on weight.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the paddleboard. They mention it's well-made, solid, and stable. Some say that it works great and is easy to inflate.

"...I think they both look to be well made , especially for a mid/low priced board!..." Read more

"...In my opinion this board is well made construction, durable materials, stable , easy to maneuver, and versatile (SUP or kayaking)....PlUS light..." Read more

" This product is fabulous . Big enough for my dog and I to go on longer trips. Sturdy would definitely buy again...." Read more

"... Awesome , roomy backpack included that everything fits into easily and you can even throw gloves and a life jacket in...." Read more

Customers like the inflation of the paddleboard. They mention that it's sturdy, easy to inflate, and deflate. The product has a high PSI rating, so there's no worries about overinflating. It's also versatile, and can be converted to a kayak.

"...Versatile: easy to convert to kayak ..kayak seat provides great support..easy to clip onto board for use and to adjust for user..." Read more

"...and I couldn’t tell when it was at 15 PSI, but again the SUP filled up quickly and feels very strong and stable...." Read more

"...It has a very high PSI rating so there's no worries about overinflating at the recommended levels...." Read more

"The board works great. Easy to inflate . Fins are removable so that's a plus. Only issue I have is the paddle. It does not lock and broke after 3 uses." Read more

Customers like the maneuverability of the paddleboard. They say it's easy to maneuver, versatile, and steers with ease. They also mention that it handles well on the water, has a great surface grip, and is stable.

"...this board is well made construction, durable materials, stable, easy to maneuver , and versatile (SUP or kayaking)....PlUS light enough for me to..." Read more

"... Handles great on the water , very solid...." Read more

" Great surface grip !Paddle heavy yet durable, will purchase a lighter paddle next year" Read more

"...Likes - it tracks amazing and moves very well through the water with little effort...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the value of the paddleboard. They mention that it's a great buy and a good value for the price.

"...I chose Bluefin, because the price point was awesome and they added the Kayak seat, extra paddle attachment for kayak and the coiled leash to this..." Read more

"...I do believe this is a quality product for the money , and my experience with a defective board is probably rare..." Read more

"...With all that it comes with, this is by far the best value for inflatables that I've found on Amazon. It's more rigid than my previous...." Read more

"Great quality, better than expected for the cost ! Can’t find the strap to carry the bag! Need to contact company...." Read more

Customers find the paddleboard versatile with lots of features. They say it's sturdy and good for all-around use. However, some customers have concerns about the quality.

"...made construction, durable materials, stable, easy to maneuver, and versatile (SUP or kayaking)....PlUS light enough for me to carry by myself,..." Read more

"...Its very sturdy and all the accessories allow you to be very versatile . I really like this paddleboard set. I recommend it." Read more

"...Inflated good. Light weight. Seems its made of a good material. Lots of features ...." Read more

"It is just like most paddleboards and it is good for allround but the quality is low...." Read more

Customers like the accessories that come with the paddleboard. They mention that it has a roomy backpack that everything fits into easily. They also say that it's well made and has s nice cargo pocket.

"This product is fabulous. Big enough for my dog and I to go on longer trips. Sturdy would definitely buy again...." Read more

"...I love that it converts to a kayak as well and you can carry everything on the SUP to convert back and forth between SUP and Kayak...." Read more

"...The carrying backpack is well made and has a nice cargo pocket . It came with spare pieces and a cell phone dry bag." Read more

"...The board and all the accessories fit into the bag which makes it so easy to transport...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the weight of the paddleboard. Some find it light enough to carry by themselves, while others say it's heavy and the weight advertised on the site was incorrect.

"...stable, easy to maneuver, and versatile (SUP or kayaking)....PlUS light enough for me to carry by myself, inflated or deflated...." Read more

"...see if there is any difference, this board feels great and feels much lighter then what is stated on the specs. I would make this purchase again." Read more

"The weight advertised on the site was incorrect ...." Read more

"Great surface grip! Paddle heavy yet durable, will purchase a lighter paddle next year" Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the leakage of the paddleboard. They mention that it has a slow leak and the pump doesn't seal well to the board.

"...Inflated the unit in July on our first river excursion and SUP had a slow leak which was undectected on the trial inflation...." Read more

"...this for a couple of years but only used about six times and now it has a leak . I expected it to be much more durable." Read more

"...to get them back together and now it seems like I have a small leak around the air valve because it hisses a little bit." Read more

"...The board is leaking air from underneath the padding. Bluefin has not provided support under its warranty and simply ends the chats...." Read more

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For Every Board Sold We Plant A Tree

5 Year Warranty On All SUPs & Kayaks

Free Shipping On Orders Over £100

NEW lightweight boards

Cruise Inflatable Paddleboard Range

Cruise Inflatable Paddleboard Range - Legacy Blue / 9'8 is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.

At Bluefin we offer a free delivery service when you spend over £100. Please allow up to 3 working days to receive your product.

If you are due to receive a free gift with your product this will be sent as a separate package and may have a longer delivery period.

5 Year Warranty

We are pleased to offer a 5 year warranty on all SUPs and Kayaks, providing you with reliable support in case of any unforeseen issues. Please register your warranty policy when your product arrives.

Description

Specifications.

• Board Dimensions 9'8 - 295 x 76 x 12 cm 10'4 - 315 x 79 x 12 cm 10'8 - 325 x 82 x16cm 12 - 366 x 82 x 16cm 15 - 457 x 89 x 15cm
• Bag Dimensions 9'8 - 95cm x 50cm x 35cm 10'4 - 95cm x 50cm x 35cm 10'8 - 95cm x 50cm x 35cm 12 - 95cm x 50cm x 35cm 15 - 105 x 50 x 30cm
• Inflated Board Weight 9'8 - 9.4kg 10'4 - 10.45kg 10'8 - 11.2kg 12 - 12.3kg 15 - 17.15kg
• Package Weight 9'8 - 14.8kg 10'4 - 16.3kg 10'8 - 16.5kg 12 - 17.75kg 15 - 22.5kg
• Max User Weight 9'8 - 130kg 10'4 - 140kg 10'8 - 150kg 12 - 175 kg 15 - 240kg
• Board Composition Military grade PVC construction and thermostatic croco-diamond deckpad. Super reinforced composite dropstitch and UV resistant HQ coating.
• Fin Box Smartlock centre and side fins
• Paddle Height Minimum - 175cm Maximum - 210cm
• Paddle Composition Fibreglass Shaft + Nylon Blade

What's In The Box

• Cruise Paddleboard
• Swift Pro Single Chamber Pump
• Core Backpack
• 3pc Fibreglass Paddle: Blade, Handle, Shaft (x2 with the 15" package)
• Kayak Conversion Kit Legacy Blue 10'8 ONLY
• x3 Smartlock fins: 2x small 1x large
• Ankle Leash
• Waterproof Phone Case

5 YEAR WARRANTY

On all SUPs and kayaks

MULTI AWARD WINNING

Paddleboard packages

DESIGNED IN THE UK

By industry experts

PATENTED TECHNOLOGY

Provides premium features

Why Cruise?

Beginners & All-Round

Our Cruise board is expertly designed for all-round paddling and is ideal for beginners or intermediates. Crafted with a wide profile to provide both stability and manoeuvrability. Whether you're just starting out or transitioning from basic skills to more advanced techniques, this board offers a confidence-building platform.

ESL Technology

All our boards are engineered to perfection with patented ESL (Exo-Surface Laminate) technology. Unlike competitors, our boards are designed to never sag, ensuring optimal stability and performance on the water. Our ESL technology makes us the ultimate choice for those who demand the best from their paddleboard experience.

Military grade PVC

Our SUPs are designed to be pumped up to an impressive 28psi, showcasing their unparalleled durability and robustness. With the capability to handle such high pressure, our SUP boards are virtually indestructible, making them the go-to choice for adventurers who demand the utmost in resilience and reliability.

The kickpad enhances manoeuvrability on the water, making executing smooth turns and quick pivots a breeze!

Kayak D-Rings

Simply attach a kayak seat to the D-rings for added comfort and flexibility during your paddling journey.

Neoprene Handles

These durable handles provide a secure grip and handy paddle stay while transporting the board and make it effortless to carry.

Patented Detachable Bungees

With their innovative design, these bungees offer versatility and ease allowing you to securely transport all your essentials.

Action Camera Mounts

Easily attach your action camera, ensuring you capture all the unforgettable moments on the water.

Included Accessories

EFFORTLESS DUAL ACTION PUMP

Engineered for ultimate convenience and efficiency, this pump inflates your SUP with every up and down motion, doubling the speed at which you can prepare for your aquatic adventures. Additionally, our pump features a built-in pressure gauge, ensuring you achieve the perfect inflation level for optimal performance.

Durable Fibreglass Paddle

Our fibreglass SUP paddle is designed to elevate your paddling experience. The paddle cleverly breaks down into three pieces for easy storage and transport, making it an ideal companion for travellers. But that's not all - it's also kayak-convertible, so you can unlock new possibilities on the water.

Easy To attach Smartlock Fins

Our Smartlock fins are a game-changer for paddleboard enthusiasts. Designed with simplicity and convenience in mind, these fins bring a new level of ease to your paddleboarding experience. Say goodbye to complex fin installation - our Smartlock system allows you to securely attach or detach fins effortlessly.

Adventure-Ready sup Backpack

Our travel-friendly SUP backpack is the perfect companion for adventures on the go. Crafted with durability in mind, it's designed to withstand the rigours of your explorations. With ample storage space, it accommodates your inflatable paddleboard effortlessly, along with all your essentials.

super Secure Ankle leash

This leash offers unrivalled durability, ensuring it can withstand the most demanding water conditions. Its ergonomic design provides security without sacrificing mobility. With a robust coil and a secure attachment to your board, you can navigate the water with confidence.

Reliable watertight Phone Case

Dive into worry-free aquatic adventures with our watertight phone case. Whether you're capturing stunning underwater shots, navigating open waters, or just enjoying a day at the beach, our watertight phone case ensures your device stays dry and fully functional.

portable SUP Repair Kit

This kit is your go-to solution for on-the-go board maintenance and peace of mind on the water. Crafted with precision, it includes everything you need to quickly address minor damages and get back to your adventure. Compact enough to stow away in you're backpack, it ensures you're always prepared for the unexpected.

Why Bluefin?

Tried and tested.

"the best equipment possible that will last for a reasonable price"

- Stand Up Paddle Board World

"high-quality stand-up paddle board for a very competitive price"

- Watersports Pro

"The construction, process and stiffness of these sups is incredible"

- SUP Boarder Magazine

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Bluefin Cruise Paddleboard Review (2024)

The new Bluefin Cruise is a tidy update of its predecessor that we reviewed last year. With its award-winning design, the Cruise continues to be a perfect all-round beginner board and at £599, we think it’s a worthwhile investment.

Bluefin have worked hard to update the Cruise range, with the most notable change being the aesthetics of the new design . Bluefin have taken a huge leap in this department, launching 6 new colourways which are far more exciting than the previous model. We opted to try the Gecko Blue which looked great against the water and really popped. There’s a cool logo print across the board featuring a triangle and paddle, which we loved – kudos to the design team on this one!

Along with how the board looks, t he new model is 10% lighter and although we didn’t get this SUP on our bathroom scales, we really felt the difference when it came to carrying and manoeuvring the board. It makes everything that little bit easier including packing up and storage.

The new Cruise again comes with all the accessories you need to get straight out onto the water, including your paddle, carry bag, pump and waterproof mobile phone case. The new range doesn’t come with the kayak seat and extra paddle blade conversion like previous models, but we don’t see this as a deal breaker and think the improvements in design and build offset the additional extras. We definitely prefer updates to build quality over free extras we might not use! There have been some great updates to those accessories included , so please read on below to get more information on these.

The 10’8 Cruise is available from £359.99 – View boards on Bluefin’s website >

Table of Contents

Who is the board for?

The Bluefin Cruise is for the keen beginner who wants a great all-rounder that will last them years. It’s more of an investment than other boards on the market, like the Wave Tourer , but you’re getting a far superior board in terms of quality. 

If you just want to use a paddleboard for the odd summer weekend with friends, then you can probably get by with a cheaper brand. But if are serious about getting into the sport and plan to use the board regularly, then you need to buy one that can withstand constant inflation, deflation, getting dragged on stones and hot cars in the summer.  

When you order the Bluefin, it comes with everything needed right out the box. It’s already packed neatly away in the carry bag, so you can literally take it out of the box and head straight to the beach. 

So this board is the perfect first-time inflatable paddleboard purchase for beginners. 

However, like most all-rounders, it’s ok at everything but great at nothing so you will outgrow this board at some point, this is when you decide if you want a tourer, race or wave SUP. If you’re already at a more experienced level, then I’d recommend looking at something a little more exciting, like the Bluefin Rouge Tourer.

Bluefin Cruise 10’8

I’m 85kg and 6’2ish and found the 10’8 easy to use. The 10’8, which is the length of the board, is the classic beginner size because it’s stable enough for most beginners, but manoeuvrable so you can practice turning with ease.

On Bluefin’s website, they say anyone under 6′ & below 85kg should be fine for the 10’8, and that’s probably about right.

Bluefin’s recommendation is not too far off the truth, and I’d say any beginner over 90kgs might want to consider the 12’, which has a lot more buoyancy.

• Length: 324cm
• Width: 82cm
• Thickness: 16cm
• Recommended rider weight: – 85kg

Bluefin Cruise 12’

Whilst the 10’8 is fairly manoeuvrable, the 12’ is better at tracking (going in a straight line), which makes it more enjoyable for longer distances. This is the inherent benefit of a longer paddleboard, the more rail (side of the board) in the water, the greater the resistance and the more likely the board is to glide in a straight line. 

If you are a nervous beginner, weigh over 90kgs or want a board that glides nicely, then it’s probably worth getting the 12’.

The 12’ is the same width as the 10’8, so although the board can carry more weight, it feels very similar in terms of side-to-side wobbliness. Yes, that’s a non-technical term but hopefully that makes sense! So it’ll be wrong to think the 12’ is much more stable.

Another reason to buy the 12’ is if you are planning on using this as the family board. If you’re likely to have a little one sitting on the front or multiple children splashing around on the board at one time, you will have far more fun with the 12’.

• Length: 366 cm
• Recommended rider weight: + 85kg

You might like to read our article about the best inflatable paddle boards on the UK market.

Company overview

Bluefin is a UK based company, with its HQ in West Yorkshire. They are a trading company who are doing very well at sourcing great products, from fitness equipment to hoverboards and paddleboards. They sell their products directly on various websites they run, which means they can sell for a lower cost as they don’t have to pass any margin onto the retailer middle man.

Bluefin launched their first paddleboard in 2018 (This surprised me a little because it feels like they’ve been around for longer). You can see on their website that even within the first year their Cruise model went through 3 different versions, which shows their commitment to continual improvement of their products. They are currently at version 7 of the Cruise.

What I admire about Bluefin is their drive to make the best equipment possible that will last, all for a reasonable price. They have not cut corners on materials and their 5-year warranty is just outstanding.

The warranty shows that Bluefin is really confident its product is well made and can last. I love this mentality because it shows Bluefin care about the customers’ experience, plus it’s better for the planet not to have plastic paddleboards thrown in the bin because they aren’t well made.

Detailed UK Bluefin Cruise review

We tested the Bluefin Cruise on a stunning July morning in Emsworth, Chichester Harbour. The wind was very light and perfect for paddleboarding.

A design feature of any board that helps with stability is the width, especially across the midpoint of the board where you stand. A wider board will feel more stable than a narrower board.

The payoff for a board that is very wide is that it won’t ‘cut’ through the water and will feel like a barge, slow and unresponsive. On top of that something that is too easy to use means that you won’t progress your technique which helps with balance and board control. 

Both the 10’8 and 12ft Bluefin Cruise are 82cm wide, which is pretty normal for an all-round beginner board. I like that Bluefin didn’t make the 12ft wider, because it would really affect its performance on the water and wouldn’t be fun to use.

The only downside of the Bluefin Cruise, which is the same for all 6-inch thick rail boards, is any wind or chop that hits the side can unsettle it very quickly. The sheer surface area of the rail means a strong gust can push the board off course, or a bit of awkward side chop can make it feel rather wobbly for a second or 2.

By ‘glide’ we mean how does the board feel cruising in a straight line. Some boards will feel sluggish, whilst others effortlessly fly through the water. With a few hard paddle strokes, some boards will veer off course but others will be able to track well and stay going in a straight line.

I think glide is important to know when choosing a paddleboard, especially if it’s your first purchase. You’ll want a board that does a good job paddling in a straight line because probably your goal as a beginner is to try to get from A to B without any issues.

This of course changes if you want to get into SUP surfing, then you’ll want a board that is small and very manoeuvrable, which means it won’t glide at all well.

I found the Bluefin Cruise, especially the 12ft, tracks nicely through the water. I could put in some aggressive paddle strokes but the board kept its course well. Being able to put a huge amount of PSI into the board helps with glide, this extra rigidity allows the board to cut through the water and doesn’t flop and wobble around at all.

Construction

Bluefin continues to stand out with the construction and development of their iSUPs.

They use ESL (Exo Surface Laminate) technology, which gives the board its rigidity and durability and is key to the Bluefin design. As a quick overview, ESL PVC is the layering of materials that forms the board. Bluefin build boards with layers of PVC to provide strength, unlike cheaper boards which only have one layer. Although this makes the Bluefin boards slightly heavier than your average beginner iSUP, you get a more resilient construction and are less likely to suffer from a bendy banana board! The top layer of PVC is UV resistant too, protecting the board from degradation through sun damage.

The board is also reinforced with a 1000 denier drop stitch, which are the internal threads holding the top and bottom of the sup together. This reinforced stitch is the densest on the market, giving the bluefin more credentials on the build design of their boards.

I’ve seen a fair few posts on Facebook groups with people saying ‘the Bluefin Cruise is heavy’ . Although they’ve made it lighter, you know why it’s heavier than other similarly priced boards. Bluefin has used double the amount of materials to build their boards, so it’s no surprise they weigh a little more. 

Board features

Along with the super solid construction, Bluefin has added some nice features to its board that makes it stand out from similarly priced competitors.

The kickpad is the raised piece of foam on the deck near the tail (back) of the board.  You can wedge your foot against it when trying the more advanced step back turns, which Bluefin say on the website is a quicker way to turn around. 

There are a few reasons the kickpad is a useful addition. Having this raised gives you more confidence that you aren’t going to slip off the back of the board when doing the step back down. It also help give you a point of reference for where your foot should go, so instead of having to look back and down at where your feet are, which can make you unbalanced, you can just feel it instead.

The ability to pump up the Bluefin to high pressure and the rigidity that comes with it means the Kickpad is a welcomed feature that can actually be used. Many cheaper inflatable models add a kickpad, but you cant use the thing for step back turns because the board just isn’t rigid enough. So when you try to raise the nose out of the water the board just wobbles and flops around. This isn’t the case with the Bluefin Cruise.

Action camera mount

The new design now features 3 camera mounts, one at the nose and two on the cargo handles, making it easier for you to get the perfect shot when you’re out on the water. You could always use multiple cameras at once if you were really going for it!

If you attach the camera to face you, it becomes a great training tool that will record your technique and body position. We think filming yourself is one of the best ways to improve, because you can really break down what you’re doing and what’s going wrong. You’ll be surprised that most of the time you aren’t bending your knees as much as you thought you were or reaching as far forward as you could for that paddle stroke.

Kayak D rings

The kayak D ring adds another dimension to this package and will enable you and your family/friends to have even more fun on the water. Bluefin knows exactly who will be buying and using this board and fully know you aren’t a committed, professional paddleboarder… yet. 

They also know you’re likely to take this board to the beach where others will want to play on it. If it’s slightly choppy and the sea breeze kicks in, add the kayak seat and you can still have a great time on the water.

On this Cruise version, Bluefin have added a bonus safety feature by making the D rings reflective. This is a small but fantastic addition, and we’d like to see more of this on future ranges, particularly as it’s not detrimental to the aesthetics of the board.

Accessories

Two great updates to the pump for this model:

• Dual action – this time we were able to use the pump to deflate the board as well as inflate it. Hurrah for this Bluefin!
• Detachable handle and feet – one of the most difficult parts of using an inflatable paddleboard has to be putting everything back in the bag. Being able to remove the handle and feet make it that bit easier to put away.

Their electric pump was easy and simple to use, and helped get the board started whilst I was faffing around getting changed. It’s not the most powerful electric pump but did OK.

The carry bag is big and comfy to wear with plenty of space to pack everything away. It has some internal straps to support the SUP and a front pocket for smaller items like the fins which is really handy.

Only thing we’d like to add would be some wheels, so we had the option to pull as well as carry.

We were super impressed with the paddle in this package as it’s really developed from the previous range; the paddle is still fibreglass but is much lighter and more dynamic than before.

It feels high quality and is far from the thick, dense paddles you’d typically get in a beginner sup package and more like an expensive carbon model. It seemed to perform better too, with less bend than the previous version. The new black blue design also looks more expensive.

The three-piece paddle is easy to assemble and disassemble, with little logos to guide you along the way and a handy height guide for adjusting the length correctly. You can get an extra blade to convert to a kayak paddle, however this isn’t included in the package.

The coiled ankle leash is comfortable and perfect for the style of paddleboarding you’ll do on the Bluefin. 

What I don’t like about the Cruise

In my last review , I commented on 2 things I disliked about the Bluefin, the way it looks and the fin mechanism. I’ll keep the fin mechanism in here, but I personally think the Bluefin Cruise range looks great now.

The fin mechanism

I asked my beginner friend about the fin mechanism and she loved it because it was so quick and simple to install. So maybe I’m being a bit harsh and this might be a little irrational but I don’t quite trust the fin box ‘Smart lock’ system. 

I’m used to the screw in Powerbox, US or FCS fin systems that feel super secure and I have 100% confidence my fin isn’t going to fall out during the session.

Final comments

So are Bluefin Paddleboards any good? For the price, the Bluefin Cruise is a great value beginner paddleboard package that comes with everything you need to have a lot of fun on the water. Also have we mentioned that for every board purchased, Bluefin plant a tree? Great environmental credentials from this UK based business – it’s a thumbs up from us.

Keep your eyes peeled for offers on Bluefin’s website, I’ve seen them give a free electric sup pump or a free action camera with a paddleboard purchase.

About the author

Ollie Acton

Watersports Pro is managed by Ollie, who has been in the industry since 2007. A paddleboard and advanced windsurfing instructor, Ollie has travelled the world teaching these sports.

Now based on the South Coast of England, he shares his experience and knowledge on watersportspro.co.uk.

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• Stand Up Paddle Boards Bluefin SUP Reviews

Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” Inflatable SUP Review | 2024

• September 19, 2023

Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” iSUP: Overview

Whether you are going for a sunset joyride, loading up for a fishing trip, heading out for a few miles to get your heartrate up, or just getting on the water to cool down, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” is ready to go. This fully-featured board can be outfitted in just about any way you can imagine. Its wide outline and tail make it extremely stable for beginner paddlers, but it’s still capable of paddling efficiently for short distances. Whether you have never tried paddle boarding before or you are an advanced paddler, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” is an all-around iSUP that can take you all around.

— Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” Summary Ratings and Review —

Bluefin SUP Cruise Carbon 10'8"

• Construction & Durability
• Features and Versatility
• Maneuverability
• Check the Best Price on the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8”

Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8 iSUP Video Review

Construction and Durability

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” utilizes Bluefin’s ESL shell material and carbon fiber fabric rail reinforcements to increase overall durability, while a second air chamber provides a marginal safety measure in case of puncture or failure while on the water.

Bluefin has refreshed their iSUP lineup with a new, slightly lighter weight construction, but still utilizes a double-layer fusion shell, rail reinforcements, and two air chambers for the Cruise Carbon 10’8”.

Inside the board there is a high-density drop stitch core that gives the board a flat shape, high pressure rating, and rigid feel. The top and bottom knitted fabric layers are covered with Bluefin’s Exo Surface Laminate (ESL) PVC material. This is a double-layer fusion material that uses a liquid PVC layer to seal the drop stitch fabric and adhere the outer layer of reinforced PVC tarpaulin to the board.

The top and bottom of the board are joined together with a machine-glued internal rail layer and a second, wider layer of PVC is glued around the board again for

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” has two air chambers, both made the same way. The outer chamber and inner chamber are made separately and are then connected together with a wide PVC tape on both the top and bottom of the board. The PVC and the pressure once the board is inflated keeps the two sections tightly connected and acting as a single unit.

The outer rail of the board also has Bluefin’s Flex Reduction System – a carbon fiber fabric material that is sandwiched against the board with an extra layer of PVC on the outside. These rail reinforcements do add some rigidity to the board, however the biggest improvement they make to any board is drastically increasing the abrasion and puncture resistance to the rails – one of the hardest hit areas of the board.

Once the deck pad and other features are added to the board, the final weight comes out to just under 30 lbs. Each air chamber is rated for a maximum inflation pressure of 15 PSI. With the heavy weight, double air chamber and carbon fiber fabric rails I was really interested in seeing how the Cruise Carbon 10’8” would do in our bend test.

Our dry land bend test uses a 170 lbs static weight placed on the board in the middle of a seven-foot span. Once it was loaded up, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” bent 1.575” (4.0 cm). This was more of a bend than I was expecting and is just a hair more than our running average across all boards (1.56”). I feel that this result is primarily driven by the relatively lower maximum inflation pressure of just 15 PSI. I have a feeling that a higher maximum pressure of even just 18 PSI would likely improve this testing performance. But, as with all iSUPs, the more important rigidity test is on the water.

Once you’re standing on the board on the water, it’s a very different picture. I couldn’t feel any noticeable flex while standing and paddling at a normal cruising pace. Walking on the board was easy, but I could feel some slight flex through the board. It wasn’t enough to impact stability, but I could feel it. Bouncing on the board generated a fairly high amount of flex with a predictable but slightly tight feeling rebound. While sprinting with the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” I did notice a mild amount of flex in the board, but not enough that I felt it significantly impacted the board’s speed.

Overall, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” is built with durability in mind. The heavy duty materials, carbon fiber reinforced rails, and dual air chamber are all designed to give you a solid feel on the water that won’t let you down.

Specifications

Features, accessories and versatility.

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” is a fully-featured all-around iSUP that can just as easily handle an overnight fishing trip as a casual cruise.

Bluefin has always been known for their very inclusive accessory kits. The Cruise Carbon 10’8” comes with your standard accessories like a coiled leash, repair kit, carbon fiber/nylon paddle, fins, and double chamber pump. It also includes a carrying strap and waterproof phone case. All of these items fit easily into the heavy-duty roller bag that has a stow-away backpack harness. While the Cruise Carbon 10’8” does not include a full kayak conversion kit, the paddle is compatible with an additional blade.

With all of these features and accessories, there isn’t much you can’t do with the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8”.

The Bluefin Drive Carbon paddle is a user-friendly paddle well suited to match the intended paddling style of the Cruise Carbon 10’8”.

The Drive Carbon paddle is a three piece paddle that uses carbon fiber for the shaft and handle sections along with a nylon paddle blade. The paddle shaft is designed to work as both a SUP paddle and a kayak paddle with an optional second paddle blade. At nearly 34 ounces, this paddle is neither particularly light nor heavy for a kit paddle, and the overall feel is well balanced in the hand.

The blade and shaft both have a moderate amount of flex while paddling. This gives the paddle a softer feel that is more comfortable over long periods of time. However, it does limit the amount of power you can transfer through the paddle with a given stroke.

For casual cruising, the Drive Carbon paddle does a great job of propelling the board at reasonable speeds. It is a little difficult to sprint with as the larger blade can become difficult to move quickly.

Adjusting the length of the paddle is simple, however there is no indexing groove so you will need to make sure to properly align the handle and the blade each time you change the length.

The handle is a tubular T-grip with a rubberized coating. It’s quite comfortable in the hand and gives you a secure grip without using a potentially irritating texture.

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” is very stable thanks to its wide tail and oversize shape.

First, the Cruise Carbon 10’8” is specified to be 32.25” wide (82cm). Our board measured a full 33” through the standing area. That’s a significantly wider size than specified, but it does lend the board to having even better stability.

While standing on the board I didn’t feel any undue rolling or twitching, and with a near 30 lbs board weight I wouldn’t expect it to. Heavier paddle boards will resist tilting better than lighter boards. The extra width in the standing area and the very wide tail give the Cruise Carbon 10’8” a very confidence-inspiring feel on the water.

It did remain pleasantly stable when tilting on its rail, however the more pronounced taper in the front does slightly detract from this secondary stability and I did not find it quite as easy to hold on its edge as I expected.

The deck pad provides excellent grip for both bare feet and shoes while moving on the board, and the extended length in the back makes it easier to get your weight over the tail for pivot turning compared to the previous model. Once your weight is back over the fins, the wide tail provides loads of support as you lift the nose to turn. I did find that the large tail had more resistance through the water and made pivot turning a little less smooth than boards with a smaller tail, however the extra stability is worth it for those just starting out with these more advanced maneuvers.

The Cruise Carbon 10’8”, as the name might imply, is a cruiser-style all-around iSUP. It’s designed primarily for casual paddling rather than top speed, but still paddles efficiently.

In our speed testing, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” did reasonably well on the sprints with an average sustained sprint speed of 5.1 MPH and a peak speed of 5.6 MPH. Considering it’s 33” width and modest length, this is pretty good, but not at the top of the class. I did notice some flex in the board and more difficulty maintaining course while sprinting.

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” offers more to paddlers who are moving at a more casual cruising speed rather than a high-octane sprint. At a leisurely 25 strokes per minute, the Cruise Carbon 10’8” nets an average speed of 3.3 MPH. That’s very reasonable for a cruiser-style iSUP. Once the board is up to cruising speed each paddle stroke is able to propel the board just over 19 feet before slowing down giving it a gliding ratio of 1.8 board-lengths per stroke. That’s quite good for a board of this size. We would normally expect a board like the Cruise Carbon 10’8” to have a glide closer to 1.6 board lengths per stroke.

What this really means is that the Cruise Carbon 10’8” paddles very efficiently at a cruising pace, making it easy to let the miles drift by.

Maneuverability and Tracking

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” does a great job of balancing maneuverability and tracking performance with just a slight lean towards agility.

Cruiser iSUPs tend to highly favor maneuverability over straight line tracking. The Cruise Carbon 10’8” has a good balance of both, but still makes it very easy to turn.

With forward sweep strokes only (paddling in an arc from nose to tail) the Cruise Carbon 10’8” turns a full circle in just over 6.5 strokes on average. This isn’t the fastest result we’ve seen for a board this size, but it’s still very manageable. Turns of up to 90° can usually be made in just 1-2 strokes. Throwing things in reverse turns the board much more quickly, needing only 4 strokes on average to spin in a full circle.

There are more efficient techniques for turning that work well with the Cruise Carbon 10’8” as well. Smaller course changes are easily handled with bow-draw strokes that let you continue paddling forward. The wide tail and stable shape make it very easy to move to the back of the board for snappy pivot turns that will let you do an about face in just a single-stroke (with a bit of practice).

Straight line tracking with the Cruise Carbon 10’8” is just a little below average for iSUPs of its size and shape. In our 10-stroke tracking test, the Cruise Carbon 10’8” deviated an average of 20° off course over 10 paddle strokes on one side with all three fins installed. Even though it’s not a super high performer in this category, it still does well for casual paddling. Most folks won’t be taking 10 strokes at a time before switching sides. With just a handful of strokes at a time, the Cruise Carbon 10’8” stays on course much better without the need for as much steering. When it does come time to steer the board, it responds very well to minor adjustments.

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” has three fin boxes in a 2+1 configuration and comes with a complete set of fins. The center fin box is a standard US fin box and is equipped with a 9” surf-style fin. The two side fin boxes use a tool-less fliplock fin box and come with matching 4.5” fins. The center finbox’s standard design makes it compatible with thousands of different fins so you can customize your maneuverability and tracking performance. If you want more tracking, a larger touring-style fin will help with that. If you want to paddle in shallower areas or want more maneuverability you can easily install a 4.5” gummy fin in the center box. You can also chose to run the Cruise Carbon 10’8” with all three fins as we did for our testing, with just the center fin, or with just the side fins.

Warranty and Customer Support

Bluefin offers a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty for their inflatable paddle boards, including the Cruise Carbon 10’8”. Additionally, all of Bluefin’s accessories are covered by a 12 month warranty. Bluefin also offers a 60-day return window for unused items if you decide you’d like a different model iSUP. If you have any questions, Bluefin customer service is available via email, online chat, and social media.

Overall Impressions/Review Summary

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” is an excellent cruiser-style all-around iSUP. The extra width in the middle of the board and the extra wide tail give it excellent stability for paddlers of all skill levels, and is a great option for new paddlers just starting to get their feet wet. The fully-featured board makes it easy to carry anything you’d need with you for a day (or even two) on the water, and the fin setup is quite versatile to match your paddling style and environment. The cherry on top is certainly Bluefin’s warranty. A 5 year warranty gives you great piece of mind, and the high quality construction means that you’ll be paddling the Cruise Carbon 10’8” for much longer than that.

Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” iSUP FAQ

What is the difference between the bluefin cruise carbon 10’8” and bluefin cruise 10’8”.

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” is Bluefin’s premium all-around iSUP. It has a second air chamber for increased rigidity and an extra safety margin; it also has the Flex Reduction System carbon fiber fabric rail reinforcements for another increase in stiffness and durability against abrasion and punctures.

Should I get the Cruise Carbon 10’8” or the Cruise Carbon 12’?

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” is a cruiser-style all-around that’s great for shorter trips, extra stability, paddling with a kid or pet, and general SUP use. The Cruise Carbon 12’ is closer to a touring-style board that is a little narrower and noticeably faster and less maneuverable. Both have a full feature set that can be used for a variety of activities.

Is the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” heavy?

The Cruise Carbon 10’8” weighs just under 30 lbs for the board only and just under 50 lbs with the entire kit (including the bag). While this is definitely heavy for this size iSUP, the weight is not highly noticeable once you are on the water.

How long does it take to inflate the Cruise Carbon 10’8”?

It takes about 8-10 minutes to fully inflate the Cruise Carbon 10’8” using the included hand pump.

Does the Cruise Carbon 10’8” come with a kayak conversion kit?

No, the Cruise Carbon 10’8” does not include the kayak conversion kit. However, Bluefin does have one available designed to work with the Cruise Carbon 10’8”, and the Cruise Carbon 12’ does include this kit.

Need more details about the weight.

We have a newly updated review coming out for the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ very shortly. The new version of the board is 30 lbs (the previous version was close to 35 lbs for the board only). The full kit is approximately 48 pounds.

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Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ SUP Review

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ is one of our favorites as a complete package. A high-quality, very robust construction, coupled with excellent build quality and all this at a reasonable price makes it for us the generally best all-round SUP which we gladly recommend for purchase .

Are there also downsides? Find out more in our detailed test.

10'8" / 327cm

33" / 84cm, 6" / 15cm.

Allround, Yoga

Einsteiger, Fortgeschrittene

450-700$ (specification without guarantee)

Table of contents

Bluefin cruise 108 specs.

The Bluefin Cruise has a length of 327cm (10’8″) and 82.5 cm (32″) width. With these dimensions, it strongly corresponds to a typical all-round SUP. That is, the focus of the board is mainly on stability and riding pleasure.

This is because an all-round SUP offers high tipping stability due to a large contact surface on the water. Which makes it perfect for beginners and novices who still find it a bit difficult to keep their balance on the board. Nevertheless, it remains very maneuverable with this length. Interesting about the Bluefin Cruise is the shape, which is more pointed in the front area (nose) than other all-round boards. 

Despite the somewhat minimized water displacement due to this shape, someone who wants to paddle very long distances or has decidedly sporty ambitions would not be well advised with such an all-round SUP. For this purpose, there are special racing and touring boards. These offer, due to their longer, narrower shape less resistance in the water, whereby more speed is achieved with less effort. However, this better performance must be bought with significantly more balance and a more difficult maneuverability, due to the long design. 

Although the exact volume (estimated at about 130 liters) is not specified, the Bluefin Cruise has decent buoyancy, making it equally suitable for heavier paddlers. Because, among other things, thanks to the thickness of 15cm (6″), the board is extremely stiff. In practice, this means that the board does not bend even under heavy load and the riding characteristics remain very good. The load capacity of 130 kg, which the manufacturer specifies, is realistic in our opinion. Thus, it can also be used well in pairs or with a dog, for example. 

With a weight of 11.3 kg, the Bluefin Cruse Board can of course not keep up with the lightest boards (+/- 9 kg). However, with its double-layer construction, it is also much more robust than many of its competitors.

Pro & Contra

• excellent workmanship & stiffness
• high payload (up to 130 kg)
• High tipping stability, Lies very stable in the water
• High quality backpack with thick shoulder straps
• balanced ride characteristics
• integrated action cam mount
• Kayak seat & paddle included
• 5 year warranty
• Fiberglass paddle rather simple design
• The board is not always available

Construction and quality of the Bluefin SUP

Due to the robust construction and high quality of workmanship, the Bluefin products clearly stand out from other cheaper boards.

An inflatable SUP (iSUP) is primarily made possible by a drop-stitch core. In this process, the bottom layer is interwoven with the top layer with a thousand threads at millimeter intervals. This gives the board the right thickness and shape when inflated.

According to the manufacturer, the Bluefin Cruise uses a particularly tight drop stitch process with even more threads. 

A PVC layer is then glued to this core, which creates the visible outer shell of a SUP. Again, Bluefin uses the higher quality double-layer construction. This means not just one PVC layer, but two, are glued together. In addition, the edges (rails) are reinforced with an additional layer. Due to the more material used, the board is heavier, but much more robust. 

The maximum pressure, which is specified by the manufacturer Bluefin with 26psi (approx. 1.79 bar), also speaks for the robustness of the board. Fortunately, in reality it only needs to be pumped up 15-18psi. Because most pumps would not even be able to build up such a high pressure. The 26psi is thus more of a marketing feature, with which Bluefin wants to show how much confidence they have in the construction of their board.

The 5 year warranty that Bluefin gives for the SUP also speaks for this confidence. 5 years is a long time for such a product and indicates that you will enjoy your board for a very long time. 

The Bluefin Cruise costs compared to other SUPs already a little more, but these can not keep up in terms of quality. In contrast to the cheaper models, the Bluefin SUPs usually do not have any glue residues, bubbles or other features of poor workmanship.

Performance in the water of the Bluefin Cruise

The aforementioned high-quality construction is also evident in the water, among other things, through extreme stiffness. If a SUP bends like a banana, this naturally has a negative impact on the riding characteristics. But not so with the Bluefin Cruise. Even at higher loads, only a minimal curvature is noticeable.

Thus, it is ideally suited for relaxed trips on the lake or rivers alone or in pairs. Of course, shorter trips are well possible with it, but the focus is certainly on “relaxed”. 

The high tilt stability ensures an optimal feeling of safety even for beginners. Only too well we can remember our first ride on a SUP. Although we have a good balance due to various board sports, it took some time until we had a secure stand and full confidence in this wobbly sports equipment. In these moments it helps extremely when a board is as stable on the water as the Bluefin Cruise. 

Thanks to the balanced length and the kick pad, the board is easy to turn and fast turns are possible without any problems. 

Thus, it offers, like many boards the all-round typical driving characteristics. A difference to other all-rounders can be seen with the slightly more pointed shape. In contrast to a completely round nose, the driving resistance is somewhat reduced due to the improved water break. This helps noticeably with the acceleration of the board. 

Even if we were never able to test it, we assume that you can ride smaller waves with the Bluefin Cruise. The slightly upturned nose prevents you from dipping the tip when riding down the face of the wave. A feature that also helps on a choppy lake. Because in choppy water you can ride over small waves effortlessly.

Bluefin Cruise Board Features

First, the common features that all SUPs offer today. For example, the standing surface is covered with an EVA pad. Thanks to the non-slip diamond structure, you have enough grip on the board even when wet. 

Various D-rings allow the attachment of additional accessories. Such as the kayak seat included in the scope of delivery. In addition, there is a luggage net in the nose area of the board. Thanks to these luggage elastics, smaller items such as drybags etc. can be stowed effortlessly. 

In the middle of the SUP is the classic carrying handle. However, Bluefin goes further here than many of their competitors. In addition, there are additional carrying handles at the front of the tip and at the back of the tail. Thus, the board can be comfortably transported by several people together and easily launched.

In addition, the board is equipped with a mounting option for a camera. Here can be mounted by an action cam mount, for example, a GoPro or via the ¼ thread a classic camera. Thus, it is guaranteed that you can effortlessly document all the beautiful moments on the water. 

The Bluefin Cruise has 3 fins, which can all be dismantled. The assembly is possible without any problem without tools. To do this, the robust plastic fins are inserted into the boxes on the SUP and fixed at the back with a lever. However, the Smart-Lock system used by Bluefin is unfortunately proprietary. That is, the classic plug-in fins, which many other SUPs have, can not be used here. Fins with the US finbox system can be used, however.

Accessories of the Bluefin Cruise Set

The Bluefin Cruise comes with a complete set of basic SUP equipment. Especially for beginners this is ideal. If purchased individually, all the accessories would easily cost about 200€. In addition, the included items are consistently of high quality, which is not the case with many other complete sets. 

The paddle is a three-piece fiberglass paddle. This is therefore pleasantly light and can be put together and fixed within seconds without tools. Of course, there are especially in the paddle area even higher-quality products, among other things, made of carbon: However, the supplied by Bluefin for the area of use with an all-round SUP long enough. 

As a special feature, it can be converted to a double paddle with the enclosed center piece and second paddle blade. Thus, one is also already equipped for a kayak trip. 

The kayak seat is included in the delivery. This can be easily attached with straps to the D-rings on the stand surface. Unlike many other seats, this one from Bluefin is surprisingly comfortable. A light padding gives the back a good support, so that nothing stands in the way of the trip with the SUP kayak. 

For inflation, you get a high-quality double-stroke pump. Something confusing is unfortunately the target pressure of the board. On the valve is a filling amount of 15-18 PSI indicated. The manufacturer says that the board can withstand a pressure of 28 PSI and on the pressure gauge display of the pump you are from 15 PSI in the “orange” range. We assume that Bluefin is simply doing good marketing by stating 28 PSI and that the pump was not made specifically for this SUP and is therefore not correctly marked with a higher pressure.

We trust the instructions. Inflating to the specified target pressure of 15-18 PSI can be done in about 7 minutes. However, the pump unfortunately does not have the function to pump out the air. 

The supplied backpack is, like everything else, also processed in high quality. Sufficiently large for the SUP and accessories everything can be stowed easily. Even if you certainly do not want to go on longer hikes with the weight of 11.3 kg of the board, the backpack offers a high wearing comfort thanks to the wide, padded shoulder straps. 

With the rolled up leash (Coilde Leash) to secure the board, the repair kit to the dry cover for the smartphone, the scope of delivery indeed leaves nothing to be desired.

Bluefin SUP the Brand

Bluefin SUP was founded in 2013 and is thus a relatively young brand. However, despite not being in the SUP sport for that long compared to many of its competitors, it offers extremely high-quality and innovative products . 

Based in West Yorkshire, UK you can tell that the company was founded by a group of water sports enthusiasts. This is because you can feel the ambition to offer good SUPs with a fair price-performance ratio. This is also supported by the extraordinary 5-year warranty that Bluefin gives on their SUP boards.

We can very well understand why the Bluefin Cruise is one of the best-selling SUP boards. The focus on a robust construction and high build quality including the extensive accessories is already an extremely good argument. However, combined with the manufacturer’s confidence in their product with a 5 year warranty makes this offer almost unbeatable. 

Is it the perfect stand up paddle board for everyone? No, clearly it isn’t. For those who like to go on long tours or are very athletic, this is not for you. But he would be in a review about an all-round SUP already from the beginning at the wrong article. 

Even those who are on the hunt for a bargain will find much cheaper boards. 

Although, if you look at the overall package, you could talk about a bargain despite the slightly higher price here. Because especially beginners, who have to buy various accessories separately, get with the Bluefin Cruise a complete set , which will give very long pleasure.

Aldi SUP: Zray Fury Premium 10’6″ Review

Just like Lidl, Aldi has also jumped on the trend with a Stand Up Paddle Board. This is a modified version of the Fury Pro 10’6″ from the well-known brand Zray. In our test, we took a closer look at the SUP from Aldi, the Zray Fury Premium 10’6″.

Hydro-Force Oceana 10’ SUP Review

For price-conscious SUP beginners and recreational paddlers who want to take a leisurely spin on the lake or calm river from time to time, the Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana is an interesting paddleboard.

Aqua Marina Vapor 10’4” Review

The Aqua Marina Vapor 10’4″ is a classic family and beginner SUP board. As an all-round board, it has a rounded shape and wide footprint of 79 cm (31″). These two features make it ideal for beginners who want to make their first attempts at Stand Up Paddling.

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Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Review

• Build: Inflatable
• Skill: Beginner / Advanced
• Brand: Bluefin
• Our score: 9.8 | Read our conclusion
• This board can be used for:

The perfect all-around Stand Up Paddle Board does exist!

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ is the perfect versatile board suited for all all-around paddle boarding. The board is incredibly hard and almost unbreakable , unlike any inflatable ever seen. This amazing board comes with a convertible carbon paddle, coiled leash, kayak seat, triple action pump, and more. A purchase nobody will regret ! Before we go into the review, I want to let you know that there are 3 different sizes of the Bluefin Cruise Carbon. Although here I’m talking mostly about the 10’8, the features are the same for all three, and the only difference is the length which, of course, changes the way you perceive and use the board. Throughout this text, you will also see pictures of all three, so you have a better understanding of what you’re getting.

This year Bluefin released the new&improved Cruise Carbon, and I was lucky enough to get one of the first boards to test. We have tested the two versions of these boards extensively, and you will see a lot of personal pictures of us on these two boards. The latest Cruise Carbon 2023 version is the DARKER SUP while the old Cruise version is in BLUE. In this review below, I will show you how we experienced these paddle boards.

Let’s get to it then!

Bluefin Cruise NEW Version Pros and Cons

• Great price for a full package with the complete accessories pack
• The NEW Carbon is now 24lbs or 10.9kg – a lot lighter than the OLD version! ⭐️
• Extra Carrying strap in the package (and D-ring to attach them)
• The action mount on the nose has a D-ring too
• SUP has two compartments – AIRDUO double chamber stiffening technology which makes the board ultra-strong and packed with power.
• Customizable fin setups for different water conditions
• Very stable and reliable board
• Great for beginners and advanced boarders
• Amazing online reviews; everyone loves this board!
• Bungee cords in front and back
• Convertible paddle and kayak seat included
• Very big grip deck with a kick pad for optimal stability during maneuvering
• The OLD Carbon board is quite heavy (33 LBS) while the NEW Carbon is significantly lighter

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon is most suitable for the following:

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon offers a complete package and the most sturdy inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard available on the market. So, this is basically recommended for everyone who wants an all-around paddle board that can be used for multiple purposes . Only if you are looking for a paddle board for very specific purposes like fishing, yoga, or racing and don’t want to do anything else with your board, this would not be the best choice for you.

🔥Check out my FULL REVIEW of the NEW Cruise Carbon! ↓🔥

Although if you’re looking for the perfect touring board , you should surely check out the 12′ version of this board!

The board is very stable and has a length of 10’8″ long and 32″ width . So it is a very stable board, but because of the width, it is clearly not meant for racing and reaching high speeds ( which is not the purpose of an all-around paddle board , anyway). But the pointy nose of the board does allow you to make some speed on this sporty model.

This board offers the best value for money possible, and it will give you a very long time of paddling pleasure. Bluefin SUP offers an amazing 5-year warranty on all of their boards! (only matched by Red Paddle). They also offer 1-year manufacturing warranty on the included accessories. So you can be sure you will love the board, and it will not break anytime soon. The insane quality and the very long warranty ensure the best of the best gear. The board is very stable and super stiff, so you will have a smooth ride every time. This all-around board is your best versatile board no matter what you want to do.

Max Rider Weight

Max air pressure.

Primary use All Round / Relaxing / Touring / Pets / Family

Speed on the water The board is designed for every paddler with an all-around purpose, so speed is not the main focus. But because of the pointy nose it is possible to reach some higher speeds than the regular shaped all-around paddle boards. Also, the reinforced rails and stringer help to increase speed while maintaining stability.

Transport The NEW CRUISE CARBON SUP has a weight of 24 lbs / 10.9 kg, which is improved compared to the previous version, which was 15 kg or 33 lbs. You can take it with you fairly easily thanks to the wheeled backpack, which is a fantastic improvement to its gear!

Stability The 32″ width makes the board more stable than your average 30″ width board, which is good for beginners to start on. The 6″ thickness and the sturdy material offer even more stability and support.

My own experience

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8 Paddleboard on the water, and I have to say, it was an amazing experience! The Bluefin Cruise Carbon is so stiff I could not believe it. As soon as I stepped onto the board, I could feel its sturdy and stable design. Despite being an inflatable paddleboard, it felt incredibly rigid and responsive, even in choppy waters.

It can be inflated up to 28 PSI , but even at the regular 15 PSI, it felt incredibly stiff because of the used material. The ride was very smooth on calm water and even the wilder sea (as far as it can get wild in the Netherlands ;-))

You can just feel the quality of this board when you touch it and sense how stiff and stable it is. The same goes for the high-quality paddle board accessories . Inflating the boards was done in about 5 minutes , and then I was ready to get out on the water.

⭐️Compare Bluefin Boards To Make The Best Choice⭐️

I started paddling out towards the open water and was immediately impressed by how easy it was to maneuver . The board felt incredibly agile and responsive to my every move, making it easy to navigate through the waves. I also love how lightweight it is, which made it easy to carry around.

The board gave me an incredibly stable feeling and made it extremely easy to paddle through the water. The paddle is light and sturdy , so I did not exhaust me too quickly, which happens a lot faster with an aluminum paddle.

I felt very secure and did not hesitate to stay on this board for a longer time. As the board has both bungee cords on the front the back , it was easy to take all the necessary supplies . I like to take my water bottle and some snacks to eat in the water. (I prefer some nuts for the quick energy, but also, pomegranate is great on the go!)

I like that the board has such a big and effective grip deck , that feels very soft on my feet and has a great grip so I will never slip. This did not happen during the trip once, but then again I did not fall in the water so I have honestly not experienced this with wet feet.

As said I like it on both the quiet river and on the sea (the North Sea is my only “wild” option, mostly I paddle on lakes) and it felt stable on both surfaces. I like that Bluefin did not forget to add a kick pad at the end of the board so it is easy to make turns, where this usually is a bit harder when you have a 6″ thick board. Especially on ones without a kick pad. Because of the three fins on the bottom (of which the big one is removable) it was easy to keep a straight line without much effort. So the board did everything I wanted and I felt really comfortable out on the water .

Want to learn more?  Check out   the best Inflatable paddle board for 2023!

Once I got out into deeper waters, I was able to pick up some speed and test the board’s performance. I was blown away by how fast, straight line and efficient it was, thanks to its streamlined design and carbon fiber shaft paddle . It was also incredibly comfortable to stand on for long periods, thanks to the soft and grippy EVA foam deck pad.

This is the best paddleboarding experience I have had so far, and it is hard to imagine that something better will come along soon, especially for a price in this range. None of it disappoints, and there is so much included that you really never need anything again to keep paddle boarding. ( Unless you break stuff, but I generally only do that only with computers ;)).

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, I highly recommend giving it a try!

Important features

• FRS carbon composite rail, 1000 Denier Exo Surface Laminate & Pro-Weave Drop Stitch
• The non-slip croco-diamond deck pad is comfortable underfoot, offering extra grip & traction
• 14 D-rings. Bungee cords on front and back, one for attaching your leash, 4 for the included kayak-seat
• 5 Comfortable grip handles for carrying, in the middle of the board, the front, back and both sides
• Raised-tail kickpad for stability during all your tricks
• Fixed Action Camera Mount on the front of the board

Fins The Bluefin Cruise Carbon board has 2 small fins and one big fin, of which the big fin is removable. The fins are high quality and very strong. The big fin is easily attachable and removable without tools due to the US Box Fin System.

Material The board is made out of FRS carbon composite rail, 1000 Denier Exo Surface Laminate & Pro-Weave Drop Stitch . 11200 stitches of 500 denier space yarn per square meter make for one rigid bad boy!

Inflate/deflate The Bluefin Cruise Carbon Paddle Board is inflated in only 5 mins with the supplied Triple Action Hand Pump. The board can be inflated up to 28 PSI, but the recommended pressure is 15-18 PSI.

Warranty Bluefin offers an amazing 5-year warranty on the board and a 1-year warranty on the accessories (manufacturing warranty for accessories)

Design The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8 SUP features a grey-blue body instead of the standard light blue design the old Carbon had. It is sleek and modern, with a carbon fiber finish that is sure to turn heads on the water. It also includes a detachable cargo bungee system for carrying gear, reflective D-ring mounts for added safety and visibility, and a center handle and paddle stay for convenient storage.

In the package of the OLD Bluefin Cruise Carbon

The paddle that is included with the Bluefin Cruise Carbon is a Bluefin 3-Piece adjustable and convertible paddle , which is lightweight and very strong and durable because it is made out of carbon fiber. It can not only be used as a SUP paddle, but also as a kayak paddle. Which is perfect together with the supplied kayak seat .

The Old Bluefin Cruise Comes With a Kayak Seat 🙌🏻

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon includes a very easy and comfortable triple-action hand pump. There are three different settings that can be used to inflate the board. The third is most effective because it inflates the board when pulling it up and when pressing it down. The only reason this pump is not in my Best SUP Pumps guide is because it is not sold separately .

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon paddle board leash is a coiled leash , which is great because it only extends if you actually fall in the water . So it is never in your way when you are paddling. The leash can easily be connected to the D-ring on the back of the board.

The Bluefin paddle board backpack is very comfortable because of the extra back and strap padding on the extra wide straps. Its design was updated again this year and now it is more comfortable and can hold a lot more. It has some handy outside pockets, and the zippers are webbing-reinforced . This can easily hold your Bluefin Cruise Carbon paddle board and all accessories.

In the package of the NEW Bluefin Cruise Carbon

Wheeled backpack.

The NEW Cruise Carbon backpack is upgraded with wheels. That’s a major improvement! Even though the new Carbon board is now almost 10 pounds lighter , being able not to carry it on your back is a huge plus! It features padded straps and back support for comfortable carrying.

The new backpack has more space and feels more compact compared to the old one and feels more sturdy overall.

The New & Improved Paddle

This high-quality carbon fiber paddle is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for all paddlers. It’s easily adjustable to different lengths and comes in three parts : a fiberglass shaft with a PVC blade , and an extra rubber grip for added comfort.

The paddle can be extended from 175cm to 210cm and even converted into a kayak paddle with an additional blade (sold separately). The only downside is that some may find the blade a bit large.

Triple-Action Pump

The pump is a convenient triple-action pump, the Swift Maxi, where you can assemble the handles and base plate yourself. This is convenient for compact storage of the pump. The deflate function is very nice to use when deflating the board.

Removable Fin s

This board has three removable fins in use. It includes one center fin and two smaller side fins. The center fin uses a US box fin system, for which you need a screw. Using the smart-lock system you insert the side fins.

A repair kit is provided with a lever for the valve and two extra pieces of PVC material. Unfortunately, no glue is included. It does include reflective stickers though, so you ensure good visibility.

Safety Leash

This is a crucial safety accessory that attaches to the paddleboard and keeps you connected to it in case you fall off. The included leash is an ankle coiled leash so it won’t bother you when you put it to use.

Waterproof Phone Case

The phone case is waterproof which is very handy for supping. It is also large enough so that almost any phone will fit.

Optional accessories (not included)

Restube classic Because extra safety measures never hurt anyone!

Bluefin Electric SUP pump For those who don’t want the exercise before getting on the board.

Difference between an Inflatable board and a Hard board

Advantages inflatable board.

• Easy to take on holiday (even on the plane)
• Easy to store in the winter days
• Much cheaper
• Technology has improved greatly over the past 10 years. For this reason, these boards are now almost hard to distinguish from hard boards

Advantages Hardboard

• More speed, which is important if you are a professional
• Easier to make sharp turns on the water because the board is thinner
• No inflation needed, you can get on the water right away

Other reviews of the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board online

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon is a popular board, which means it has a lot of reviews online.

A short overview of some of these reviews below:

Rating 9.9/10. “Buying the Bluefin Cruise Carbon is a no brainer if you’re an average-sized beginner or an experienced user who wants an extremely durable and rigid board, a 5-year warranty, and some premium features.” Supboardguide.com

“The Bluefin Cruise Carbon is one of the best SUP boards. With the very good workmanship, the extremely robust construction, the high-quality accessories, which are significantly better than many low-cost SUP boards, and the extensive scope of delivery, the board convinced us.” Welovewatersports.com

“Although this paddleboard is cheaper than most iSUPs, users confirm that it is still of very high-quality. All the included accessories, and especially the bag, are well made. Paddleboarders are happy that they can kayak and SUP without having to buy two different products.” Standuppadleboardsreview.com

“If you’re in the market for an inflatable SUP, the Cruise Carbon 10’8” is a board that should be on your radar. This fun board offers unbelievable stiffness, rock-solid stability, loads of premium features, and a 5-year warranty — making it one of the most compelling iSUPs we’ve seen so far for 2021.” Inflatableboarder.com

Rating 4.6/5. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Our experience with customer service was very positive and we highly recommend this iSUP for those who like having the option to switch easily between paddle boarding and kayaking” – Based on 450+ (!) customer reviews as of 10th of May 2023. Amazon.com

Frequently Asked Questions about the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board

What is the size of the bluefin cruise carbon 10’8″ paddle board.

Length: 10’8″ Width: 32″, Thickness: 6″

What is the maximum carrying capacity of the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board?

287 lbs / 130 kg

What is included when purchasing the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board?

Bluefin backpack, Convertible and height adjustable carbon paddle, Bluefin coiled leash, Triple Action Hand Pump, Kayak seat

What is the weight of the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board?

The old version is 33 lbs / 15 kg while the new version is 24lbs / 10.9 kg

How many fins does the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board have?

It has 3 removable fins, 2 small fins and one big center fin

How many D-rings does the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board have?

14 D-rings. Bungee cords on front and back, one for attaching your leash, 4 for optional kayak-seat.

How long is the warranty on the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board?

The warranty on this board is 5 years

Does the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board have an action-camera mount?

How many handles does the bluefin cruise carbon 10’8″ paddle board have.

It has 5 handles, on the front, middle, back and both sides of the board

What pressure can the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Paddle Board be inflated to?

It can be inflated up to 28 PSI, but the recommended pressure is 15-18 PSI

Update: What is the difference between the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 2023 and the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 2021?

Following the success of the regular Bluefin cruise line, Bluefin launched Cruise Carbon in 2019. The Bluefin Cruise Carbon is packed with advanced features. The Air – Duo double-action chamber inflation & FRS carbon side rails are by far the most rigid inflatable paddle board as of late. They also added a cool hip look for 2021 but now for 2023 that has been upgraded once again and it looks even better!

In the latter part of 2019, Bluefin released the all-new smart lock fin system as well as a much bolder blue and teal patterns also with enhanced durability. The improvements are not limited to the valve and deck, but you’ll also find removable side fins alongside a larger central fin. This instantly boosts versatility, allowing you to paddle easier in a variety of different conditions.

Conclusion – Should I buy this board?

This is the very best all-around inflatable Stand Up Paddle board you can purchase and is surely a must-buy! The package you get is incredible and next to the board that is made out of the strongest material you get all the best accessories and the incredible 5 year warranty to make sure you will not run into problems soon. The list of pros of this board is a very long one. The incredibly strong and stiff board , the convertible carbon paddle , kayak seat , triple action hand pump, backpack and coiled leash , 14 D-rings , the big grip deck with kick pad , action camera mount , 5 grip handles , 3 fins (of which the big one is removable), incredible customer service and 5 year warranty …. It has everything you could possibly ever need! No matter if you’ve been paddling before or if you have no experience, this board is the best choice for anyone who wants the best quality all-around Stand Up Paddle board . The advantages above are so extensive and the 5 year warranty shows that Bluefin really stands behind their product. This is also one of the very few top quality boards, if not the only one, that includes a convertible carbon paddle and a kayak seat in the package. So even if you prefer sitting down on your Stand Up Paddle board or even have to because of physical problems, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon will accommodate you perfectly. The price is not the cheapest SUP out there, but also not near some of the top boards it can easily compete with. For quality this high and a package that is not missing a single thing this is an incredible price . All the online reviews and the 5 year warranty ensure that this is not a board you will get rid of soon and it is worth the investment. The Bluefin Cruise Carbon is the best all-around inflatable Stand Up Paddle board you can buy, no matter the price range.

What are your thoughts on the Bluefin Cruise Carbon Paddle Board? Did you purchase it or ever considered purchasing it? If not, what would a reason be to get a different board?

Which boards do you think could compete with this board or do you consider as even better? Let me know in the comments, I’m wondering if there are any different opinions!

And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest updates and news on paddleboarding. We love seeing our readers out on the water, so tag us in your photos and share your adventures with the SUPworld community. Happy paddling, everyone!

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Hi! My name is Tom. During the year I try to be on a paddle board as much as possible. By reading this blog you'll stay updated on everything I test on the water :)

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9 responses to “Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ Review”

Thanks for the great review! I’m still doubting if the Carbon version is worth the $350 extra compared to the normal Bluefin Cruise, what are your thoughts about this?

Hi Chris, Thanks for your comment! To be honest, no I don’t think so. In the Best paddle board for 2020 ( https://standuppaddleboardworld.com/best-inflatable-paddle-board/ ) page you’ll find that I DO think the Carbon has more to offer.

Performance of the board is better, as well as the accessories. However, personally I think $350 is a lot of money and I therefore recommend people to go for the ‘normal’ Cruise.

Thanks for reviewing Bluefin sup board. Do you know where we can test it before we buy it in Netherlands?

Kind regards,

Hi Dian, I’m not sure. However, I know Bluefin has a flexible return policy. Also, I would be surprised if you don’t like the board haha!

Hi Tom in your review you show pictures of the backpack with wheels. Thats not the same backpack we can see on Bluefin web page. So, can you tell which one comes with the bluefin 10’8 cruise carbon board? Tks José

This is indeed strange, as you can see on the pictures, I received a backpack with wheels with this board. To be honest I think Bluefin just copied the picture from the normal Bluefin Cruise to the Bluefin Cruise Carbon, but the normal Bluefin Cruise backpack did not have wheels and the Bluefin Carbon Cruise one did. They don’t even mention this, but with the Carbon Cruise you should get a backpack with wheels!

Have a great weekend!

This board is indeed exquisite quality, but man this board is so heavy to carry to the water. Good that the bag has wheels, but on wet grass or sand this is a lot. Backpack is so heavy, smaller people better get the normal Bluefin Cruise!

Yes totally agree. The review here massively underlays how heavy this board is. I have the carbon cruise 12 and it’s horrible to carry it any distance. The wheeled backpack is rubbish and the wheels cannot support the weight and splay out making moving it even more problematic. Front pocket drags on the ground if you do roll it, and wears through in no time.

I have the cruise carbon 10’8 and what a board. Backpack has wheels on it so even though I have a disability I can still move my backpack around, also has carry handle and back straps. The board itself is amazing. 15psi and as sturdy as anything. Also the deck cover is cushioned so feels nice underfoot. Paddle has 4 parts so can easily be made into a kayak paddle and the kayak seat came with it too. Great carry strap for the board when it’s inflated, making it easy to carry. I’m so glad I chose this board

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Review: Bluefin Cruise 10.8 Stand Up Paddle Board

A mega versatile, all round SUP with excellent responsiveness and good stability

The newly improved Bluefin Cruise 10.8 SUP is one of the most versatile SUP packages on the market. With enough storage for overnight camping, superb tracking and stability in even the most tricky conditions, and the ability to turn on a dime, it’s an ideal option for a variety of paddling adventures. Beginner and advanced paddlers alike will love how easy it is to set up and use. Plus, the added bonus of having a kayak conversion kit makes it even more appealing for years of paddle-powered fun.

Bluefin Cruise 10.8 SUP: The stats

Features of the bluefin cruise sup 10.8, gear storage.

Construction

Carry handles

Kayak conversion kit

Also included

Bluefin Cruise SUP 10.8 review

Updated and improved in 2019, Bluefin claims that the Cruise 10.8 Package is “the most stable, versatile, all-inclusive SUP package on the market”. And whilst I’ve not tested every SUP package on the market, I have taken the Cruise out in a variety of conditions. Together, the Cruise and I have battled for hours against strong headwinds. I’ve packed it up with camping gear for an overnight camping trip. We’ve cruised on calm, flat bays exploring inlets and caves. We’ve pushed through white water at the beach to get out to the rolling swell behind. And I’ve even attempted to ride some small waves on it – unsuccessfully, might I add!

Performance

As its name suggests, the Cruise does, indeed, cruise! Predictably, its ideal conditions are calm, flat waters on non-windy days in which the board glides through the water with ease and speed. It tracks excellently but is also very responsive, needing only subtle paddle adjustments to stay paddling on one side.

Of course, windy conditions prove to be a little more challenging. But I’ve been surprised at how well it stays on track. The pointed nose helps with this, especially when paddling straight into the wind. The nose cuts through the wind instead of battling against it. As a result, there is less resistance against the wind compared with a round nosed SUP that I paddle on the same day in the same conditions.

When it comes to stability, the Cruise performs as expected, though nothing out of the ordinary. It’s a little tippy when paddling on unpredictable swell in the sea. But in general, the 33 inches of width provides a good and stable platform to stand and paddle with confidence.

In most conditions, when inflated to around 15 PSI the rigidity of the board is very good. However, when tackling whitewater at the beach or paddling in unpredictable and bobbly swell, a little extra inflation will pay off.

Probably my favourite thing when it comes to performance, is how well the Cruise turns. You can turn in on a dime with minimal effort; it’s super responsive. This, coupled with its cruising capacity, is especially useful when attempting to surf the SUP on small waves. As soon as a bigger set comes through I am able to turn the board 180º in a couple of strokes and be powering out towards the incoming waves with what feels like efficiency and skill. Panic and desperation are usually also present! But either way, the result is the same: I am able to quickly get to where I want to be behind the breaking waves.

Ease of use

The Cruise takes around 7 minutes to inflate using the dual action pump that is included in the package. This gets it to just over 15 PSI, which is the minimum recommended inflation level. To get it up to 18 PSI (max), takes a few more minutes and a lot more muscle power! But, as mentioned, that extra few minutes of effort are worth it for a little bit more rigidity.

I’m 5’5” tall and though I’m moderately strong, I’ve not found the need to up my muscle power in order to comfortably carry the Cruise. It is, in fact, remarkably lightweight and easy to carry once inflated. It’s a five minute walk from my house to the beach via some very steep and awkward ‘steps’ that turn into rocks. Even with the paddle attached into the centre handle, I can easily deal with the board both down and back up again! The central handle is key for any type of carrying and without the paddle stay, I would have to go back up the steps to get the paddle.

The board is also quick and easy to deflate and rolls up easily. I very much enjoy how roomy the bag is. Even if you don’t manage to roll the board up super tightly, there’s still loads of room for the paddle, pump and kayak seat without having to cram it all in.

Versatility

The Cruise couldn’t actually be more versatile if it tried. It has plenty of gear storage for overnight camping trips without being long and heavy. Plus, there are D-rings along the sides that can be used to rig up bungees for more storage if needed. It also has the capacity to be paddled like a kayak. This is a big plus for me, especially in challenging conditions. The day when the head wind was getting just a little too much for my fatiguing shoulders to handle, I was able to quickly and easily set up the seat and convert the paddle into a kayak paddle. This not only gave my muscles a break and shared the load between more muscle groups, but it also made for more efficient paddling. The wind was so relentless that even switching the paddle from one hand to the other lost me ground. In the kayaking setup, however, I was able to keep my momentum going without the need to rest or switch sides.

The board is also suitable for paddling in a variety of conditions and I hope to make some more SUP surfing attempts (on small waves) in the future!

What I love the most about the Bluefin Cruise SUP 10.8

I love how responsive the board is. It’s super quick to turn and in the right conditions it zooms along! I also like how versatile it is. AND, how easy it is to carry, either once inflated or packed up in the backpack to carry hard to reach locations.

What I don’t love so much about the Bluefin Cruise SUP 10.8

Though still very good, I was expecting the rigidity to be a little better when paddling in more challenging conditions. But, as mentioned, extra inflation helps with this.

Whether you’re new to paddle boarding or are looking to upgrade to something more high performing than your first board, the Bluefin Cruise 10.8 SUP is a superb option to consider. With a kayak conversion kit to alter your paddling position, excellent tracking, responsive turning and good stability, the Cruise is one versatile package. From a quick blast on the river for fitness, to overnight camping trips, it will have almost all of your paddling needs and wants catered for.

Two big thumbs up from me!

Find the latest price at: Bluefin | Amazon

Planning a SUP camping trip? Read our guide to paddle board touring for beginners.

Disclaimer: Cool of the Wild received this product free in return for an honest review. We only recommend gear that we love from companies we trust and we are under no obligation to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are that of the reviewer and we are in no way influenced by the brand or company.

The post Review: Bluefin Cruise 10.8 Stand Up Paddle Board appeared first on Cool of the Wild.

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Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ SUP Board Review – 2023

Bluefin cruise carbon 10'8", versatility, construction, performance.

• An awesome dual chamber design called the Air Duo System
• Very effective Flex Reduction system
• Extremely light carbon fiber paddle included
• 2 Cargo areas
• Amazing Deck Pad + Kick Tail
• Free kayak kit included with purchase
• Doesn’t come with a repair kit
• To improve tracking we’d like to see a removable sidefin option

We have been really looking forward to reviewing The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″. The Cruise is an excellent performance all-arounder that sports some great features. With it, you get an extremely durable rigid board with carbon side rails, a dual-chamber board setup, as well as a drop-stitch hull that can be inflated up to 28 PSI. Not only do you get all those impressive bells and whistles, but you get a 5-year warranty and support from a company that stands behind their boards.

SUP Board Specs

We were impressed by the Cruise Carbon’s stability. You can feel the difference Bluefin’s Flex Reduction Systems makes when compared to its little brother, the Cruise. Justin and I both hopped and jumped on the board, and we were impressed by the lack of flex. Another of the Cruise Carbon’s features that make to board uber stable is the Air Duo Inflation. More on that later.

From back fin turns and walking the length of the board, to just paddling around, we found the Bluefin Carbon to be a very stable board. The Carbon’s high weight capacity and dual inflatable chambers simply make for a very sturdy, stable stand up paddleboard. In fact, it is one of the firmest inflatable SUPs we’ve ever tested.

Maneuverability

The Cruise Carbon 10’8″ had no issue maneuvering. It was more sporty than we thought it was going to be. We also found it to be very responsive to both the back paddle and step-back turns. Honestly, it feels like you can turn on a dime with a step-back. The pointed nose on this all-arounder helps to blast through the chop and surf. Having a board that tracks well and is also maneuverable is a fine line for any iSUP company to walk. But it seems that Blufin found a suitable happy medium.

Tracking/Glide

We were impressed by the glide. This board is so stiff, and with that pointed nose, we were able to glide with less effort. The whole experience just felt smooth, and the board just cruised over the water (the board is aptly named). Both beginners and advanced users alike will find the Bluefin Cruise to be a tracking and gliding machine.

In terms of tracking, the Cruise did well. We were able to keep on point and make it to the end of the lake without issue. What we would like to see would be some bigger removable side fins. This would give the users the option to add on bigger fins for better tracking or to remove them for more maneuverability.

The Carbon has some really heavy-duty construction. It is made from a dual-layer military-grade PVC construction with two extra layers of heat-welded carbon fiber railing on the side. This is partly why the board is so rigid. The entire board is coated in an anti UV coating that prevents degradation of the board. It also comes standard with a drop-stitch dual-chamber hull design, which allows this board to be inflated to higher PSI than some of the other similarly priced boards.

(side note: It still isn’t a good idea to leave any SUP board out in the sun for extended periods. Always store your boards after use to preserve its durability and longevity).

The Carbon is also backed by a 5-year warranty. It speaks to the board’s craftsmanship and Bluefin’s confidence that it’ll be free from manufacturer defects for that long. One thing to note is that the board is most definitely covered for defects for 5 years, but you will have to pay for the initial return shipping after 6 months from the time of purchase. Bluefin will pay to ship it back to you. Even though you do have to pay half of the shipping, you’re still getting an extended warranty that is longer than anyone else we know of in the industry.

Board Design/Shape

The Cruise Carbon 10’8″ is designed to be an all-around performance board with some very sporty aspects. It has an all-around shape, with a pointed nose for cutting through the surf and a flat tail that improves stability. It has a rocker capable of making even choppy waters still very maneuverable. And with the carbon fiber side rails, the Air Duo system, and high-pressure hull makes this board extremely rigid, which gives you better overall performance. It was designed to be a performance board aimed at beginners and

This board is designed to be extremely rigid and to handle all kinds of usage conditions. You can take it on small waves and do some light surfing. You can also take it out on the lake for a day of fun in the sun. It can also be taken on rivers with some very light rapids (class I). Overall it can go almost anywhere you go. The included backpack is even designed to be checkable at airports.

Board Features

Not only is the deckpad snazzy looking, but it’s functional too. The charcoal gray complements the various shades of blue on the board surface. The Croco-Diamond deckpad is really well designed. As its name implies, it has a crocodile textured diamond design that gives the user an excellent non-slip experience. This really helps both beginner and advanced users alike whether you’re trying to carve a turn or hang on for dear life. It’ll work. With the added lift of the kicktail, you’ll get an even better experience on step-back turns.

Croco-Diamond Deckpad + Kick Tail

A great feature of this board is the Croco-Diamond Deckpad with a kicktail. Even at first glance, this deckpad looks cool, and it provides some excellent traction. The kicktail is also a great feature to include an all-around board and is a nice edition that makes back fin turns easier and more comfortable.

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon has five comfort grip handles. One on both the nose and tail, two on the sides, and one in the middle of the deckpad. All of them are conveniently placed to allow a person to carry the iSUP by themselves or to have a friend help.

The Air Duo system is a pretty great feature and one that had a remarkable effect on the overall board stability. What does the “Air Duo” system mean then? It means that there are two chambers to fill. The main chamber covers the majority of the board’s surface. And underneath the deckpad is the central chamber. Inflating the main chamber and central chamber gives you a crazy rigid board. That paired with the flex reduction system, you get an insanely rigid one. On top of all that, if the outer chamber should ever be compromised, then the inner bladder could be used as an additional flotation device.

Flex Reduction System

Bluefin’s Flex Reduction System (FRS) contains a carbon fiber rail layer that is heat-welded between two layers of PVC on the side of the board. This makes the board extraordinarily rigid and helps keep its shape, even in choppy water conditions. It also facilitates the rider to move around on the board without any bowing or flexing that could destabilize them. Overall the system works quite well. We noticed almost no bending even when bouncing on the board.

Included Kayak Conversion Kit

This iSUP has a lot of D-rings. 14, to be exact. This gives you plenty of opportunities to mount things. It also allows for the use of a clip-on shoulder strap, and with that many D-rings, your most certainly going to find a comfortable position.

The Cruise Carbon also has two cargo areas with bungies where you can store your gear without the need of attaching anything. This is a great place to put shoes, duffle bags, or even a water bottle.

Accessories

The paddle that comes with the Bluefin Cruise Carbon is a carbon fiber paddle, and it is incredibly light. We compared it to several different brands that we already have here around the office, and it is notably lighter than the rest. If you don’t think paddle weight matters much, you will after you go several miles with a heavy paddle… The carbon fiber paddle also has good construction. It doesn’t rattle or feel like it’s going to fall apart.

Dual-Chamber Triple-Action Pump

The Cruise Carbon comes with a dual-chamber triple action pump. This will help you get your iSUP inflated faster than with the single chamber dual-action pumps. The pump also has a built-in pressure gauge so you can accurately inflate the Carbon with relative ease.

Bluefin Carbon’s included backpack is heavy-duty. It follows suit with most of the backpacks from similar brands. A few things to note that make this bag great. One is that it has wheels and those wheels are on the opposite side of the shoulder and waist straps. This is helpful because it avoids getting the straps caught in the wheels, which can trip you up pretty good.

Another thing to note is the lumbar pad on the bag is big enough to fit your whole back. Making this bag extra comfortable for those longer treks to the beach. Another great aspect of this backpack is the pockets found inside the main pocket. They are absolutely perfect for putting the central fin and other odds and ends.

The leash that comes with the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ is pretty standard. It is a 10 ft coiled leash with velcro fastenings. One aspect that we really like about it is the nylon loop that is attached to the velcro end of the leash cuff. This really makes it easy to take off the leash even while it’s underwater.

Phone Dry Bag

The Bluefin Cruise Carbon also comes with a handy dandy dry bag lanyard that you can put your phone in. This makes it possible for you to bring your phone with you on the board without the fear of drowning it.

Conclusion/Bottom line

Buying the Bluefin Cruise Carbon is a no brainer if you’re an average-sized beginner or an experienced user who wants an extremely durable and rigid board, a 5-year warranty, and some premium features. If you are over 6′ or over 250 pounds, you may find the 10’8″ a bit wobbly and hard to use. But, you’re in luck. They also have a 12′ carbon that’ll fit you with the same and includes all the aforementioned features.

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8 thoughts on “Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″ SUP Board Review – 2023”

Hi! Thanks so much for your reviews, I think they are some of the best out there. Wondered if you could advise though? I think my choices are Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8″, iRocker All Around 11′ or Blackfin X/XL and I just don’t know which way to go. I’m definitely on the heavier side (98kg), but not tall 5’7″, I’d like to take a 30kg dog with me and gear at times. Beginner to intermediate level and I’ll be mostly on lakes, rivers and canals. Any thoughts would be brilliant as I feel totally stuck!

Given you want to take your dog with you, then I would recommend either the Bluefin Cruise Carbon or Blackfin X/XL. The extra weight capacity and rigidity of those boards will help a bit with multiple passengers. Unfortunately, right now you also have to decide if you can wait for the board, as many of these top-selling boards are selling out pretty quickly.

If you can’t get a BLACKFIN X/XL or Cruise Carbon you could also try a Thurso Waterwalker 132 . It’s a fantastic board, is super durable, has carbon fiber rails, and will for sure be stable for you and your dog.

I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!

Hi I’m 5’6 weigh 63 k I have back issues is this sturdy enough for someone like me and not too heavy. Thanks

At your height and weight, the Cruise Carbon will for sure be sturdy enough for you. It is on the heavier side when it comes to SUPs, so if that is a concern then you might want to look for a lighter board. The Cruise is a little bit lighter, or you could also look at the iRocker All-Around .

I was wondering why the Blackfin Modelx got your top pick over the bluefin cruise carbon 10′ 8″? The blufin got an overall score of 9.9 and the model x got a score of 9.8. Why one would perform better in in tidal areas off the beach or along the coastline? I’m 5’10” and 165lb.

The Blackfin Model X scored higher for us because the Bluefin Cruise Carbon is honestly pretty heavy in comparison. Both boards perform really well on the water, but the Blackfin XL is a little more stable, and lighter. That being said, the Cruiser Carbon comes with a ton of accessories, which we’re really impressed with given the overall price.

Hello! I was curious since we are in 2022 now if the rating would be about the same. This board is one of my top picks. I only with it came in a 4.75/5 inch option!

Hi Patricia,

Unfortunately, we will be making some changes to the Cruise Carbon’s rating this week, as our board ripped yesterday along the interior air chamber’s seam. If your heart is set on Bluefin, I’d recommend opting for their Cruise series instead, to avoid the dual chamber.

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• Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10'8"

Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10'8"

Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10'8" Description

The award-winning Cruise Carbon stands proudly in the upper echelons of the paddleboard world as one of the most rigid iSUPs that you will ever experience. Featuring all the benefits of the regular Cruise, this advanced all-round SUP offers even more rigidity & performance via the FRS (Flex Reduction System) & AIRDUO double chamber stiffening technology. These added features combine to make an ultra-strong board packed with power.

Where to Buy the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10'8"

Bluefin sup bluefin cruise carbon 10'8" reviews.

Read reviews for the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10'8" by Bluefin SUP as submitted by your fellow paddlers. All of the reviews are created and written by paddlers like you, so be sure to submit your own review and be part of the community!

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Bought two of these last…

Bought two of these last year, as reviews and recommendations from Instructors were very positive. Overall, very happy- had to send one board back as it looked like it had been made by a five year old on crystal meth. Bluefin customer support was good after initially having to push them to replace it. After One season, the boards have performed well; they are sturdier than many other brands and have stood up to both sea and freshwater conditions. Some surface scratches and one seam on the outer protective layer did unglue, but it’s been really hot for many weeks, so not that surprising. Easily fixed. Other owners have had paddles snap on them and they do bend when used, so will keep an eye on them. The kayak seat is a great bonus on days when it’s too bouncy for my basic balance skill set.

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