Choosing the right tandem kayak for wildlife tours depends on balancing stability, maneuverability, and comfort. The Perception Kayaks Cove 14.5 stands out as the best overall for its combination of spaciousness and ease of use. The Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135 offers excellent tracking and a smooth ride, making it ideal for longer trips. However, tradeoffs exist—more stable models tend to be heavier, and inflatable options may sacrifice some rigidity. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these and other top picks to find the best fit for your wildlife excursions.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked kayaks balance stability with ease of paddling, essential for wildlife observation.
- Inflatable models offer portability but often compromise on rigidity and tracking.
- Sit-on-top designs tend to be more user-friendly and comfortable in warm weather, but sit-ins provide better weather protection.
- Price often correlates with features like material durability and added comfort, so higher cost usually means better longevity.
- Choosing the right length and width impacts maneuverability and storage space, critical factors for wildlife tours.
| Perception Kayaks Cove 14.5 Sit-Inside Tandem Kayak – Sunset |  | Best Overall for Calm Water Comfort and Long Trips | Boat Length: 14′ 6″ | Water Types: lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, calm coastal and ocean | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown | |
| Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135 Sit-In Recreational Kayak |  | Best for Versatility and Convertible Use | Boat Length: 13′ 6″ | Cockpit Dimensions: 90″ x 24″ | Boat Weight: 72 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perception Rambler 13.5 Tandem Kayak with SeaSense XTreme 2 Paddle |  | Best for Stability and Heavy Loads in Calm Waters | Boat Length: 13′ 6″ | Width: 34″ | Boat Weight: 78 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perception Rambler Sit-on-Top Tandem Kayak for Recreational Use |  | Best for Versatile, Family-Friendly Water Tours | Boat Length: 13′ 6″ | Width: 34″ | Boat Weight: 78 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BOTE Argo Aero Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak |  | Best for Portability and Customizable Rigging | Seats: 2 adjustable Solis Frame Seats | Footrests: 2 adjustable | Included accessories: 2 paddles, rolling travel bag | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BKC Brooklyn 13.0 Pro Tandem Fishing Kayak, 2 to 3 Person |  | Best Overall for Versatile Wildlife Tours and Heavy Gear | Capacity: 800 lb | Seats: 2 to 3 persons, adjustable aluminum seats | Material: Reinforced hull | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lifetime Spitfire 12′ Tandem Sit-on Kayak with 2 Paddles – Orange |  | Best Value for Recreational Wildlife Tours and Easy Transport | Material: High-Density Polyethylene | Length: 12 feet | Color: Orange | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pelican Argo 136XP Sit-in Tandem Kayak – 13 ft |  | Best for Stable, Comfortable Wildlife Tours with Tracking | Length: 13 ft | Material: Ram-X™ | Type: Sit-in tandem kayak | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perception Tribe 13.5 Sit-on-Top Tandem Kayak |  | Best for All-Around Wildlife Viewing and Ease of Use | Length: 13.5 feet | Capacity: 500 lbs | Material: Plastic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pelican River Gorge 130X Tandem Kayak – Sit-on-Top, 13 ft |  | Best for Lightweight, Stable Wildlife Tours with Extra Storage | Length: 13 ft | Capacity: 500 lb | Weight: 73 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| tandem kayaks for wildlife tour | Material |
|---|---|
| Perception Kayaks Cove 14.5 Si | — |
| Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135 | — |
| Perception Rambler 13.5 Tandem | — |
| Perception Rambler Sit-on-Top | — |
| BOTE Argo Aero Tandem Inflatab | — |
| BKC Brooklyn 13.0 Pro Tandem F | Reinforced hull |
| Lifetime Spitfire 12′ Tandem S | High-Density Polyethylene |
| Pelican Argo 136XP Sit-in Tand | Ram-X™ |
| Perception Tribe 13.5 Sit-on-T | Plastic |
| Pelican River Gorge 130X Tande | High molecular density polyethylene |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Perception Kayaks Cove 14.5 Sit-Inside Tandem Kayak – Sunset
The Perception Kayaks Cove 14.5 stands out for its combination of comfort and stability, making it ideal for wildlife tours on lakes and calm coastal waters. Its adjustable seats with supportive backrests and ample storage rigging support extended outings, especially when compared to the more recreational-focused Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135, which offers versatility but less comfort for long hours. However, its design limits it to calm waters, unlike the versatile Perception Rambler sit-on-top, which handles a broader range of conditions but sacrifices some interior protection. The durable hull and replaceable skid plate add longevity, but the sit-inside design may be less suitable for those who prefer easy access or plan to paddle in rougher conditions, which this kayak isn’t built for.
Pros:- Comfortable adjustable seats with supportive backrests
- Ample storage and gear rigging for extended trips
- Durable hull with replaceable skid plate
Cons:- Designed mainly for calm waters, limiting versatility in rough conditions
- Less suitable for solo paddlers or those needing quick access
Best for: Couples or paddlers seeking a stable, comfortable kayak for lakes, ponds, and slow rivers with long-duration trips
Not ideal for: Paddlers intending to navigate rough waters or quick-moving rivers, due to its calm-water design and limited maneuverability
- Boat Length:14′ 6″
- Water Types:lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, calm coastal and ocean
Our verdict“This kayak is perfect for calm water wildlife tours where comfort and stability are priorities over ruggedness.”
Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135 Sit-In Recreational Kayak
The Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135 offers flexible use with its convertible tandem-to-solo design, making it an attractive choice for wildlife tours that may involve different group sizes. Its adjustable ergonomic seats and ample storage cater to comfort and longer excursions, but at 72 lbs, it can be cumbersome for solo transport, unlike lighter options such as the Perception Rambler. Compared to the Perception Cove 14.5, it excels in adaptability but may fall short in stability and comfort during extended tours. Its rounded hull provides decent speed and maneuverability, although it’s primarily built for recreational paddling rather than challenging conditions. The weight and design make it less suitable for paddlers needing quick, easy handling or frequent portages.
Pros:- Convertible tandem to solo design for versatile use
- Adjustable ergonomic seats for comfort
- Ample storage and buoyancy features for safety
Cons:- Heavy at 72 lbs, difficult to carry alone
- Primarily suited for recreational paddling, not advanced conditions
Best for: Recreational paddlers who want a flexible, adaptable tandem kayak for various water conditions and occasional solo use
Not ideal for: Paddlers who prioritize lightweight, easy-to-carry kayaks or plan to paddle in rough, choppy waters
- Boat Length:13′ 6″
- Cockpit Dimensions:90″ x 24″
- Boat Weight:72 lbs
- Max Capacity:500 lbs
Our verdict“Ideal for casual paddlers wanting flexibility for different water bodies, but less suited for those seeking lightweight or high-performance options.”
Perception Rambler 13.5 Tandem Kayak with SeaSense XTreme 2 Paddle
The Perception Rambler 13.5 excels in providing a stable platform for wildlife viewing on lakes, bays, and slow rivers, especially with its spacious design and adjustable padded seats. Compared to the lightweight Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135, it offers more stability and a larger capacity (550 lbs), but weighs slightly more at 78 lbs, making it less portable. Its UV, impact, and abrasion-resistant materials ensure durability during long-term outdoor use, and the included lightweight paddle enhances paddling comfort. However, its weight and limited performance in surf or swift currents mean it’s better suited for tranquil waters rather than challenging conditions. Its open sit-on-top style makes it easier for quick access and re-entry, contrasting with the more enclosed, less accessible sit-inside models.
Pros:- Stable and spacious for tandem paddling
- Adjustable padded seats for comfort
- Durable, UV and impact-resistant construction
- Includes lightweight, ergonomic paddle
Cons:- Heavy at 78 lbs, challenging for solo transport
- Not designed for rough or fast-moving waters
Best for: Wildlife tour guides or paddlers seeking maximum stability and capacity in calm, protected waters
Not ideal for: Paddlers looking for a lightweight, highly portable kayak or planning to navigate rough waters or surf
- Boat Length:13′ 6″
- Width:34″
- Boat Weight:78 lbs
- Maximum Capacity:550 lbs
Our verdict“This kayak is best for those prioritizing stability and capacity on tranquil waters over portability or rough water performance.”
Perception Rambler Sit-on-Top Tandem Kayak for Recreational Use
The Perception Rambler Sit-on-Top offers a practical, stable platform suitable for wildlife viewing in lakes, bays, and slow rivers. Its roomy molded-in seat and removable padded seat with adjustable support make it accessible for paddlers of all skill levels. Compared to the fiberglass-reinforced Rambler 13.5, this model’s sit-on-top design simplifies access and re-entry, but at 78 lbs, it’s heavier to transport without assistance. Its ample storage and stable hull are advantageous for family outings or casual tours, but it’s not designed for rough waters or high-speed paddling. The sit-on-top style might be less protected against splashes or weather, but it offers easier handling and quick access than sit-inside models, making it ideal for relaxed wildlife viewing.
Pros:- Stable and suitable for all skill levels
- Comfortable seating with adjustable support
- Ample gear storage for extended outings
- Versatile for various water conditions
Cons:- Heavy at 78 lbs, difficult for solo transport
- Limited to light surf and slow rivers, not for challenging waters
Best for: Families or casual paddlers seeking a stable, easy-to-access kayak for calm water wildlife tours and light recreational use
Not ideal for: Paddlers needing a lightweight, portable kayak or planning to explore rough or fast-moving waters
- Boat Length:13′ 6″
- Width:34″
- Boat Weight:78 lbs
- Maximum Capacity:550 lbs
Our verdict“This kayak suits relaxed wildlife tours and family outings on calm waters where ease of access and stability matter most.”
BOTE Argo Aero Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak
The BOTE Argo Aero inflatable kayak offers unmatched portability for wildlife tours, especially for guides or paddlers who need to transport gear easily. Its elevated seats and adjustable footrests provide comfort comparable to rigid kayaks like the Perception Rambler, and the included paddles and rolling travel bag streamline setup and transport. Compared with the heavier fiberglass options, this inflatable excels in compact storage and quick deployment, though it demands careful handling to avoid punctures. Its rigging options make it versatile for gear organization, but the inflatable design might be less durable in harsh conditions and less suitable for rough or fast-moving waters. It’s best for calm, protected environments where portability and quick setup are priorities.
Pros:- Portable and easy to transport with rolling bag
- Elevated, comfortable seats for long hours
- Includes all essential accessories for immediate use
- Customizable rigging for gear and accessories
Cons:- Inflatable material requires careful handling to prevent punctures
- Limited durability compared to rigid kayaks in rough conditions
Best for: Wildlife guides or paddlers needing a portable, easy-to-transport kayak for calm water tours and light fishing activities
Not ideal for: Paddlers requiring a rugged, high-performance kayak for rough waters or extended heavy-duty use
- Seats:2 adjustable Solis Frame Seats
- Footrests:2 adjustable
- Included accessories:2 paddles, rolling travel bag
- Design:Inflatable, portable, purpose-built for fishing
Our verdict“This inflatable kayak is perfect for wildlife tours in calm waters where portability and ease of setup outweigh ruggedness and durability.”
BKC Brooklyn 13.0 Pro Tandem Fishing Kayak, 2 to 3 Person
The BKC Brooklyn 13.0 Pro stands out for its exceptional capacity, supporting up to 800 pounds, making it ideal for wildlife tours that involve multiple paddlers and substantial gear. Its adjustable seats and footrests ensure comfort during long outings, and the fully equipped storage, including rod holders, caters well to anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. Compared with the Pelican Argo 136XP, which emphasizes stability and lightweight design, this kayak favors maximum load capacity and versatility, though it lacks specific dimensions, which could complicate transport planning. This model’s ability to switch between tandem and solo paddling offers flexible use, but the absence of detailed durability info suggests a need for cautious handling.
Pros:- Supports up to 800 lb capacity, accommodating multiple paddlers and gear
- Adjustable seats and footrests for improved comfort during extended trips
- Versatile setup for tandem or solo paddling, increasing usability
Cons:- Lack of specific dimensions complicates transport and storage planning
- No detailed info on material durability could impact longevity
Best for: Wildlife tour operators or groups that require high capacity, gear storage, and flexibility in paddling arrangements
Not ideal for: Solo paddlers with limited storage needs or those seeking lightweight, easy-to-transport options
- Capacity:800 lb
- Seats:2 to 3 persons, adjustable aluminum seats
- Material:Reinforced hull
- Storage:Large dry storage, rod holders, accessory rails
- Dimensions:Not specified
- Color:Not specified
Our verdict“This kayak is best suited for serious wildlife tour operators or groups needing high capacity and flexible configurations.”
Lifetime Spitfire 12′ Tandem Sit-on Kayak with 2 Paddles – Orange
The Lifetime Spitfire 12′ offers an affordable, durable option with UV-protected high-density polyethylene construction, making it suitable for casual wildlife excursions. Its built-in storage and adjustable padded seats enhance comfort, while the included paddles and skeg wheel simplify setup and transport. Compared to the Pelican River Gorge 130X, which is lighter and more stable, the Spitfire’s main advantage is its lower price point and ready-to-go paddles, though it may be heavier for some paddlers and is limited to recreational use. This kayak is best for beginners or groups who prioritize convenience and cost-efficiency rather than extended or demanding trips.
Pros:- Durable UV-protected high-density polyethylene construction
- Includes paddles and transport wheel for easy setup
- Comfortable adjustable padded seats for longer outings
Cons:- Limited to recreational use, not suitable for challenging conditions
- No specified weight capacity, which could limit gear or additional paddlers
Best for: Families or casual paddlers seeking a budget-friendly, easy-to-transport tandem kayak for wildlife viewing
Not ideal for: Serious anglers or experienced wildlife guides needing high durability and extended trip features
- Material:High-Density Polyethylene
- Length:12 feet
- Color:Orange
- Seats:2 padded seats
- Includes:2 paddles
- Features:Skeg wheel, rear tankwell with cargo net
Our verdict“This kayak makes sense for casual wildlife outings where budget and ease of transport are priorities.”
Pelican Argo 136XP Sit-in Tandem Kayak – 13 ft
The Pelican Argo 136XP emphasizes stability and tracking, making it a reliable choice for wildlife tours that involve longer paddling distances. Its multi-chine flat bottom hull with keel extension ensures a smooth ride and directional control, especially compared to the more recreational-oriented Perception Tribe 13.5. The lightweight and durable Ram-X™ material make it manageable for most paddlers, though it may be heavy for those with limited strength. Designed strictly as a tandem sit-in, it is less flexible for solo use but offers excellent stability for wildlife viewing from a secure position.
Pros:- Stable and smooth ride due to hull design
- Lightweight and durable Ram-X material
- Comfortable, adjustable Ergofit seating
Cons:- May be heavy for some users to carry
- Limited to tandem paddling only, reducing versatility
Best for: Wildlife guides or paddlers valuing stability and tracking in a sit-in tandem kayak for long excursions
Not ideal for: Solo paddlers or those seeking a lightweight, easy-to-carry kayak for short trips
- Length:13 ft
- Material:Ram-X™
- Type:Sit-in tandem kayak
- Hull Design:Multi-chine flat bottom with keel extension
- Seating:Ergofit adjustable
- Footrests:Adjustable
Our verdict“This kayak is ideal for wildlife tours emphasizing stability and tracking, especially on longer routes.”
Perception Tribe 13.5 Sit-on-Top Tandem Kayak
The Perception Tribe 13.5 is a versatile sit-on-top tandem kayak designed with beginner and experienced wildlife enthusiasts in mind. Its supportive adjustable seats and ample storage make it suitable for longer wildlife tours, while the made-in-USA quality assures durability. Compared with the Pelican River Gorge 130X, the Tribe supports a higher weight capacity (up to 500 lbs), making it more adaptable for larger groups or additional gear. However, it can be on the heavier side to transport and the scupper plugs are sold separately, which adds a slight inconvenience. This kayak caters well to those who want a reliable, all-around platform for wildlife observation.
Pros:- Supports up to 500 lbs, accommodating multiple paddlers and gear
- Adjustable seats for customized comfort
- Ample storage with secure bungee tie-downs
Cons:- Scupper plugs sold separately, adding extra cost
- Heavy to carry for some users
Best for: Wildlife tour groups or families who want an easy-to-paddle kayak with generous capacity and storage
Not ideal for: Paddlers seeking ultralight or high-performance kayaks for challenging conditions
- Length:13.5 feet
- Capacity:500 lbs
- Material:Plastic
- Made in:USA
- Features:Adjustable seats, front/rear storage, integrated footrests
Our verdict“This kayak is perfect for those wanting a stable, easy-to-use platform for wildlife viewing with ample capacity.”
Pelican River Gorge 130X Tandem Kayak – Sit-on-Top, 13 ft
The Pelican River Gorge 130X combines lightweight design with enhanced stability, making it suitable for wildlife tours that involve paddling with small gear or pets. Its twin-arched multi-chine hull provides excellent stability and tracking, and the quick lock hatch plus bungee cords offer practical storage options. Compared to the Lifetime Spitfire 12′, which is more recreational and simpler, the River Gorge emphasizes durability and storage capacity for extended trips. Though it weighs only 73 pounds, making it easier to transport than some heavier models, it remains best suited for recreational paddlers rather than demanding wildlife expeditions.
Pros:- Lightweight and easy to carry at 73 lb
- Stable and secure with twin-arched hull design
- Comfortable adjustable seating with ergonomic padding
Cons:- Limited to recreational use; not suited for challenging environments
- May require additional accessories for longer trips
Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, stable tandem kayak that can handle small gear or pets comfortably
Not ideal for: Advanced paddlers or those needing a kayak for challenging conditions or extended expeditions
- Length:13 ft
- Capacity:500 lb
- Weight:73 lb
- Material:High molecular density polyethylene
- Hull Type:Flat hull with twin-arched multi-chine design
- Seats:2 adjustable
Our verdict“This kayak is well-suited for casual wildlife viewing and light excursions where ease of transport and stability matter most.”
How We Picked
These kayaks were selected based on a combination of performance, build quality, versatility, and user-friendly features relevant to wildlife tours. Priority was given to stability, ease of paddling, and storage options, as these are crucial for observing wildlife comfortably and safely. Durability and material quality were also key factors, especially for outdoor conditions. The ranking reflects a balance between price and features, ensuring options for different budgets and experience levels. We compared each model’s specifications, user reviews, and overall reputation to determine how well they serve the needs of wildlife enthusiasts on tandem trips.| tandem kayaks for wildlife tour | Material |
|---|---|
| Perception Kayaks Cove 14.5 Si | — |
| Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135 | — |
| Perception Rambler 13.5 Tandem | — |
| Perception Rambler Sit-on-Top | — |
| BOTE Argo Aero Tandem Inflatab | — |
| BKC Brooklyn 13.0 Pro Tandem F | Reinforced hull |
| Lifetime Spitfire 12′ Tandem S | High-Density Polyethylene |
| Pelican Argo 136XP Sit-in Tand | Ram-X™ |
| Perception Tribe 13.5 Sit-on-T | Plastic |
| Pelican River Gorge 130X Tande | High molecular density polyethylene |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tandem Kayaks For Wildlife Tours
When selecting a tandem kayak for wildlife tours, it’s important to consider several factors beyond just price and appearance. The right kayak should enhance your observation experience, provide comfort during long trips, and withstand outdoor conditions. Understanding these key considerations can help you avoid common pitfalls and choose a model that truly fits your needs.Stability and Tracking
For wildlife tours, stability is paramount to prevent wobbling and accidental capsizing when observing animals or reaching for gear. Look for wider hulls and lower centers of gravity. Tracking—how well the kayak maintains a straight line—also matters, especially on longer trips or when paddling into wind. Models with a keel or tracking fin often perform better, helping you focus on wildlife rather than steering constantly.
Size and Maneuverability
The length and width of a kayak influence how easy it is to maneuver in tight or shallow waters. Longer kayaks tend to glide smoothly over water but can be harder to turn, while shorter models offer better agility at the expense of tracking. For wildlife tours, a balance is key—look for a kayak that’s long enough for stability yet manageable enough for quick directional changes when needed.
Comfort and Seating
Extended wildlife excursions demand comfortable seating with adjustable support. Sit-on-top models typically have open, breathable seats, reducing overheating and allowing easy access to gear. Sit-ins offer more weather protection but can be less accessible. Consider padded seats and adjustable footrests to prevent fatigue, especially on longer trips where comfort directly impacts enjoyment and safety.
Material Durability and Portability
Outdoor conditions require a kayak made from durable materials like rotomolded polyethylene or reinforced composites. Inflatable kayaks are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for storage and transport, but they may not hold up as well against rough surfaces or sharp objects. Think about how often you’ll need to move or store the kayak, and choose accordingly—more rugged models add to initial cost but last longer in demanding environments.
Additional Features and Accessories
Features like built-in storage compartments, rod holders, and adjustable paddles enhance the wildlife viewing experience. Safety features such as reflective decals, multiple grab handles, and stability pontoons can also improve confidence on the water. Keep in mind that extra features often increase weight and price—prioritize what genuinely adds value for wildlife tours to avoid unnecessary expense and complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an inflatable tandem kayak suitable for wildlife tours?
Inflatable tandem kayaks offer excellent portability and easy storage, making them convenient for travel and transport. However, they tend to be less rigid than hard-shell models, which can affect tracking and stability, especially in choppy waters or when paddling for extended periods. For wildlife tours that involve calm lakes or slow-moving rivers, inflatables work well, but for more demanding conditions, a rigid kayak might provide better performance and safety.
How important is the weight of a tandem kayak for wildlife tours?
The weight of a kayak directly impacts how easily it can be transported or carried to launch sites. Heavier models, often made from thicker plastic or composite materials, tend to be more durable and stable but require more effort to handle. Lighter kayaks, especially inflatables or those made from lighter materials, are easier to load and unload, which is advantageous if you frequently move your kayak between locations. Consider your physical capacity and storage options when evaluating weight.
Should I prioritize a sit-on-top or sit-inside kayak for wildlife viewing?
Both designs have advantages for wildlife tours. Sit-on-top kayaks are generally more accessible, easier to get in and out of, and stay cooler in warm weather, making them popular for casual wildlife observation. Sit-ins provide more protection from wind and spray, which can be beneficial in cooler or windier conditions, but they might restrict movement. Your choice depends on climate, comfort preferences, and the type of wildlife habitat you plan to explore.
What features make a tandem kayak ideal for long wildlife trips?
For extended trips, look for models with comfortable, adjustable seating and ample storage space for gear, snacks, and safety equipment. Stability and tracking are critical for maintaining focus on wildlife rather than paddling corrections. Durability and ease of maintenance also matter, as long trips expose kayaks to more wear and tear. Additional features like paddle parks, water-resistant compartments, and adjustable footrests enhance comfort and practicality.
Can I use a fishing kayak for wildlife tours?
Many fishing kayaks are well-suited for wildlife tours because they typically emphasize stability, ample storage, and comfort—traits that benefit wildlife observation. They often have features like rod holders and extra stability pontoons, which can be advantageous. However, fishing kayaks tend to be heavier and bulkier, which might reduce maneuverability in tight or shallow waters. If fishing features are not needed, lighter recreational models might be a better fit for casual wildlife outings.
Conclusion
For most wildlife tour enthusiasts, the Perception Kayaks Cove 14.5 offers a compelling mix of stability, comfort, and storage, making it the best overall choice. Budget-conscious users will appreciate the Lifetime Spitfire 12′ for its affordability and ease of use. Those seeking a premium experience might opt for the Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135 for its superior tracking and durability. Beginners should focus on sit-on-top models with simple designs, while experienced paddlers may prioritize lightweight, high-performance options. Ultimately, selecting the right tandem kayak hinges on your specific touring environment and personal comfort preferences.
