Review of the HONU Sorrento 11’3: Ideal For Both Serious and Fun Paddling

When the summer sun is high, and you’ve got an afternoon to kill with the kids, there’s nothing better than heading out on the water with a paddleboard. This summer, my fellow dad and I, along with our energetic kids, found ourselves on the beautiful lake of Soustons, in the southwest of France, eager to try out the new Sorrento 11’3 from HONU, the Australian brand known for their high-quality inflatable SUPs. As we set off for our adventure, I was particularly curious about how this board, the little sister to the award-winning 12’6 Sorrento, would handle our mixed group of paddlers. – Photos: Laurie Montagner / LMCreanum

First Impressions of the HONU Sorrento: Lightweight, But Mighty

The first thing that struck me as I unboxed the Sorrento 11’3 was just how lightweight it is. At only 8.4 kg (18.5 lbs), this board is an absolute feather compared to some of the heavier SUPs I’ve tried in the past. HONU has really outdone themselves with the use of X-Woven material, which not only keeps the weight down but also ensures that the board is durable and robust.

But don’t let the lightweight nature fool you—this board is anything but flimsy. The welded carbon rails add a layer of rigidity that gives you a connected, solid feeling as soon as you step on the board. And with its 4.7-inch thickness, the Sorrento 11’3 strikes the perfect balance between stability and maneuverability, making it ideal for lighter paddlers or those who, like me, enjoy a bit of responsiveness out on the water.

Daddy’s Turn: Solo Paddling with the HONU Sorrento 11’3

Before I handed over the board to the kids, I took the Sorrento 11’3 for a solo spin around the lake and swapping boards with my friend who was using the SUP surf-oriented HONU Bondi. Despite weighing 85 kg, I found that the board floated effortlessly and maintained excellent stability. This is no small feat, considering the board’s lower volume compared to its larger 12’6 counterpart. The 30-inch width provided ample stability, even when I shifted my weight to adjust my footing or to take in the gorgeous surroundings of the Soustons lake.

What really impressed me, though, was the board’s speed. The combination of its lightweight construction and sleek design allowed me to glide across the water with minimal effort. HONU’s use of welded carbon rails and X-woven material isn’t just marketing fluff—it genuinely enhances the paddling experience. The board responded smoothly to every paddle stroke.

The Rough and Tumble Test: Kids on Board

Once I had my solo fun, it was time to hand the Sorrento 11’3 over to the kids and see how it fared in the chaos that usually follows. Honestly, we didn’t have a strict plan—just a bunch of excited kids eager to get out on the water. We started off with one kid at a time, and it was a blast watching them paddle around with ease. The board’s size was perfect for them; not too long or unwieldy, which is often the case with bigger boards. They were able to control it without any trouble, and the smiles on their faces said it all.

But why stop at one? Before long, two of them decided to hop on together. The Sorrento handled it like a champ. The board stayed stable, and they were able to paddle around without any issues, laughing and splashing as they went. Feeling adventurous, we decided to push it further and let three kids climb aboard. Surprisingly, even with the trio, the board remained steady and didn’t show any signs of strain. It floated comfortably, and the kids had a great time, chatting away as they paddled around like it was the most natural thing in the world. The Sorrento 11’3 proved to be the ultimate multi-kid fun machine, handling everything we threw at it without a hitch.

A Family-Friendly Design

One of the standout features of the Sorrento 11’3 is its family-friendly design. The Sorrento 11’3 comes with a range of accessories that enhance both its functionality and appeal. The integrated camera mount is a nice touch, allowing you to capture those unforgettable moments out on the water without needing to fumble around with a camera or phone. The refined EVA traction pad with its large tail kickpad ensured that even the youngest paddlers had a secure footing, minimizing the risk of slips and falls.

The bungee cord system on the deck is another great touch, providing secure storage for your essentials like a dry bag, flip flops, water bottle, or even a picnic for those longer tours. The included stylish board color-matching coil leash is both sturdy and comfortable, ensuring you stay safely connected to your board, even in choppier waters.

Adding a bit of inspiration, HONU has included a quote from the iconic oceanographer Sylvia Earle under the tail of the board serving as a gentle reminder of our connection to the water and the importance of preserving it, making each paddle a little more meaningful.

The bag that comes with the Sorrento 11’3 is also worth a mention. Made from heavy-duty 1680D Ballistic Nylon, it’s robust and easy to roll around, even when fully loaded. The internal pockets are a thoughtful addition, helping you keep all your gear organized and accessible.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Touring Companion

After a day of paddling around the lake, it was clear that the Sorrento 11’3 is more than just a scaled-down version of the 12’6. This is a well-thought-out board that offers a perfect balance of stability, speed, and maneuverability, making it an ideal choice not just for families and lighter paddlers, but also for those who crave long, sporty paddles. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure, cruising with a child, or letting the kids have their fun, the Sorrento 11’3 delivers a responsive and exhilarating experience. It’s a board that’s just as ready for extended tours and serious paddling sessions as it is for all-around family fun.

With the added peace of mind from HONU’s 4-year total care warranty, you can be confident that this board is built to last. So, if you’re in the market for a touring SUP that’s lightweight, durable, and family-friendly, the Sorrento 11’3 is definitely worth considering. It’s the perfect companion for those long, lazy summer days on the water.

Sorrento 11’3 board specs

Dimensions – 11’3 x 30 x 4.7″
Volume – 236 l
Materials – X-Woven Ultralight double layer
Rail Construction – Welded Carbon rails
Rider Recommendation – 50-95 Kg | 110-210 lbs
Fin Setup – Split US Box | 9.4″ Tour Fin
Inclusions – Bag, Safety Leash, Fins
Bag Details – 1680D wheel Bag-Pack | 90x38x27cm
Board Weight – 8.4Kg /18.5lbs

For more information on HONU and to order your board:
www.honuboards.com