Starboard 12’6 Generation Deluxe - 2026

If you want one inflatable paddleboard that covers far more than just easy flatwater cruising, the Starboard 12 ft 6 Generation Deluxe - 2026 is one of the smartest choices in the range. This is Starboard’s crossover shape for paddlers who want proper glide for touring, enough rocker and tail shape to handle choppier water and small surf, and a board that still feels lively rather than dull under your feet. At The SUP Company, we see the Generation as the inflatable for people who do not want to be boxed into one narrow use. It is a much better option than a basic all-round board if you want to paddle further, improve your fitness, or explore mixed water conditions, but it is also more versatile and more playful than a pure straight-line touring shape. Where the Generation Deluxe Sits in the Range The Generation sits between a traditional touring board and a more surf-led shape. If your paddling is mostly calm-water distance work and you want maximum straight-line efficiency, a dedicated Touring shape is still the more focused choice. If, however, your paddling includes estuaries, harbours, boat wash, open-water chop, coastal exploring, the odd downwind run, or even small waves, the Generation makes a huge amount of sense. In simple terms, this is the board for paddlers who want one premium inflatable that can genuinely do a bit of everything well. The 12'6 x 30 size keeps things reassuring and usable, while the Generation outline gives it a more capable, more “all-water” feel than many boards of similar dimensions. Why Choose the Starboard 12 ft 6 Generation Deluxe? Excellent crossover shape for touring, fitness paddling, coastal cruising and small surf. More glide and speed than a typical all-round inflatable. More manoeuvrable and more forgiving in mixed water than a pure touring shape. Premium Deluxe construction for a stiffer, lighter, more refined ride. Thruster fin setup gives you flexibility for both touring use and more playful wave days. Useful cargo storage for drybags, layers and day-trip essentials. A very strong option for paddlers upgrading from an entry-level inflatable. Specifications Model 12'6" x 30" Generation Deluxe Length 12'6" / 381 cm Width 30" / 76.2 cm Thickness 6" / 15 cm Tail Width 19.3" / 49 cm Volume 341 litres Board Weight 10.7 kg / 23.6 lb / 1.68 st Recommended Rider Weight Up to 95 kg / 209 lb / 15.0 st Construction Deluxe Fin Setup Thruster / 2+1 Included Centre Fin 8" Net Positive Included Side Fins 4.5" or 4.7" Arma Core Package Includes Starboard 12 ft 6 Generation Deluxe inflatable paddleboard Starboard double-action Tiki pump Starboard re-cover wheely bag Starboard 2-in-1 shoulder carry strap Starboard 8" Net Positive centre fin Starboard thruster side fin set Explore the Range If you like the idea of the Generation shape but want a hard board feel, take a look at the Starboard Generation Lite Tech - 2026. If your paddling is more about straight-line glide and traditional touring efficiency, the Starboard 12 ft 6 Touring Deluxe Lite is the more touring-focused option. You can also browse the full Starboard collection here. Helpful Reading & Buying Advice Board dimensions vs board profiles iSUP vs. hard boards: the professional’s guide to making the right call How to choose the right paddleboard for your skill level Book a session at our Southampton SUP Test Centre Pair it with a Starboard Lima Carbon F35 2 Piece Paddle Is the Starboard Generation Deluxe more of a touring board or an all-round board? It sits between the two, which is exactly why so many paddlers like it. It has far more glide and distance capability than a typical all-round inflatable, but it is more manoeuvrable and more comfortable in mixed water than a pure touring shape. Who is this board best suited to? This 12'6 x 30 size is a very good fit for paddlers who want confidence and versatility without stepping right down into a slower, wider beginner board. It is especially good for paddlers upgrading from entry-level all-round inflatables and wanting something that feels quicker, cleaner and more capable. Should I choose this or the Starboard 12'6 Touring? Choose the Generation if your paddling includes chop, coastal water, mixed conditions or occasional small surf. Choose the Touring if your priority is straighter tracking and covering distance as efficiently as possible on flatter water. Can the Generation Deluxe handle small waves? Yes, that is one of the reasons this shape stands out. It is not a dedicated surf SUP, but the rocker, outline and thruster setup make it much more wave-capable than most touring inflatables. Can I try one before buying? Yes. If you want to compare the Generation against other Starboard shapes, or work out whether an inflatable or hard board makes more sense for your paddling, book a session at our SUP Test Centre in Southampton. It is the quickest way to make the right choice first time.