Starboard ROAMER: The Anticipated Touring SUP Designed to Explore Further
The stand up paddling community is always eager to see what the major brands are cooking up next, and one of the most anticipated touring boards currently on the horizon is the new Starboard ROAMER. Positioned as a true performance explorer, the ROAMER promises to bridge the gap between speed-focused touring boards and expedition-ready stability—opening up new possibilities for paddlers dreaming of longer journeys and multi-day adventures.
With pre-orders now officially open, Starboard has revealed early details about the board, which draws heavily from the brand’s successful race heritage while adding features tailored specifically for exploration.
Inspired by Race DNA, Built for Adventure
According to Starboard, the ROAMER was inspired by the company’s race-winning All Star DNA—one of the most recognizable names in performance stand up paddling. However, unlike a pure race board, the ROAMER has been purpose-built for long-distance touring, gear transport and rougher, real-world paddling conditions.
The idea is simple: create a board that still feels fast and efficient on the water but offers the stability and seaworthiness required for serious adventures.
This makes the ROAMER especially interesting for touring enthusiasts who have long searched for something between a dedicated race board and an oversized expedition SUP.
Developed with Expedition Paddler Bruce Kirkby
One of the most intriguing aspects of the ROAMER is Starboard’s collaboration with expedition paddler Bruce Kirkby, whose experience in remote and demanding environments played a role in shaping the board.
For Kirkby, stability became one of the defining priorities during development.
“Stability was one of the most important parts of the Roamer design. We wanted a board that feels rock solid underfoot during long days in choppy conditions, reducing paddler fatigue while still keeping the speed and glide inspired by the All Star,” Kirkby explains.
That philosophy will likely resonate with many paddlers who understand that on long-distance tours, efficiency means more than outright speed. Comfort, confidence and reduced fatigue often become the deciding factors after several hours on the water.
Designed for Lazy Afternoons and Serious Expeditions
What makes the Starboard ROAMER particularly interesting is its dual-purpose ambition.
According to Starboard, the board is intended to paddle comfortably even when unloaded, making it suitable for relaxed cruising and casual after-work sessions. Yet it is also designed to carry gear, water and expedition equipment for serious multi-day adventures.
Kirkby describes the board as stable, efficient and confidence-inspiring even when conditions change—something that will undoubtedly appeal to paddlers exploring coastlines, lakes or exposed waterways.
For touring paddlers, especially those planning overnight trips or longer crossings, cargo capacity and stability are often more important than shaving off a few seconds of speed. The ROAMER appears to be targeting exactly this niche.
A Growing Interest in Touring and Expedition SUP
At the Stand Up Magazin, we have noticed a renewed interest in touring and exploration-style paddling. While racing and downwind foiling continue to evolve, many paddlers are also looking for ways to slow down and rediscover adventure through stand up paddling.
The idea of loading a board with camping gear, exploring remote coastlines or simply paddling further into the unknown remains deeply appealing.
If the ROAMER delivers on its promise of blending race-inspired glide with expedition confidence, it could become one of the more exciting touring board releases in recent years.
Starboard ROAMER Availability
The Starboard ROAMER is now available for pre-order. According to the official information, estimated order-to-delivery lead times are currently four to six months, with the first arrivals expected in October 2026. Availability may vary depending on region and distributor.
For paddlers already dreaming about next season’s adventures, this may be one board worth keeping an eye on.