About us: A brief history

Other high level kayakers began using NDK boats and this led to the set up of Sea Kayaking UK sponsored paddlers, who are given kayaks for general and expedition use, in return for their practical experience in the continuous process of development, feedback and modification. An example of this was the extensive trip undertook by Bob Timms and Trys Morris, which left the UK and reached Greece 6 months later. The duo used the ‘voyager’ over the longer crossings, which uses outriggers and a sail to turn the two kayaks into a small catamaran. Another sponsored expeditionary, Chris Duff, has the circumnavigation of Japan and North Island (off New Zealand) to name but a few under his belt and has put the explorer through some of its most ardent testing.

Those who have experienced other GRP boats will have noticed the susceptibility to wear and tear, when compared with polyethylene alternatives. The boats are however built to withstand the constant use they receive as fleet boats. The range of Kayaks are the sole brand used at expedition centres situated in some of the best paddling locations in the world. These include Canada, Greenland, Alaska, Israel, Newfoundland, North America, Spain, the Outer Hebrides and the Isle of Man. The Nordkapp Trust itself was set up to promote sea kayaking and expedition centres, upholding the Trust’s high standards. People utilising the expedition centres can therefore know they will be getting the quality and reliability of the Sea Kayaking UK Kayaks, Lendal Paddles (made in Scotland), and a similarly high standard of leadership and coaching from staff, right across the board at every centre.

The choice of fibreglass or its technical term glass reinforced plastic, as the material for Sea Kayaking UK is obvious when choices are examined. There is no comparison between GRP and polyethylene when it comes to performance. I quote from an email I received from a Manx resident I lent my ‘Explorer’ to:

“The boat is fine, a lot faster than I am used to, but surprisingly stable. I took it through the Sound this morning and was glad of the additional speed.”

This basically sums up the top selling expedition kayak. A whole range of kayaks are available, each designed with specific needs in mind, which overall cater for a whole spectrum of kayakers.

Click here for the full range of Sea Kayaks or select Sea Kayaks from the menu bar.

Courtesy of Keirron Tastagh a Sponsored Paddler