Kayak Craft

Kayak Craft South African based manufacturer of Kayaks and Surf Ski's Gordon built up a well deserved reputation of being the top kayak manufacturer in South Africa.

Previously known as Kayak Centre, which was founded in 1973 by esteemed South African boat builder Gordon Rowe. He produced quality craft, designed and constructed to withstand the rigorous demands of the South African river racing conditions. In 1986 Richard (Rick) Whitton, who had been Gordon's protege since 1974, took over the company. He brought his passion, dedication and experience from over

a decade of competing on the local rivers to maintain the excellent standards Kayak Centre was already known. With the subsequent re-inclusion of South Africa in the International racing scene, much research and development was undertaken to encompass the latest international sprint and marathon construction methods. Ken Holden became a partner in 1998 after working for the company for several years. When the ICF rules regarding boat specifications changed during that year, further research and development into kayak designs was needed to ensure that Kayak Centre remained at the forefront of the industry in both domestic and international markets. Clive Whitton became a partner at the end of 2012, following the departure of Ken Holden. Clive grew up in the canoeing community, competing in multiple disciplines. He worked at Kayak Centre for nearly 10 years before moving to London to compete more regularly at international Canoe Polo events, and work for Canoe England. In 2019 Kayak Centre had to close due to the financial climate. Rick Whitton purchased Kayak Centres assets and opened Kayak Craft. In order to stay at the leading edge of the industry, Kayak Craft draws on the experience of our athletes to continually improve our products, as well as drawing on the expertise of world leaders in the composite and fibreglass industry. Since 2005 we have used Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technology to create our original shapes, which are then cut on a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machine to ensure 100% accuracy. This combined with new-age design philosophy, personal attention to detail, and Rick's experience as a manufacturer and paddler ensures that all products are of the highest standard possible. Each Kayak Craft product is hand finished by Rick to ensure it meets your individual specifications.

12/10/2023

Exciting News!!! Kayak Craft are excited to announce the imminent arrival of a new K2 Model into the fold. The Velox Ignite K2. This model will bridge the current gap between the Velox Ascent and the Swift, providing stability while maintaining good speed and maneuverability in flowing water. We anticipate the launch into the retail market to take place in the next couple of weeks. Contact Ric on 084 919 6660 or [email protected] for more info.

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Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 15:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 15:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 15:00
Thursday 09:00 - 15:00
Friday 09:00 - 15:00

Telephone

+27317612030

Website

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Our Story

Kayak Craft was founded in 2019 by esteemed South African boat builder Richard Whitton. Richard has built up a well deserved reputation of being the top kayak manufacturer in South Africa with his previous company, Kayak Centre.

With more than 45 years of experience in the industry he has produced quality craft, designed and constructed to withstand the rigorous demands of the South African river racing conditions and top level international Marathon Kayaks.

His passion for the sport is second to none, this along with his attention to detail ensures that every craft manufactured by him has his personal care and finishing.