Hout Bay & Cape Town Sea Kayak Excursions - 25 February 2010
Real Cape Adventures CC, Africa's premier sea kayak tour company, is set to launch from its new premises in Hout Bay [a tiny deck in front of Mariner's Wharf on the harbourside of the beach] shortly. Get there from the city with the Red Bus which stops right next to it. Hout Bay is ideal for sea kayaking as it is protected by mountains on all sides, forming a natural amphitheatre. Paddling in the bay gives a special perspective of Cape Town; a view that visitors from around the world hold dear. Paddling here is one of the must-do activities when visiting the mother city, indeed, if you only do one trip, make this the one! The guided trips are suitable for all normally healthy persons regardless of any paddling experience. The Real Cape Adventures site has been carefully selected to make launching, paddling and landing a relaxed, no-stress affair. In the bay you are likely to spot an array of sea birds and seals and if you are lucky, dolphins and whales [the latter from July to October], but the main attraction is the environment itself and watching life go by, the living harbour, the fishing boats, the yachts and other ocean users, all showing Cape Town's real and traditional character which is based on an ocean and beach culture. Get away from your busy schedule and come and relax on our very stable double sea kayaks. Take a break, wallow on the smooth waters of the bay, take a breath of fresh Atlantic sea air and be rejuvenated. Daily departures for one, or two hour trips, mostly early mornings. A three hour trip, for the more experienced, takes you to Duiker ["Seal"] Island in the vicinity of Dungeons, one of the world's largest surfing waves [but absolutely flat when we go]. After your trip you can enjoy exploring the harbour on foot, visit the World of Birds and Constantia Wine Farm, all within minutes of the beach, or you can take the world class drive round Chapman's Peak towards remote Noordhoek and the Cape of Good Hope. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0825562520 for more details and bookings.
Africa's Eden Gabon Tour, June 2010 - 25 February 2010
Real Cape Adventures CC in association with Africa's Eden in Gabon is offering a once-in-a-lifetime special rate to visit Loango National Park; the world's least spoilt rain forest adjoining a 100 km coastline, criss-crossed by rivers and lagoons and the only place on the planet where elephants, hippo's, buffalo, red warthogs, land gorillas and wild chimpnazees congregate on the beach, making it a veritable Eden. Spend time in the luxurious Loango Lodge and then set out to the eco-camps in the heart of one of the world's largest reserves. Safari through verdant green forests as close to nature in its natural state as you will ever get. Explore and kayak the lagoons. Just getting there via Libreville and Port Gentil is an adventure reminscent of those of the explorers of old. Indeed, Albert Schweitzer's Lambarene Hospital is just up-river and still operating as before. Johan and Teresa Loots of Real Cape Adventures cc and PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions cc, who supplied the kayaks for the company's Sao Tome and Principe operations, have negotiated a special price for those wishing to visit this extraordinary equatorial country in June 2010. Ex Cape Town is R24500 for a 9-day tour and R30500 for a 12-day tour. Dont miss this very special opportunity. Email info@seakayak.co.za now. Note: Prices are subject to change and are approximate. Those wishing to depart from elsewhere are welcome to enquire too.
Madagascar Sea Kayak Adventure 2010 - 4 February 2010
REAL CAPE ADVENTURES in association with its co-operators is offering a 6-day sea kayak tour along the exotic coast of St Marie Island, Madagascar, at R4400 per person, including craft, guide and accommodation. You may also extend it to 12 days and include your flights as well as 5 days on Ile Aux Nattes and two in Tana at R12400 ex Johannesburg. Bookings for 2010 are filling up so book soonests. "It's one of the best experiences you will ever have". Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone Johan at 0825562520.
Nature Reserve Jobs in Gabon, West Africa. - 4 February 2010
A number of sought-after posts ara availaable in Africa's Eden in Gabon, Sao Tome and Principe for Resort Managers and Maintenance personnel. Some are for couples, others for individuals. The posts are vacant from today 4 February 2010. If interested you may apply to the addresses below or directly to info@seakayak.co.za or phone Johan at 0825562520. Please quote where you saw this advert when applying directly to Gabon. Below are more details: Description: Resort General Management couple required for a 4 star (21-bungalow) beach resort. We are located on one of the most beautiful but secluded and remote islands off the coast of Central West Africa, Gulf of Guinea. An understanding of Portuguese will be a great advantage. (Ex-Portuguese colony and 60% of clientele are Portuguese). Please note that we are looking for a couple for this position. Single persons will not be considered.
Skills/Requirements: Skills/Requirements: - A formal qualification in the hotel industry is required by at least one of you. - We are looking for a couple that has a minimum of 5 years management experience in a similar 5* remote beach resort location or 5*lodge management experience within Africa.
HE: - Must have good knowledge of workshop, maintenance, generators, boats and vehicles, staff training, construction and new development, Food & Beverage, aviation knowledge an advantage. - Love of nature & sea orientated excursions with preferably some guiding experience. - Deep-sea fishing & diving experience a must (at least a DM qualification) Logistics is one of the greatest challenges and a good knowledge of procurement, packing, shipping and freight distribution is extremely important. Computer literate.
SHE: - She must have financial experience. Office Administration (Debtors / Creditors, Salaries, orders, income & expense, cash flow, sales analysis etc. - Oversee of Front office, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage (Excellent knowledge on food and wine) PRO, stock takes, and training in all departments (F&B, Housekeeping, FO). - Logistical experience an advantage. Excellent staff & guest relations skills necessary. Computer literate.
The following excursions are operated from the resort: Car Tours, Hiking, Quad biking, Kayaking, seasonal excursions (i.e. turtle and whale watching) Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Boat cruises, Deep-sea fishing, & Birding excursions. We have experienced staff for all the departments: including Chefs, Guides, Office staff, Dive Instructor, Skippers etc.
- You must have hands on management approach in all departments. - Drivers License (Essential) We are looking for a couple who are trustworthy and honest and who is looking to settle down for a while (between the ages of 28-35 yrs old) - Excellent organizational & communication skills - Able to perform under pressure with a high sense of responsibility - Stress management, and the ability to make Plan B and Plan C as Plan A may not always work. - Excellent command of the English Language - Ability to speak/understand Portuguese - Excellent eye for detail and perfection - Exceptional leadership skills & team spirit
Starting date: 01 May 2010
Package offered: - Euro 2’500.00 (Plus minus R26’000.00) / month net as a couple, with a possible incentive / commission structure on F&B sales after a initial 3 months probation period. - 4 Weeks paid leave after every 6 months with return airfare tickets to place of recruitment. - Euro 800.00 per person per year contribution to medical aid. - Spacious beachfront manager’s house & all meals included. - Drink allowance & uniform provided.
· Reference: LS-39105-1901 · Salary: Euro 2500.00 per month · Country: Sao Tome and Principe · Province: · Date Posted: 19 Jan 2010 · Employer type: Beach/Island Resort
Sea Kayak Business Opportunities! - 11 January 2010
If you are a father wishing to buy your sons a small, but thriving kayak manufacturing business, now is your chance. Or, if you are an entreprenuer looking for a career change, why not start a sea kayak tour business? Or, if you have a kayak business to sell, let us know. Wherever you are in the world, talk kayaking business to us. We will give you advice gleaned from our own experiences and put you in touch with others wherever possible. Contact us today at info@seakayak.co.za
2010: A Great Year Ahead! - 11 January 2010
Make 2010 the year in which you do what you wish to do with your life. If its paddling, may you soar! Real Cape Adventures and PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions wishes all its customers and supporters the very best. If you are in South Africa, what a year it will be for you, with the whole world focussing on the country during the World Soccer Cup. The sentiment will be good and the economy booming! Don't hesitate any longer; get that kayak, get that tour, get that life!
Recession Over! - 26 November 2009
Recession Over! Time to celebrate! SA Statistics has announced the recession is officially over, but consumer confidence has been dented and sale levels are expected to prolong the effects of the recession. However, all businesses are dependent on sales and good turnover and the sooner buyer confidence returns, the better for all. Christmas and the looming World Cup will make South Africa an exception to the world trend as evident by the brisk trade which has already started.
Kayak businesses for sale, lease or hire - 23 November 2009
SEA KAYAK PRODUCTIONS CC specialises in locating and brokering the buying, selling and leasing of sea kayak businesses. If you wish to become part of this fast-growing industry, contact us for specialised guidance at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611
Charter Yachts and Kayaks service - 23 November 2009
REAL CAPE ADVENTURES CC offers a special yacht and kayak locating service to private and business groups. If you wish to charter a craft in Tanzania or Madagascar, or anywhere else, email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 for a personalised service.
Start you own Kayak Beach Business today. - 23 November 2009
Sea Kayaking is rapidly becoming a main stream sport and tourism activity around the world. There is an ever-increasing demand for sea kayaking services on popular beaches in South Africa, Africa as well as virtually everywhere else in the world. Like underwater diving, which took fifty years to become a main stream activity, sea kayaking is proving to be following the same route, but its appeal and growth has been more rapid and more universal. REAL CAPE ADVENTURES CCA, in association with PADDLEYAK SEA KAYAK PRODUCTIONS CC has been operating and manufactruing sea kayaks since the mid-90's and specialises in offering would-be operators turnkey packages with which to start their businesses. Start you own business today. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 for more information.
Full range of kayaks from PaddleYak - 23 November 2009
PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions CC, based in Cape Town, South Africa supplies craft to local users anywhere in Southn Africa and exports to over 30 countries, often directly to end buyers. The following craft have all proved to be extrememly popular, fulfiling every requirement: PaddleYak Darter single[compact, portable and seaworthy sit-on sea kayak], PY Solo single [all-rounder sit-on], PY Swift single and double [award-winning, hybrid tourer], PY Fusion [expedition-level hybrid tourer], PY Kingfisher [leading fishingkayak], PY Tango [stable and seaworthy family double, PY Explorer [large, traditional sit-in tourer], PY Hurricane Surfski [super-fast, trimmed to the bone for paddlers under 90kgs], PY Pro-X [super-fast open ocean racer and tourer for paddlers under 100kgs]. Available soon: PY Starfish [compact, but sea-worthy double for easier portaging, fun paddling, diving and fishing] and the PY TravelYak [top notch, nested sectional sea kayak for easy storage, worldwide travel and transportation to faraway places. Distinguished sea kayaks from PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions CC in Cape Town, South Africa. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Used craft for sale - 23 November 2009
Besides its range of new craft, PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions also have a number of used and restored craft for sale. Ask for an updated list of such craft. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Laminator and Mold-maker wanted - 15 November 2009
South Africa's foremost kayak manufacturer is seeking an experienced laminator and mold-maker to expand its business. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Order now for 2010. - 15 November 2009
If you are wishing to purchase a PaddleYak Kayak in 2010, place your order[s] now so that it can be booked in for production in time. The World Soccer Cup will put pressure on capacity in 2010 and all supply lines are expected to become seriously challenged. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Special Offer on PaddleYak Swift Hybrid - 15 November 2009
Not all paddlers require the spray-skirt coaming on the PY Swift [which makes it the hybrid]. You can now order this award-winning craft without the coaming, reducing the price from R7500 to R6900 [ex Vat]. The extraordinary and distinctive PY Swift Double [R10500 ex Vat] can also be obtained without the coamings at R9500 [ex Vat]. Coamings can be added later if required. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Kayak article in Inwater Magazine - 11 November 2009
Obtain your copy of the October-November edition of the Inwater Magazine at any CNA for an article on kayaking St Marie Island, Madagascar. Generously illustrated, it shows just why the island has caught the fancy of wandering kayakers seeking that faraway paradise. Best is, it's just four hours from Johannesburg and you get to paddle on arrival! For the best tour for those wishing to relax on an unspoilt tropical beach and the best sea kayak tour for those wishing to have an adventure par excellence in the southern hemisphere, book your trip, before it gets booked out to 2020. Email info@seakayak.co.za or ohone 0217905611.
Fluid Kayaks for sale - 8 November 2009
Plastic resort kayaks from Fluid are supplied in Cape Town, the Garden Route as well as further afield, including offshore, by PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions CC. Designed and built in South Africa, Fluid plastic kayaks have a high level of durability. Suitable for youngsters, novices and resorts the craft have opened up the thrilling world of sea kayaking to many aspirant paddlers. Order your economical Fluid paddle craft today. The Vaya is suitable for children up to 12, the Buddie for folk under 90kgs, the Chumani for folk over 90kgs and the Synergy for doubles fun. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611, but hurry! There are only 5 weeks left to the holidays!
Own South Africa’s finest sea kayak. - 8 November 2009
A PaddleYak Swift Hybrid Adventure Kayak is now on permanent display at the SABS Design Institute’s Headquarters at No 1 Lategan Street, Pretoria, where all can view this trend-setting craft. Conceptualised, developed and marketed by Johan Loots’ PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions CC in Cape Town, South Africa, it has become synonymous with expedition as well as recreational sea kayaking. Already influencing others’ designs, the prototype PY Fusion Classic was used by adventurer Riaan Manser for his historical and arduous circumnavigation of Madagascar in 2008-2009. The PY Swift Hybrid is suitable for all with its emphasis on safety. The PY Fusion Hybrid and PY TravelYak [which is due soon and which splits into three nested parts for easy transportation to far horizons] are the advanced versions for experienced paddlers. Order your PY Swift today to own and paddle a great South African classic with pride. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 now. For double pleasure, order the PY Swift Hybrid Double! PaddleYak Kayaks are handmade in Lansdowne, Cape Town. There are 11 models to choose from, from the portable PY Darter and seaworthy PY Solo, to the functional PY Kingfisher Fishingkayak, the family favourite PY Tango Double, the very fast PY Pro-X surfski and the award-winning PY Swift Hybrid, South Africa's finest.
Summer Holidays almost here! - 8 November 2009
South Africans are looking forward to their annual summer break with the school holidays starting 11 December 2009. The holiday will be the shortest on record due to the World Soccer Cup being held in South Africa in 2010 when schools will close for the longest winter holiday ever! So plan well. Order your PaddleYak Kayak today. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
St Helena Bay Adventure Business Offer - 8 November 2009
Persons interested in running a sea kayak adventure operation in St Helena Bay, in the vicinity of Velddrift, Britanica Bay, Shelley Point and Groot Paternoster Point, are welcome to contact RCA cc, which pioneered commercial sea kayaking here in the late 1990’s. The area offers protected paddling in the heartland of the West Coast. Routes are fully described in the book “A Practical Guide to Sea Kayaking in Southern Africa”. It offers year-round opportunities for kayaking. This is an opportunity for a community tourism business with substantial support on offer. Contact REAL CAPE ADVENTURES CC at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 now.
Langebaan Adventure Business Offer - 8 November 2009
Persons interested in running a sea kayak adventure operation in the vicinity of Langebaan are welcome to contact RCA cc, which pioneered commercial sea kayaking here in the late 1990’s. The lagoon offers protected paddling in an area reminiscent of Greece. Routes are fully described in the book “A Practical Guide to Sea Kayaking in Southern Africa”. The area offers year-round opportunities for kayaking. Kraalbaai and Churchhaven in the distance are attractive destinations, as are Mykonos and Saldanha to the north. This is an opportunity for a community tourism business with substantial support on offer. Contact REAL CAPE ADVENTURES CC at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 now.
Knysna Adventure Business Offer - 8 November 2009
Persons interested in running a sea kayak adventure operation in Knysna are welcome to contact RCA cc which pioneered commercial sea kayaking here in the late 1990’s. This original Victorian Garden Route town, reminiscent of Key West in Florida [just much nicer with its picturesque lagoon and forested mountain backdrop], offers protected paddling inside a relatively unspoilt lagoon with the world-renowned Heads at its exit to the Indian Ocean. Described in the book “A Practical Guide to Sea Kayaking in Southern Africa”, as one of South Africa’s finest, and having won the title of South Africa’s most popular seaside town numerous times, it is an ideal setting for commercial sea kayaking. Ahead of its time, RCA cc pioneered sea kayaking here in the mid-nineties. It operated from The Quays, which has grown in popularity over the years. The focus in tourism is now firmly set on eco-friendly activities. This is an opportunity for a community tourism business with substantial support on offer. Contact REAL CAPE ADVENTURES CC at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 now.
Mossel Bay Adventure Business Offer - 8 November 2009
Persons interested in running a sea kayak adventure operation in Mossel Bay are welcome to contact RCA cc which pioneered commercial sea kayaking here in the late 1990’s. The bay offers protected paddling with fine views of the Garden Route stretching away in the distance. As first predicted in the route description of Mossel Bay in the book “A Practical Guide to Sea Kayaking in Southern Africa”, this small, forgotten Cinderella of the Garden Route [unknown then to most] was bound to become its metropolis, which it is fast becoming now. This is an opportunity for a community tourism business with substantial support on offer. Contact REAL CAPE ADVENTURES CC at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 now.
Think Green when emailing huge documents - 8 November 2009
With the advent of Broadband, ADSL and other means of transmitting emails rapidly, users are losing sight of the size and the amount of energy needed to send large documents. A 1MB to 12MB-sized document sent via internet may take substantial time to download. It may block systems, necessitating calls to service providers for assistance. Many users do not appear to know how to reduce documents, photographs and scans. One simple technique, if uncertain, is not to send attachments, but to copy all material onto an MS Word document and sending that in the body of the email, not as an attachemnt. Send it to yourself and check the reduction. Show consideration to others; reduce documents to emailable formats before sending them. Think green.
St Marie Kayak Tour - 10 November 2009 - 4 November 2009
There are 4 places available on the next St Marie Island Kayak Adventure starting on Monday 10 November from OR Tambo. Price is R11500 for 12 days, of which 6 will be spent kayaking around St Marie Island and trekking through the rain forests. As time is short interested persons should contact us immediately at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611. Experience this hidden jewel now before Madagascar introduces costly visas and tourists flock to the last great unspoilt tropical island on planet earth. Route explored and recommended by Johan Loots [see the October 2009 edition of Inwater Magazine for more] who said: “By the time you return to Ile Aux Nattes, paddling due south on the windward side of St Marie Island, marvellously protected by an outer reef, you will know you have discovered a shining jewel, perhaps your own holy grail. Less than four hours’ flight from Johannesburg, you may be excused for believing you arrived in some paradise when you disembarked at the little St Marie aerodrome and a dugout collected you to commence your kayak journey. Departing, you know you did.” Itinerary: Day One: Depart Johannesburg for Ile St Marie via Antananarivo. You will be met and transferred by taxi and pirogue to The Beach House; a self catering home on the tiny island of Ile aux Nattes. You will enjoy a welcome dinner at the neighbouring restaurant and a convivial “getting to know you” evening. Overnight at The Beach House Dinner, Bed and Breakfast Day Two: Today is spent in orientation and preparation. Walk the beach, enjoy one relaxation treatment of your choice at the Betsie Day Spa (included) and generally chill in a hammock or on the shaded deck. Choose to self cater or eat at one of the local restaurants on the island. Overnight at The Beach House, Bed and Breakfast Day Three: (±7km) Set off after an early breakfast and paddle across the channel dividing Ille aux Nattes and Ile St Marie and begin your exploration of the unspoilt east coast. Incredibly protected from the wild Indian Ocean by a coral reef leaving approximately 500m of calm, clear and shallow water between the sea and the land. Stop now and then to enjoy the tiny beaches and coves, take a short walk up the hill to visit the caves and lunch wherever you please observing the local inhabitants catching octopus for their dinner. Your destination for the night is the Mora Mora Hotel – a Malagasy run, luxury “jungle style” hotel with a great restaurant offering a mixed menu. Overnight at the Mora Mora Hotel on a Bed and Breakfast basis. Day Four: (±10 km) A very early departure takes you further north up the coast. More casual stop offs to absorb the wonder of standing in a forested bay – it is easy to imagine yours are the first footprints this white sand has felt. Aim to arrive at your destination as early as you can to allow plenty of time to explore the mangrove fringed lagoon. A local guide will take you over the dunes to an isolated beach with only the ocean between you and Australia. Overnight at Hotel Paradise D’Ampany on a Bed and Breakfast basis. Day Five: (±7km) Another early departure but this time it’s your legs that will do the work. Local porters will carry your kayaks across the island (imagine yourself as David Livingstone!) to La Crique on the west coast of the island. The two hour walk takes you on a windy road across streams and through villages offering you wonderful views of both sides of St Marie. You have the rest of the day to snorkel, swim, relax and interact with the locals in nearby villages. Overnight at La Crique Hotel on a Bed and Breakfast basis. Day Six: (±12km) This is the longest paddling day and you travel slowly south, down the sheltered west coast sopping to view the cascades and pools; taking a refreshing dip if the day is not a sacred one. This is the Sainte Marie Channel – the favoured migratory route of the Humpback Whales. They pass through here en masse in June en route north to breed returning towards the end of September back to the Antarctic. It is most likely that you will site one of these magnificent animals offering photo opportunities next to none other. Overnight at a delightful Malagasy hotel on the beach on a Bed and Breakfast basis. Your chance to sample local life and cuisine – interacting and experiencing Malagasy charm. Day Seven: (±7km) South again, bypassing the hustle of Ambodifotatra (the “capital” of St Marie). Note the oldest catholic church in Madagascar overlooking the inlet used in ancient times by William Kid and his pirating cronies to hide from the British Navy and to launch raids on passing trade vessels. Further on in the day you will pull into Lakana Hotel with its stilted bungalows over the turquoise water. Here you will overnight on a Bed and Breakfast basis – drifting off to lapping waves and a gentle breeze. Day Eight: (±5km) A leisurely departure to enjoy your last paddle and reflect on the adventure nearly completed. Arrive back at The Beach House for lunch and perhaps an afternoon of relaxation at the Betsie Day Spa. Spend the evening reminiscing with a barbeque and good company. Overnight at The Beach House on a Dinner, Bed and Breakfast basis. Days Nine and Ten: At leisure! Choose from a variety of excursions and activities. Scuba diving, snorkelling, deep sea fishing, walks, quad/scooter hire, massage, whale watching (seasonal) and glass bottomed boats – perhaps even circumnavigate Ile aux Nattes with a kayak! Self cater or enjoy the cuisine from one of the island bars or restaurants. Overnight at The Beach House - Bed & Breakfast Day Eleven: Take the one hour flight to Tana and another world. A marvellous mix of French, Indonesian and African cultures – colliding in an explosion of sights, sounds and smells. Paddy Fields in the city centre, cobbled streets, narrow French houses with creaking balconies and Indonesian roof tiles. A photographer’s dream of faces, watercolours and activity. Visit the market or just wander the streets. Overnight at the Irianja Guest House and enjoy a traditional Royal Malagasy dinner. Day Twelve: Transfer to Ivato International Airport in time for your flight back to reality.
PaddleYak Surfskis right up there. - 3 November 2009
PaddleYak's Hurricane and Pro-X Open Ocean Surfskis are right up there with the best. Choose the PY Hurricane if you are under 85kgs, or you are mainly going to paddle on protected waters. The craft has been trimmed down to bare essentials offering you a staggeringly fast, yet stable, hull. The PY Pro-X is for paddlers up to 100kgs; it has the same fine hull as the Hurricane, but with a more protective deck for heavier weather. It can also be adapted for fast, long-distance touring. Contact PaddleYak now at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
PaddleYak export success - 3 November 2009
PaddleYak SA has announced that for the period Jan - October 2009, a large portion of its sales were achieved on the export market, earning foreign revenue for the fiscus. South Africans have a rare opportunity to purchase a world-class brand in South Africa at a competititve fraction of the price of exported craft. Order your craft now from info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611. Orders for this year close in 20 days.
Special from PaddleYak - 3 November 2009
Known worldwide for its innovative PaddleYak Swift Hybrid design [on show currently at the SABS Disa Innnovation Exhibition at SABS Headquarters, Pretoria], PaddleYak has now also made its innovative craft available without the trend-setting coaming and with minimal trimmings. This reduces the cost and weight of the craft and turns it into an outstanding sit-on kayak, a leader in the field. Contact PaddleYak now to discuss the options. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Beware second-hand internet outlets - 3 November 2009
Like pawn shops and “buy & sell” shops before them, new internet-based auction and second-hand shops are prone to misuse by thiefs. Pawn shops have traditionally been conduits for stolen goods and if it goes entirely unchecked, like with internet used-goods shops, the situation may get rife. It is therefore incumbent upon buyers to make very, very sure that the used goods they are being offered are not stolen. It is an offence to buy stolen goods. If in doubt, check with the police, or suppliers of the goods in question. If it becomes common knowledge that stolen goods may easily be disposed off through such sites the situation will become catastrophic. Everything from cameras to laptops and kayaks to outboards may be stolen for resale. Best to always buy from established suppliers who can back up their products and give a paper trail of used goods.
Swop Royal Ascot apartment for factory unit - 25 October 2009
One well-appointed batchelor apartment available in The Met, the Arthur Quinlon-designed showpiece, at Royal Ascot, Milnerton, Cape Town's most delightful suburb with superb views of Table Mountain, quick access to the Paddocks Mall, the Milnerton Golf Course, beach and city, to swop for basic factory unit of 100-200sqm of equivalent value. Company urgently expanding production capacity. If you are interested in the offer and have a factroy unit which may be of interest, email info@seakayak.co.za .
Churchhaven share for sale. - 25 October 2009
Scarcer than hen’s teeth – a chance to own a slice of South Africa’s most exclusive and most private property. Situated as a private consortium within the West Coast National Park, less than one hour’s drive from the centre of Cape Town, the area is sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the pristine beaches of the untouched western side of the Langebaan Lagoon. The old hamlets of Churchhaven and Stofbergsfontein lie nestled along a private section of the lagoon not accessible to the public. Opportunity to purchase a share in a consortium in one of the in-style homes is usually only heard of by word of mouth. There is currently one share for sale by private owner. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 should you have dreamed of owning a rare piece of this place for most of your life.
St Marie Madagascar Kayak Tour Special - 24 October 2009
Following in the wake of Riaan Manser's epic circumnavigation of Madagascar Island in a PaddleYak Fusion Hybrid Kayak from PaddleYak Sea Kayaks, and Johan Loots' exploration of St Marie Island on the east coast of Madagascar, REAL CAPE ADVENTURES, in association with Madagascat Charters, has set up a guided 10-day sea kayak tour to the unspoilt island featuring rain forests, coral reef's and beautiful indigenous people. Groups of up to 6 paddlers only can be accommodated on the guided sea kayak tour. Book asap to avoid disappointmnet. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
PaddleYak on permanent display, Pretoria. - 24 October 2009
The PaddleYak Swift Hybrid Adventure Kayak, a recent previous winner of a Disa Award for Innovation, will in future be on permanent display at the SABS Main Office, Pretoria. Persons wishing to see the craft are welcome to see it there amongst South Africa’s other most innovative designs. The address is: SABS Head Office, No 1 Dr Latagan Rd, Groenkloof, Pretoria. For more information about the craft email info@seakayak.co.zs or phone 0217905611
PaddleYak at Design Exhibition, Pretoria - 24 October 2009
PaddleYak at Design Exhibition , Pretoria The SABS Design Institute is exhibiting a selection of South African design award winning products of the past 40 years. With more than a 100 products on show, the Celebrating 40 years of design excellence exhibition offers one of the most extensive views of South African designed products to date. Emphasis has been placed on products that have received SABS Design Excellence Awards in the past decade, but products from the first 30 years of the Design Institute's existence are also showcased. The PaddleYak Swift Hybrid Adventure Kayak, a recent previous winner of a Disa Award for Innovation, will be on permanent display during and after the exhibition and persons wishing to see the craft are welcome to see it there amongst South Africa’s other most innovative designs. The exhibition will be open for the public from Friday, 30 October 2009 to 27 November 2009 during weekdays. Entrance is free. VENUE: SABS Head Office, No 1 Dr LataganRd, Groenkloof, Pretoria. For more information about PaddleYak Kayaks, emial info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Paddling green power - 16 October 2009
With Eskom following the world trend to triple the price of electricity over three years consumers will have no choice but to consider green alternatives to coal and fossil fuel as energy sources. This will have far-reaching effects over the next millennia, hopefully making for a cleaner environment. Sports too will change. Consumptive sports like motor-car, jetski and rubber-duck racing, ski-ing, etc. will become relics of a past era when primitive man paid scant regard to his carbon footprint. Environmentally-friendly sports will become the standard, especially those which can be practiced with the least impact on energy and materials. Kayaking will grow in popularity in leaps and bounds. So, lead the trend. Consider the planet and posterity. Start kayaking today. It’s the right thing to do.
Choose a safer surfski. - 16 October 2009
Was a time when surfskis were used by life-savers to patrol beaches. They were stable enough to be used as platforms to rescue inert swimmers by loading them onto the ski and carrying them back to the beach. They had broad beams, low sterns and shallow seats so you could easily remount them after a capsize. No-one ever had problems remounting them. Modern specification skis still retain important qualities such as manoeuvrability, stability and remountability, but the new trend in open ocean racing to narrower, longer skis for speed has compromised these qualities and surfskis can no longer be assumed to be safe and remountable by all under all conditions. A number of fatalities and near-fatalities have already occurred as a result of these design trends. More and more paddlers are simply finding themselves in deep water, literally and figuratively, when they capsize their craft in adverse conditions. The question arises whether modern, open-ocean surfski-racing, the type which is independent of life-saving associations, craft specifications and mandatory surf proficiency training, is waiting for a Fastnet to happen. Fastnet stands out in the annals of deep-ocean yacht racing as a turning point where design and safety considerations finally fell apart, killing many and sinking plenty on one black day for sailing [see report below]. The consequence was a rethink on design and mandatory safety considerations for yacht racing. At PaddleYak, South Africa, an award-winning kayak manufacturer and builder, designer and sponsor of adventurer Riaan Manser’s unique, hybrid sea kayak, which took him round Madagascar, safety considerations are paramount. The top-of-the-range PaddleYak Pro-X Open Ocean Surfski is right up there with the best in respect of speed and performance, but it has two essential design qualities which should bear consideration by paddlers seriously concerned with safety; a margin of hull stability and a lower stern for easier remountability. Don’t follow the trend blindly. Think about it. Test a PY Pro-X. Email info@seakayak.co.za today. Or phone 0217905611. PaddleYak delivers craft countrywide and exports to over thirty countries, directly to buyers, for the best prices. Those in the picture choose what’s right for them. Go to Wikipedia for more on the Fastnet; there are lessons to be learned there: Here is an extract: “The 1979 Fastnet race was the twenty-eighth Fastnet race, a yachting race competition held since 1925, generally every two years. In 1979, it was the climax of the five-race Admiral's Cup competition, as it had been since 1957. Storms during the race wreaked havoc on over 306 yachts taking part in the biennial race, resulting in 68 withdrawals, 25 sinkings and 15 fatalities. Emergency services and civilian vessels from around the west side of the English Channel were summoned to aid what was the largest rescue operation in peace-time. Those involved included naval ships, lifeboats, commercial boats, and helicopters. The 605-mile race started on 11 August 1979. By 13 August, winds were reported at Force 6, with gusts of Force 7. Forecasters were predicting winds of Force 8. The leading boat, Kialoa, was on course to break the Fastnet record set eight years earlier. However, the headlines the following day were not about its success. Over 13–14 August, 25 of the 306 yachts taking part were sunk or disabled due to high winds and "mountainous seas". The Daily Telegraph (15 August, 1979, p. 1) described the situation, where "Royal Navy ships, RAF Nimrod jets, helicopters, lifeboats, a Dutch warship and other craft picked up 125 yachtsmen whose boats had been caught in force 11 violent storm strength gusts midway between Land's End and Fastnet". The effort also included tugs, trawlers, and tankers. Rescue efforts began after 6:30 am on 14 August, once the winds had dropped to severe gale Force 9.[1]There was an accusation that because the race was not officially called off soon enough, some competitors were lost at sea because they kept on racing "for the honour of the race" instead of running for a port."
Company celebrates its achievements in 2009 - 11 October 2009
PaddleYak Kayaks has been invited to contribute to the SABS Disa Innovator’s exhibition to be held at the end of October 2009 at the SABS headquaters, Pretoria. This is in recognition of its award-winning PaddleYak Swift Hybrid craft which is making waves in the kayaking world. World Adventurer Riaan Manser recently became the first modern-day kayaker to circumnavigate Madagascar, the last great frontier, on a PaddleYak Fusion Hybrid Kayak. At an NSRI ceremony, Helen Zille, outstanding Premier of the Western Cape, South Africa’s powerhouse, received a PaddleYak Solo Kayak in recognition of Manser’s achievement. Following Manser's performance, Brent Wibberley crossed Lake Victoria on a PaddleYak Swift Hybdrid Double and Johan Loots explored St Marie Island, in a sectional PaddleYak Darter Tripper. This exploration was followed by the setting up of a sea kayak operation on the remote island. PaddleYak sales is personally managed by owners Johan & Teresa Loots. The company has exported to individuals in over 30 different countries. South Africans and paddlers further afield have the opportunity of ordering their special PaddleYak Kayaks directly on the internet by emailing info@seakayak.co.za. PaddleYak Kayaks are manufactured by South Africans for the world. It is now possible to obtain any one of their 11 models wherever you are in the world at a very competititve price. South Africans can buy a world-leading craft at less than a third of an equivalent imported craft. Now you can order, own and paddle an authentic PaddleYak Kayak; the innovative craft for discerning paddlers who can tell art from craft! Order your PaddleYak now. Live today. Paddle a legend.
Order now! PaddleYak SA warns. - 20 September 2009
With summer approaching and the World Cup 2010 round the corner, PaddleYak SA is urging customers to place their orders now. PaddleYak builds on order only and it anticipates a massive demand on its award-winning and unique craft this season. Do not hesitate if you still wish to have a sought-after PaddleYak Sea Kayak this year. Eleven models to choose from. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611. Today for tomorrow! PS: This is not a tax return message - it's about investing in your life and the pleasures which PaddleYak Kayaks bring!Be kind to yourself. Order that sought-after PaddleYak Sea Kayak right now.
Double kayak split in four parts - 20 September 2009
PaddleYak SA has split its popular PY Tango Double into four parts to facilitate shipping to remote places. The parts are transportable as regular, accompanied luggage at no additional cost. So, if you wish to get a sea-worthy double kayak to an out of the way place, contact PaddleYak at info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611 today.
Boks rule! Accommodation needed in New Zealand. - 13 September 2009
Winning the gruelling Tri-Nations in a hostile one-horse-town in a nail-biting finish, the Boks underscored their undisputed status as current world champions. Beating the worthy All Blacks three times in succession has last only been achieved in the 1940’s. The current Bok team ranks right up there with the legends of the sport, spelling doom for their opponents in the World Cup 2011 in New Zealand. Their stars are still rank juniors, only approaching maturity in 2011! Those offering accommodation and tours to New Zealand in 2011 are welcome to contact johan@mweb.co.za for promotion in South Africa. All of South Africa are likely to converge on the land of the long cloud for the next big showdown!
Epic kayak and kaskazi journey - 13 September 2009
With spring in the southern hemisphere upon us it’s time to plan your kayak escape for 2009-2010. Real Cape Adventures CC and PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions CC, South Africa’s leading sea kayak companies, are offering a joint epic sea kayak adventure to St Marie Island, Madagascar. Follow the kaskazi and kusi monsoons of the fabled East African coast and explore an unspoilt tropical island where most locals still lead simple lives fishing, paddling dugouts and harvesting coconuts. Following in the footsteps of adventurer Riaan Manser, who paddled the unique PaddleYak Fusion Classic Hybrid around Madagascar alone, an epic journey of 5500 kms, you will be able to enjoy the special offerings of this place in the company of locals who know its best haunts. Kayak for six days moving along the coast of St Marie, with the kaskazi and kusi monsoons at your back. Hike through the tropical rain forests and cross the mangroves before making your way round the inner reef to Ile Aux Nattes, a delightful island with local villages and nothing else, but nature at its virginal best. The guided sea kayak tour has been reconnoitred by kayaker Johan Loots who has described it as one of the most enchanting sea kayak routes along the East African Coast. The island and outer reefs provide protected waters suitable for paddling by the whole family, the inexperienced as well as the experienced. Fly from Johannesburg to Tana and on to St Marie Island, to be collected by dugout for transfer to the start of your epic kayak adventure. En route paddlers will enjoy the local cuisine and culture and for those who want more luxury, Madagascan-styled massages and beach-side palm-fronded villas swept by the monsoons. Book now and make use of the special introductory offer. This route is destined to become one of the all-time classics for travellers who wish to explore the world by kayak. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone Real Cape Adventures in Cape Town, South Africa at 0217905611. If you wish to order the latest version of the PY Fusion Hybrid, another world classic in the making, use the same contact details.
Holiday House in Hout Bay, Cape Town. - 10 September 2009
Vineyard House in Hout Bay, Cape Town is available now for short and long-term rents from the end of 2009. The house is in colonial beach style and has commanding views of Table Mountain and the Hout Bay valley, Cape Town's most beautiful harbour and forest town. Less than 5 minutes to the beach and twenty-fice to the Waterfront. Sleeps 2 to 8. Contact us now. Phone 0217905611 or email johan@mweb.co.za .
75 Days to Christmas - 10 September 2009
This is a freindly reminder that there are only 75 working days left to Christams. Less if you take off some of the public holidays coming. PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions only supply craft to those who have ordered craft. Orders for Christmas are due now. Avoid disappointment. Order today to get your PaddleYak Sea Kayak in time. There are eleven models to choose from. Leading, award-winning, recreational and expedtion-level kayaks for discerning buyers, made by hand in Cape Town, South Africa. PaddleYak, the mark of distinction.
Save 50/50! - 25 August 2009
South Africa's longest running environmental awareness programme is about to be pulled, following in the wake of a scandalous out of court settlement of R11 million for the dismissal of the incompetent SABC chief who ran the public broadcaster into the ground during his tenure. 50/50 has been consistently sharp on environmental matters and has ruffled many feathers during its run and management must have seen the opportunity to eliminate it during the current upheaval. Email your objections to the SABC now. The production team of 50/50 is also looking at private funding for an independent programme, which should make it even more hard-hitting and has appealed to the environmentally-minded with funds to spare to step up and discuss the options. One door closes and another opens.
New kayaking destination: St Marie, Madagascar. - 23 August 2009
New Sea Kayak Destination: St Marie Island, Madagascar.
Following in the wake of Riaan Manser’s circumnavigation of Madagascar, REAL CAPE ADVENTURES cc, in association with Paddle Yak Sea Kayaks cc and MadagasCat [Pty]Ltd have set up up a delightful sea kayak tour on St Marie Island on the east coast of Madagascar. On a 10-day tour you will spend at least six days paddling around the island with a local guide, enjoying this exotic paradise the way it should be. The prices are set to accommodate paddlers on paddling budgets. Non-paddlers are also catered for. The route is suitable for all levels of experience, from beginner to expert. Contact us at info@seakayak.co.za and be some of the first to explore this unspoilt, rural, tropical destination where folk still live from collecting shrimps in hand–woven baskets. REAL CAPE ADVENTURES cc opening up sea kayak routes in Africa for you. STOP PRESS: Book this tour now. It is expected to be booked out months in advance in the future when the word gets out.
Lake Victoria crossed on a PaddleYak Swift Hybrid - 23 August 2009
Brent Wibberley and Nic Haan of Lake Tanganyika fame yesterday added the crossing of Lake Victoria to their list of kayaking achievements. The pair crossed the largest lake in Africa across its centreline, a distance of 600 kilometres. When they were at the centre of the lake they were 300 kms from the nearest land. The lake presents like a large ocean from the air, stretching beyond the horizon on all corners and like an ocean it is vulnerable to the weather with large swells and high winds. The pair is currently travelling to Lamu in Kenya from where they will broadcast their achievement to the world. The PaddleYak Swift Hybrid Adventure Kayak was specifically designed and built for adventure racing. Expedition paddlers have adopted this craft and are finding it ideal for exploring the remote sea kayak routes of Africa and the world. PaddleYak. Award-winning kayaks for all.
Doctors without Borders - 23 August 2009
Below is an update of a mission which was started when two South African sea kayakers, Morne Smit and Louis Peters, took on the Lake Tanganyika Kayak Expedition on their PaddleYak Swift Adventure Kayak and found a child with a disfigured face en route. After they completed their journey they took on the task of raising funds to assist the child. This is the outcome of a process that took a year:
Joseph was discharged yesterday and will be on his way home tomorrow. Here is an email update from Respice (who travelled with Joseph and his father to Nairobi) which he sent today:
I'm very joy to tell you that, we got Hospital discharge yesterday Augost 19.2009 afternoon. But still Doctors ask to stay two days in Nairobi for the patient rest before starting long journey to Tanzania, so we expect to leave Nairobi on Friday after recheck up. A study from Nairobi ;- -Climatically is so cold as it needs to have pull over always. -Economically, Money volume is greater than that from Tanzania but the life cost is higher than Tanzania cost. -People live friendly. My Comments;- Thank you for this good event done to Joseph , i think now he feels proud and he will be valued like other children in the family +community. But still there are two children apart from Winston with the same problem (CLEFT PALATE) ,so by this way i hope they need your help. Please think about them too. God bless you, Respice.
It should take the group 4-5 days to reach home again. I am not sure of exactly who the other two children are that Respice is referring to, but I will see what I can do to assist them and Joseph when more information is available.
Diana Gathiga (the Logistics Manager for Operation Smile in Kenya who did most of the support of the three in Nairobi) will be sending me photos in a while. Unfortunately her sister passed away this week (sincere condolences to her and the family). She has arranged with her colleague to also take some photos and will email these when she has returned to the office. I will send these to you when available.
Thanks to all of you who made this possible, from donations to logistics, translation of messages, numerous telephone calls, advice, etc. Respice, you have been a real star, making a massive commitment by spending three weeks of you annual holiday to help Joseph. Thanks a million.
Best regards Morne Smit
Interest rates down, kayak sales up. Order now! - 17 August 2009
Governments are relaxing interest rates and credit controls to stimulate economies in the wake of the recession. Banks are also scurrying to attract buyers lest they miss out as consumers start lending and spending again. Some markets, incuding kayaking, appeared to have been mostly unaffected by the downturn so stands to be further stimulated by the improved interest rates. Kayak manufacturers are bracing themselves for an end of year rush and those in the market for craft would do well to order now. The recent kayaking achievement by Riaan Manser will have stimulated many arond the world to invest in adventure and in that special kayak. There are just over 120 days left to Christmas 2009. Be wise, order now.
Freya Hoffmeister Racing around Australia - 5 August 2009
Freya Hofmeister, the German entrant in a beauty pageant who turned sportswoman extra-ordinaire, is racing around Australia in a lightweight carbon kayak in an attempt to become the first woman to circumnavigate it and to improve Paul Caffyn's time set some years ago. She is an experienced kayaker having already circumnavigated Iceland and New Zealand's South Island and she has completed the Molokai Race. She teaches rolling classes, hence her ability to use what amounts to a sit-in racing kayak in her attempt. Racing round a well-charted coast with first world services and under the guidance of Paul Caffyn she is able to set times hitherto unknown in the annals of solo sea kayaking. It sets a new challenge for those who follow in the footsteps of paddlers pioneering routes and who wish to race, rather than explore, routes. All paddlers,especially the racing fraternity, are holding their breath as this phenomenal "race" unfolds. If Freya stops now she would already have paddled herself into the history books. If she completes the journey at the pace she is currently maintaining it will be astonishing and will not only be one of the greatest sea kayak racing achievements ever, but also the most graceful one by far!
Lake Victoria Kayak Crossing begun! - 5 August 2009
This Sunday, 2nd Aug, Nick Haan and myself [Brent Wibberley]will set off for Mwanza on the shores of Lake Victoria. Our goal is to kayak the longest south to north route across Lake Victoria, departing from the southernmost town of Mwanza in Tanzania, passing through Kenya and ending at the northern most town of Jinja in Uganda (the source of the Nile!). A journey of roughly 500km that we hope to cover in 14 days.
During our journey we'll be carrying the flags of the three lakeside countries and sharing in the message of goodwill and respect with regards to the handling of the lakes numerous resources. A very current and contentious topic as Uganda and Kenya hotly debate each others lake water boundaries, the control of water released into the Nile (and hence the lake's level) is influenced by Sudden and Egypt, and the large but shallow lake is extremely vulnerable to the effects of global warming.
K24 news channel has shown interest in filming our expedition from start to finish. I hope they come on board. In the mean time our expedition can be followed on the website blog below, with daily reports being updated via sat phone. To receive the blog reports directly please key in your email address, alternatively browse the website.
A last word of thanks to Johan Loots of Paddleyak, Louis and Morne, Bill and Robyn in Mwanza, Jeff Koinange and the K24 crew and Winnie and the support team!! WIth a special thanks to Laurel and Ava, supporting me from the home front.
Nick, if you're reading this, shotgun for the backseat!
Kwaherini! Brent.
Operation Smile - 5 August 2009
No, this is not an attempt to encourage airport staff to smile more. Morne Smit has been working a year on a project to deliver medical services to children in the area of Lake Tanganyika following his epic kayak journey there on a PaddlYak Swift Hybrid in 2008. Here is a follow-up on progress:- Joseph and Richard [his father] arrived in Kipili today. They will start their trip to Sumbawanga tomorrow. Hold thumbs that they have a good trip. Joseph Kalonga, his father Richard and Respice (the health worker who will accompany the two of them) will start their trip to Kenya this coming week. All is on schedule to reach Nairobi well in time for the screening process of the next Operation Smile mission. Marjo’s husband Bert will be taking the three to Sumbawanga from Kipili. Marjo and Bert will buy them the necessary clothing, shoes and other necessities for the trip prior to their departure. It should take them about 5 days to reach Nairobi, so there is a healthy time safety margin. Their likely travel route will be Kipili -> Sumbawanga -> Mbeya -> Arusha -> Nairobi. When they reach Nairobi, Operation Smile will take care of their accommodation, meals etc. I will keep you posted on updates that I receive on their trip / the operation.
Great management opportunity in Gabon - 22 July 2009
We have a position available for either a lodge management couple or manager to manage a small intimate eco lodge that is part of a bigger lodge with several eco camps in and around Gabon’s most beautiful National Park. The eco lodge consists of 5 beautiful log cabins, a separate restaurant, kitchen and lounge area with several outbuildings for researchers. It is situated on a small tropical island in a lagoon surrounded by forests and in close proximity to the beach. A very small town with very basic facilities is 20 min away by boat. On the island there is also a gorilla sanctuary which is managed separately but which acts as the main attraction. Several other excursions also take place from the lodge. Except for the gorilla team the lodge have 2 eco-guides / skippers, a cook and one housekeeping lady. The lodge management couple / manager have to be very hands on and get involved with all operations. Duties: 1. General Lodge duties i.e. Guest relations, housekeeping, administration, logistics, maintenance, guiding etc. 2. Excursion development and improving lodge infrastructure and upgrading quality of service. 3. Assisting with aviation and boat schedules for guests arriving to the eco lodge or the main lodge and meeting and greeting of guests in the town. 4. Operating a logistic boat on a weekly basis to the closest city (3-4 hours away) and transporting logistics for the main lodge as well as eco-lodge. 5. Assisting the main lodge either as a couple or as a individual with any requests i.e. helping with other eco-camps, guiding, logistics, restaurant duties at main lodge etc. (Couples may spend a few days apart from time to time.) Requirements: Under 30 years of age. No children. Hotel / lodge experience essential. Maintenance experience. (Outboard engines, solar power, generators, general lodge maintenance) Guiding experience. Skipper license an advantage. French speaking an advantage.
Package offered: Start date: Immediately All meals, accommodation and travel costs included. Standard medical aid plan One week break after every 3 months. Three weeks holiday with return air fares after every 6 months to your place of recruitment. Salary on application.
Please forward your CV with a recent photograph (e-mail size). The eco-lodge makes part of a bigger lodge which belongs to a young but dynamic company which also owns several other hotels and resorts with an aviation company and therefore there will be ample opportunity for a dynamic person or couple to develop within this exciting and adventurous tourism and Conservation Company. Reply to info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611
DSTV Screening of Quirmbas Kayak Adventure - 22 July 2009
The Fresh Air Production of the Quirimbas Sea Kayak Adventure by, amongst others, Peter van Kets, last doubles winner of the Transatlantic Rowing Challenge, will be screened on Supersports during the last week of July and first week of August, 2009. The adventure comprised two crews on double PaddleYak Hybrid Swifts exploring the remote Quirimbas Archipelago in Northern Mozambique, paddling between Ibo, Medjumbe, Qualilea and other islands in the group. The swaying palms and swooping dhows should lend a special charm to the production as it focusses on the historical East African coast. The screenings are as follows: Monday 27 July SS6 & SS6A 19h00 (Premier) Tuesday 28 July SS2 & SS2A 13h30 ® Wednesday 29 July SS6 & SS6A 17h30 ® Thursday 30 July SS5 & SS5A 22h30 ® Saturday 1 August SS2 & SS2A 23h30 ® Sunday 2 August SS5 & SS5A 12h30 ® Monday 3 August SS6 & SS6A 19h30 ®
Kayak tours to Madagascar - 22 July 2009
Following Manser’s achievement, Johan Loots of Real Cape Adventures cc, in combination with MadagasCat and others, have set up a sea kayak tour on St Marie Island on the east coast of Madagascar. The ten day trip includes 6-8 days of paddling the leeward and windward sides of tropical St Marie Island, a microcosm of Madagascar. Paddlers will be based on lush Ile Aux Nattes on the southern tip of St Marie and will set off on 3-4 day kayak trips before returning to base and departing on their next trip. The trips are suitable for all levels of kayakers, including the experienced, as well as families and the more timid. Those who do not wish to paddle can explore Ile Aux Nattes and engage the locals in craft and cooking, or while away the time on pristine and ultra-safe beaches. There are no vehicles on Ile Aux Nattes, so the escape from civilisation is complete. Pilates classes and body massages are available from specialists who have decided to make this island getaway their home. Time will be made en route for discovering the island, its history and culture, fishing, diving and sampling the local cuisine. The island is tropical with swaying palms, white beaches, and warm and unspoilt waters. Accommodation will be in tents and rustic, thatched bungalows. Departure is from Johannesburg directly to St Marie Island. Transfer to Ile St Aux Nattes, only a kilometre away from the airport, is by traditional dugout canoe. Contact RCA CC now to express your interest. Email info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611. Beat the recession. Get a life. Paddle a kayak in the tropics now.
Flat-bladed paddle proves itself. - 22 July 2009
Riaan Manser achieved his historical circumnavigation of Madagascar using a standard, flat-bladed paddle. Considering that Manser’s craft weighed 70kgs fully-loaded, it stands to reason that the paddle to use would have had to be reduced in surface area to make paddling possible. A “wing” would have simply scooped too much water and would have led to severe strain. Wing paddles were originally designed for flat water sprints at the Olympics in craft weighing 9kgs, yet many uninformed retailers persist in recommending such paddles to all and sundry. A flat paddle is also essential for bracing in high seas and present as less of an impediment when fishing and diving. Swift-water paddlers as well as waveski paddlers only use flat blades, for obvious reasons. Manser’s achievement with a flat blade should serve to make the discerning paddler more aware of the importance of the correct choice of a paddle and should alert retailers to be more cautious with their recommendations. If you have been suffering shoulder and wrist strains, change to a flat-bladed paddle. Manser suffered severe strains, but with a wing he would not have managed his extreme marathon at all.
PaddleYak makes history - 22 July 2009
Riaan Manser completed his historical, marathon circumnavigation of Madagascar on Wednesday 8 July on a PaddleYak Fusion Classic Kayak from PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions CC in Cape Town, South Africa. This craft was the prototype for PaddleYak’s award-winning PaddleYak Swift Hybrid Adventure Kayak, the world’s first commercially successful combination sit-in/sit-on sea kayak. Manser’s achievement on this craft corroborates for once and for all developer Johan Loots’ claims of the last nine years that the inherent features of the hybrid craft makes it the ideal design for serious recreational and expedition sea kayaking. Manser, essentially a novice paddler before his departure on his record-setting marathon, chose the craft for its obvious safety advantages: a sealed hull and ease of remounting after a capsize as well as the comfort provided by the fixed sprayskirt coaming. Manser chose the original prototype of the hybrid craft as it originally offered an extra-high bow for cutting through surf, a capacious seat, ample storage, a protective coaming and a kick-up in the stern to aid manoeuvring in rough oceans and high winds. The PY Swift Hybrid was based on this craft and has proven to be very successful since its launch in 2000. A number of other manufacturers have since adopted the concept, a tribute to PaddleYak’s innovation. The latest version, the PY Fusion Hybrid, was specifically developed for fast touring and expeditions. A split version, The PY TravelYak is also in the making for expedition paddlers wishing to explore difficult-to-reach destinations. PaddleYak and PaddleYak owners around the world are deservedly walking proud today. If you wish to share in PaddleYak’s glory, drop an email to info@seakayak.co.za as it is sure to be appreciated by the folk there. See PaddleYak Kayaks at www.paddleyak.co.za. Most of all, order your history-setting PaddleYak today, wherever you are in the world!
Kayak history made by Manser - 22 July 2009
Riaan Manser arrived on the beach at Tamatave on the east coast of Madagascar on Wednesday, 8 July, 2009 at 15h20, completing the circumnavigation of this remote island-continent in just under a year. A distance of over 5000 kms was covered in a single sea kayak, the PaddleYak Hybrid Classic. Manser was entirely independent on his trip, carrying all his equipment with him on his epic voyage. Comparing his achievement with his previous feat, cycling around Africa’s perimeter on a bicycle in two and a half years, he said the kayak trip had been far more demanding and dangerous. Not only was he confronted by an inhospitable coastline and cyclones at times, he also developed tropical infections, faced a coup, was jailed more than once by corrupt officials and was mugged and robbed a number of times. This in a country where most local inhabitants speak Malagasy, an Indonesian dialect difficult to acquire, and where a poor, or non-existent, infrastructure make every action a trial of endurance. Despite the hardships, Manser was upbeat about his experiences in his first interview after landing. He will publish a book about his journey and a full-length documentary will be produced. Manser’s achievement on a kayak will have far-reaching consequences for the recreational sea kayak industry and should inspire many generations to come to pack a kayak to go and explore the world. It’s clear after Manser’s mammoth effort that it is there to be rediscovered by humble kayak.
PaddleYaks in demand worldwide - 24 June 2009
PaddleYak SA reports that the company's products are in high demand with production currently full to capacity, despite the recession. It puts this down to consumers being more discreet with their purchases currently, choosing to allocate funds to life-affirming, long-lasting products, rather than to short-term consumables. “It’s as if folk have become more aware of the importance of investing in the quality of their own lives”. Producing its own craft in Cape Town and selling from a virtual store on the internet at www.paddleyak.net, the company supplies directly to end-users around the globe, making its products very competitively priced. With the US$- ZAR exchange rate at the time of going to press at 7.98, international purchasers can obtain these sought-after craft at a third of the cost of similar craft in, for instance, the US, before transport and levies [if any] are added. A recent hike of 8% by PaddleYak SA to match inflation has been held off for two years for the benefit of consumers, pointing to its dedication to offering value for money. The company has had the distinction of receiving two national design awards and has a track record going back more than a decade. Its craft are robust, built for performance rather than show, although the brand has been on display worldwide. The company has previously exhibited in Sydney, Australia, Fort Lauderdale and Miami, US, La Rochelle, France and Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa. Its craft can be seen around the globe at places as far-flung as Denmark and Sao Tome, Spain and Papua-New Guinea, Gabon and Tanzania, the Seychelles and Canada and Switzerland and the US, a clear indication of its appeal and sea-worthiness, hence the selection of the PaddleYak Fusion Classic by Riaan Manser for his current world-first attempt at circumnavigating Madagascar. Why hesitate any longer? Order your craft now - the solstice has already passed and the southern hemisphere is heading for summer! Email info@seakayak.co.za, phone 27217905611, or see www.seakayak.co.za or www.paddleyak.net.
Head to Madagascar for historical achievement - 24 June 2009
Riaan Manser is now 450 kms away from his goal; to become the first modern-day sea kayaker to circumnavigate Madagascar, the world’s most remote and exotic island continent, with a coastline almost 6000 kms long. Achieving his goal will catapult Manser, already famous for cycling around Africa’s perimeter from Cape Town to Cape Town, a journey of 32 000 kms, to international acclaim in the annals of outdoor adventure. It will put him right up there with Amundsen, Hillary, Shackleton, Slocum and a handful of other extraordinary individuals who have inspired us with their achievements of endurance. Join us now on a tour to Madagascar to see Manser in, but hurry, he is coming in fast despite adverse conditions, giant surf and inhospitable surroundings. Contact info@seakayak.co.za or phone 0217905611. In the meantime, spare a thought for Manser; the journey is not over till the man on his PaddleYak Fusion Classic with all his gear paddles into Tamatave, Madagascar.
Paddler arrested - 27 May 2009
Riaan Manser, striving to become the first-ever paddlwr to circumnavigate Madagascar, the world's most exotic and most remote island continent, was arrested soon after passing Cap St Marie, the country's southernmost point. The charges by the local police were unclear and he was released two days later after diplomatic intervention. Manser subsequently found his gear had been interfered with. His mission has become a trial of survival and of dodging officialdom. Join TASKS, The African Sea Kayak Society, at www.tasks.co.za and bolster our numbers so that we may object internationally to bureaucratic interference with those who practice eco-friendly sports such as sea kayaking. It's time the world, including the undeveloped third world, gets it right. If you are not unreservedly encouraging kayaking in nature amongst the living people of the world, what in tarnation are you encouraging?
Manser achieves second last milestone - 23 May 2009
Riaan Manser, adventurer extraordinaire, has passed Cape St Marie, the southern-most point of Madagascar on his 5.5m PaddleYak Fusion Classic Sea Kayak, loaded with 70 kilograms of equipment, as he is doing the trip solo and independent of any assistance. Manser has thereby completed three-quarters of his mission to become the first man alive to circumnavigate Madagascar on a modern sea kayak. He now faces the most treacherous part of the coast with 1500 kilomtres of unprotected shoreline buffeted by southeast wind and swells. Overhead waves and currents make this a life-threatening part of the trip, but one which he will have to overcome to achieve his goal which would rival thw world's greatest endurance achievements. Spare a thought for Riaan on this journey which is inspring us all to overcome our own obstacles and limitations, whatever they may be. Manser's aim now is to reach Tamatave, his starting point in August 2008, by the end of June 2009. He would be rightly hailed as a remarkable human-being if he makes it. His achevement would go down in the annals of endurance as one of the greatest and most remarkable of all time.
Inwater Magazine for kayakfishing articles - 23 May 2009
Buy your Inwater magazine now and read about fishing and kayakfishing in Southern Africa waters. Availabale in good magazine stores throughout the country or email info@seakayak.co.za. If you have fishingkayak stories to share, please make contact.
Lewis Pugh Surfski Paddle - 23 May 2009
Lewis Pugh, the iceman, has done it again with a remarkable paddle towards the North Pole on a surfski. The purpose of the paddle was to attract the world's attention to climatic change due to industrial emissions threatening our blue planet. Pugh was voted the Adventurer of the Year 2009 in Out There Magazine. Well done also to the Lake Tanganyika sea kayak duo on their PaddleYak Swift Hybrid double who were finalists in the magazine-based competition. Their work obtaining medical support for those in need on the shores of the remote lake continues. Sea kayakers the world over can spread the news and report on the state of the planet. Join TASKS - The African Sea Kayak Society, on www.tasks.co.za - it costs nothing and is intended to spread this eco-friendly pastime to all.
Lay-bye your sea kayak purchase - 23 May 2009
PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions CC in Cape Town, South Africa, invites you to order your craft now and lay-bye it until you can settle it in full. Fix the price with your order. No interest charged for up to six months of payment. Be ready for summer, get your order in now and pay in installments of your choice. Get a life; beat the recession. Buy a PaddleYak on Lay-bye. Email info@seakayak.co.za
Buy PaddleYak in Northern Hemisphere - 23 May 2009
With summer upon Northerners and winter upon Southerners, it's time to invest in the world's leading hybrid sea kayak, the PaddleYak Swift, dual award-winning design and first succesful, hybrid, sit-in, sit-on sea kayak, now beginning to be emulated by other manufacturers worldwide [remember to remind them where the design originated from]. Wherever you are in the world, order your hand-laminated PaddleYak now. The PY Fusion Hybrid for expedition sea kayaking is also out and in productions now [the PY Fusion Classic is currently being used by Riaan Manser in his attempt to become the first modern-day paddler to circumnavigate Madagascar in a kayak - a feat which would rank with the world's most iconic endurance achievements]and the PY TravelYak, the split version for serious travelling, can be manufactured by special arrangement. Book you craft now at info@seakayak.co.za .
Madagascar Sea Kayak Adventure - 23 May 2009
Invitation to join Johan Loots to explore the southeast coast of Madagascar for sea kayaking, June-July 2009. The trip will be planned to coincide with Riaan Manser's arrival at the point of completion of his historical sea kayak circumnavigation of Madagascar, the world's most exotic island continent. Email johan@mweb.co.za now.
Cape Town Accommodation World Cup 2010 - 23 May 2009
With the World Cup just 12 months away, the search for accommodation in Cape Town is on. It is expected that many soccer enthusiasts will make Cape Town their base, or include it in their itinerary. Vineyard House is situated in the leafy, seaside rural suburb of Hout Bay which offers 30 minute road access to the new soccer stadium at the foot of Table Mountain, but also offers its own beach, harbour and mountain vistas. It sleeps 6 to 12 and is ideal for tv and news crews, as well as large families, or groups, who wish to base themselves in Cape Town during the June-July 2010 event. It is in colonial beach style and has commnanding views over Table Mountain, with substantial and secure parking and space. It is withing short walking distance to a Spar farmstall for all your requirements. Contact info@seakayak.co.za or phone 27217905611. Will consider exchanging home for part of the period for seaside homes elsewhere in the world. Preferred areas would be Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, Greecs, Turkey, Cyprus, Russia, Ireland, Key West, Cuba, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Vancouver, Hawaii, or Tahiti.
Casa Rei - Mozambique's Pomene Camp - 23 May 2009
Family Fishing Camp Casa Rei on the north shore of Pomene's lagoon in Central Mozambique offers an ideal escape and the perfect Mozambican expereince. Unspoilt lagoons, beaches and surrounds for the whole family with special appeal to fishermen, divers, explorers and kayakers. Book a camp for your group.
The fishing camp is meters from the lagoon edge.
The camp consists of 5 rondavel bedrooms, a large Rondavel playroom/ fishing tackle room, a very large rectangular lounge / dining room with an incorporated kitchen. A brick ablution block consisting of a shower and toilet is situated behind the camp. A water storage tank is pumped from the fresh water lake behind the camp.
The fisherman’s camp is geared to the camping market but offers accommodation in tents (3m x 3m tents supplied with two mattrases in each) each tent is pitched in a thatched rondavel and there are 5 altogether. The separate rooms offer privacy and an enclosed tent protects one from crawling, slithering and flying things.
The camp has a Zero gas freezer and a 12v solar powered light system in the Lounge kitchen and kids room.
Mattresses, fitted sheets, pillows, pillowcases, cutlery, furniture and a staff member is included in the daily rate.
Running water ablutions as well as donkey heated hot water is supplied to the shower and washing up basin. Gas for the stove top and freezer (freezer uses about 1kg per day) will need to personally supplied. Electric fans are installed but will need a generator to power them.
All you need to bring is your food, booze, a sleeping bag or blanket, fishing tackle, gas for the freezer (at least a 9kg bottle), gas for the cooker (camping style bottle), petrol for water pump (5l), generator for fans and if possible a boat.
Jet Ski’s and skiing are not allowed in the Estuary, Quad bikes have been allowed but thankfully they are still quite rare, they are only allowed 1st gear around the camp area. Snorkelling in Estuary around tree structures is very good, you have access to about 30km of deserted beach. and the rock structure is a +- 5km Walk from Pomene Lodge which is on the other side of the lagoon. Casa Rei is about 650 km from Maputo so please allow about 10hrs driving time and if towing add another 2hrs. We are fairly remote which means no day trippers. We do recommend at least 10 days to really enjoy Casa Rei and environs.
The family fishing camp is R1000 per day for the first 8 and R120 per day per person thereafter.
See www.casarei.co.za for more info, oremail info@seakayak.co.za.
Skipper and Guide wanted - Gabon - 6 May 2009
An established nature reserve and resort operator is in need of a fully-qulaified skipper and whale-watchin guide to daily operate a 20-seater, high-powered duck with inboards through a river mouth in Gabon. The incumbent should be experienced as the outlet is treacherous. Game-fishing experience would be a recommendation. The offer is for three months, June to September 2009. The package is negotiable and would include return flights and board and lodging. Contact info@seakayak.co.za .
Sea Kayak Guide wanted- Kenya - 6 May 2009
An establshed sea kayak operation on Lamu Island, Kenya, is looking for a manager/guide.
Qualifications
Qualified and confident seakayaker Leadership qualities and ability to control tour groups and make appropriate responsible decisions for the safety and well being of the group Ability to plan the operations and logistics for extended kayak trips in remote areas.
Able to learn quickly and adjust to varying environments Hospitable, a degree of maturity and able to interact with tourists from other countries as well as local/rural communities.
Duties
Guiding tour groups both whilst kayaking and whilst on land and for both daily rentals and over-night safaris. Providing tour groups with instruction on kayaking, safety, snorkeling, camping and related activities. Managing the procurement and supplies for all tours. Managing and supervising the tour staff, including camp chef, camp crew, dhow crew, kayak guides and all other support services. Oversee the maintenance of all kayak and camping equipment so they are in good working order.
Helping with day-to-day administrative duties, such as issuing of receipts, keeping records, having clients sign indemnity forms, taking payments, etc. Answering to the company director.
Conditions
Free board and lodge on Lamu Island Season runs from August 2009 to April 2010 Commission based salary, plus all tips earned
Contact info@seakayak.co.za
West Coast Kayak Season - 23 April 2009
Autumn has arrived slowly this year, but the signs are there that we are in for typical balmy conditions up the West Coast when the seasonal winds and swells back off. Now's the time to haul out your sea kayak, pack a tent and take off up the coast. Normally windswept and fiercely hot, the west coast turns into a passive beauty this time of year. Watch out though for the extra high springs as well as the mist which can set in in minutes, but if you time it well you can have some great paddling in this arid region now, with migrating birds coming low overhead from dawn to dusk and spectacular sunsets lingering long enough for you to pitch a tent and enjoy a sundowner after a long day's paddling. Phone 0217905611 or email info@seakayak.co.za if you want to join a trip in May and June 2009.
"Nobel Award" for Gabon Activist - 23 April 2009
African Nations must stop signing away their natural resources in skewed deals with foreign firms, says Marc Ona , the wheelchair-bound Gabonese activist who has just won the “Green Nobel”; the African 2009 Goldman Environmental Prize for a decade of protest against the abuse of the Congo Basin Rain Forest, which rivals the Amazon in size. Ona exposed a secret US$3.5 billion [R35 billion] deal between the Gabon Government and a Chinese company to build a mine and dam in and around one of Gabon’s national parks. The ensuing outcry forced the government to cut the concession by 90 percent. “Africa can no longer sign contracts with economic partners to exploit their natural resources like they did in the 1930’s. “Africa doesn’t have to be subservient to do business. We have resources and economic partners have money – it must be 50/50. Those who don’t want to do business by the terms that we fix should go elsewhere”. Cape Argus 20 April 2009.
Kayakers' support for locals - 23 April 2009
Report from Morne [Lake Tanganyika Kayak 2008 Expeditionist]:- The bad news is that we did not manage to get Winston to Kenya for the operation. Firstly John (Winston’s father) could not borrow sufficient funds to travel to Sumbawanga to get the travel documents arranged and to meet up with Chris and Louise (our friends who have built the Tanganyika Adventure Safaris in Kipili). Thereafter we had some other commitments from people working in Tanzania, which did not materialize – they would have collected Winston and John in Kirambo and would have taken them to Arusha. I was hoping until the end that this would have been done, but we have now ran out of time since the mission in Nakuru ends this week.
The good news however is that Operation Smile will have another mission in Nairobi in August this year. We are now investigating the best options to address these travelling risks (it might require someone to escort them all / some of the way, fights etc). This week Louise will be visiting the Kirambo area with a group of doctors who are distributing mosquito nets to the region (50,000 of them – that is nets, not doctors!). During this time she will try to meet up with Winston and John and try to assess how comfortable they are to travel by themselves. She might then either give them enough cash to travel to Sumbawanga in order to meet up with her later, or she will take them back to Kipili with her from where they can be taken to Sumbawanga for get their regional travelling documents and travelling kit arranged.
All the donated funds are still available and has not been touched (about half is with the Chris and Louise and the rest in the Nedbank Savings Account).
On a different note – thanks to all of you who voted for our nomination of OutThere Adventurer of the year. Unfortunately we did not win the award, but we were included in the latest issue of the magazine. You will also notice that there is an article on “what to do” in Kenya, which has a piece on Brent Wibberley’s Sand Dollar Kayak Expeditions sea kayak business (Brent joined us on the last 170 km of our Tanganyika expedition). The April / May issue of the SA Paddler, which is on sale now also has a three page article of our expedition.
Kind regards Morne
Adventurers of the Year! - 2 April 2009
Vote for Morne Smit and Louis Peters who became the first paddlers ever to paddle the full length of the world’s longest lake, Lake Tanganyika, in 2008. Using the unique PaddleYak Swift Double Hynbid, they carved up the distance in record time. Vote now in the Out There Challenge. Go to http://www.outthere.co.za/adventure/vote/adventurer_of_the_year.asp
Kayak sales soaring - 2 April 2009
Despite the recession, kayak manufacturers are reporting unprecedented sales figures. Considering price and eco-friendliness of kayaks, it makes perfect sense in these times. For the same reason that the Dutch and Chinese are choosing bicycles for transport, people are choosing kayaks for recreation. Get a life, get a kayak. Order online from www.paddleayak.net or phone 0217905611 for assistance.
PaddleYak; the Amazon of Sea Kayak Sites - 2 April 2009
PaddleYak Sea Kayaks are bought online directly from the manufacturer, Sea Kayak Productions CC, in Cape Town, South Africa. There are no retail mark-ups. You get the trade price for the craft wherever you are in the world. PaddleYak has exported to individual buyers in thirty-four different countries to discerning paddlers who want the best. PaddleYak Sea Kayak Productions craft are discernable anywhere you go; from the small, but mobile PY Darter, to the award-winning PY Swift Hybrid; from the PY Kingfisher, to the family PY Tango double, from the PY Pro-X Surfski, to the expedition PY Fusion Classic, the choice of Riaan Manser, currently striving to become the first person on earth to have circumnavigated Madagascar on a kayak. PaddleYak uses the same online sales model as the famous Amazon, world-leader of online sites. Buy direct for the best price and service, wherever you are on the planet.
Buy Amazon Books here - 2 April 2009
Buy your sea kayak and any other books from Amazon. Go to www.paddleyak.net and connect to the link to Amazon for the best choice and prices, delivered direct to your door.
Soccer World Cup 2010 - 30 March 2009
Book your private family accommodation in Cape Town now. Vineyard House in Hout Bay ofers accommodation for 2 to 8 persons right in the heart of the Cape Peninsula and is surrounded by mountains and ocean. Book now. Email johan@mweb.co.za or phone 0217905611.
Madagascar Homecoming Kayak Tour - 30 March 2009
As you read this Riaan Manser is having the paddle of his life trying to complete the last 2000 kms of the 7000 km long kayak challenge to become the first man on earth to circumnavigate Madagascar on a modern sea kayak. He is scheduled to complete his feat, if all goes well, by the end of April, beginning of May, although some of the most inhospitable parts of this island continent still lie ahead. If he makes it, it will go down as one of the biggest achievements in the annals of adventure, on a par with the first ascent of Everest, the reaching of the South Pole and the first non-stop circumnavigation of thw world. Confronted by an inhospitable coastline, poor, or non-existent infrastucture, tropical disease, cyclones and even a coup, it may even be the ultimate adventure, more arduous than any of the previous. Be there when Riaan makes it. He will have deserved it. Witness this achievement in one of the remotest and most exotic destinations in the world. Contact Real Cape Adventures at 0217905611 or email info@seakayak.co.za right now.
Kayakers for Adventurers of the year? - 30 March 2009
Morne Smit and Louis Peters are in the final of the 2009 Out There Adventurers of the Year competition. The pair is the first-ever kayakers to fully complete the extreme full length of the lake which stretches from Tanzania to Burundi in the centre of Africa. Flying over the lake it is ssen to stretch from horizon to horizon, presenting as an ocean. Indeed, the conditions matched an ocean in every way, but also had harsh surroundings, poor infrastructure and tropical diseases. The pair showed perseverance and tenacity in completing this challenge and along the way also took pity on Winston Ndchu, a local inhabitant desperately in need of surgery. Show your appreciation of their dedication to kayaking, adventure and fellow human-beings. Vote now.
Vote for Adventurers of the Year now! - 30 March 2009
Morne Smit writes:- Louis and I have been included in the Out There Adventure Magazine’s Adventurer of the Year competition for being the first to complete a successful crossing of the world’s longest lake by kayak! Please vote for us if you believe that we deserve it (it is election year after all!) You can do so on http://www.outthere.co.za/adventure/vote/adventurer_of_the_year.asp - Brent Wibberley (who kayaked the last part of the expedition with us) is in the photo with us.
Where is Winston? - 30 March 2009
Winston was found on Lake Tanganyika in 2008 by kayakers Morne Smit and Louis Peters desperately in need of facial surgery. After their epic adventure crossing the world's longest lake, they took it on themselves to raise funds and arrange with Doctors without Borders to perrom the operation in Kenya. Morne writes:- Winston Nchu’s operation is scheduled for a bit more than a month from now – he needs to be in Nakuru in Kenya on 19 April. All seems to be on track for this date, but the simplest of logistical arrangements are more challenging in this very remote part of Tanzania. The current challenge is to get Winston and his father John the necessary travel documents to travel to Kenya. For this they need to travel to Sumbawanga, which is about 90 km from their isolated village Kirambo on the lake shore. My friends Chris and Louise Horsfall went to Sumbawanga for the last few days, but unfortunately Winston and John did not arrive during this period as arranged with them via Kirambo’s village chairman. The village chairman, Privatus, is not reachable at present (the way to contact Privatus is to send him a SMS in which you need to ask him to be available at a specific time, and then to call at that time when Privatus then needs to be on a nearby hill, the only place with sufficient cell phone reception). Winston and John may be on their way to Sumbawanga at the moment, but due to rain many of the roads in the area are currently flooded and just about impassable – one never knows during the rainy season as the infrastructure in the Kirambo area is very poor. However, should they reach Sumbawanga’s bank (the agreed meeting point) in the mean time, Louise and Chris arranged with the bank manager to notify them. Also, the guards at the bank are aware of the two expected travellers. It is really great to hear how the community in Sumbawanga is now aware and on the lookout. Also, a friend of Louise called Marjo, who is a missionary in the area, will be travelling through to Sumbawanga this week. If she manages to meet Winston and John while there, she will take care of the logistical arrangements (i.e., help them to get their travelling documents, help kit them out for the trip with clothes, travel bags etc. and provide them with the necessary cash to get them to get to Kenya). If not, Louise and Chris will be in Sumbawanga again the week after next.
One valuable lesson that we have learnt from this is that it is not necessarily possible to travel from Kirambo to Sumbawanga in one day only during the rainy season – John and Winston will need to start their trip to Kenya even earlier than planned. But let’s hope they make it now to get their travelling documents sorted - so please hold thumbs!
