Born on the beaches of South Africa and Australia, surfskis were originally used to save people struggling in the surf. Surfskis are open cockpit kayaks, meaning you sit on top of rather than inside the boat. Unlike sea kayaks, if you fall out you simply jump back on! 

These kayaks are called surfskis because of their amazing ability to surf not just the waves breaking on the beach, but also the waves out at sea. Paddling downwind is the most popular part of the sport, as with just a few hard strokes you can catch a wave or ‘run’ and scream along with your paddles down. 

The most famous downwind route is the millers run in South Africa. Check out this video: 

Downwind paddling is all about reading the water and harnessing the energy of the ocean so it does all the work for you!

Surfskis are highly versatile and can be used for racing, fitness, day touring, fishing or just mucking about in. And now expedition paddling. As far as I know, a surfski has never been used for a self-supported expedition like mine before. If you’ve done one, please leave a comment!