A kayak entrepreneurs diaries -Richard at Point 65

Bourbon Orca Design Statement

2011-05-03T01:29:00.000-07:00

Magnus de Brito, the Bourbon Orcas designer wrote a design statement in Swedish which I translated to English. Here it is!

Design statement on the Point 65 Bourbon Orca by its designer Magnus de Brito.

The Bourbon Orca’s unique design is the result of many ideas. Here I would like to explain the reason for its specific look and shape.

As an avid surf ski paddler, professional designer and product developer, it was hard to resist contemplating how I would like a ski to perform and look.

Prior to the development of the Bourbon Orca I paddled an Epic V10, a great ski. My hydro analysis of, among others, my Epic V10 indicated that it would be hard to design a faster ski than the ones winning all the races. So instead I focused on creating a surf ski that was just as fast but had other advantages that would enhance my performance.

So what else could I improve to increase speed? I identified two factors that would create a better, faster surf ski: less resistance going through waves and increased power.

Bow

First and foremost I wanted to increase the speed through waves as surf skiing is not performed on flat water. The most evident result of this quest is the reversed bow (or X-bow). This bow design was directly inspired by its namesake, the supply ship Bourbon Orca, which features the X-Bow. Naming the surf ski Bourbon Orca is a tribute to the ship. Modern F18 catamarans have also inspired me on the bow design.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mqcpe5au_7M

Inspiration and result.

Why?

Because, by giving the bow maximum volume, as far down as possible, I could make the ski react faster to the waves. If you paddle the Bourbon Orca into a wave so that the bow dips just under the wave, it creates 10kg/22lbs more buoyancy compared to the Epic V10.

Bourbon Orca hits a wave.

In this way the bow follow the movements of the waves in a much better way, compared to a traditional ski, which meets the wave - with initially, relatively low volume. Only after a while does the traditional kayak build volume, lifting it out of sync with the wave and creating a loss off energy. In this video clip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mqcpe5au_7M you can clearly see the supremacy of the Bourbon Orca’s reversed bow in contrast to the traditionally built ship.

The Bourbon Orca’s lower volume high up on the bow prevents it from lifting unnecessarily high, instead slicing the waves and taking the shortest route.

Stern

The stern has a low volume so that the kayak doesn't lift to early when surfing, making it feel shorter in chop. The volume builds rapidly up the length of the boat until it hits the widest spot only 240cm/94'' from the end of the stern. This provides lift when surfing.

Increasing power

As mentioned, I identified two factors that would increase speed: less resistance, which we have now resolved, and increased power.

So what could be done to increase power? The answer was to create better circumstances for the paddler to perform! I identified 5 areas where better circumstances could be created.

Stability

The highest priority was to increase stability without increasing resistance in the water. More stability enables the paddler to carry out an increased number of strokes with full draw/effect. I managed to tweak the Bourbon Orca into providing 25% more stability without compromising speed with more than a millesimal.

I recently witnessed a first time paddler taking the Bourbon Orca for a spin. Despite windy conditions he managed to paddle several hundred meters off shore, turn the kayak around and come back without falling in. He also tried a re-entry without any problems. This guy was sold! A common misconception is that stability is only achieved by giving the kayak a flat hull.

With the bourbon Orca I have proven the opposite by giving the kayak a cross section that is completely circular. This creates a good balance between some initial stability to minimize impact by small waves and chop and high secondary stability as a save when things start to go wrong. At the same time the wet area is minimal to minimize resistance.

Cockpit

The second factor is to create a cockpit that offers good contact while giving the legs and hips the possibility to work like in a racing kayak while offering comfortable lower back support to balance the kayak safely when surfing. The cockpit shape is hard to explain and it should be experienced.

I have also optimized the cockpit design for safe and fast re-entry. Also of interest is that the cockpit features a central footstep recess for easier entry from a dock. The recess doubles as a bottle holder. Finally, a drain in the seat keeps the paddler dry, avoiding having to sit in a puddle of water.

Drainage

The third factor to increase power is to quickly drain the cockpit. There are two systems I have studied. The Andersen Bailer and the Bullet Scupper.

The Anderson Bailer is adjustable and efficient but creates a lot of resistance. When retracted the bailer creates minimal resistance but by constantly having to adjust the bailer, focus is taken from paddling which is less than ideal.

The Bullet Scupper, like Red7's, is not retractable but efficient while it creates a minimum of resistance. The torpedo shaped indention behind the outlet makes the current more laminar which increases efficiency while resistance is minimal. So this is the solution I chose.

The inspiration for the scupper and the result

The Bullet Scupper flow analysis

The flow analysis above shows that the drainage is most efficient in the center. At it's sides there is slightly more turbulence. My "deBrito Bailer" has taken the efficient center section and extruded it towards the sides a couple of centimeters /0,78''. This makes it much more efficient while minimizing resistance. The bailer is equipped with a scupper plug so it can be shut when necessary.

The Paddle stroke

As the fourth improvement I have enabled the paddler to insert the paddle tighter to the boat allowing more power in the stroke. By shaving off the sides in this area I have achieved a hull that is 4cm/1.57'' thinner compared to, for example, the Epic V10.

The Bourbon Orca’s tight waist and unique pedal system

Pedal system

The fifth and final area of innovation is that of the rudder pedals which allow the paddler to brace with the whole foot. It's a new way of steering the kayak. As a bonus it accommodates any foot size.

Leash with release

A separate safety innovation, developed in collaboration with Swedish surf ski paddler Paul Rosenquist, is the Magpaul Release Leash. By attaching one end of a line on the bow and the other with the leash, on a trigger mechanism in front of the pedal system, we achieve a safety feature if the kayak is snatched by a wave. A jerk at the trigger mechanism releases the line and alignes the kayak with the current. It also makes towing easier.

So what’s the result?

Instead of putting energy into bracing and re-entries while watching fellow paddlers disappear in front of me, I can now keep up with my more accomplished paddling companions.

Happy Paddling!

Magnus de Brito

Magnus de Brito has been involved in design projects for industry giants such as Porsche, Intelligent Sound, Pirelli Boats and Agipi Marine. Using computer science technology, Magnus was responsible for streamlining parts of the new generation Porsche Boxter 987, Carrera 997 and Carrera GT.

The Pirelli boat design won the prestigious 2009 Red Dot design award, “Best of the Best.” Working with Pirelli and Agipi Marine has given Magnus engineering experience in marine design technology – experience not usually available to kayak companies. The modular kayak Point 65 Tequila! won an honorary mention by Red Dot in 2010, ISPO's Brand New award and won Popular Science Magazines Best of what's New Award. The modular Martini was selected Swedish outdoor product of the year by the Swedish Outdoor Industry and was selected Playaks most interesting product at Kanumesse 2010.

Magnus was only 18 when he developed the first commercially viable wind surfing harness. He went on to earn his Master of Science degree in Design and Product Development from the University of Linköping,

Sweden. Throughout his career, his passion for water sports – and designing the best water crafts – has continued unabated. Now, at Point 65, Magnus is applying both his engineering skills and his kayaking expertise to our most challenging design projects including the new

XP series, the Tequila!, Martini and new models for 2011 HotShot and Bourbon Orca.

Japan disaster -impact on kayak retailers

2011-04-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I received this message from Shinju, our Japan Distributor;

Hi Richard

Four of active retailer were suffered by this earthquake disaster

Below is the list.

MESA ( Kamaishi Iwate ): http://www.mesasanriku.com/

Sea-son ( Miyako Iwate ): http://sea-son.net/

Earth Quest ( Onagawa Miyagi) http://www.h5.dion.ne.jp/~equest/ http://sea.ap.teacup.com/earthquest/

Marine Planning Miyagi ( Matsushima Miyagi ) http://www.mariplamiyagi.net/ http://ameblo.jp/msvino/

Fortunately, their family and staffs are all fine. But still under hard situation since their shops, warehouse and kayaks

has gone by Tsunami. We're going to strong support their restructuring. Their shops were used be on beautiful coast in Japan and it was so attractive for sea kayaker. So we'd like to help them to all of kayaker can paddling there again.

If you can give us any support, is it possible to contribute Point65 Kayaks for their outdoor center operation?

No need Fiberglass kayaks, No need new one, even used one or old model is ok.

We, will also contribute our used kayaks, and will deliver it from coming fall to next spring.

By that time, we think they can have sight for reconstruction of their town.

Please discuss about it by your side.

Regards,

Shinju

Shinju enclosed these unbelievable pictures of the destruction of these kayak centers.

Point 65 is donating 20 kayaks for these badly hit retailers. Let me know if you want to help out!

Thanks

Richard

Breizh Kayak La Baule

2011-04-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend in La Baule. A wonderful beach resort in Pays de la Loire. I took the opportunity to visit Nicolas at Breizh Kayak, the Point 65 -dealer there.

Nicolas outside his really nice shop. Inspired by the Apple Stores?

Nicolas opened his shop in 2010 moving here from Paris. After a successful career at Apple Computers (we share a passion there to) he is living his dream working with his passion, paddling and the ocean in general.

Behind the counter with his best selling accessorie, the Tequila! Backrest!

Camilla and I stopped by Nicolas demo day on the plage de La Baule just next to the magnificent Hermitage Hotel. Paddlers from near and far had come to try different kayaks and meet with Nicolas.

Camilla and Nicolas on the beach with the Hermitage in the background. Probably one of the best hotels in France.

Afterwards, lunch at the L'Eden Beach.

Tequila! in a Mini Cooper

2011-04-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

I received this photo from a happy customer in the US! Thats a tandem kayak in there!

Outside Magazine features Martini

2011-03-24T04:23:00.000-07:00

Outside Magazine (US edition), one of the worlds leading Outdoor publications, has featured the Point 65 Martini in its April issue "Covet" section!!!

You can read the full story here:
www.outsideonline.com

The kayak received lot's of praize. Here is what they wrote:

"Portable kayaks are nothing new, but until now they've been expensive, a hassle to assemble, or both. That's why Point 65's Martini is so brilliant. Release a few buckles and presto: this 13-foot-8-inch tandem separates into three interlocking pieces that fit nicely in the back of an SUV or an apartment-building elevator.

Paddling solo? Leave out the middle section to form a sporty 9-foot-4-inch single. Best of all, it's actually a good boat—stable when launching and landing, nimble on the water, and ready to swallow a weekend's worth of gear. It's also a heck of a lot tougher than traditional frame-and-PVC folding expedition craft. Our only question: Why hasn't anyone thought of this before?"

Outsideonline first page

The cover of the April issue

Point 65 Martini -Swedish outdoor product of the year!

2011-03-12T09:46:00.002-08:00

I'm completly stoked that our modular sit in Martini has been selected Swedish Outdoor Product of the year! Big thanks to the jury and to Magnus de Brito, the Martinis designer!!!

Tomas and me (left) at the Stockholm Outdoor Show

I missed the banquet and award cermony...

March 25 - 27, Point 65 at the 2011 Paddlesport

2011-02-07T06:38:00.000-08:00

Jersey Paddler is one of the largest kayak shops in the world. I have been calling on owner John Durrua for 12 years nagging him to exhibit Point 65 at his annual Paddlesport show.

The massive Jersey Paddler store in Brick, NJ.

I have prevailed. I'm very excited to announce that Point 65 kayaks will be exhibited at the 2011 Paddlesport at the Garden State Exhibit Center, Somerset, New Jersey March 25 - 27.

On the yard outside the store you can find an extreme variety of kayaks

Paddlesport is the largest canoe & kayak show on the US East Coast. Paddlesport hosts many vendors including the top names in paddle sports such as Point 65!

The Point 65 Tequila!, our modular take apart sit on top will be at Paddlesport!

The show features manufacturers of kayaks, canoes, accessories, sportswear, paddling clubs professional instruction and expeditions, as well as lectures and video and slide shows of paddling trips, expeditions and paddling techniques.

We are not the only Swedish brand on display! Thule is there to!

Throughout the weekend there will be a variety of informative and entertaining seminars and demonstrations from experts in the industry. From novice to expert, whether you attend to learn or to buy, don't miss the chance to take advantage of professional advice and great show pricing.

Many interesting speakers to enjoy, like my old friend, the great Wayne Horodowich

Also attending are many outdoor gear and clothing manufacturers such as NRS (Paddlesport Show Sponsor) Outdoor Research, Keen, Kokatat and Chota, just to name a few.

The Garden State Exhibit Center, in Somerset, NJ is a 70,000 square foot facility making Paddlesport the biggest show on the East Coast. It is conveniently located off of I-287 Exit 10, a 45 minute drive from Manhattan, one hour from Center City Philadelphia, and within easy reach of the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike.

Don't miss this!

Michael Taylor's XP18 video

2011-01-18T07:44:00.000-08:00

Michael Taylor, manager of Kayak Warehouse, Sunshine Coast, Australia produced this cool video on the XP18.

Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVSdpHBqp0o

Point 65 in the news (Swedens Financial Times)

2010-11-24T15:20:00.000-08:00

Following the Popular Science Magazine award Swedens leading business daily, Dagens Industri featured this impressive full page spread on Point 65 and the award!

Click on the image, use the zoom -take a Swedish class -Read!

Tequila! wins the Popular Science -Best of What’s New!!!

2010-11-17T23:12:00.000-08:00

I am very proud to announce that the Tequila!, designed by Magnus de Brito, has won the Popular Science -Best of What’s New 2010 award- in the recreational category.

This award acknowledges the Point 65 Tequila! as a breakthrough product representing a significant leap forward in technology in its class. Each year thousands of new and innovative products are considered for this award. Winners are selected based on the potential to improve our way of life or to change the way we think about the future.

We are extremely honored and excited to be recognized by Popular Science. This is a tremendous example of the type of practical, cutting-edge technologies Point 65 is commercializing on a continual basis. It encourages us to continue innovating.

“For 23 years, Popular Science has honored the innovations that surprise and amaze us − those that make a positive impact on our world today and challenge our views of what’s possible in the future.” said Mark Jannot, Editor-in-Chief of Popular Science Magazine.

Founded in 1872, Popular Science is the world's largest science and technology magazine; with 6.8 million monthly readers. Popular Science reviewes thousands of products in search of the top 100 tech innovations of the year; breakthrough products and technologies that represent a significant leap in their categories. The winners—the Best of What's New—are awarded inclusion in the much-anticipated December issue of Popular Science, which has been the most widely read issue of the year.

Sailfish bigger than Tequila!

2010-11-03T01:02:00.000-07:00

Very very cool fishing video. Huge sailfish cought of a Tequila! (Singapore)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLONdqiZxwQ

Axeline and Nigel Foster

2010-10-31T07:01:00.000-07:00

My daughter Axeline is hacking along with her low angle paddle style and much to long stick.
I'm sure Nigel Foster will convince her to switch to the soon to be released Point 65 Nigel Foster though!

WYNIT Inc to distribute Point 65 Kayaks Sweden

2010-10-23T03:43:00.000-07:00

The kayak business has brought me to the most unexpected corners of the world and I have recently found myself in the land locked metropolis of Syracuse NY, home to Syracuse University, a major research university and the world famous Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Restaurant, co owned by billionair George Soros.

The reason for my travels there is our recent partnership with WYNIT Inc, one of North America’s leading outdoor distributors. And I'm happy to announce that WYNIT is launching a new division dedicated to paddle sports and enters the industry by becoming the exclusive US distributor for Point 65!

Paul Hosner, who heads up the new paddle sports division outside WYNIT's head office

WYNIT, based in Syracuse, N.Y., distributes such legendary outdoor brands as Brunton, Leatherman, Johnson Outdoor Electronics, Gerber and Garmin. WYNIT is known for competitive pricing, no minimum-order requirements, product availability, same-day shipping, expert sales support and an integrated product mix. WYNIT operates multiple warehouses providing coast-to-coast coverage.

Wynit billboard at Syracuse Hancock International Airport

WYNIT has built a significant business providing products from Johnson Outdoor, Brunton, Leatherman and Garmin to outdoor retailers. The colaboration with Point 65 will allow them to enhance their offer to those dealers. Point 65's with our innovative, unique and market- changing products, is the perfect vehicle for WYNIT to include paddle sports retailers to their existing customer base, while introducing Point 65 to their existing outdoor retailers.

The salespersons get thebest parking space on the lot!

I am extremely pleased that Point 65 has been chosen by WYNIT as their vehicle to enter the paddle sports business. With WYNIT’s massive national distribution set up, experience and track record in the Outdoor industry, WYNIT is able to offer paddle sport retailers a unique business opportunity with an exceptional level of service. It is the ideal solution for us to enter the US market and we look forward to finally beeing able to offer US retailers our products!

Erik -man of the hour

2010-10-15T12:17:00.000-07:00

There is one man that can make the impossible happen, Erik Norefors, Point 65's logisics maverick and event coordinator. Erik is the guy who can build a block stand virtually by himself in 12 hours and then be the last man standing at the following dinner.

Erik as the Swedish chef at Kanumesse

Erik easily arranges a 70 person dinner with a kayak demo going on at the same time. He get's 20 kayaks in and out of the water while simultaneously entertaining VIP guests and trying some boats himself.

Erik power napping after some gruelling event.

Unloading a 40 foot container with 80 kayaks is a breeze. Erik does that before lunch and spends the afternoon fixing some kayaks beaten up after some heavy beach landings.

Erik with the Bourbon Orca and Emil Kellander of Point 65 Norrköping

Erik arranges a kayak marathon for hundreds and is back in his office the next morning hammering out packing lists while managing his warehouse guys.

The start of the 2009 Point 65 Stockholm Kayak Marathon masterminded by Erik

Chaos is when Erik really get's going. When things are crazy Erik is the calm in the centre of the storm.

Erik in a blur at the Point 65 demo dinner at Kanumesse 2010

Erik is a great paddler and loves the sport. He is most often the first one out on the new Point 65 prototypes (he receives the shipments, unpackes them and is on the water before anybody else even knows the new boat has even arrived). I guess Erik has been the first to roll half of our kayaks.

Erik in the Martini in the demo pool at Kanumesse 2010 with Jeff Rivest of Point 65 Canada. Will he manage to roll this baby?

On his vacations Erik likes to go of to do some volunteer work for some crazy snow board event or multi sport competition like Ö till Ö.

Erik with Tideraces David Felton and Alled Williams

Erik is the man that makes Point 65 tick while I'm on the road weeks at end.

ERIK, THANK YOU!

Martini, "Biggest news of the Show" Kanumesses 2010

2010-10-11T12:34:00.000-07:00

Check out this link where Playak, the worlds leading paddle sports forum has chosen the Point 65 Martini as the "Biggest news of the Show" for Kanumesse 2010!!!

http://playak.com/article.php?sid=9551

The Point 65 Martini is created by design maverick Magnus de Brito who's exceptional talent once again shows why companies like Porsche, Scania Trucks, Pirelli Boats and Point 65 choose to work with him. Congratulations and big thanks to Magnus for a job well done!

I believe that the Martini will be very popular as it addresses the three main objections when purchasing a kayak:

1. Transportation
2. Storage
3. Solo/tandem combination

While you are at, it check this video on youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqiOCigawTA&feature=player_embedded

Here what Playak wrote:

Trends

Still overwhelmed by 2 days full of impressions it’s difficult to say what struck me as the biggest news of the show. Choosing one: the Martini of Point65 is a very innovative product. Last year Fluid and Point65 both introduced a modular snap-on concept with (relatively simple) sit-on-tops which can be extended from a single into a double, triple, or even more, craft. The Martini takes this concept to the next level on a closed cockpit-kayak. The Martini is fully equipped with front and rear stowing compartments with watertight hatches, an ergonomically designed seat, seat pad, cup holders, paddle park, built-in carrying handles and a great integrated rudder controlled by foot pedals. Extending the Martini from a single to a double or triple kayak works amazingly simple and effective; the proof of a well thought-out design!

Frenchy -Queen of the Oceans

2010-09-23T12:07:00.000-07:00

Point 65 donated a bunch of kayaks to SSHL, a school in Sigtuna, Sweden near Stockholm. The student who has been the most persistent user of these kayaks, Frenchy, has become a fanatic sea kayaker and is now planning her first expedition.

Frenchy not in her kayak

Frenchy will sircumnavigate the island of Gotland solo in the summer of 2011. Quite a feet for a 18 year old first year paddler.

Gods speed Frenchy and Point 65 will support you and spread the word all around the world of your impending adventure!

Tandem kayak in a Toyota Prius!

2010-09-15T14:46:00.000-07:00

Point 65 Tequila! Tandem inside a Toyota Prius.

This picture was provided by a Point 65 Tequila! Tandem owner in the US with the followng message: "Check this out... all 3 pieces of my Tequilla Kayak in the back of my Prius... the door closes and I had room to go to Costco...! Linda"

Now read this from www.treehugger.com:

Break Me in Two, Pleads Point 65's Tequila! Kayak (Video)

by Warren McLaren, Bundanoon, Australia

Roof racks decrease a car's fuel efficiency by anything from 5%, through 10% or more. And that's empty racks. Stick our favourite sports toy up on your cars roof and watch you fuel economy plummet by up to 27%, according to Ecomodder.

Folding mountain bikes like the Montague Paratrooper can be slipped inside, to return a car to its designers intended aerodynamic sleekness. But a robust roto-moulded polyethylene kayak? The only time they fold is when they get wrapped around a boulder in a whitewater river, right? Not anymore. Sweden's Point 65 now offer a snap-apart Sit On Top kayak.

Introducing the Martini

2010-09-11T09:15:00.001-07:00

Here our new modular kayak, the Martini!

There is a video at the bottom of the page

The Martini is a great looking 9'4'' / 285 cm sit in kayak.

It snaps apart in a couple of seconds

and you have two manageable 24 lbs / 12 kg sections,
each about 5' / 140 cm

Ad a mid section...

And it's a 13'8'' / 416 cm Tandem

Dry hatch aft and bow, thigh braces, paddle park,
cup holders, keel rudder.Great performance

Time to go home,Just throw it into the back of your carThe Martini will be available in a kayak store near you very soon!

If you cant see the video here, try this link: http://www.point65.com/point.martini/introducing_martini_4.mov

Tequila! 41' (12,5M), Worlds longest kayak?

2010-08-13T23:14:00.000-07:00

At the recent US trade show, Outdoor Retailer we put together 8 midsections and created a 41 foot, 12,5 meter Tequila! kayak for 9 paddlers. Is this a world record?

It was lot's of fun and created an incredible amount of attention. Perfect for demo days and company team building activities!

Half way through the paddle I dismounted the kayak in the middle so the 5 front paddlers took of...

leaving me and my 3 co-paddlers behind struggling without a bow!

Jeff Rivest, Camilla and me at the OR demo day

John Turner paddling the aft section.

A Tequila! tripple seater

Assembling a 3 seater

All photos by Helga Imahasly, Playak

Jeff Rivest (founder of Riot & Azul Kayaks) joins Point 65 Kayaks Sweden.

2010-07-28T23:07:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce that Jeff Rivest and Point 65 are joining forces. Jeff will head Point 65’s rapidly expanding business in North America. While Jeff will focus mainly on Canada, he will also head US sales until a US sales manager has been found.

The collaboration takes effect immediately and Jeff will be instrumental to Point 65’s presence at the upcoming Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City. Point 65 has established offices and warehousing in Montreal, Quebec.
Jeff and I have been friends for years and our companies have been close. I’ve been trying to woo Jeff into working with us for a long time. I’m ecstatic that he has decided to join Point 65 in its expansion. This says a lot about the opportunity Point 65 has created for its customers around the world.
Jeff brings key insights into the nuts and bolts of the North American paddle sport market as well as valuable knowledge within product development and manufacturing.

Jeff Rivest, founder of Riot and Azul Kayaks:
“Point 65 is just too good an opportunity to miss, and despite my obvious mixed feelings about leaving the company I founded, they are well compensated with the possibilities from Point 65 Sweden’s incredible level of innovation and exceptional brand focus. Point 65’s sales have a huge potential in North America and can expand very quickly, so I am delighted to be in on that ride. The fact that Richard and I already share a great working rapport was also important to my decision.”

Article in Paddle World Magazine

2010-07-25T00:34:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of Paddle World Magazine features a 5 page spread on paddling in Stockholm "Stockholm, Urban Paddling in the Venice of the North" written by yours truly.
I love paddling in Stockholm and I'm really happy to get this opportunity to share this with the paddling world. The great photos are taken by Shinju Horikawa at Scoop Out, Japan. Check it out! You can order the magazine here.

Swedish cabinet member paddles!

2010-07-19T23:53:00.000-07:00

Swedish cabinet member Gunilla Carlsson loves kayaking. Here a feature in the latest issue of Swedish Outside Magazine.
Gunilla Carlsson is a Swedish Moderate Party politician, since 2006 Minister for Development Cooperation

and a member of the parlament and deputy chairman of her party.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunilla_Carlsson

Tequila! goes Israel

2010-06-08T11:04:00.000-07:00

Here Tomas and Yair having fun with a Tequila! in Israel!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Erq3oKCHSqE&feature=player_embedded

Fun with Foster

2010-05-16T01:16:00.000-07:00

Nigel Foster visited Sweden for his annual Point 65 staff training sessions as well as doing some classes and participating in "Kajakdagarna", Stockholms largest kayak symposium.

Point 65 team members after completing the annual Nigel Foster paddle clinic. From left in kayaks: Sofia, Mats, Emil, Carolin, Edina, Carro, Nigel, Lina. On dock: Doris, me, Linn, Tobbe, Staffan, Carl, Mats, Erik.

Mats Ståhlberg runns one of Swedenes largest kayak centres and the only one in the city of Gävle.

Surf ski? Emil Kellander taking the Tequila! on a spin. Here in a tripple configuration. Emil runs a massive kayak centre in Norrköping.

Happy campers in Gävle! Christer just took part in one of Nigels clinics "Fun with Foster". A full day on the water where you not only learn things you thought impossible but also have lots of fun doing it.

Emil is a busy man!

Point 65 team memebers go through an annual multi day clicic with Nigel focusing on helping others and general safety issues.

Here Nigel demonstration different resques with Emil. The water in Sweden is ice cold in May.

Mats and Doris from Gävle. Lessons learned.. Never turn your back on Nigel:-)

Enjoying an evening paddle with one of the most spectacular sunsets I have ever seen (this and the next photo by Nigel)

The Point 65 XP21 -mother of all Surf Ski's

2010-03-01T15:03:00.000-08:00

Today, in a Swedish winter storm and sub zero water temperatures (only the harbor propellers keep the water in the dock open. All around it's thick with ice) Magnus de Brito took the prototype of our new monster Surf Ski for a first spin.

Magnus de Brito, testing the Point 65 XP21 prototype at Pampas Marina, Solna, Sweden 59°N, 14:20 hours, March 1, 2010

Magnus, our design maverick, has been working very hard on this dream project. While working with Porsche on the Boxter 987, the Carrera 997, the Carrera GT and other similar projects, the 21 foot surf ski has never been far from his mind. A 21 foot Mother of all Surf Ski's.

"It glides through the water without a sound..."

Magnus is never humble about his designs and he is pretty confident that this surfing machine will not only out surf and out glide the rest of the pack, but also keep the paddler in the saddle, no matter how rough and fast it gets.

The bow makes me think of the Red October...

But this thing not only rides like a bullet, it looks absolutely spectacular. Words cannot make this creation justice. It looks like any surf skiers wet dream, times 10... Walk this ski down to the Molokai and there will be a stampede.
By using advanced hydro dynamic computer engineering, Magnus has achieved a craft that is as fast as anything out there while significantly more stable. While this might only be a small advantage for the likes of Hank McGregor, Dawid Mocke, Murray Stewart and Oscar Chalupsky it sure as hell makes a heck of a difference for all those strong, converted flat water racers sniffing the back of their necks. Not to speak of yours truly who might actually be able to participate in a race without half drowning before reaching the finishing line!

It was a cold day!

Extensive testing will now be carried out by Magnus himself, an avid surf skier, as well as one of Swedens strongest surf ski paddlers, Paul Rosenqvist.

Paul, still a rookie, came in 19th at the Mauritius Ocean Classic 09, just a couple of minutes behind some of the worlds most experienced surf ski paddlers. Would the XP21 give him that edge?

Ones the boys are happy, the production mold will take it's shape and production commence. When? Keep your eyes on my blog and the very day I have a release date I will publish it here.

Until then, Happy Paddling!

Richard

(All photos except the one with Paul by Peter Ekström)

Point 65 & S.O.G.

2010-02-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

Point 65 Kayaks Sweden is happy to announce that it has been selected as the newest member of The Scandinavian Outdoor Group (S.O.G)

Point 65 is the only paddle sport company in the group and shares membership with such legendary brands as Haglöfs, Bergmans, Ecco, Primus and many many more.

The parties at the S.O.G trade show stand, Scandinavian Village, where members co exhibit, are legendary and it will be fun to function as host rather than guest from now on!!!

Scandinavian Outdoor Group (S.O.G.) was founded in 2000 as an industry initiative to serve outdoor retailers and media in export markets. It unites well-respected outdoor gear manufacturers from all five Nordic countries: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Iceland.

The cooperation is based on sales and media oriented projects serving outdoor gear retailers and journalists on markets outside the Nordic region. It's mission is based on the simple observation that if equipment works well up here in the north it must also be perfect for outdoor enthusiasts in the rest of the world.

S.O.G. operates projects such as the

- Scandinavian Village™ the dynamic one-stop-shop for smart buyers and journalist that has become one of the busiest and best visited areas of the international trade shows where it participate.

- Outdoor Academy of Scandinavia
R&D facility for the best staff training program in the outdoor industry. OAS offers a two level program, EXPLORE and EXPERIENCE.

- Scandinavian Outdoor Award.
The competition for the Scandinavian Outdoor Industry hosted by S.O.G. since 2006. Up to 20 products from Scandinavian Outdoor Group member brands get nominated every season to compete for the Scandinavian Outdoor Award.

Point 65 is proud to be a member of S.O.G and will be an actively participating member.

Tequila! back rest

2010-01-30T03:13:00.000-08:00

This might be boring for most everybody but very hot news for us at Point 65. This is the new back rest for the Tequila! So much more comfortable and easy to use than you usual floppy seat with straps going everywhere.

ISPO Brand New Award Finalist

2009-12-23T04:01:00.000-08:00

We are extremely proud that our new product, the Tequila! has been selected as a finalist in the ISPO Brand New Award!!! Among 305 nominated for the ISPO Brand New Award, the Point 65 Tequila! was one of seven selected finalists in the hardware category.

The Tequila! is also our biggest commercial success ever. This product has outsold our other 17 kayak models COMBINED!!
We would like to thank the designer, Magnus De Brito for a fantastic job. Without Magnus design genius we would not have been able to realize our vision of a modular take-a-part sit on top kayak.
The Tequila! will be displayed in the ISPO Brand New Village at ISPO 2010, February 7-10 in Munich. If you are interested in checking it out and meeting me at ISPO 2010 please let me know here on my blog and I will arrange it.

Happy Holidays!

Point 65 introduces The Tequila! and changes the world of paddlesports

2009-10-03T07:02:00.001-07:00

I had this idea for a kayak that anybody can own.

The main challenges facing a kayak buyer are mobility and storage. So these were the issues to resolve.

Watch this clip of the Tequila! paddled in the Solo and Tandem configuration.

The design specs for the Tequila! were:

- Have equal or better performance than a standard kayak (unlike inflatables & folding kayaks).

- Produced in rotomolded polyethelen.

- It should fit in a station wagon.

Another clip.

- It should fit in a small elevator.

- It should fit in a small apartment.

- Be light weight enough for a child to carry (e.g. weigh a maximum of 14 kg / 30lbs).

- Take less than 10 seconds to assemble (unlike inflatables and folding kayaks).

- Be modular so it can be used as a solo, tandem, triple and more.

- Hold up for abuse, play, surfing on waves etc

- Each section should be possible to emergency paddle.

The Tequila! Tandem easily fits in the back of a station wagon.

Rigid take-a-part kayaks have been around for years. It's just that the designs have been flawed. Those kayaks have either taken much to long to assemble and/or not been strong enough in the joints so they have flexed to much and/or come apart to easily.

Like Lego on the beach.

Also, all those designs have focused on large sea kayaks. Whereas the demand for this kind of innovation actually is in the recreational segment where the hurdles to enter paddle-sports are the greatest.

It fits on a small boat!

Once you are dedicated enough to buy a sea kayak, most paddlers are willing to make sacrifices like getting a roof rack, finding storage etc.

It fits on a big boat!

However, the design specifications seemed impossible. Polyethylene is a rather soft and slippery material. In all our trials, testing different ideas the kayak was to weak, to heavy or to difficult to assemble. That is until we met design genius Magnus de Brito.

Accustomed by impossible demands from manufacturers such as Porsche, Scania Trucks and Pirelli Boats he succeeded in resolving the issues with an ingenues concept - The Tequila! SNAP TAP SYSTEM (PATENT PENDING). And there you have it!!

I also wanted the kayak to work for one ore several paddlers.

Here as a Solo

So Magnus created a modular system where a mid piece is added between the solos bow and aft section thereby creating a tandem.

Here the three pieces floating around. Just pop in the mid section et voila, it's a Tandem.

Ad another mid section and it becomes a triple etc. etc. Who will make the longest Tequila!? Send me your picture proof and the winner gets a bottle of, you guessed it, Tequila!

Assembled it's a great Sit On Top -performance kayak.

Each part is small enough to be accepted as a suitcase by most airlines.

I have already flown all over the world with a Point 65 Tequila! Tandem. The customs officer at Seattle Tacoma was perplexed and after I explained what it was he asked me where he could buy one...

She has arrived

2009-09-03T14:25:00.001-07:00

Kayak: The Point 65 XP18, Paddler: Designer Magnus De Brito, Photo: Malte Danielsson Place: near Stendörren, Stockholm archipelago

Kayak: The Point 65 XP18, Paddler: Oscar Westlund, Photo: Malte Danielsson Place: near Stendörren, Stockholm archipelago

Whitewater Kayaking is Dying. Could Sea Kayaking be Next?

2009-08-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

David H. Johnston, who runs the always interesting blog Paddling Instructor raises an interesting issue following the latest issue of Outside Magazine who publish an eye opening analysis of the rise and subsequent collapse of whitewater kayaking largely because of extreming themselves out of mainstream.

David agrees with this and that touring does not face the same threat. But at the same time he argues that beginners should buy faster, narrower and less stable kayaks.

Hey Papa, you want to try this? Photo: Jay Carroll

I have given this issue a lot of thought but have arrived to a contrary conclusion than David. I follow him regarding windsurfing and white water who extremed themselves out of oblivion. Windsurfing started as an easy sport with large stable boards that almost anybody could learn to master.

Windsurfing started like this

It was extremely successful. Even my dad learned how and bought a board and it was easy and lots of fun.Then things got more complicated. To be cool you needed a smaller board. You needed to jump.

and went to this...

My father bailed out. After 3 years I finally quit when, with my last board, I had to start from under water and had a very hard time holding against the wind. My jumps where pathetic compared to the magazine covers. It just became to hard to master.
Not Papa...

When comparing with windsurfing, touring paddling has seen almost the opposite development. Seakayaking (or touring) was born by extreme users paddling in narrow, unstable and fast boats in rough British seas. Wedged into impossibly small, round cockpits hard men with beards, preferably with icicles hanging out their noses, cruised the seven seas all but alone. Then something happened. The sport developed to easier to use products. Wider, more stable boats with larger cockpits that almost anybody can consider trying. With sit on tops the feeling of claustrophobia was totally eliminated.

yours truly not with Sue

This I consider the key to the lasting and long term viability of touring. That Sue cannot follow David in speed is not important. Sue would have never gotten into a narrow claustrophobic kayak in the first place. Sue doesn't like the feeling of slow drowning, trapped upside down:-) I am glad that most public images of seakayaking look inviting, calm and easy. This attracts new users to the sport. The more extreme cousins of touring have the problem of images of massive waterfalls, impossible jumps ect to fight. Given, it is fun and exciting to look at (from a safe distance).

This is not Sue but it could be

Here all you seakayaking instructors out there have a responsibility. Rolling and paddling upside down when doing public appearances is fun and attracts the folks to come watch. But they would rather be dead than put themselves in your cockpit. So show them also how easy a stable boat with a large cockpit is to use. Stand up in it (but don't fall in). Edge it, turn it, go sideways. Show them how easy it is.

Some of all those Sunday paddlers will want to progress and will learn more and exchange their stable, slow boat for something more exciting.

While many a sport take a long time to master before you can flush yourself down a waterfall, hurl yourself down a slope or balance a snow/wind/surf/skate/kite -board, touring is so easy you can head out on a full day paddling adventure your very first time.

Bring a friend, have fun, be safe!

Outdoor Retailer (OR) 2009

2009-07-29T06:13:00.000-07:00

OR 2009 was fun as always, although not as interesting as it usually is. No new products worth mentioning (unless you are a dog) and many key players missing. Trendsetter Point 65;-) bailed out already last year and now many in the industry followed suit. Companies like Johnson Outdoor Watersports (Necky etc), Werner Paddles, BIC, Valley and many more followed Point 65's lead (joke) in missing out on Salt Lake City.

SUP at the demo day-I just don't get it... (photo by Jeroen)

At the demo day I was like a zombie, crazy jet lagged. I got lost driving there (directions were appalling) so it took me 2 hours. I only made it thanks to my iPhones maps ap. The drive through the mountains was, I must admit, incredibly beautiful.

Ones there I staggered around like a crazy person. I met some people I know but I did not recognize them (sorry guys). And my camera never left my pocket, so I have stolen one of Jeroens pictures.

Pierce SUP:ing. Maybe more fun if you live on Hawaii?

Anyway, Stand Up Paddleboards dominated the demo day on and of the water. I tried SUP a few years ago and must say it is nothing for me. Even though Pierce Brosnan is crazy about it my guess is that this thing will be over in a couple of years (as Bill Gates said about the internet:-)

With Stig Larsson, Level Six co founder. We now distributes Level Six in Sweden. Fantastic paddle apparel!

I was feeling a lot better as the actual show started and met a lot of interesting people and managed to do some business. The US paddlesport industry is in turmoil on account of Johnson Outdoor Watersports seemingly in chaos and the new paddlesport show being launched in 2010 by Jim Marsh of Canoe & Kayak Magazine and some others.

Jim Marsh, Editor of Canoe & Kayak Magazine and the North American Paddlesports Show

It is a bit of a tough situation. OR is a great show and I hope that paddlesport manufacturers will stay there for the sake of Outdoor retailers to have some choice of products while a speciality paddlesports show will be great for paddlesport retailers.
NRS, Terry and Bennet took good care of me.

As for JOW, time will tell. But the big surprise of the show was Riot. Looking very strong in a massive two story stand with tons of great looking kayaks all from their new production sources in the PRC. I was very impressed by this. Those guys must have worked 24/7 for a year to pull that of. Congratulations!

With Mark Pelland, Delphine and Jeff Rivest of Riot Kayaks on their terrace.

With Kokatats Michael Duffy.

Matt Poischbeg of Sealect Designs (formerly SeaDog)

Swedish maffia. With Bo, Renate and Petra Hilleberg (the Tentmakers)

Orust Runt; Cool 2 day marathon

2009-07-17T02:28:00.000-07:00

Check out this really cool 2 day marathon around the incredibly beautiful Island of Orust in South Sweden. It takes place Saturday/Sunday August 22-23.

This is a highly laid back competition where all are welcome to attend! It doesn't matter what you paddle, or how fast you paddle. As long as you like to paddle, like camping and having a good time!

Around the whole Orust with overnight at Vallerö.

The paddle around Orust takes two days. All camp together at Vallerö half way around.

The campsite on Vallerö

The really cool thing about the race is that it is free of charge and completely self sustained. There are no officials, instead everyone takes responsibility for one self. Thus, there are almost no rules, and high demands for fair play and common sense for the participants.

At this time there are about 100 participants that have registered!!!

XP18 -a legend is born

2009-07-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

Our latest model makes my juices flow. This is a seakayak -but it's fast as hell. Sort of a new concept. It's like a racing/exercise kayak but for touring. It can take a huge payload. It's stable -so no problems in the rough. It's comfy. And it looks really cool! This is the kayak I will take on my next expedition as well as when working out.Micheal working the XP18

Magnus de Brito, the designer, has some sort of computer gizmo where he can calculate the exact speed and stability of the thing. According to this it is 7% faster than the "old" XP while 15% more stable. What does it mean? Who knows and who cares.

Point 65 & Magnus De Brito

2009-07-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

Point 65 is developing some of the most exciting and revolutionizing products in the kayak industry. Point 65 proudly presents the latest addition to our team, Magnus De Brito, one of Scandinavia´s leading designers.

Magnus De Brito at the Point 65 head office in Stockholm, Sweden

Magnus has headed design projects for industry giants such as Porsche, Scania Trucks, Intelligent Sound, Pirelli Boats and Agipi Marine. Using computer science technology, Magnus was responsible for streamlining parts of the new generation Porsche Boxter 987, Carrera 997 and Carrera GT.

If you have designed this I guess a kayak is not that big a deal...

His Pirelli boat design won the prestigious 2009 Red Dot design award, “Best of the Best.” Working for Pirelli and Agipi Marine has given Magnus engineering experience in marine design technology – experience not usually available to kayak companies.Magnus designed the Pzero 1400, winning the “Best of the Best” Red Dot Design Award

Tomas trying the new XP18. One happy camper!

Throughout his career, his passion for water sports - and designing the best water crafts- has continued unabated. XP18 has a markedly improved stabilty, manueverabilty and speed compared to it's predecessor.

Now, at Point 65, Magnus is applying both his engineering skills and his kayaking expertise to our most challenging design projects like the new XP -series and the Tequila!

The XP18 by Magnus de Brito

The new XP series by Magnus will be available in a 18, 17 & 16 foot version. More information will follow.

Whisky 16 review, The Skook-Worthy shake down

2009-06-13T03:27:00.000-07:00

The worlds leading kayaking magazine, US Canoe & Kayak choose four of the worlds most experience rough water sea kayakers (James Mole, Brandon Gonski, Dave Shively and Scott Waidelich) to test 5 of the most celebrated rough water seakayaks at Skookumchuck Narrows, British Columbias famed tidal beast.

This was their conclusion:
"The Point 65 Whisky 16 went down smooth as our unanimous pick as the top Skookumchuck performer."

Read the full review Canoe & Kayak Magazine March 2009:
Billed as a spirited coastal playboat from this Swedish boat manufacturer, the Whisky 16 went down smooth as our unanimous pick as the top Skookumchuck performer. With the cockpit just aft of center, increased bow volume and a hard chine into the flattest, most planing-like hull of the bunch, the Whisky handled with the smallest degree of separation from its distant whitewater playboat brethren. "it was the only bow where, when the bow and stern were in the water at the same time , you could still react -crank into turns, load up on the paddle and bring it back," one of the testers said, "With the others, you'd shoot off the far end of the wave." In building the new Whisky boat range for rock gardens and surf zones, Point 65 R&D head Nigel Foster designed the 16's hull to avoid purling and to push onto a plane more easily than other displacement -style hulls. Fosters globe trotting research has also resulted in an upgraded, "beefier" foot peg system, alleviating our testers' main gripe with the outfitting. Weather you see it as anomaly or vanguard, the Whisky 16 handled reasonably well on the flatwater tour back to Egmont (with the skeg dropped), but fits as the most highly specialized rough-water boat"

Nigel Fosters whirl wind tour of Sweden

2009-06-07T10:21:00.000-07:00

Last week Nigel and Kristin arrived for a whirl wind tour of Sweden. They spent 11 days in Sweden (well, one of them in Denmark) teaching in 7(!) different cities.

Nigel & Kristin preparing for class.

I was the designated driver for most of the trip so I can vouch for the exhausting schedule!

Nigel being interviewed be Swedish media (see it here)

They started of in Stockholm with a happy group of paddlers. Next day they spent visiting Point 65 Kayak Centers in the city of Norrköping and Gothenburg.

Nigel showing Caroline from Germany a trick or two

Day 3 they where on the water again, teaching a class in Uddevalla at Upplevelsebolaget. Sunday was also spent in Uddevalla with their demo day but day 5 they hit the road again and spent the day on the water with a group, paddling in south Copenhagen hosted by retailer Kajakhotellet.

"If you hold your hands like this you will not be able to hold the paddle..."

Back in Stockholm day 7 for a day paddling and teaching some happy campers. Day 8 teaching a group in the city of Nynäshamn at Nynäs Kajak.

Member of the Fun With Foster group and proud builder/owner of a Thomasson design kayak. A beauty!

Day 9 on the other side of Sweden in Varberg were Nigel got extensive coverage in the local media and also inaugurated a new kayak center there. This ended in the small hours after finishing of the last drops of the inauguration champagne.

The looooong day in Varberg ended with a looong night with bubbly. All lot's of fun!

Day 10 the metropole of Gothenburg another group had the pleasure of Kristin and Nigels teaching skills. This was going parallel with the kayak exhibition "KANOT VÄST" and inauguration of yet another kayak center there.

The group in the water in down town Gothenburg if front of the opera house. Almost 100 spectators watched Nigels and Kristins paddling show later.

Day 11 we raced up to Norrköping for the last group of paddlers and inauguration of a third kayak centre there!

Pelle and Carina of Nynäs Kajak

The class of Norrköping right in the middle of town.

After this they headed of to Venice and the Bibione symposium and Vogalonga marathon. Check Nigels and Kristins blogs for updates on that.

Basque delight

2009-05-14T12:15:00.000-07:00

Camilla and I recently visited Omei and Oscar and Mikel who probably have the best run kayak warehouse anywhere!

Mikel, Oscar and Camilla

Kayaks in perfect rows, color separated and all clean clean clean

They took us to lunch at the Patxiku Enea in San Sebastian and this was for sure one of the best meals I have ever had in Spain. Basque food is a lot like Spanish just better!

Spanish style we sat down around 3 pm and spent most of the afternoon at the table. It started of with fireworks in the form of some tapas where the Txistorra (in bask)/Chistorra (in spanish) sausages were by far the best I had ever had. And I love my sausages so this is big. Tender but still with some bite, perfectly fried. It is made of a mixture of minced pork and beef. The sausage is flavored with garlic, salt, and paprika, which gives it a bright red color. Well, you had to be there...
After some more tapas this handsome and very tasty Merluza. Mikel and Oscar asked for a part of the fish called "Cogote". Is the softer part of the fish, just close the head. Wow!

Now completely full they brought us this huge piece of meat!!! Unfortunately I could not fully appreciate this fabulous very rare beef as I was completely stuffed but I still managed to eat 3 huge slices that Mikel carved and just threw on my plate.

I forgot the name of the Spanish claret but the taste sure was memorable. As was the cider that tasted completely different from the cider I am used to from Bretagne. A lot fresher, less sweet and a much more the taste of freshly plucked apples right of the tree if you get my drift.

Our six hour drive back home was a struggle but worth every sleepy hour of it.

On the cover of the Rollings Stone (almost)

2009-04-27T15:48:00.000-07:00

Tobbe, a Point 65 paddling instructor made the cover of the Swedish paddling magazine "Paddling" (April 09 issue).
This is the equivalent for a Swedish paddler as for a rock star making the cover of the Rolling Stone magazine. (this Dr Hook live performance is just great!!) This incredible shot was taken by Malte Danielsson of Landsort in the Stockholm Archipelago. What kayak? To be honest I'm not sure but it looks like a 2007 Point 65 X-Ray. Now here is Jimi who made the cover of the real thing.
I enclose some more pictures from the same shoot. Thats one happy paddler!!

And another RSM cover

Market day

2009-04-10T08:57:00.000-07:00

Saturday is market day in my little French town. Shopping here is an experience. Now this is the real thing and no tourists have so far found their way to my secret corner of rural France.

Camilla at the fruit stand

This guy carries an incredible selection of cheese
Camembert alone he must have at least 10 different kinds
Not to mention the myriads of Chevres, with berries...
and on a stick.
Todays catch from the nearby beaches

These strawberries were just heavenly with some "real" crème fraiche from the cheese guy
Beret anybody?
Entertainment
Here the local farmers who rent a table and sell their produce

And eggs that taste nothing like the supermarket variety
potatoes at rock bottom prices

Travel in style

2009-04-01T23:04:00.001-07:00

One of the very very few advantages of spending half your time on airplanes is that, after a while, the airline gives you a VIP card. I have more Air France miles under my belt than I wish to remember but it has earned me this Platinum card.The card opens all doors and slips me discreetly past all sort of check in lines, most security lines and all boarding lines. It gives you access to comfortable lounges on all airports stocked with fresh fruit, beverages, sandwiches etc comfortable seats, free internet but most importantly, quietness and stillness.But by far the best thing is that most of the time I get upgraded from the cattle department I belong to into the most comfortable dream land normally reserved for the captains of industry, Business class!
For example. On my most recent roundtrip Europe - China I payed the laughable amount of SEK 4905 (448€/605$) return for the 12 hour flight Paris - Shanghai (including the Stockholm - Paris flight) but enjoyed the trappings of a SEK 50.000 (4500€/6050$) ticket!

I can't describe the sweet feeling of getting your boarding pass at check in with your seat number upgraded from horrible 23A (or god forbid 57F or something) to heavenly 8L. The big difference is the seat that folds down to an absolute flat bed where I sleep comfortably. And the difference in comfort is incredible. However hardly worth the premium fare they charge the fortune 100 companies and governments who actually pay for this sort of thing. Whatever, your seat is in a sort of pod which gives you a feeling of privacy.The seat is wide and comfy and you get a real pillow and a blanket instead of the sand paper like sorry excuse of a blanket back in coach. Instead of arriving like a wreck after a 12 hour torture session, I wish for the pilot to take a detour so that I can finish my movie on the perfect big screen in my secluded pod and have another sip of champagne.
Instead of the stale prison food in the little containers on a tray back in cattle you get most delicious cuisine served on crisp white linen. Together with the wide selection of high end wines and champagne you happily slip into sleep and wake up only for the next meal.
A great thing is that your pod is equipped with an electrical socket so that you can plug in your computer and work. Also there is a wide selection of movies, all the latest releases that you can view any time on your private high resolution, rather big screen with high fidelity Sennheiser earphones. Speaking of phones each seat has a phone that you can use for calls anywhere (at 10$ per minute).

There is a sumptuous bar in the "lounge" up front where you can have a drink and chat with the movers and shakers. The bathrooms are roomy and cleaned by the stewardess after each use.
Once of the plane you can have a quick shower in the lounge before your bag arrives as the very first on the belt thanks to the priority tag. If you even bother to check anything in. In business they allow you to carry whatever you manage to haul onboard be yourself!

After the flight I can walk straight of the plane fresh for any meeting or session in the factory while coming of cattle I see stars, feel groggy and can not perform at all. A three day stretch of jet lag is cut short to one.

Paddling with a paddlesport dynasty

2009-03-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday I went on a paddling excursion with Simon and Naomi Takashina plus their little son 1,5 years old. The Takashinas are a Japanese/American paddlesport -business dynasty who own a paddlesport company group with several interests in the business. Simon & son -youngest paddler of the Wangpu River

Simons grandfather, Tadayoshi Takashina, started making life jackets in Japan back in the 1930s. Now the brothers Simon and Yoshi shoulder the responsibility of the business. MTI, is the Takashina distribution business in the US, distributing paddlesport products there. Hishi Sports produce paddling apparel and pfd's under their own brand as well as for a leading international paddlesport apparel brand. Simon manages their Shanghai factory. Haishi also produces life rafts, life jackets, survival suits etc. The Takashinas also distribute paddlesport products in Japan.

Here Naoyas Hirano, Simon and Naomi Takashina with their baby and my son Axel.

Also joining us for the day was Japanese Renaissance man Naoyas Hirano. He brought this tripple magnum of Spanish Torres which was most welcome to help wash down our picnic. Perfect baguettes from "Paul", Shanghais best bakery (and yes, a franchise from the french chain) and I had brought some goodies from France.

Naoimi Takshina and her son plus my son Axel

Terrine de fois gras de canard and some paté de campagne. I also found some nice ham and salami at the western supermarket in Shanghai. And surprisingly, an excellent Gruyere Suisse, my favorite cheese!! A couple of delicious tartellets was the perfect ending. But disaster struck, I had forgotten my Handespresso at the office so NO COFFEE....

Strengthened after this sumptuous picnic we headed out on the river for my now favorite little Saturday tour.

Here Naomi Takashina in a Cappuchino.

Naoya Hirano was only the second time in a kayak and his first time was back in high school! He did very well and quickly got the hang of it. The more I see beginners in the Whisky 16 the more convinced I am that this is the perfect boat to learn skills in. Naoya was trying some careful edging after 20 minutes. And did it turn!
Naoya Hirano is a very talented artist and runs a dream production consultancy firm. He also owns Shanghais most exclusive Sushi bar Oyama as well as a very cool Spanish wine and tapas bar El Willy. All on 20 Donghu Lu in a building he manages.

Naoya Hirano, Japanese Renaissance man

The star of the day was little Takashina. I bet this is the youngest paddler to ever hit Chinese waters. The Takashina paddlesport business dynasty is safe for another generation! This guy has it in his blood. Without hesitation he joined his father Simon in the cockpit of a SeaRover. They paddled happily down the Wangpu. He was fascinated by the sand barges and their cranes. Admittedly he more or less fell a sleep in the cock pit after a while.
As no spray deck could protect them for dripping water from the paddle, littel Takashina became quit wet after a couple of hours and let us know that he was uncomfortable.

Only this lady cleaning her catch could cheer him up.

On dryland again. Naoimi, littel Takashina, me, Naoyas, Axel and local boy fascinated by the alien crafts and their captains.

Pearl Lam

2009-03-20T07:06:00.000-07:00

Through a mutual friend I was invited to a dinner party at Pearl Lams home, a 22nd-floor, 900-square-meter (9700 square foot) loft in the French Concession district in Shanghai. Pearl Lam is one of the worlds wealthiest women and is credited for boosting Chinese contemporary art and design to the attention of the art world.

Dinner was served on these porcelain hands holding a jade plate.

Not a paddler per se I am sure she would enjoy it given a chance. Her table seats 70 and was full. An army of servants served dish after dish of the most delicious courses impossible to define.

Pearls dinner table. My wife Camilla somewhere out of focus.

The "loft" was wast and filled to the brim with contemporary asian art. Pearl is a sort of Asian Gertrud Stein on steroids.

My son Axel conversing with art dealer Ivan (who also sells Gulfstream jets and super yachts) and Moxian Sun who works for Pearl.

This involves taking contemporary artists under her wing and hosting terrific dinner parties with interesting people on a weekly basis.

I sneaked a couple of photos with my Iphone but was to shy to take one of our hostess so here is a one from the internet.

I had a grand time and it was quite a contrast commuting out to our kayak factory in the industrial suburbs of Shanghai the next morning...

Another borrowed picture of Pearls kitchen.

the morning after, riding to work...

I wonder what Pearl is doing...

Paddling the Cappuccino in Shanghai

2009-03-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

Today I took the Cappuccino out for a spin in Shanghai. And what a joy it was. It was so easy to carry and get in and out of.

I had to drop it down a 1,5 meter high wall and and then climb in. No problems.

It tracks well and speed was not bad at all.
Now turning this little fellow was an experience. A little bit of edge and it spun around in the narrow canal. I am going for another lunch paddle tomorrow and on Saturday I will go for a long one with my son Axel and Simon Takashina of Haish sports with his wife and 1,5 year old kid!

Kri Kri -always part of my day

2009-03-06T00:20:00.000-08:00

These cups are an important part of my day. I love coffee and I have become addicted to drinking it from these stunning cups by KriKri. (Yes my desk is a mess).

Always on my desk...

I have my first latte in bed and after lunch, move over to expressos. These I devour in these expresso cups.

My cup and my expresso maker

The ceramics are not only beautiful but they have such a nice and sophisticated feel to the hand and lips. I just don't enjoy my coffee from any other cup any longer.

Here also a larger bowl. And have you ever seen such a cute little doughnut?

I also love being able to wash them in the dishwasher and if I drop one (I am rather clumsy) they often miraculously survive. KriKri is not just any brand of ceramics. KriKri is Kristin Nelson. She is also an unbelievably talented kayaker and paddling instructor. On the water she can help the most scared and panicky paddler back to comfort and teach them skills they never thought they would master.

Artist in waterfall

Diversified talents? You bet. Her no good husband can paddle but thats about it:-)

The husband...

Please check out Kristin's stuff. But I'm warning you, ones you go KriKri your coffee will never taste the same again in any other cup...

Olle Ljungström and Point 65

2009-03-01T07:40:00.000-08:00

In a prime time documentary Swedish pop legend Olle Ljungström is wearing this!
See the whole thing at http://svtplay.se/t/102869/en_film_om_olle_ljungstrom
Sorry, all in Swedish but the music is cool.

Up yours Macon

2009-02-10T12:00:00.000-08:00

I found this macon on the supermarket shelf in France. I gues this vineyard in Languedoc Roussillon, does not export a lot... at least not to the US and UK.

Nobody has had the heart to tell them. The taste? A wiff of earth. And manure? A sharp scent like trapped in a pocket between the buttocks of an obese, hairy beast. Lots of body. Do I scent (dingle) berries? Oak or hm... no there is something nutty about it. Needs no maturing.

February 5th -Opening a kayak center in Gothenburg

2009-02-05T14:49:00.000-08:00

We have signed the lease for our second kayak center to be opened in March/April in Gothenburg, Sweden's second largest city.

The location couldn't be better. We are right on the water while smack in the city center.

Where "Avenyn" ends, the 5th avenue of Gothenburg, it meets the water and located between the opera building, the (in)famous lipstick sky scraper and Nordstan, a massive shopping center, lies our store and kayak center.

This channel loop (Vallgraven) will take you right through Gothenburg in a nice city paddle. You can see Gothenburg from an unusual angle. We will organize tours several times a week.

See you there!

21/1/2009 Cappuccino -my baby

2009-01-21T09:05:00.000-08:00

I have been pushing for a 4 meter kayak for ages now and finally, it's here! I wanted a cool, comfortable and exclusive little boat and Nigel Foster delivered!

It's a beauty. This is the kayak I will take on short paddles.

I paddled the prototype in October and cant wait for my serial production
Cappuccino to arrive soon!

1-1-2009 in Mexico

2009-01-16T01:57:00.000-08:00

My brother Tomas and I, the co owners of Point 65, were both born in Mexico and spent our first 7 years there. My father was stationed there heading the Mexican subsidary of the Swedish company Atlas Copco.
40 years later it was time for all of us to return for a nostalgic trip. My parents, now in their eighties, my siblings and all our kids and spouses. All in all there were 15 of us!
We roamed the country by car visiting old friends and favorite spots.
I did not place my butt in a kayak for 2 weeks even though I came close ones. Some really cool old wooden kayaks passed by my favorite beach spot but I was to busy with my frozen Margarita!

Arriving at Mexico International with my two sons Felix and Axel

In Mexico city we stayed at the very cool Camino Real. It's an architectural wonder of cool design. Supposedly inspired by world famous Mexican architect Louis Barragan (1902 - 1988) actually he had more than a finger in it's design as he was hired to help the actual architect who was trying to copy his work!
While in Mexico City we visited old Swedish friends at their hacienda San Cristobál which is actually by Barragan. Here Camilla and Chici in front of the famous stables and horse pool.

Here a photo from http://www.designmuseum.org/design/luis-barragan by a real photographer of San Cristobál.

You can see where Barragán got his inspiration. These hole in the wall restaurant on the beach at Puerto Marques, near Acapulco served us the most fabulous lunch. Check out the link to Puerto Marques. This is not your usual holiday beach. Probably most anybody would find it a horrible dump.

Again a Barragán style wall at the beach restaurant.

Crowded with thousands of people, all Mexicans, I saw no other foreigners, sand not very clean nor white. Jet skis making noise, vendors bothering you every 2 minutes. Water not the best quality as the beach is located deep in the bay with monstrous Acapulco just 10 km away.

This lady sure knows how to cook. Hole in the wall at Puerto Marques

But for us this was perfect. Back to the way we did it when I was a kid in the 60s. We ate, read and had fun.

A sole mariachi played for us for a few pesos. Here my mother and Vivi.
My daughter Axeline made some friends on the beach...We had this huge lobster in Zihuatanejo a few hours drive up the coast. It set us back some 15 Euros! And it was goooooooooooood!

Morelia, 3 hours inland, up in the mountains from Zihuatanejo was the biggest surprise of the trip. A wonderful city that reminds me of Grenada in Spain. Splendor and cultural. It was heaven.

But the highlight of the trip was the visit to Santa Monica. Tomas and my nanny, Esperanzas village. Esperanza, now well into her 80s received us with a feast of tacos etc. My Mother has been keeping in touch, sending some money every year. My parents also took her with them 3 times to Sweden for their summer holidays back in the 60s. Once for her to have surgery.
The village is what we would call dirt poor. But since we moved they now have running water, electricity etc. And a new house for her grand kids that looks like most any modest but modern bungalow in the states. Here Axeline looking out the door of one of the old houses.

Inside the house, 40 years later still hanging in the place of honor. A picture of me, aged 5 with Esperanza and her niece. Esperanza did not trust my parents to take care of me on her weekends of so she brought me along to Santa Monica instead.

Here, Esperanza in conversation with my Mother.

Tomas outside one of the old houses were the older generation still lives. Photo by Zoe Ö

The yard were I played as a kid. Photo by Zoe Ö

The compound is outside of the village in the bush. Photo by Zoe Ö

The farm animals. Photo by Zoe Ö

Esperanza and me 40 years later. Photo by Zoe Ö

December 6th Saltys at Chiba, Japan (part 2)

2008-12-06T09:41:00.000-08:00

Saltys at Chiba is a magical place. Saltys is not only a great dealer for Point 65 but a really cool and groovy place to hang out, paddle, have fun and party. It is right on the beautiful beach with Mount Fuji as a spectacular back drop and sometimes surfable waves. There are several instructors and guides available.
Tons of kayaks and gear. If surf is to big at the beach, vehicles run you to the optimal launch spot of the day.

Japanese tradion to bow to the sea before heading out

Many customers keep their kayaks on Saltys racks and make the one and a half hour drive from Tokyo over Tokyo bay for a weekend paddle. But the best thing is the crowd. The Saltys staff and the customers. Fantastic people, lots of fun and incredible hospitality.

Susie, Aja, Hiroko, Hiro, me, Saturo and Tsutomo

The empty beach of Saltys

just 1,5 hours from Tokyo!

The Salty building. Lots of space.
There are several guest rooms at Saltys where you can stay the night.

the shop..

and the view!

Every day is paddling day at Saltys. Note Mount Fuji right over my head!
And Fuji again with some good looking kayaks.
Kamemoto and Ike each bought a new kayak. Kamemoto a Point 65 X-Lite and Ike a Point 65 Whisky 16. Japanese custom is to sacrifice some alcoholic beverage for luck. They start of by pouring some into the sea.
Than on the kayak. Ike was cheap on his Whisky with bag in box Sake. I would have thought a 16 year old Whisky would have brought even more luck to the kayak?

Kamemoto more classy with champagne!
Which also tasted better cold than the sake...

What, my flight has been cancelled? No problem, I'm in paradise!

And again, Mount Fuji in the background. Am I repeating myself? But it's really cool... Mount Fuji Mount Fuji Mount Fuji Mount Fuji Mount Fuji Mount Fuji Mount Fuji Mount Fuji.

Heading out in a Whisky 16. The surf was actually pretty hairy. There were some surfers out which is always a bad sign for a paddler...
Posing again. I guess they thought I was a real pain...
Heading back to Saltys after a day on the water.

Tom and Shinju zen after a hard days night.

December 4th, Lost in translation (part 1)

2008-12-04T03:21:00.001-08:00

I spent a fantastic week in Japan. Here some impressions from my first day (and night) in Tokyo.
I met this group of typical Japanese joggers outside a restaurant. They took me in as one of their own despite my weird attire...
Tsutomu (Tom) Yamamoto, founder and owner of Scoop-Out, our Japan distributor met me down town...
and he imidiately started me of on a hectic schedule of partying and fun. Tom has an incredible social and professional network and the first night out high powered Microsoft executive and Whisky 16 paddler, Kuro Chan (far right holding the megamagnum of Beaujolais Nouveau) not only invited me and Tom, but also Shinju, Scoop-Outs sales executive and the lovely Yoshiko (far left) to an incredible dinner at his favorite Tokyo restaurant! Thats the kind of customers I like! I think the name "Whisky" attracts the right kind of people!
Yes, we finished the Beaujolais Nouveau to the last drop. This year I found it had a fairly big bouquet of sweet strawberry that was nearly perfumy. The palate was a little chewy with light strawberry flavors and a slightly steely finish. This was pretty straight forward Nouveau and clearly better than last years! The empty tripple magnum and it's wooden case is now proudly on display in Tom's office.

But then we moved on to more exotic (and toxid) things. I actually resisted the egg bottle, whatever it was. And I was glad the next day as my headache would have been so much worse (if possible) had I ventured a sip.

Not only did Kuru Chan invite us all out to the sumptuous dinner (have you seen the restaurant prices in down town Tokyo??? It's shocking) but also to stay the night in his penthouse. Japanese don't seem to be big on beds so we crashed on the hard wood floor. Hard it was...

Now the toilets in Japan are not like ours. It's half space ship, half toilet.
The control panel on the arm rest had some intriguing symbols and I could not resist a try. Push one and it ejects a pretty hard jet of hot water which incredibly hits the sweet spot right on target. WOW. Are we all shaped exactly the same or has the jet some sort of laser that seeks out its target and never misses? The other button created a more ordinary stream of water that splashed between the buttocks. This was not the end of it. The rim was pleasantly heated and a powerful ventilation fan inside the toilet swiftly removed all traces of you.

To finish it of the top of the tank is a basin where you can wash you hands!

We also managed some work and visited Scoop-Out dealer ICI in down town Tokyo. Here Tom posing with an XP.
Looking though the magazine stand at ICI I stumbled on this 6 pages feature about Point 65 and Stockholm. Here two Japanese paddlers in Stockholm.
Here an article about the Stockholm archipelago.
And pictures of me in our flagship store in Stockholm! Well it's hard to see like this but I'm on the left page on the right side middle.

To be continued...

29/11 Pearls on the beach, Australia

2008-11-29T03:26:00.000-08:00

On our last evening in Australia Amanda and Peter Clark, our Australian distributor, took us to their favorite restaurant, Pearls on the Beach on Pearl Beach NSW. This is a gem. The food was innovative and to die for, the house spot on the beach and full of charm and the surroundings incredibly beautiful. And to top it of, impeccable service and in Swedish to!!!
Thank you Peter and Amanda for this!
Very charming building

Peter Amanda, Camilla and me.

Kind of discreet sign...

This soup had a very interesting taste and the shrimp so good.
Scallops just so
Not just a steak. And that Aussy meat is incredible

And Camillas risotto so fresh and light. And the wine....

15/11 Down under

2008-11-23T00:24:00.000-08:00

I spent a great week in Australia. Checking out the paddling industry as well as visiting Renai and Woggy! They are my nieces.
Peter and Amanda outside the Kayaking World retail store. Peter also distributes Point 65 througout Australia.

Camilla, Peter and Amanda inside the store
Probably the most unique and unusual photo ever taken in Sydney. With Sanna, Renay, camilla and Sahara. (that strange looking building in the background is an entertainment center of sorts in Sydney)
Sydney dealer, Blue Earth Paddlesports.
Every Australian eats oysters (some spit it out)
Pelican kayaks? No he is just watching...
Are you eyeballing me?
At Sydney Harbor Kayaks having a chat with Shannon
Sometimes the kayaking business can get really tuff....
Heading north, filling up.
we trecked in the Wychwood Forest near Armidale NSW through Fox Valley
After the hot treck we jumped into the creek. Sahara looking for eals. We acctually saw a 2 meter eal only after getting out of the water...
Happy faces before we knew what was in there. Wog, Sahara, Sanna and Rod.
We met this guy sunbathing to.
This must be the smallest kayak factory in the world (what you see is it!), Joy and Richard at KoastalKayaks run a very efficient shop making very nice Sit On Tops. Richard drives them up and down the Queensland and NSW coast delivering them to dealers himself. Great set up -spot on in the middle of the Gold Coast. Now worries aye mate!
In Brisbane at River City Kayaks. Great service, nice boats (Point 65!) and lots of stuff.
A customer getting Steves full attention.
I bought the latest issue of the Outdoor Australia Gear Guide...
wich was full of pictures of a Point 65 SeaCruiser in action! Pleasant surprice.
Now here a real Australian family. Rod, Allsion and Peter Collins and a XXXX!

21/10 Nigel Foster (and me) arrested in China! Paddling the Bund

2008-11-02T12:43:00.000-08:00

On our last day of our China trip we did something crazy. Paddling "the Bund" in central Shanghai has, to our knowledge, never been tried before.
The hit squad consisted of Nigel Foster, Lina Westerlund, Paul Rosenqvist, Staffan Ahltin and me. Good opportunity to try the new Chinese top secret skintight pfd project.
A few strokes...
and we were out on the river
illuminated by the unbelievable light spectacle that is the Bund.
The high rises on the Pudong side. These buildings work as 100x30 meter screens showing commercials to the people strolling on the Bund.
On top of that barges with 50x20 meter floating screens scurry up and down the river also displaying commercials.
Paul with all of Pudongs glory in the background.

BUSTED! After a couple of hours on the water a search light started zeroing in on us. A smatter of megaphone amplified Chinese got closer and closer. Until we were broadsided by two Chinese police vessels.
After some discussions we were finally brought on board. We got our legal eagle Young on the phone who swiftly negotiated our release. Hurray, we will make our flights!!!!

The brave explorers. Are we the first to have paddled through down town Shanghai? Staffan Ahltin, Nigel Foster, Paul Rosenqvist, me and Lina Westerlund.

19-27 Ocober Point 65 roaming China (part 3)

2008-11-02T08:19:00.000-08:00

The Point 65 trip to China was full of experienses. Here an excerpt!
Near our factory is this ethnic Uigurien hole in the wall were we usually have lunch. Lina, staffan, Christian, me, Micheal, Camilla, Tomas, Paul & Chici

Their noodles are not only delicious but watching them being made is great entertainment
Hey guys, going home with identical snapshots eh...

And there were noodles.

Dessert arrives at the right moment

The team having a look at some boats in the productionline
Assembly in the works
Our assembly hall
Driving around wester China. Me, Young, Lina, Camilla, Staffan & Paul.
Pit stop
Chinese gas stations have somewhat differnt food on offer compared to back home...
My sister Marika and me admiring this baby with the great hat.
Checking out the kitchen in this mountain restaurant
Outside the "farmers restaurant" near Ningbo.
And digging in. Nigel, Vivi and Staffan.
staffan letting of some steam after lunch.
At the rotomolding factory.
Hey Justin, thats you on the sign on the roof of that factory!
The neighbours.
A game of...
of poker!
Staffan orders the food
At the old ladies restaurant. Paul, Old lady and Staffan
Dinner with the station heads. Wou, Yi and Yu
Mold builder Master Yu, Nigel and Lina.
Chici, Lee, Me, Wang and Staffan

Nigels latest design. It's very stable but heavy:-)
Paul & Aling
Pauls Shanghai office
Paul on the terrace of he dorm building.

I have been instrumenal in getting the flowerbeds in order outside the factory. One of my pet projects.
Staffan likes borrowing local hats...
Newly wedes get their picture taken

October 11 NIGEL FOSTER, First sea kayaker in the international hall of fame!!!

2008-11-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

We are very proud that our Nigel Foster, as the very first sea kayaker, has been inducted into the International Kayaking Hall of Fame which also includes Rowing, Canoeing and Cycling.

CM Director Brown handing over the hard earned diploma

Nigel is in good company with a number of olympic flat water paddlers, cyclist Lance Armstrong and others:-)

Nigel and co inductees

Nigel giving his thank you speach

2008 Inductees: Front Row L. to R. Jan Cooley, Nigel Foster, Jen Kaido, Kathy White; Back Row L. to R. Dr. Mike Fries, Clete McLaughlin, Ward Dailey, Jim White

CM Director Brown with Jen Kaido & Nigel

2008 Inductees with former inductees Frank Williams (back row 3rd from left), Margaret Thompson (back row on the right); Nigel's wife & photographer (second row third from left); Sponsors Ed & Scott (front row)

Here is what the IKHF writes on Nigel:
Nigel Foster is one of the world’s most skilled sea kayakers. He doesn’t boast of his prowess. He is a soft spoken, almost shy individual, but the grace and elegance he displays when paddling demonstrates an unparalleled depth of knowledge about his kayaks, his skills and the ocean.

His international reputation is built on his designs (he has designed six sea kayaks), his books, (`Nigel Foster’s Sea Kayaking’, `Nigel Foster’s Surf Kayaking’, `A Sea Kayaking Guide to Southern Florida’ published by Globe Pequot Press, and `Kayaking, a Beginner’s Guide’ and `Open Canoe Technique’ published by Fernhurst Books in the UK), his teaching, his instructional videos and DVDs (available from Starling Productions), and his expeditions.

He developed his kayaking skills as a teenager in England; he crossed the English Channel several times, sometimes at night, he soloed 400 miles around the Southwest Coast of England and also explored the wild and exposed coast of Scotland. He was the youngest paddler to circumnavigate Iceland (he was 24). He did this expedition with his friend Geoff Hunter. He became a very active kayak instructor and led groups to the arctic islands of Norway, the Faeroe Islands, Iceland, and the wilder parts of the Western Isles of Scotland, The Shetlands and Orkney Islands.

His adventurous spirit led him to expeditions on the coast of Newfoundland and to cross France, from North to South, by paddling a racing tandem through its rivers and canals. In 1981 he undertook a major expedition from Baffin Island to Resolution Island and then across the 40 miles of open water in Hudson Strait to the Button Islands and the Northern Coast of Labrador. In this area tidal range can exceed 40 feet and tidal streams can run at more than seven knots. After fighting the tidal streams in the dark near the Button Islands, suffering frostbitten fingers and loss of gear, he eventually gave up on this expedition and hitched a ride on a passing tanker.

In the late summer of 2004, accompanied by his companion Kristin Nelson, he finally completed that expedition by paddling from Kuujiaq in Ungava Bay to Nain. A distance of over 600 miles of uninhabited coastline. It’s not quite uninhabited, his latest slide show covers this expedition and notes numerous encounters with polar bears!

Nigel Foster is an international kayak teacher and has become an icon of modern sea kayaking. He teaches simple, functional techniques devoid of dogma and his pupils gain a greater understanding of not only how a kayak works but also how to maximize their effectiveness as paddlers. He instructs in Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland, Denmark, Spain, the U.K, Canada and the U.S.A. He presently lives in Seattle, WA and can often be found instructing classes in the famous passes of the San Juan Islands. Pictures of Nigel kayaking follow.

CONGRATULATIONS NIGEL!!!!

October 20, Official innaguration of our factory

2008-11-02T01:45:00.000-07:00

Our very own factory in China has been up and running for some time already. But this was the perfect opportunity to have the official grand opening with the Point 65 team visiting China.
Our subsidiary in China, Kaylab Inc employes almost 50 boat builders. Kaylab not only supplies our own kayaks but we also builds for some of the leading US and European brands as subcontractor.

Christian Starkenius (Finacials), Paul Rosenqvist (International sales) and Staffan Ahltin (Skandinavian sales) in front of the Kaylab factory.

First a traditional Swedish innaguration speach by yours truly.

Followed by the cutting of the ribbon by Nigel Foster
And finally a real Chinese innaguration fireworks going on for almost an hour to bring good luck. Klick below and see the clip to!