Vintage Hand-Built Wooden Kayak “Sea Otter #2 1994”

Hand-built wooden kayak with matching handmade paddle, a distinctive piece of craftsmanship with an interesting history. I bought this from an elderly gentleman in Arkles Bay who’s moving into a retirement village. He told me he assembled it himself in the early ’90s from a plywood kit that came from England (apparently via Fiji due to an import rule at the time). He was a lifelong kayaker and a real hands-on, practical type, the kind who quietly builds things that last. The kayak is hand-marked “Sea Otter No. 2 ’94 SWT SBH,” likely including the initials of its builders. It has elegant lines and a beautifully finished wooden deck, and comes with its original handmade wooden paddle, complete with a red-painted blade tip. It’s not a modern craft by current safety standards, however the previous owner once paddled it all the way to Tiritiri Matangi “no worries,” which says a lot about its spirit and build quality. The hull shows some honest signs of age. including a small gouge in the paint near the bow and a few areas of light fading, consistent with its years of use and adding to its character rather than taking away from it. I’m 5’9” and found it a snug fit, so it’s likely suited to a smaller paddler. Overall, it presents beautifully and would make a standout piece for anyone who values craftsmanship and the story behind a well-made object. $1 reserve – selling as-is. Pickup preferred. Viewing recommended.