Oru Kayak, makers of a unique origami-inspired folding and portable kayak, has just
announced that his July, it will lead a small crew of solo kayakers that will set out from Havana Cuba with their compasses set to Key West, Florida.
While completing the infamous ocean crossing is no small feat, the crew said is most excited by what a safe crossing represents — a new era of diplomatic relations between the USA and Cuba.
The 103-mile ocean passage is known for strong currents, sharks, unpredictable weather, and, as a hazardous journey often made by Cuban refugees seeking political asylum in the U.S.
Due to recently renewed diplomatic relations between Cuba and the U.S., the passage has been the subject of much interest. In recent years the passage between the neighbor countries has been swum, paddle boarded, and completed by a tandem kayak team, however, a solo kayak passage (e.g. a kayak powered by just one-person) has yet to be completed.
While completing a solo kayak passage remains a significant test of human strength, endurance, and perseverance — and will likely require 30-40 hours of non-stop kayaking — the ability to make a safe and legal journey from Cuba to the USA is arguably the most remarkable feat of all.
Andy Cochrane, Oru’s Director of Marketing who is organizing and leading the expedition, said, “Kayaking from Cuba to the USA is a dream opportunity for any kayaker. But more important than our success, is the fact that we can do this safely and with the blessing of both the US and Cuban government — and what that means for people in both countries.”
Oru Kayak will use a fleet of the company’s newly updated COAST XT expedition kayaks to complete the 103-mile journey. The expedition touring model was updated in 2017 to increase the durability of the boat in high surf and wind. More information about the COAST XT and live streaming video from the attempt can be found at www.orukayak.com.
Founded in 2012, Oru Kayak is a leading innovator in the kayaking industry and the first to bring a foldable kayak to market utilizing the principles of origami. Beyond the functionality of its engineering, the Oru Kayak stands apart from the competition for its superb on the water performance, durability, easy assembly, and stylish design. Based in San Francisco and manufactured in the USA, Oru Kayak is sold in dozens of countries across five continents including Europe, Australia, Asia and the Americas.