When we moved back to Devon, after many adventures, we were given the opportunity to take on Epic Kayaks in the UK. Our key motivation was to help establish and grow the sport of Ocean Racing in the UK, and to set up a youth programme to introduce younger paddlers to Ocean Racing. 

More than a decade later we are Ocean Surfski. We provide the best and most complete range of surfskis, paddles and gear to get you out on the water safely and the boat best suited to you. Many of our original youth paddlers are now international athletes, and are doing extraordinary things, across different paddle disciplines and in their own lives - using skills learnt through their sport way beyond the water.

Ocean Racing is now a thriving discipline under Paddle UK, with a wide crossover of athletes from marathon and SLS, and the launch of the GB OR Series for 2026. 

Ocean Surfski

We now have the priviledge of representing both Epic and Fenn in the UK – the two original and best known, most progressive surfski brands in the world. The brands complement each other, and both brands have authentic roots with their DNA in racing quality. 

To complement  the best skis we stock the best gear to get you on the water. With car roof racks, paddles, and Vaikobi clothing we have everything you need, for touring, exploring, adventure races, training and racing on the international scene.

More recently, through the Epic and Fenn Spec Skis we have naturally been drawn into the SLS world and now stock Wetiz race boards and SLS competition equipment which is proving hugely popular with clubs. Sticking with our ethos of quality and added value to the sport Engine Swimwear is the latest addition to our yard, and proving it's worth across the best SLS athletes in the country. 

Try before you buy - come for a Demo

Located near junction 27 of the M5 (Tiverton) we are midway between the North Devon surfing beaches and the South Devon coast. Our customers come from all over the UK (and Europe) to demo skis, fit their roof racks, and look through the shop.

With a stock of over 100 skis to choose from we probably have what you need. You can drive away from the yard with a new ski on your roof bars, with a paddle that suits you, and the PFD and clothing you need to get you safely on the water, in most conditions.

Alternatively you can visit our pop up shop at Ocean Races and SLS beach and pool events across the UK. 

Partners

We work very closely with our suppliers to improve the kit and access to the sport, giving them your feedback almost daily. Our collaboration with Kirton Kayaks, just down the road, goes back to Jim's GB racing days when Dave Green designed and built Jim's racing kayaks. 

Looking ahead

Our main focus has to be the consolidation of our business, which in turn allows us to put more back into the sport. Our aim is to share the freedom of surfski, reaching the widest range of paddles. 

We also know we have to do more to protect our oceans, as a company operating sustainably, as ocean users and as advocates. 

The future of Ocean Racing is exciting with 2026 set to be our biggest year yet, as we continue to support and establish more races throughout the UK and more racers to compete internationally. 

Jim Taylor-Ross

Jim has a multi-disciplinary canoeing, sailing and surf lifesaving background. He has represented GB in Wild Water Racing, Marathon, Dragon Boat and Ocean Racing.

His motivation comes from sharing his passion for the freedom and independence of being on the water with others, using good technique and the best craft and equipment available. In particular he is driven by giving young paddlers the opportunities and foundations on which to develop their own love of paddling, and being the best people they can be.

As a former Coaching Rep in the British Canoeing Marathon Racing Committee, Jim has always encouraged the cross over between kayak disciplines and has been very influential in the growth of ocean racing and surfski in the UK, to compliment other kayak disciplines. Having helped establish the GB Ocean Racing Team, getting Ocean Racing recognised as a discipline by Paddle UK in 2025, Jim is the Safety Advisor on the ORUK Committee and a Team Selector. He is a member of the European Canoe Association Ocean Racing group, an independent member on the Paddle UK Safety Advisory Board, a National Race Coach Tutor and an adviser for ocean racing to SLSGB.

With a background in engineering and project management (military, international humanitarian aid and the rail industry) and with numerous expeditions under his belt, expedition and event planning is all part of the job. 

Jim has also been known (occasionally) to sell boats. 

Annabel Taylor-Ross

Annabel runs Jim, the office, the shop, and the family.  A self-confessed fair weather paddler, she is proof that a surfski life is not just about racing, and that waves don't need to be huge to be enjoyed. 

With a background in the military, international aid, teaching and farming she's now learning to run a business, alongside her freelance work as a Level 6 Careers Advisor.

 "Jim and Annabel are knowledgeable and detailed with their approach. Their years of competing and involvement at all levels of paddling across many disciplines, from the elite level to the grass roots of the sport, is evident. As is their love of paddling and willingness to help build the future of the sport. Excellent to deal with and always willing to go the extra mile." Jono Crowe