Swellendam company joins SABBEX
They may be new to SABBEX but Infanta Inflatables need no introduction to the local boatbuilding scene where they have made their presence felt since 1985.
The stalwart yard from Swellendam has been around longer than the New South Africa, founded by Kosie van Zyl and later sold in 1995 to Cassie Castleman who now runs the business with his son Kevin.
The father-and-son team has helped bolster South Africa’s reputation as a global centre of excellence for inflatable and rigid inflatable boats. From an initial four models the company now offers 20, including the latest 8.5m and 9m editions. Over 70% of boats are exported overseas, mainly to the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.
“It is really about the outdoor culture,” says Kevin about the company’s growth. “And it is about the South African practicality – we match our designs to what is needed.”
As a result robust designs have developed organically as per South African conditions, adds Kevin.
Since the Castlemans took over, the yard has increased its footprint from 500 m² to 1500 m², while the staff complement has grown to 26.
The company enjoys a convenient location adjoining the Breede River which flows into the sea at Cape Infanta.
In recent years Infanta Inflatable designs have dominated the local inflatable racing scene, making up the majority of the field at some races. Infanta teams achieved the first four positions in the Pro Stock class of the 2017 Inflatable Powerboat World Championships.
The company also enjoys a friendly relationship with the other global player in the inflatable market, Gemini Marine, whose current owner Gerhard Neethling is Kosie van Zyl’s nephew. Says Kevin: “There is a historical connection and we work quite well together.”
Infanta Inflatables is now also a SABBEX member.