KiwiKraft Tour Boats

KwikKraft Tour Boats is a specialist manufacturer of high-performance alloy jet tour boats, forming part of the wider KwikKraft alloy boat range. The company focuses on custom-built, top‑end alloy vessels designed for both commercial jet tourism operations and demanding recreational and offshore use. Their boats are recognized internationally for combining robust construction with refined handling and performance in a wide variety of water conditions, from shallow braided rivers to heavy offshore seas.

KwikKraft alloy boats are built by Icon Brands International at their factory in Rangiora, in the Canterbury region of New Zealand. Icon Brands International also produces Ramco alloy boats and large alloy vessels designed by Robson Design, reflecting a broad and deep expertise in alloy boat construction. Directors Gary Tomes and Kevin Jenkins each bring over thirty years of experience with a wide range of boats and share a strong passion for the marine industry.

A key part of the company’s identity is its uncompromising approach to quality. KwikKraft positions itself at the top end of the market, deliberately focusing on custom builds and high specifications rather than mass production. They emphasize “quality and performance without compromise” as a core principle and have built their reputation on maintaining very high standards of design and construction. This philosophy is supported by a hull and structural warranty and by keeping all manufacturing and fit‑out work in‑house, including painting and the fabrication of alloy trailers.

Innovation and technical excellence are central to KwikKraft’s approach. Six‑time World Jet Sprint Champion Gary Tomes has been an important innovator in alloy boat hull development in New Zealand, and he personally oversees the construction of every boat in the factory to ensure standards are met. The company collaborates closely with Christchurch-based Robson Design to ensure that each new hull not only looks modern and appealing but also delivers superior performance and handling characteristics tailored to its operating environment—whether for shallow, fast-flowing rivers or open-sea conditions.

KwikKraft also maintains a strong technical relationship with Hamilton Jet, another Christchurch-based specialist. At the design stage, Hamilton Jet’s technical team provides input on jet unit and engine selection, as well as feasibility analyses, so that each boat is properly matched to its intended use and customer requirements. All of KwikKraft’s exported jet‑propelled tour boats are equipped with twin Hamilton Jet units, underlining the brand’s focus on reliability and performance for commercial operations.

The company has a distinctly global outlook. Despite higher freight costs, exchange rate challenges and broader economic pressures, export sales have remained strong and continue to grow. Jet‑propelled KwikKraft tour boats are operating in a wide range of locations, including Africa, the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Hong Kong, Croatia, Turkey, Korea and Finland. Their recreational and offshore boats have also been exported to Australia, the Pacific Islands, Canada and the United States, demonstrating the brand’s international reputation and adaptability to varied markets and conditions.

Within the organization, the directors’ individual experience further shapes the company’s offering. Gary Tomes, with his world championship jet sprint background, drives hull innovation and oversees production standards. Kevin Jenkins contributes extensive hands‑on experience in adventure jet boating and river racing. He supports overseas clients in setting up their jet boating businesses, commissions new tour boats, and can provide commercial jet boat driver training programs. Kevin’s active operation of a commercial charter business using a KwikKraft 12‑seat jet tour boat reinforces the company’s direct connection to real‑world commercial operations and informs ongoing product refinement.

Overall, KwikKraft Tour Boats distinguishes itself through a combination of high‑end custom alloy construction, deep racing and commercial jet boating experience, close technical partnerships, and a firm commitment to New Zealand-based manufacturing. Its boats are positioned as premium, purpose‑designed craft for operators and owners who prioritize durability, performance, and tailored design over compromise or mass‑market solutions.

• Key strengths and differentiators:
  • Custom high‑quality alloy tour boats at the premium end of the market
  • Uncompromising standards of design and construction, with in‑house manufacturing and fit‑out
  • Leadership with more than 30 years’ experience and world‑champion jet sprint credentials
  • Strong technical partnerships with Robson Design and Hamilton Jet for optimized performance
  • Proven export track record across multiple continents for both commercial tour and recreational/offshore boats