Kenya has a rich, diverse history; and Ocean Sports Resort is a part of it. First opening in 1952, Ocean Sports have exclusively been a family owned establishment. Generations of families have brought their patronage to the sandy shores for the friendly service, comfortable accommodation, and dancing the night away under the stars. It is easy to see how Ocean Sports, has lodged itself in the hearts of the community and so many returning guests.
If you’ve ever been to the Ocean Sports bar, you will have noticed the sail boat at the centre. The boat belonged to Ian Pritchard the founder of (Ocean Sports), who bought the plot in the mid-fifties and put up a simple beach shack that served food, with the main focus on his favourite water sports, water skiing, fishing and snorkelling. Ocean sports even had the very first glass bottom boats in Watamu.
Ian Prichard was an avid water-skier himself and mastered tricks such as skiing on top of barstools. He eventually suffered a terrible water sports accident, leaving him paralysed from the neck down. Even after his accident he still managed to go sailing and accomplish beautiful artworks by holding the paint brush between his teeth. Some of his paintings are still displayed in the bar today, including his final piece, a self-portrait.
