Graham Howes lived for the ocean. In honour of his love for the sea and his fearless spirit on the water, his family are rallying the community he cherished to help fund a rescue vessel that will carry his name. Your support will help keep others safe out at sea and ensure that Graham’s legacy lives on in every rescue that follows.
Graham Howes wasn’t just a kiteboarder, he was a movement. Known for his fearless riding, sharp wit and the unmistakable energy he brought to every beach he touched, he helped shape modern kite culture in South Africa and beyond. He made the ocean feel like home for anyone who joined him, whether they were world-class pros or first-timers trying to catch their first gust. Through Dirty Habits, his films, his events and his unmistakable personality, Graham built a global tribe of wind chasers, thrill-seekers and ocean lovers who saw him not only as an athlete but as a friend, a mentor and a spark that lit up every session.
Graham tragically lost his life at sea while doing what he loved most. His passing sent a shockwave through the community he helped create, leaving a silence in a space he once filled with laughter, bravery and pure stoke.
In the days that followed, the extreme sports world responded with an outpouring of love. Kiteboarders, wingsuit pilots, surfers, skydivers, filmmakers and fans shared tributes, stories and memories, celebrating the impact Graham had on their lives and on the culture he helped define. His legacy now lives on in the people he inspired and the ocean he dedicated his life to.
- Richard Howes, Graham's father
When people speak of Graham Howes, the words that come up again and again are life, energy, and kindness. He had a rare gift — whoever he was with felt seen, cared for, and valued. He lived life with open arms and an open heart.
On the day Graham went missing at sea, the NSRI launched a full search that lasted through the night. For his father, Richard Howes, knowing that the NSRI crews were out there — in rough conditions and darkness — brought comfort in the midst of heartbreak.
“To know that the NSRI was out there was the best feeling,” says Richard. “People with passion who risk their lives every time they answer the call for help, in all weather, day and night.”
At Station 18 – Melkbosstrand, the NSRI team welcomed the Howes family, giving them space to stay through the night, keeping them informed, and showing them how the rescue operation worked. Their compassion left a lasting mark.
That kindness inspired the Howes family to honour Graham’s legacy by helping to fund a new NSRI rescue craft — one that will bear his name: Graham Howes.
“The NSRI is built on volunteers who give up their time to help others in distress,” says Richard. “They rely on public support and ask nothing in return.”
For Richard, this act carries deep meaning. His father — also named Graham Howes — shared the same love of the sea. Each time an NSRI vessel launches, Richard adds both names to the list of those remembered and carried with the crew.
“To have a rescue craft named after Graham Howes would be amazing,” Richard says softly. “Knowing that Graham continues to sail the sea, helping people in distress.”
The family hopes this fundraiser will not only honour Graham but also inspire others to give — knowing their donation will directly save lives and teach children vital water-safety skills.
“Many people want to help,” Richard explains, “but they want a more personal fundraiser. Graham touched so many lives — this way, they can support Graham by supporting the NSRI.”
He believes his son would have been humbled by this tribute.
“Graham had such humility,” Richard says. “He’d be so honoured by this. Water rescue was close to his heart — he was always finding ways to help kids in need through surfing.”
Now, friends, family, and all who knew Graham are invited to continue his story — one of kindness, courage, and love — by helping to bring the Graham Howes rescue craft to life.
Each contribution will ensure that, every time this vessel launches, Graham’s spirit goes to sea once more to help others in their hour of need.
“We all know the type of person Graham was,” says Richard. “To support this fundraiser would be the final act of love for Graham. He’ll always be remembered as a kind soul, and having his name on a rescue craft will keep his name alive for a long time.”
