Would you believe us if we told you that “flying” can be easier than surfing?
eFoil is one of the most exciting ways to work out, soak up the sun, and enjoy the ocean.
A Mix of Flying and Surfing
eFoil, is a short surfboard equipped with an electric motor that lifts the board above the water using a hydrofoil fin, while the speed is controlled via a Bluetooth remote. โItโs like surfing but without waves. You float on the board, and once it lifts off the water, the sensation is incredibleโitโs like flying,โ says Cesar, a surf instructor, recalling his first experience with eFoil. Itโs a thrilling and easy sport that anyone can enjoy right from the first session, even without prior experience. Speeds range from 5 km/h to 50 km/h, depending on the riderโs skill and comfort. You can take short rides or embark on longer adventures along the coastline, as the battery lasts up to three hours of continuous use.
An Innovative Idea
eFoil was born in 2015 when engineer and surfer Nick Leason added a motor to a surfboard. By integrating drone technology, electric motors, and Bluetooth controls, he created a sport independent of waves or wind. Since 2018, the eFoil community has grown rapidly. As of 2024, eFoil Jaco is the only company offering this unique experience in the region. They provide diverse packages, such as a full-day adventure on a catamaran with snacks and drinks, where you can enjoy eFoil, snorkeling, and exploring Punta Leonaโs underwater museum. Alternatively, you can keep it simple with a day of fun on Playa Agujas or Bochinche, combining eFoil with a relaxing beach vibe. This exclusive and one-of-a-kind experience is led by expert instructors Julia and Rafa, who are seasoned e-foilers. Theyโll equip you with everything you need to embark on one of the most exciting water adventures.
After a quick introduction, youโll gear up with a life jacket and take your eFoil into the water. Once a bit away from the shore, youโll climb onto the board and find your balance point between your body and the board. โItโs not complicatedโitโs intriguing,โ says Rafa, a dive instructor and eFoil enthusiast who loves adventure and nature. The thrill begins when you press the button on the remote and adjust the speed to maintain your balance. The faster you go, the more stable you feel. Standing up can be done in one swift motion or with the help of your arms. The stance is similar to surfing but more relaxed. You might nail it on your first try, but even if you donโt, each attempt gets you closer. Once you find your balance, the board lifts off the water, leaving only the tail fin in contact. When the splashing sounds fade, congratulationsโyouโre flying!โI surfed for 18 years, and this felt very similar. Itโs a bit of a balance adjustment, but like any board sport, you just flow with it and enjoy the adrenaline. I loved it because itโs similar to longboardingโit depends on your skill to stay on the board for a long time. Any small misstep can throw you off,โ shares Ezequiel, a professional surfer. As you fly, youโll soak in breathtaking views of Playa Bochinche or Playa Agujas. These calm-wave beaches, with crystal-clear waters teeming with wildlife, offer the chance to spot stingrays, pelicans, dolphins, and various fish species.