ROCHESTER, N.Y. – eFoil, a newer sport that resembles surfing but without the waves, is one of the fastest-growing water activities, and it’s not unusual to see more and more of the electric motor-driven boards gliding across New York waterways. It’s an experience that some liken to a magic carpet ride — on water.
On a sunny summer day in the Finger Lakes, there was something you don’t really see every day — surfboard-like crafts hovering above the calm waters of Keuka Lake.
“It’s pretty awesome,” said Jake Miles, an avid eFoil rider. “It almost feels like you’re flying, and it’s just such a cool feeling.”
eFoil is essentially a surfboard with a battery powered motor and a hydrofoil wing, which, at the right speed, lifts the board completely above the water.
“I think it looks a lot more intimidating than it really is,” said Miles. “Anyone can truly do it.”
Miles is owner and operator of Shaka Fliteschool, which he opened three summers ago. He has taught eFoiling to about 100 students so far this summer. He describes it as both a hobby and a sport, one which didn’t even exist until about a decade ago.
New boards cost anywhere from $5,000 and up, depending on the manufacturer and the setup. Miles has a half dozen boards manufactured by Fliteboard, which cost about $9,000 apiece. He offers two-hour lessons, starting at a little less than $200.
“Going out was a little bit scary at first,” said Lydianne Lupien, who took her second eFoil ride. “But as soon as you’re on the board, you just kind of feel safer and more secure than you think you would. It’s really fun.”
“My favorite is just being above the water,” said Peyton Miles, Jake’s sister. “Almost feels like you’re floating. It’s super peaceful. It’s kind of just like you and nature.”
Jake recently earned his business degree from SUNY Brockport. He said his business has turned into quite a ride.
“I tell people it’s almost like you’re Aladdin on the magic carpet,” he said. “It’s peaceful, and it’s super surreal. It’s amazing.”