The motorized surfboard we’re going to present now eliminates the need of a buddy to tow you away from the shore, to meet the real, big waves. The WaveJet can perfectly take you to that ideal spot, without the need of a separate friend to get you there. The contraption is very much different than the JetBoard, which relies on an engine as propulsion system.
The WaveJet on the other hand is a personal water propulsion machine – PWP – which runs on the principle of increasing the effectiveness of paddling by adding a small motor to aid. Thus, unlike the JetBoard, the WaveJet still relies on paddling, allowing the owner to paddle up to 4 times faster than normally.
The motor is so efficient that it can fit every WaveJet board, like boogie boards, rescue boards, surfboards or paddleboards. Fixed tightly on the bottom of the board, it avoids any contact with the rider, generating 9 kg (20 lbs) of thrust and reaching 19.3 km/h (12 mph) thanks to 2 aluminum impellers.
The control system is very efficient as well. It doesn’t bear the need of permanent contact between the surfer and the board, through a wireless control system, worn by the rider on its wrist. It also has indicators for the battery level and shuts down the engine if the surfer goes out of the small range. It runs on a lithium-ion rechargeable battery that can last 30 to 45 minutes.
The inventor of this magnificent device, Mike Railey, talked about the need of someone to tow you offshore. He introduced the WaveJet during 2011, after being awarded a series of patents for the model. Garett McNamara, WaveJet ambassador and big wave surfer, was reportedly using a traditional tow-in system at the time when he set the world record for the biggest wave ever surfed, during November, which measure a whopping 27.4 meters (90 feet). He used the WaveJet to catch a 15-meter one (50 ft) during the same trip to Portugal.
Furthermore, the system is used in rescue boards, to allow the rescuers to extract victims faster. The system also gives the ability to sail over shallow waters to kayaks or boats, because of its flat design and lightweight construction system. It’s highly efficient against strong currents as well.
It will still last around one month to hit markets, but a good things is that the system has been confirmed its efficiency by professional lifeguards, surfers and other competent people. For now, it will be available as surfboard, stand-up paddle board and boogie board, with other models, including kayak, due to be made available during next year.
The WaveJet pod comes at $2,500, usable with retrofitted boards or other WaveJet ready boards. The recreational packages start at $4,395 and rescue boards – $4,150, while pre-orders need a $500 deposit. These services are available as we speak.
[Gizmag]
