Anyone who knows the 1980s series „Magnum“ with Tom Selleck has the image in their head: a narrow, lightning-fast boat chasing down the waves off Hawaii. That's exactly what a surfski is – and yes, we paddle it on the Main.
A surfski is a sit-on-top kayak with an open, self-bailing cockpit: you sit on top instead of inside, powered by a double-blade or wing paddle. In Germany it's a real niche sport – all the more special that you can try it out with us.
The fastest paddle boat
Long, narrow, built uncompromisingly for speed: after the Olympic flatwater racing boats, the surfski is one of the fastest boats in the entire canoe family. That's exactly why it's superb for long-distance training – on the Main as on any other water.
Downwind – the real kick
The surfski's element is the downwind. Instead of a single wave you surf many waves one after another: the push from behind carries the already nimble boat forward almost effortlessly. A long, sporty flow – and for many the reason they never want to paddle anything else again.
Sit-on-top: big advantage, small wink
The open, self-bailing cockpit has a decisive advantage: if you capsize, you're back on top within seconds and paddling on. We practise this quick remount early, because especially at the start you do end up in the water now and then. The only downside, with a wink: you won't get a dry backside.
Start out stable – at FRVS 1898
Surfskis come in stability levels from beginner to elite. Beginners start on short, wide and therefore stable boats and first build balance and wing-paddle technique on the calm Main. With us, surfski is embedded in the canoe training – anyone who wants more comes along to coastal training camps and into real downwind terrain.
Frequently asked questions
Isn't it dangerous if I capsize?
On the contrary: with the sit-on-top surfski you're back on top within seconds after a capsize. We practise exactly this remount on the Main before heading onto bigger water.
Do I need experience or my own boat?
No. Beginners start on stable, wider entry-level skis – we provide the equipment.
Do I have to go to the sea to do surfski?
You build the basics on the Main. For real downwind waves we travel to coastal training camps.
When do you train?
Surfski runs as part of the canoe training, Tuesdays from 19:00 (children from 18:00). The easiest way in is via a taster session.
Come on by. The first time is always with someone alongside you.
Sign up for a taster session – we look forward to seeing you at Mainwasenweg.