Working on yachts is a unique job, requiring crew to offer a variety of versatile skill sets to manage a successful programme. Skills ranging from silver service to carpentry and water sports knowledge are necessary onboard yachts.
Today, I want to focus on one of the most exhilarating aspects of the job:
Water sports. For guests, the thrill of on-water activities is often one of the biggest attractions of chartering or owning a yacht, making it a crucial part of the yachting experience.
The selection of tenders and toys available today is truly incredible, there is a lot of high powered fun to be had on the water! We’re talking about eFoils, Seabobs, kitesurfing, kite foiling, windsurfing, dinghy sailing, inflatable setups, and jet skis, to name a few. The list of water sport options is endless! I deal with these toys almost daily during the season which provides a lot of fun for the guests but also requires a lot of work behind the scenes. With each piece of equipment onboard, it’s essential to have trained crew ready to guide guests and ensure safety.
Foiling: The Rising Star of Water sports
Foiling has gained immense popularity in the water sports community. Even sailing boats now integrate foiling capabilities. You may have seen the America’s Cup recently in Barcelona, where sailboats reached speeds up to 40-50 knots in just 12 knots of wind—a testament to the power of foiling technology!
If you’re wondering what “foiling” means, it’s when a hydrofoil attached to a board or boat lifts it above the water at a certain speed, reducing drag and resistance. This results in a smooth, faster ride and, in the case of motorised foiling boats, greater fuel efficiency.
Among foiling sports, eFoils and kite foiling are particularly captivating. I’ve been fortunate enough to try eFoils (professionally, of course). I haven't quite managed to get kite foiling yet, I’m still working on mastering regular kite surfing!
eFoils
An eFoil is a battery-powered, motorised surfboard equipped with a hydrofoil. With a handheld remote, you control the motor’s speed, and as the board reaches a certain speed, it lifts above the water, creating the sensation of gliding through air. Even on choppy water, it provides a smooth ride. Leading brands like Flite and Lift continue to innovate with advanced eFoil designs, offering boards with different mast and wing configurations to cater to every skill level. Whether you're a beginner looking for stability, or an advanced user looking for speed and manoeuvrability, there is a wing setup for you!
Seabobs
Seabobs are another favourite that have stood the test of time. A Seabob is a motorised water scooter designed for both surface and underwater exploration. Riders hold onto the handles, engage the throttle, and let the Seabob pull them through the water. It’s ideal for snorkelling, allowing for an effortless way to explore reefs and underwater formations, making it a top choice for both novice explorers and seasoned divers.
Inflatables
The range of custom inflatables now available for super yachts is more creative than ever. Companies like FunAir and Superyacht Tenders and Toys have elevated inflatable setups to new heights. From basic floating docks and massive slides to intricate pyramids, climbing walls, and even water-based jumping castles, these inflatables offer endless options. Not only do they provide extra space for sunbathing or relaxing closer to the water, but they also serve as excellent platforms for various water sports activities, from kiting and eFoiling to Seabobs and more.
Safety
While water sports provide great fun for guests, they also come with serious safety risks. If not handled properly, water sports can lead to injury or worse. Crew responsible for these activities must be well-trained in each sport, understanding the associated risks and providing the necessary guidance to ensure guests enjoy themselves safely. Deck crew often have a tender in the water, with other crew members monitoring the activities at all times. The tender serves as both a rescue vessel and a platform for instructors to offer guidance to guests.
With battery-powered toys, safety becomes even more critical due to lithium-ion batteries, which require careful handling and maintenance. These batteries can overheat or even catch fire if mishandled or damaged. For example, eFoils operate on lithium-ion batteries, which need to be carefully managed. After guests finish using eFoils, the batteries should be allowed to cool before recharging. During charging, batteries must be closely monitored. For longer storage, batteries should be kept in flame-retardant lithium-safe boxes, like Zarges boxes, which contain any potential fire. If the batteries won’t be used for a few weeks or more, they should be run down to about 30%, which is their ideal storage level to prolong lifespan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Preparation and training are key to giving the guests the safest and most enjoyable experience on the water. Deck crew members must be competent in areas from navigation and deck maintenance to water sports setup, instruction, and maintenance, along with strong practical knowledge on safety and first aid. This blend of skills allows the team to deliver seamless, exhilarating experiences while prioritising safety for all.