Do you think a foiling boat is only for the ocean ? Think again ! A foiling boat can be used on various types of bodies of water, as long as you follow the navigation rules and local regulations.
Find out where you can sail a foiler and what makes this activity more accessible than you might think.
Can you sail a foiler at sea ?
The ocean is the perfect place to experience the thrill of foiling. Whether in a sheltered bay, near the coast, or on more open water, a foiler lets you enjoy the new sensations of gliding and speed.
However, sailing conditions play a crucial role. Wind, sea conditions, currents, and the sailor’s skill level are all factors to consider before setting out to sea. To start, choose a sheltered body of water and conditions that match your experience level.
Can you sail a foiler on a lake ?
Yes, lakes are perfectly suited for foiling, provided that local conditions and navigation rules allow it.
Inland bodies of water actually offer several advantages for learning this sport. Some lakes provide a sheltered environment with little swell, which is particularly pleasant for getting used to the sensation of flying. Others, which are more exposed to the wind, allow you to enjoy exciting sessions of competitive sailing.
Natural lakes, mountain lakes, or man-made bodies of water : the possibilities are endless. Just make sure that sailing is permitted there, that the body of water has a suitable area, and that weather conditions are favorable.
So foil isn't just for sailors who live by the ocean. It can also be a new way to enjoy your favorite lake !
However, sailing conditions play a crucial role. Wind, sea conditions, currents, and the sailor’s skill level are all factors to consider before setting out to sea. To start, choose a sheltered body of water and conditions that match your experience level.
What about a river or another inland body of water ?
Some inland waterways and bodies of water may also be suitable for foilers. However, feasibility depends largely on local conditions: available width, depth, currents, obstacles, and regulations.
On a river, for example, the current and maneuvering space can make navigation more technically challenging. It is therefore important to check for permits and ensure that the location is suitable for foiling before launching your boat.
The key is to choose a body of water that is sufficiently open, with a depth suitable for the foils and rudder, as well as conditions that allow for safe sailing.
How do you launch a foiler ?
That’s one of the advantages of foiling boats like the Birdyfish : launching them is just like launching a traditional dinghy.It is not necessary to have a marina or infrastructure specifically designed for foiling boats.
There are several options available to you : from a beach, a boat ramp…
Birdyfish were designed to make foiling accessible. They are prepared and launched in the same way as a traditional dinghy. The only difference is the foils, which are raised during launch and then lowered once the water is deep enough.
Of course, it is still necessary to check the available depth, any site restrictions, and the launching conditions before each outing.
What factors should you consider when choosing a body of water ?
Not all bodies of water are equally suitable for foiling. Before choosing a spot to ride, there are several factors you should consider.
Depth. The foils and rudder require sufficient depth to sail. You must also take into account the varying water depth due to tides or the lake’s water level. The foils are raised for arrival and departure.
Weather conditions. Wind, gusts, and water conditions directly affect the comfort and safety of sailing. The appropriate conditions depend on the boat and the crew’s experience.
Available space. A sufficiently open stretch of water makes it easier to maneuver and allows you to navigate without getting in the way of other users.
Regulations. Some areas prohibit or restrict sailing, access to certain beaches, or certain water sports. A quick check beforehand can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
With these factors in mind, it becomes easier to find a location that suits your foiler.
Discover foiling with the Birdyfish range
At Birdyfish, we design foiling dinghies to make this experience more accessible. Our lineup includes several models suited to different sailing activities, from solo introductory sailing to two-person outings and competitive sailing.
With a launch procedure similar to that of a classic dinghy—with the foils raised at the start and finish—and a design intended to simplify sailing, Birdyfish boats make it possible to use foils on a variety of bodies of water, provided that conditions and regulations allow it.
Would you like to experience the thrill of flying before choosing your boat ? Check out our lineup and compare the models.
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