How to Get Your eFoil in and Out of the Water: A Practical Guide

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eFoiling is an exhilarating way to explore the water, but one of the biggest challenges for enthusiasts—whether beginners or experienced riders—is mastering the logistics of getting the board in and out of the water safely and efficiently. Below, we’ll explore several tried-and-true methods shared by the eFoiling community, along with tips to simplify your launch process and make your experience more enjoyable.

Launching from the Beach: Simple and Effective

Walking your eFoil into the water from the beach or shore is one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly methods. With this approach, you can gently wade into the water, starting in a prone position, and gradually pick up speed.

Key Tips:

  • Carrying the Board: Some riders prefer carrying the eFoil mast-over-shoulder, while others opt for keeping it upright and stable. If the latter works better for you, consider using a method like this Instagram-recommended technique to minimize strain.
  • Power Settings: Before mounting, set the eFoil to a slightly higher power level than usual to ensure smooth planing and avoid stalling. For instance, if you typically use gear 5 to start, set it to gear 6 or 7.

Using a Boat Ramp: A Favorite for Dockside Launches

Many riders swear by their local boat ramp for launching their eFoil. It allows for easy handling, especially if the dock is nearby.

“My local boat ramp is my go-to. I walk the board down the ramp and use the dock to load and unload. It works great for me, though I’ll admit, the logistics of getting it in and out of the water is honestly the hardest part of foiling,” shares one seasoned eFoiler.

Pro Tip:

Consider launching the board deck-side-down first, flipping it mast-down once it’s floating, and then inserting the battery. This minimizes risks associated with balancing a heavy eFoil over slippery surfaces.

For those looking for premium experiences in destinations like the Sea of Cortez, check out this Lift eFoil Windsports Catamaran Liveaboard by Ventana Travel. Their team offers all-included guided sessions and luxury launch setups to make every step easier.

Mastering Dock Launches: When You Don’t Want to Get Wet

Launching from a dock can be tricky but is a great option for those aiming to stay dry.

How It’s Done:

  1. Place the board into the water mast-side-up without the battery.
  2. Flip it so the mast is down.
  3. Secure the battery on the dock, then carefully insert it into the board’s compartment.
  4. When wrapping up your session, reverse the process.

While this method reduces the risk of mast damage, some eFoil brands advise against loading the battery on the water. Always follow your board’s manual for specific guidance.

Overcoming Common Challenges

  • Board Weight: For heavier boards (e.g., 80+ lbs), separate the battery from the board to make carrying and launching more manageable.
  • Slippery Surfaces: Boat ramps covered in algae can be hazardous. Pivoting the board on its nose and tilting it for balance might help, but be cautious of footing.
  • Protective Gear: Use nose and wing guards, like those crafted from Kydex, to prevent dings and scratches. Simple DIY solutions, such as heat-molded guards and suction cups, can save your board from unnecessary wear.

A Final Word on Launch Logistics

No matter where you’re launching—beach, dock, or boat ramp—preparation and practice make perfect. And if you’re ready to take your eFoil adventures to the next level, explore Ventana Travel for expert-guided trips, including liveaboards with tailored support for riders of all levels.

With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you’ll master the hardest part of eFoiling and focus on what really matters—riding the waves and embracing the thrill!

Dancing with Mobula Rays in La Ventana

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The moment I slipped beneath the surface of the Sea of Cortez, the world changed. The warm waters of La Ventana cradled me as sunlight filtered through the waves, casting shimmering patterns on the ocean floor. Then, I saw them—the mobula rays.

At first, they were shadows in the distance, moving with a quiet grace. As I swam closer, their beauty became undeniable. Their dark, wing-like fins moved in a slow, hypnotic rhythm, their bodies gliding through the water like dancers in a silent performance. Their undersides were pale and smooth, with intricate markings that seemed as unique as fingerprints.

I hovered in awe, letting the scene unfold around me. The rays swam together in a synchronized flow, their movements so effortless they seemed weightless. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, one broke away, shooting toward the surface. My eyes followed, and just as I reached the surface myself, I saw it—leaping into the air, flipping and spinning before crashing back into the water.

Another followed, then another. From beneath the surface, it was magical—the sunlight caught the water droplets, and their shadows danced below. On the surface, the sight was just as thrilling. Mobula rays launched themselves skyward, twisting and somersaulting before slapping the water with a loud splash.

I couldn’t stop smiling. It was as if they were celebrating, their joy so contagious it filled me too. I later learned their leaps aren’t just playful; they serve a purpose. Mobulas may jump to shake off parasites, attract mates, or communicate with others in their group. But watching them, it felt like more than biology—it felt like art.

These rays have captured human curiosity for centuries. Ancient fishermen spoke of their acrobatics, and scientists trace their lineage back millions of years. Their evolution has shaped them into creatures of grace, power, and resilience—a perfect fit for their watery home.

Being among them, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection to the ocean and its creatures. They moved with such elegance and purpose, a reminder of how beautifully the natural world balances survival and artistry.

As I floated in the water, watching the rays beneath me and above, I felt small in the best way. Moments like these remind me why I dive—to feel part of something far greater than myself.

Later, as the sun set over La Ventana, I thought about how lucky I was to witness this spectacle. But with that gratitude came a sense of responsibility. Mobula rays, like so many marine creatures, face growing threats from overfishing and habitat loss. Protecting their home is crucial—not just for them, but for the balance of life in these waters.

Diving with the mobula rays wasn’t just an adventure. It was a gift, a reminder of the ocean’s beauty, and a call to cherish and protect it. La Ventana had offered me something extraordinary: a glimpse into the world of these incredible creatures and a memory I’ll carry forever.