All about
eFoiling.

eFoiling is surfing on an electrically powered board with a hydrofoil underneath, so you glide above the water. It doesn't depend on waves or wind, so it's possible almost any time. That means you can enjoy it all year round!

An eFoil works a bit like a hydrofoil boat: a foil lifts the rider out of the water. The foil is attached to the underside of the board and provides the lift, while the motor drives the board forward.

Depending on the model, you can reach speeds of up to 50 km/h. Some advanced wings offer quick lift and a wide speed range.

Between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on your weight, wing choice and riding style. There are now also heavier batteries of 18+ kg for longer sessions.

eFoiling has a number of advantages over traditional water sports.

First, it's much quieter than a boat or jet ski, which makes it perfect if you want to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. It's also a great workout: eFoiling is a full-body sport that builds muscle and improves your cardiovascular health.

It's environmentally friendly too: no fuel is needed, so eFoiling produces no emissions. And finally, it's simply fun. Nothing beats the feeling of flying over the water on an eFoil board.

Yes, in the Netherlands you need a boating licence for an eFoil. Dutch rules look at how fast a vessel can go, and eFoiling requires the small boating licence (klein vaarbewijs). eFoil boards often have a limiter that keeps you below 20 km/h. This is usually switched on during lessons, so you can go on the water without a licence. You get your licence from the CBR in the Netherlands.

Note: the theory for the licence is not to be underestimated, so allow plenty of time for it.

No, you can't foil at full speed everywhere. Many Dutch inland waters have speed limits that are lower than the speed at which an eFoil lifts out of the water (the so-called lift speed). Examples:

• on most canals: max. 12 km/h
• on many recreational lakes: 6–7 km/h

This means that, formally, you're not allowed to "lift" in those places. In practice it's sometimes tolerated, but not always. Tip: ask the community about experiences per location. Some places are 'safe' to ride, others are not.

Yes, in many cases. If your eFoil can go faster than 20 km/h (and so requires a boating licence), you must register it with the RDW and apply for a "Y" number.

How it works:

• go to the RDW website
• fill in the online form and pay the fee (about €50)
• you receive a registration certificate and a "Y" number
• this number must be clearly visible on your eFoil (you can apply the stickers yourself)

Note: even if your board is limited to 20 km/h during lessons, it must still be officially registered if it can technically go faster.

For small boards without room for the sticker, the water police are sometimes lenient, as long as you can show your registration and carry the number with you (for example in a dry bag).

The registration requirement doesn't only apply to boards bought from a shop, but also to DIY eFoils that go faster than 20 km/h.

There's a lot of debate about the location, but the sticker must at least:

• be clearly visible from the outside.
• be firmly attached, so not on a loose part or carry bag.

The sticker must be clearly visible and waterproof. The most common places are:

• on the top of the board, in front of the mast.
• on the side of the battery housing, as long as it stays visible while riding.

Make sure the sticker is firmly attached and doesn't wear off from water, sun or your feet. Avoid places covered by bags, feet or accessories.

That depends on the owner or manager. At some locations, access is only allowed through a school or rental company. Always ask permission beforehand or check the local rules.

Not by law, but strongly recommended. Many experienced foilers wear a helmet, especially at high speed, in groups or on unfamiliar water. At official events such as the Dutch championship, a helmet is usually mandatory.

Some people learn it in a few hours, while others may need a few days or weeks. It depends on your previous experience with water sports and your aptitude.

eFoiling isn't a difficult sport. Beginners will find that eFoils are easy to use. While learning, you'll probably fall off your board several times. Most eFoil models are designed to switch off automatically when you release the remote's trigger or the controller hits the water. That way the motor stops and the board doesn't carry on without you!

We still recommend always wearing protective gear, including a helmet and life vest, to prevent injuries.

eFoiling isn't dangerous if you pay attention, but you always need to stay alert. Keep your eyes on the water ahead. Watch out for anglers and their fishing lines (they can get caught in your motor), swimmers and floating debris. Swimmers sometimes use a swim buoy: it's worn on a belt around the waist and floats behind the swimmer, for visibility and sometimes to rest on. Without such a buoy, swimmers are very hard to see, especially at speed or in waves. Especially while learning, a calm, open lake is safest. Then you can focus on the eFoil itself without distractions.

• Start on your knees and build up slowly to standing.
• Ride on flat water with little wind.
• Always wear a helmet, impact vest and wetsuit.
• Use a large foil for stable lift.
• Bring someone who can help if something goes wrong.

• Trying to stand up too quickly: stay stable on your knees first.
• Giving or releasing throttle too abruptly.
• Sitting too far back: this pushes the nose up.
• Not wearing enough protective gear.
• Forgetting to charge the controller.
• Not keeping your distance from other water users.

With the right gear you can eFoil safely and enjoy the ride. Get a (warm) wetsuit, an impact vest and a helmet. A waterproof pouch is also a good idea, so you can take your keys or phone on the water. Depending on the season, you may also need gloves and water shoes.

Tip: order everything well in advance. At the end of the season your size is often sold out. Ordering early means you have everything before your new eFoil board arrives.

Use a waterproof case (e.g. from Lifeproof or Jobe) or a dry bag with a neck strap. Put your phone in flight mode or temporarily disable emergency calling to prevent false emergency calls. Some phones automatically call emergency services after a hard impact.

Watch this handy YouTube video by Liftfoils.

When choosing an eFoil board, pay particular attention to your body weight. Heavier riders need a bigger, longer board for enough buoyancy and stability. If you're light or average weight, a smaller board works better.

Small eFoil boards (3.5–4.2 inch) are mainly suitable for advanced riders. They're more agile in sharp turns and easier to transport, but require more balance and experience.

Medium-sized eFoil boards (around 4.2–5 inch) are perfect to start with if you're of average weight. Because the board is versatile, you'll enjoy it for a long time. This size is also great if you want to ride with friends!

Larger boards (5.5+ inch) offer more stability in the water and make eFoiling easiest! Over time a big board may get boring as you look for more challenge.

Finally, think about your budget. eFoil boards can be quite expensive, so it's important to set a realistic budget before you start looking.

Tip: read reviews before buying a board. YouTube has a lot of information too! There are many brands and models on the market, and choosing one can be overwhelming. Reading other riders' reviews will help. Also take trial lessons on different brands and sizes!

Popular eFoil brands:

• Liftfoils, the very first eFoil brand and the pioneer of eFoiling. From the United States, based in Puerto Rico. Lift Foils is a premium brand.
• Fliteboard, Liftfoils' competitor, based in Australia. A premium brand, with different technology from Liftfoils.
• Waydoo, a brand for a wider audience thanks to friendlier prices. A perfect board to start with.
• Audi e-tron: Audi entered the eFoil world through an acquisition and developed its own technology. A premium board competing with Liftfoils and Fliteboard.
• Awake, a newer premium eFoil brand from Sweden.

Yes, you can. There are dedicated DIY groups sharing experiences with boards, wings and controllers.

Keep in mind:

• You need technical knowledge of electronics, waterproofing and battery safety.
• Self-built boards still need to be registered in the Netherlands if they go faster than 20 km/h.
• Safety is your own responsibility.

Many DIYers use parts from brands such as Gong, Flite or Triton.

Popular locations among Dutch eFoilers are:

• Westeinderplassen (Aalsmeer)
• Loosdrechtse Plassen
• Noorderplassen (Almere)
• Reeuwijkse Plassen

Note: some areas have frequent police checks or local boating rules. It's always smart to foil in groups and check locations beforehand via Google Maps or local schools.

Yes, but it's harder than on flat water. Take into account:

• currents and waves
• salt water: always rinse your board
• less visibility of underwater objects

Experienced riders recommend practising well on lakes before going to sea. Wear extra protective gear and stay close to the shore.

Yes, but always check the local rules. In some countries eFoils are still relatively unknown and the water police may stop you. Take into account:

• registration or licence requirements
• permitted areas and environmental zones
• local rental rules

Portugal, France and Germany already have active eFoil communities. In Switzerland, unfortunately, eFoiling is prohibited!

No, eFoil batteries are too large for air transport. Most airlines prohibit lithium batteries above 100 Wh in checked baggage.

What you can do:

• check in the board itself
• transport the battery overland (for example by car or camper)
• ship the battery as dangerous goods: this requires special packaging, documentation and airline approval. It's often expensive and complex.
• travel without a battery and rent one locally (or have one delivered in advance via local contacts).

Besides your eFoil and standard gear (wetsuit, helmet, vest), this comes in handy:

• a dry bag with registration papers, ID and phone.
• a second battery (if possible) or a charger.
• tools or spare fins/wings.
• a towel and warm clothes for after riding.
• snacks and drinks, especially on day trips or at races.

The costs vary per year. The entry fee for the 2025 Dutch eFoil championship (NK eFoilen) was €35 per person. For that you get participation in the race, timing and safety support.