What's it called?

December 10, 2006 10:22 AM

I've seen this type of personal (unpowered) watercraft, used close to shore, in the surf. I don't know what its called. Please help me identify this distinctive board/boat/flat kayak as google is not being my friend on this matter. Description within:

Its about the same dimesions as a longboard surfboard, but its wider. Flat on top with with a shallow keel such that its stable enough that one stands on top of it and paddles with a longer version of a kayak paddle from this standing position. The top surface one stands upon is not much higher than the waterline, and like a surfboard, there's no raised edges.
I've seen lifeguards use it in various places.
Someone, anyone?

posted by Fupped Duck to grab bag (5 comments total)

Not positive, but after a google search, it sounds like a variation on a waveski. Sounds pretty cool either way. Good luck!
posted by JMOZ at 10:40 AM on December 10, 2006

And on a little more searching, you might also be looking for wavewalking.
posted by JMOZ at 10:43 AM on December 10, 2006

Likely not a waveski; they're almost always kneeled upon.
posted by craven_morhead at 11:06 AM on December 10, 2006

Sounds like stand-up paddle surfing, which is big on Maui these days among windsurfers on no-wind days. Sean Ordonez is a premier shaper.
posted by tommassit at 11:20 AM on December 10, 2006

A longboard with a keel sounds like a paddleboard. Intended to be paddled with your arms, lying down, like a surfboard. But, like a longboard, you can stand and use a paddle.
posted by zanni at 12:31 PM on December 10, 2006