Fun afloat!

The lockdown mindset seems to have inspired a few solo boating innovations and boosted the trade in folding, nesting, multipurpose and inflatable boats:

The paddleboard with a window

Stand W006: Wave Boards

My very first experience of paddleboarding was on a windy day off the sheltered rock-strewn Cobo beach on the north shore of Guernsey (UK Channel Islands). I kneeled most of the time and enjoyed the view of the underwater kingdoms from inches above the surface. A paddleboard such as one of these from wave-boards.co.uk would be ideal for anywhere with clear water and underwater wildlife to view thanks to its ‘Viewing Window’ positioned in front of the rider’s natural foot position. What a good idea – but not cheap!

The Maverick 3-in-1 board/boat

Stand D071: Fusion Sailboats

A wide 1.31m board (43kg) that can be fitted with a windsurfing rig, a dinghy sail (two sizes) or used as a stand-up paddleboard. The large dinghy package is £3,260 and includes two removable inflatable sponsons for comfort when seated.

Glide Solo sculling boat

Stand W052: Rowing Adventures

British rowing didn’t dominate at the Tokyo Olympics but coastal and river rowing is still gaining in popularity. UK built, the Solo costs £1,560 with sculls and is suitable for children and small adults while the new GlideTide is described as ‘longer, faster and more coastally capable’.

Explorer Nesting Dinghy

Stand C067: Highlander Boats Highlander Boats is showing the brand new Explorer Nesting Dinghy. Small enough to fit in a beach hut or a motorhome the Explorer features built in buoyancy and hard wood gunwales and trim.

And there’s more...

Nearby (Stand C051) Adventure Boats will display its 8ft and 9ft nesting pram dinghies, while Boatworld on Stand F021 will sell you a V-floor superlightweight 2.5m inflatable for just £520.