Fuerteventura, surfski, downwind, Epic V7

Day 2 with Phillipe from Maeva Kayak. I was lucky to coincide with downwind / downwave conditions to surfski. John, an experienced surf skier from Jersey, was joining us. It was to be my first long awaited proper downwind run on a surfski. Phillipe and I were on Epic V7s and John was on a more advanced ski, a Fenn Swordfish. The plan was to paddle east towards Lobos island and then turn south to head downwind. We had to avoid plenty of obstacles; swimmers and Wind Riders to begin with, then reefs, Surfers and later Kite Surfers. The wind was hovering around force 4 from the north and there was a sizable swell between Corralejo and Lobos island. During that section I was focused on the conditions and the kit, I hadn't been on a ski for at least a couple of years, the wing paddle was more advanced than my own and the side wind and swell didn't help. I knew that once we turned downwind I could concentrate on catching runners. Look out for the dolphins towards the end of the video. A memorable day.

[@ktm660smc6]

Quite a workout ! Now I see the reason for the cutouts either side of the bow. I think I would want a longer paddle.

[@kayakintro]

Great video! Downwind are fun! I traveled there in 1986, it was during a boat stop (Belgium to Ivory Coast).

[@maevapaddlefuerteventura3111]

Great Video Editing Julian !!! Our Surfski Downwind trip was so great. This circuit is one of the most beautiful to paddle around Fuerteventura. We just paddle close to the coast, all along the beautiful Natural park of Dunes of Corralejo. Also very safe, we have many beaches where we can land. After 7 years on Fuerteventura, it was my first meeting with Dolphins, so I was so happy. Happy to teach you how to Downwind and surf the waves and happy to share this magic meeting. See you on the water !!!

[@craigmills7280]

Hi guys. I finally got to go out in both the v5 and v7 in the weekend. I have no idea how to choose which one. Any guidance greatly appreciated.

[@TriFitwithTimandAmanda]

It’s always exhilarating catching the runners. Good work mate.

[@craigmills7280]

Would you recommend this kayak now you've had for awhile

[@juleskayak]

Apologies I replied to the wrong video. My reply was intended for my sea kayak videos

[@craigmills7280]

How does one choose between buying the v5 or v7?

[@juleskayak]

@@craigmills7280 you need to demo them both. And you need to consider one that matches your ability. The V7 in the video was on hire, not mine