Spectrum News 13 stopped by Clermont WaterSports Complex to check out what the fun is all about.
Watch the Spectrum News recap video here.
Jet Surfing 101: Anyone can do it!
ORLANDO, Fla. — Spend your weekends at Clermont Watersports Complex learning to stand up on a device that looks like a surfboard but moves like a jet ski.
These are not your typical hang ten, type of boards you would find along the ocean.
Jet surf boards are mainly electric (some gas powered) and they use a built in engine and battery to push riders effortlessly across the water.
What You Need To Know
Jet surfing is growing and has been in Central Florida since 2018
Most of the boards are electric that push riders across the water
Anyone can go to Clermont Watersports Complex and learn to jet surf
Experts compare it to surfing, jet skiing, and snowboarding
Visit JetSurfOrlando.com
Casey Griffin has been teaching riders how to stand up safely at Orlando Jet Surf Academy since 2018.
“My favorite thing about teaching is when people get it. You know, they come back with smiles on their face, and they have an experience unlike anything they have done before,” he said.
The Jet Surf Academy, at the Clermont Watersports Complex, will take you out into the country and away from everything — feeling like you’re in another world.
But the facility has everything you need once you arrive, including a private lake, safety equipment and a beautiful beach area for instruction.
“To start, you’re always going to start on your stomach. This is also your kill switch. Just like a jet ski,” Griffin said.
Lucas Violette cruises across the lake on an electric surfboard. (Spectrum News/Randy Rauch)
Griffin spends as much time as needed with each guest to teach them how to operate the board, which has a wired throttle that the rider controls while jetting across the water.
“Once you have that ah ha moment, everything clicks and comes together. Your progression is very fast on this board,” he said.
Griffin admits it can be tricky for any rider to stand up their very first time.
But he says the sport attracts all ages.
“We have ten-year-olds riding right now, and we have William out here today. He’s 63-years-old. Everyone and anyone can do it.”
Griffin, who is an experienced wakeboarder, says jet surfing is a combination of other sports.
“They put 100cc engine in the middle. So, it’s kind of a cross between surfing and stand-up jet skiing. Really, a snowboard feel when you get up and ride,” he said.
Pricing starts at $149 per person, per hour and includes instruction and safety gear.
The academy is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
You can make reservations online, just show up or call 1-800-538-9198.
For more information, visit Jet Surf Academy’s website.
Visit the full article here, by Randy Rauch.