When I woke up this morning, I didn’t know that in a few hours
I would be strapping a jet pack onto my feet and hurtling straight up in
the air. But let me tell you, I had one of the coolest thrills of my
life, and I can’t wait to try flyboarding again.
Flyboarding? What is that?
I had never heard of it until today. We were driving across the Lake
Lewisville Bridge and out of the corner of my eye, I saw something odd
in the distance. It looked like a person being catapulted upward with
jets of water coming out of their feet. I had to get a closer look.
Flyboarding
is a relatively new “extreme” watersport which originated in France and
is becoming a new craze around the world. The appeal is obvious: it’s
an amazing, thrilling experience and it’s easy. It’s safe too, for ages
12 and up. Little or no skill is needed. Just a quick lesson to learn
the feel of the board and how to use the controls and 10 minutes later,
you are flying! Beginners typically start by hovering just a bit over
the water, maybe 5-10 feet. As you gain experience, though, you can get
higher and higher. More experienced flyers hit heights of up to 30 feet
and can do some very cool tricks.
Flyboards are fairly simple devices — essentially, a pair of jetski
boots, attached to a board and powered by water pressure. A hose
connects the board to the motor of a jet ski, which provides the power
to rocket the board upwards. It lets you fly, straight up vertically,
like Iron Man. With a little practice, you can also leap headfirst
through the waves like a dolphin.
Imagine the sheer exhilaration of rocketing high above the water’s
surface. In only seconds, you are flying!!! It is amazing! I can’t even
compare it to any other activity I’ve done before. You just HAVE to
try this for yourself.
There are flyboarding locations all around Texas. In the south,
you’ll find lots of options along the gulf coast beaches. Further
inland, look for large lakes that offer water activities.
Prices vary widely, but on average, an hour of flyboarding, including
instructions, will run you approximately $200. Some places offer
discounts for multiple riders and groups. Others have coupons or Groupons
available. I would suggest calling and inquiring about any available
promotions before going. I’d also urge you to make a reservation.
While I was able to just drive up spontaneously and get a spot, you may
not be as lucky.
Add this one to your bucket list! Whether you make it part of a
memorable Texas vacation or simply a weekend adventure, it’s sure to be
an adrenalin rush you won’t forget!
Here is a list of just a few options around Texas to try this incredible activity.