Pedal powered kayaks are at the heart of a shop opened last year in Olhão by Lilia Gomes and Steven Newton, called Poder do Sol. The couple sell six different models of pedal powered kayaks and organise Hobie Pedal kayak tours in the Ria Formosa.
“We saw these kayaks while living in California, where I bought the Outback model for fishing, as the kayaks are hands free,” said Steven Newton. “As Lilia is Portuguese and we have a young family, we made the decision to live here in the peace and calm of the Algarve.”
The kayaks are seamless and roto-moulded and made from polyethylene. They are sturdy, stable and glide through the water at speeds of around four knots, making them safe and accessible for all age groups.
“The boats have proven to be a great hit here, because they open the tranquil world of kayaking, are effortless to pedal, you stay dry and have the option to sail them as well,” said Steven, adding: “They bring the sport of kayaking into the 21st century.”
The Mirage Drive model, for example, works as a person pedals by stepping alternately left and right, not unlike an exercise stepper, to drive two underwater flippers. It works much like a penguin’s fins to propel the Hobie Mirage with surprising speed and ease.
“All of which lets you go into kayaking, feet first,” said Steven.
Steering controls on the kayaks are positioned at arm’s length, giving precise control of the kick-up rudder. All models have the option to sail also with the fins acting as the keel and a 2.5 sq metre sail giving three to four knots tack run or reach. “We offer kayak tours because, to us, there is no better way to explore the natural beauty of the Ria Formosa,” said Steven.
The primary tour takes place from Praia de Faro to the tranquil waters of the deserted Island and last as long as a client wishes.
For more information about Hobie Pedal kayaks or the kayak tours contact Steven or Lilia by telephone on 966 034 723/289 703 269 or visit the website at www.kayaktoursalgarve.com or email hobiekayaks@sapo.pt.
