Story: Hydro foiling Water Sports
Episode: 15
Presenter: Matt Hale
Air Date: 31 May 2026

Matt spends the day water foiling at Port Beach North of Fremantle in style.

• Water foiling is a water sport where a hydrofoil mounted beneath a board lifts the rider above the water’s surface, reducing drag and creating a smooth “flying” sensation.
• Hydrofoils work like underwater wings: as speed increases, the foil generates lift and raises the board clear of the water.
• The sport includes several disciplines such as eFoiling, wing foiling, surf foiling, kite foiling and SUP foiling, each powered differently by wind, waves, kites or electric motors.
• Wing foiling has become one of the fastest-growing water sports globally because it combines elements of windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing with relatively compact equipment.
• Water foiling allows riders to travel over choppy conditions more smoothly than traditional boards because the board rides above surface turbulence.
• Western Australia’s coastline especially around Perth, Safety Bay and the Swan River is considered ideal for foiling thanks to reliable sea breezes and wide-open water conditions.
• Competitive hydrofoil racing now features in international sailing and water sports events, with foiling technology also used in elite yachts such as those in the America’s Cup.
• Many first-time visitors try water foiling through beginner lessons, where instructors typically use larger stable boards and calm-water locations to help riders learn balance, throttle control and safe foil handling quickly.