What's a stand up paddleboard? Longer, wider and heavier than a traditional surfboard, a "SUP" looks -- and feels -- more like gliding than riding.
Part surfing, part kayaking, and a terrific workout for all ages, paddlesurfing has taken Maine and the rest of the U.S. by storm.
Long known in Hawaii, the latest ocean sport here in Maine combines key elements of both surfing and sea kayaking.
The surfer kneels or stands on the board, and uses a single, wide-bladed paddle to ride along the surface of virtually any body of water.
Equally at home on rivers and lakes as well as the ocean, a stand up paddleboard can gracefully nose into Maine's quieter coves and salt marshes where traditional surfboards would be difficult to maneuver.
Great for kids and families, a romantic date for couples, or a wonderful activity to take up in your later years, paddling on waveless water allows riders to stop whenever and wherever the mood strikes.
For those in southern Maine who are new to the sport, the Ogunquit, Cape Neddick and York rivers can make for a beautifully scenic, peaceful experience for novices and pros alike.
But for those who prefer the challenge of ocean waves, paddlesurfing is a great answer to the smaller waves found on the New England coast. Instead of time spent sitting and waiting for a rideable wave, paddlesurfing makes it easier to ride smaller and larger waves alike.
No waves? No problem! You can still have a great day on the ocean just exploring the coastline.
Below is a video from Bill Greene's Maine. Starting at the 1 minute mark is a segment featuring our very own York and Ogunquit paddlesurfing pros.
Make this rapidly growing watersport a part of your next Maine vacation!
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