The Pedayak Electric, a hybrid-drive sit-on-top kayak from French company L’Aquaphile, offers a versatile way to explore the water. With the growing popularity of electric bikes and pedal-powered vehicles, this kayak merges human effort with motorized assistance for an efficient, user-friendly watercraft experience. It features an innovative dual-propulsion system that offers flexibility for users looking for a hybrid option.
The kayak itself is 360 cm long and 73 cm wide (11.8 by 2.4 ft), crafted from roto-molded polyethylene to ensure durability. It weighs 44 kg (97 lb), including the motor and battery, making it manageable for many users. The Pedayak Electric can support a combined weight of up to 180 kg (397 lb), including the pedaler, passenger, and any cargo. This generous capacity makes it suitable for solo users as well as those who wish to bring along additional equipment or light cargo for longer excursions.
Like other pedal-powered kayaks, the Pedayak Electric includes pedals on top of the boat that connect to a propeller beneath the hull, allowing users to pedal their way through the water. By pedaling in reverse, the kayak can even move backward, giving users more control when maneuvering in tight spaces or currents.
What sets the Pedayak Electric apart from traditional pedal kayaks is its dual-propulsion system. It has two propellers: one human-powered at the front of the boat’s stern and another motorized propeller behind it. This design allows users to alternate between manual power, motorized assistance, or a combination of both. For example, users can rely solely on pedaling or switch to motor power if they need a break. Alternatively, they can use both options simultaneously to maximize speed and efficiency, spinning both propellers at the same time.
This dual-propulsion setup offers a failsafe feature—if the motor’s battery runs out or if the user becomes too tired to continue pedaling, there is always a backup system to keep the kayak moving. Additionally, a two-piece paddle is included with the kayak and can be stored on deck, adding yet another option for propulsion if needed.
The kayak’s steering system is unique, using a horizontal rod along the cockpit that the user moves forward or backward to control the tiller. This simple motion adjusts the direction of the motor and propeller at the back, offering precise steering. The motor speed is controlled with a wireless waterproof remote, providing ease of use even in wet conditions.
The Pedayak Electric is powered by a cockpit-accessible lithium battery, providing up to three hours of runtime when using only the motor. If the user helps out by pedaling, the battery can last up to seven hours. The kayak has a motor-only cruising speed of 10 km/h (6 mph), making it suitable for leisure outings and longer adventures on calm waters.
For those interested in this hybrid-drive kayak, it is currently available for purchase via the Pedayak website for €3,900 (approximately US$4,325). Additional features, such as outrigger platforms, are offered at an extra cost. A recently released model, which includes a battery-boosting solar panel, is also available for €4,650 (about US$5,155), providing users with even more flexibility for extended trips.
Source: Pedayak
