A review and Insights from Vasco Vellez, Foiling  Doctor and Visionary

Introduction

Every so often, a piece of technology emerges that forces a shift in how we think about a sport. The Hydroflyer Cruiser isn’t just another eFoil—it’s a deliberate challenge to conventional design, engineered to remove barriers and unlock a new category of ride dynamics.

If you’ve ever ridden an eFoil, you already know the strengths—and the limitations—of traditional models. The lying down start, the twitchy handling at speed, the delicate balance required for carving. These aren’t minor quirks; they define how an eFoil feels and who can ride it effectively. The Hydroflyer changes that equation.

To understand what sets it apart, we turned to Vasco, also known as the eFoil Doctor. As the owner of eFoilgc, Vasco isn’t just selling the latest gear—he’s spent years studying, testing, and coaching riders through the nuances of electric hydrofoiling. He was the first person to purchase a commercial eFoil! His perspective isn’t about hype; it’s about function. And his verdict on the Hydroflyer is clear: this machine rides differently, and that difference matters. 

A true Pioneer: Vasco owns the very first eFoil that came off the Lift production line - April 22, 2018.. He has known the founder of Lift from when they used to race Foiling kites together. When Nick told him that he was going to produce an electric foiling surfboard, Vasco wanted to buy the first one immediately, even before he knew the price, so in a way he’s kind of like the catalyst or pathfinder of eFoiling.  

But is it the right eFoil for you? That depends on what you value most in performance. Let’s break it down.

1. Who is Vasco, and Why Does His Opinion Matter?

Watersports are often filled with surface-level hype. Understandably so—people are passionate about their sports, and excitement tends to amplify claims. Every new product promises more power, better handling, and an “unmatched experience.” But behind the marketing, the real question remains: who is making these claims, and do they have the expertise to back them up?

In the world of eFoiling, expertise, experience, and authority are paramount. Vasco isn’t just another early adopter; he’s a technician of the ride. As the founder of eFoilgc, one of Australia’s top eFoil training and demo centers, Vasco has spent years coaching riders, refining techniques, and working with a variety of electric hydrofoil systems.

His perspective carries weight for several reasons:

• Owner of the first production eFoil ever made He is a true pathfinder. 

• The first to introduce the Hydroflyer in Australia. Not because it was new, but because he recognized its potential.

• Hands-on experience with multiple eFoil brands and models. This gives him a broad perspective on how different designs impact performance.

• Provides one-on-one coaching tailored to real-world riding conditions. He sees firsthand what features actually improve performance and which are just marketing noise.

• Approaches eFoiling with an analytical mindset. It’s not just about what “feels good.” Vasco dissects how a board handles differently, where that difference matters, and who it benefits most.

In short, Vasco doesn’t just ride these machines—he refines the experience. And that’s what makes his take on the Hydroflyer worth listening to.

2. What Makes the HydroFlyer Cruiser Different?

Ask anyone who’s ridden an eFoil what the hardest part is, and they’ll probably say getting started. Traditional boards require a laying down start followed by a kneeling start, forcing riders to find balance, shift weight, and stand—all before they even begin riding. It’s a process that slows people down, tires them out, and adds an unnecessary layer of difficulty.

With the Hydroflyer, that’s gone.

Stand Up and Ride

Vasco puts it simply:

"You can stand on it from the beginning."

That alone changes everything. Instead of kneeling, adjusting, and hoping the board stabilizes, you start in a natural position—feet planted, body upright, in full control.

• No transition phase. You’re not trying to catch up to the board—you’re already on it.

• Easier for new riders. The learning curve isn’t about balance; it’s about movement.

• More control, less fatigue. Riders who struggle with endurance aren’t always out of shape—they’re just spending too much energy trying to stay upright.

For those asking "Is the Hydroflyer easy to ride?" the answer isn’t about difficulty—it’s about design. This board removes barriers that never needed to be there.

A Machine That Holds Its Line

Vasco describes the Hydroflyer as the bike of the ocean. Not because it looks like one, but because of how it moves. It’s deliberate. It holds its course.

• Weight range: 60 to 120 kilograms. Up to 140 Kg with the flyer fender. This isn’t just for light riders. It handles mass without feeling sluggish.

• Stable enough for tandem riding. Vasco tested it himself, carrying a 60-kilogram passenger, and the board responded without hesitation.

• Locked-in turning. Unlike some eFoils that feel loose or floaty in a carve, this one grips.

"The turns on the bottom feel like a motorcycle, and when you accelerate, she kicks in."

For riders wondering “Can you carve on a Hydroflyer?” or "How does it handle waves?" the answer is clear: it engages with the water, not just skims over it.

 

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3. Power and Performance: The Ride Experience

Performance isn’t just about speed. It’s about how a machine responds when pushed. How it moves when the water shifts beneath it. How it carries momentum through turns.

Vasco describes the HydroFlyer’s acceleration in one word: serious.

"It’s got three speed levels—one, two, and three. And on three? She will jump. Go."

This isn’t the gradual, predictable ramp-up of a traditional eFoil. The HydroFlyer engages instantly. A quick throttle input, and the power is there—no delay, no lag, just clean acceleration that translates directly into movement.

Responsive, Not Overwhelming

A common question: “Is the HydroFlyer too powerful for beginners?”

Not at all. The power is there when you want it, but controlled when you don’t. The three-speed system means new riders can start slow, get a feel for the board, and dial it up when ready.

• Level one: Smooth, steady, ideal for first-timers.

• Level two: More responsiveness, but still forgiving.

• Level three: Full acceleration, built for riders who want to push it.

The key isn’t just raw power—it’s how the machine delivers it. Some boards feel twitchy under throttle. Others take too long to respond. The HydroFlyer strikes a balance between control and intensity, making it just as rewarding for new riders as it is for experienced ones.

Carving That Feels Natural

Speed is one thing, but how does the HydroFlyer handle?

Vasco’s description says it all:

"You come out of waves, hit a turn on the bottom like a motorcycle, and she kicks in."

• It doesn’t just turn—it grips. Where some eFoils feel like they’re sliding across the surface, the HydroFlyer locks into carves, following through with precision.

• Riders can lean into turns aggressively without feeling unstable or losing control.

• Engages with water movement rather than just floating above it.

For riders wondering “How does the HydroFlyer compare to a traditional eFoil in waves?” the answer is in the turns. It isn’t just capable of carving—it’s built for it.

Reverse Function: A Game Changer for Precision Riding

One of the most overlooked yet valuable features of the HydroFlyer is its reverse function.

For anyone who has ever overshot a dock, needed to reposition near a boat, or struggled with tight maneuvering, this changes everything.

• Tap a button, and the board reverses. Simple, effective, and unlike anything else on the market.

• Makes launching and docking easier. No need to paddle awkwardly or step off to reposition.

• Adds control in tight spaces. Whether near obstacles or adjusting in open water, it’s an extra layer of precision.

Few riders expect to use reverse—until they have it. Then, it becomes something they don’t want to ride without.

4. Battery Life and Range

The HydroFlyer runs for up to two hours on a single charge, giving riders plenty of time on the water before needing to recharge.

Vasco keeps it simple:

"What else can you want? It’s got a two-hour battery."

Ride time depends on how you use it. Casual cruising at lower speeds stretches battery life to its full potential, while aggressive riding, higher speeds, and rougher conditions will shorten the session. Even at full power, the board holds charge long enough for an uninterrupted ride.

• Two-hour maximum battery life under ideal conditions

• Faster riding and wave riding use more power but still allow for a solid session

• Quick recharge time minimizes downtime between rides

Most riders will tire out before the HydroFlyer does. Whether carving through waves or holding full throttle, the board outlasts the rider, not the other way around. By the time you’re back on shore, you’re thinking about the ride—not whether you had enough power to enjoy it.

5. Try It for Yourself – Lessons and Demos at Efoil GC

The best way to understand the HydroFlyer isn’t by reading about it—it’s by riding it. Vasco doesn’t just sell these boards; he teaches riders how to use them, fine-tuning their technique so they get the most out of every session.

"It’s available for demos at Efoil GC. Come, give us a call, ride it, have a lesson. Then go home and say, ‘I want one.’ Everybody does."

What to Expect from a Demo

Riders often ask, "Where can I try the HydroFlyer?" Vasco offers private lessons and demos at Efoil GC on the Gold Coast, one of the best locations in the world to experience hydrofoiling.

• One-on-one coaching to help you get comfortable on the board

• Access to multiple eFoil models so you can compare and find the right fit

• A controlled environment with expert guidance

For those who want to skip the learning curve and experience the HydroFlyer as it’s meant to be ridden, Efoil GC is the place to do it.

Final Thoughts: Is the HydroFlyer Worth It?

The HydroFlyer Cruiser delivers a different kind of eFoil experience. It removes the struggle of kneeling starts, provides a steady and controlled ride, and delivers power when it’s needed.

Vasco has spent years helping riders find the right equipment and improve their skills. He doesn’t waste time on gear that doesn’t perform.

"It’s a fantastic machine. I’m very pleased to have already sold boards in Australia. I was the first—of course I was."

The HydroFlyer is built for riders who want a stable, powerful, and engaging ride. It’s easy enough for beginners, responsive enough for experienced foilers, and has the endurance to outlast most sessions.

Try It for Yourself

The best way to understand the HydroFlyer is to ride one. Vasco offers demos and private lessons at Efoil GC for anyone who wants to experience it firsthand.

Contact eFoilgc to book a session.