DETROIT – On a calm, rippling Detroit River, three swimmers tow a trio of boards equipped with long masts and carbon fiber wings toward a clear patch of water.

They flip the boards, climb on top, kneel, stand - and take off, rising out of the water until they’re flying along, standing on a surfboard-like platform that soars 2 feet above the waterline.

These are e-Foils, motorized surfboard-like watercraft derived from kiteboarding that allow users to travel over the water at up to 30 mph for about an hour at a time.

Detroit e-Foil was founded in 2024 by friends Tom Keda and Dewy Short, and they’re in their second season of offering lessons around Michigan. Soon, they’re opening a second location with new partners in Tawas.

Lessons start around $200 for an individual, with group discoun

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