Paddleboard, partner on the boat

How did I discover the magic of paddleboarding?

A couple of years ago we went to the Adriatic with friends. Classic - a nice boat, lots of good wine, cheese and a plan to do nothing. But what the heck (or maybe he wanted to?), one of us had the bright idea to bring a paddleboard. Honestly? At first, I looked at it as a useless piece of junk taking up valuable space in the hold.
But when we docked in a beautiful cove with turquoise water somewhere in Croatia and started to get a little bored after a few hours (because doing nothing is not exactly an easy discipline either), the paddleboard became an instant hit.

Why is a paddleboard ideal for sailing?

Sure, you can object: "Why bother paddling when I can sit comfortably on the deck with a beer in my hand?". But dear friends, that's exactly why! The paddleboard has several undeniable advantages:

• 
  Exploring places inaccessible from a boat: Small beaches, secret caves or just a neighboring yacht with pretty ladies - all this is literally at your fingertips (and paddle).
• Sports activity: Yes, yes, even on holiday it's nice to stretch and show your body some movement other than just raising a glass to your mouth. Plus, who wouldn't want to look at least a little bit like Baywatch before returning home?
• Great fun: competitions to see who can stand for the longest time without falling in the water, or even races around the yacht - I guarantee there will be no shortage of laughs.

What is the best paddleboard for the boat?

If you are thinking about this brilliant idea and want to experience "paddleboard sailing" to the fullest, definitely choose the inflatable version. It's portable, lightweight and handling is a breeze. On the market today you can find many different models specifically designed for "paddle boarding". Just inflate (yes, pumping will help you burn calories) and voilà - you're ready to go!

My first encounter was slightly awkward

I remember to this day - all my friends watched my first attempt to stand on a board in the middle of the sea. I felt about as graceful as a cow trying to dance ballet. Well I'm not going to lie - of course I ended up in the water faster than I could say "Jack Sparrow". But that's what makes paddleboarding so much fun! Every fall meant a volley of laughter from the whole crew - so even if you're a total anti-talent (like me), you'll have a perfect time.

So is it really worth it to ride a paddleboard?

So if you're still hesitant or have doubts about boarding... Believe me - it's worth taking it along just for the experiences and stories like "Remember how Pepa ended up upside down right among the sardines?" And as for space? Inflatable boards are as compact as your ego after the first time someone sees you falling into the water.
Plus, in addition to the classic lounging, this little thing brings a whole new dimension to "fun on a yacht." So when you're planning your next cruise on the high seas, or at least on Orlik or Lipno (because honestly: why look far?), don't forget to stuff your new best friend into the luggage compartment - the paddleboard!
And how are you? Have you ever experienced sailing with a paddleboard? Or do you have any hilarious stories from your own attempts to stand steady in the middle of the sea? Share yours in the comments below!