Greg Dunlap wrote:

This was done in the Carquinez Straits, where the Sacrament River meets the
San Francisco Bay, several years ago using 3 stackable parafoil kites up to
15 feet across, and a 12 foot aluminum skiff. He had to have crank handles
mounted on the sides of his boat to control the guide lines which were 250
lb. test, but was clocked at 48 mph, on the water. Imagine that rush!!!

Don't think I want to try that with my kayak. The Carquinez Strait was
where I first tried out my beach umbrella for downwind 'sailing' - not as
much power as a parafoil but easier to deploy and control.
http://206.40.48.186/uploads/UMBRELLA2.JPG

"kayak doc john" wrote in message
om...

Just had a really fun experience:
Bought a large 30-square-foot parafoil kite with strong kiteline.
Paddled into strong wind for a fairly long distance.
Threw the big parafoil into the air.
Wind caught parafoil kite.
Kayak moved very fast.
Much fun!

Did keep sheers on hand in case line tangled or got dangerous.