What's in a name?

Oars, paddles and sails have existed since time immemorial. Steam engines maybe 150 years, and Diesels maybe 100 years.

Apart from that, nothing - until the Hovercraft, the JetSki, and the Hobie Mirage Drive (the Hydrofoil does not qualify as a separate invention because it uses a submerged propellor, just like steamboats did).

I think the use of the word 'Kayak' might be inappropriate, possibly even misleading, and I think a new word should be invented for a new type of boat.

When I finally become a 'Mirager', I would like to have a one-word answer for the legions of well-meaning onlookers (and sniffy traditional kayakers) who ask me what sort of boat I am using.

My first attempt would be 'Ho-Boat', but I am aware of the connotations of the word 'Ho' in some cultures - any better ideas?

Pedayak...naahh, too similar to pedophile...

_________________
"If I'm not at work, I'm Outback"

We have had this discussion since the MirageDrive came out... A though one. We have created a whole new process of moving a kayak, but seems its still... kayaking.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

I feel the same way. There really inst a need to justify a Hobie. Unless youve used one for any length of time they just dont understand. My PA is a kayak to me. A big kayak.

Maybe just as all catamarans are commonly known as "Hobie Cats"... tissue / Kleenex. Some day kayaks will all be known as Hobie Kayaks?

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

I wasn't thinking about justifying the boat, I just was thinking about celebrating it...

Ditch