1. Product Classification & Licensing
Under French regulations, electric hydrofoils (eFoils) and jetboards are categorized based on their propulsion autonomy and motor power rating:
Motorized Water Board (PNM)
- Power Threshold: Motor power < 4,500 W.
- License Requirement: No boat license required.
- Minimum Age: 12 years old minimum.
- Propulsion Type: Autonomous motor propulsion with remote/trigger control without continuous human effort. Governed by FFM.
Electric Assist Board (PNAE)
- Definition: Electric motor provides supplementary assist only (e.g., catching waves / paddling).
- Primary Power Source: Human paddling, waves, or wind.
- Classification: Beach craft (Engin de plage), governed by the French Surfing Federation (FFSurf).
2. Division 240 Navigation & Hardware Rules
- Navigation Zone: Strictly daytime navigation between 300 meters and 2 nautical miles from a shelter. Prohibited in swimming or surfing zones.
- Engine Cut-off Switch (ECOS): Mandatory physical or electronic wireless kill-switch lanyard that cuts motor power instantly if the rider falls off.
- Standard Individual Safety Gear: Minimum 50N Personal Flotation Device (PFD) OR protective neoprene wetsuit/drysuit + individual waterproof light signal (≥ 6h autonomy).
- Owner Identification: Every craft must display an identification tag linked to the owner (individual or legal entity).
3. FFM Educational & School Standards (2025)
Official rules established by the Fédération Française Motonautique (approved March 30, 2025) for supervised, instructional, and discovery activities:
• Equipment & Safety Requirements
- Mandatory helmet suited for water sports.
- Full or shorty neoprene wetsuit + 50N PFD.
- Propeller Guard (Pare-hélice): Learning and instructor craft MUST be fitted with a propeller guard or jet pump.
- Instructor marked with "Moniteur PNM" vest + communication device.
• Operation & Escort Protocol
- Instructor ratio: Maximum 4 students per certified instructor (BPJEPS / CQP AMM).
- Safety Vessel: A dedicated safety boat or PWC is mandatory if more than 1 student is on the water.
- Channel Rules: Max 5 knots speed limit in channels. Entry/exit must be in prone (lying down) or kneeling position.
4. Lithium Battery & NF C 18-550 Standards
All onboard power packs must be CE-certified and handle electrical risks according to French standard NF C 18-550:
• Thermal & Climate Storage: Store between 15°C and 25°C in well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and combustible materials.
• Charging Safety: Unattended charging is strictly prohibited. Water interaction during charging must be completely avoided.
• Emergency Preparedness: Facility and operational sites must feature dedicated lithium-rated fire extinguishers.
• Electrical Risk Management: Handling high-voltage/high-current battery packs requires adherence to NF C 18-550 electrical risk prevention procedures.