Human Power Propulsion System for Watercraft
 Human Power Propulsion Systems  


A paddler heading for Surf Frolic, La Push, WA, USA.

Using human power in watercraft is presently found in three types of systems:

Rowing - Paddling - - Pedaling

    Of these for small boats going far from land, using a double-ended paddle or pedaling are the most efficient.

    Rowing leaves the craft without power too long in the power stroke contrasted to the others.

    Pedaling is the drive train of interest. Using this concept, designs are being developed to capture the world human powered water speed record. These are based on the same fluid drive train described under bicycle products. The problem with pedaling in small craft is the weight of the pedals is up high in the boat. This means the trade-off is stability. With a recumbent position, this isn't too bad however.

    Pedaling systems can be installed on existing small boats too wide or having too much freeboard to allow clearance for a paddle or oars.

    They also have an advantage in that your hands can be free while still powering the boat.

    With a little expertise, craft for offshore voyaging can be built for more comfort than is normally found on human powered craft.


    To be successful the system must consist of:
  1. Pedal Drive System
  2. Power Transmission System
  3. Propeller Control System
  4. Short Duration Power Storage System

  • The vessel itself must have an efficient and sea-worthy shape with enough room for medium comfort, not cramped, not luxurious.

  • The all-up weight is important to allow minium wetted surface area under normal conditions with reserve buoyancy for stormy seas.

  • These over-all qualities will lead to a new class of coastal cruiser which are sea-worthy and fun to cruise places such as the Inside Passage to Alaska; or, in the east, the Inter-Coastal Waterway.

  • Going offshore is adventurous for any human powered vessel; however, with the proper boat and propulsion system design these watercraft can cross oceans more comfortably on the crew and faster than any other system presently available.

  • Tom has been researching the use of a promising drive-train system along with associated functional systems using human power for a while, spending time on a "planing" hull in secrect coves...