What is Kiteboarding?
Kiteboarding, also known as kitesurfing, is an exhilarating water sport where riders use a large, inflatable kite to harness the wind’s energy to propel themselves across the water on a board. Whether you’re jumping high, cruising across lakes and rivers, or riding the waves of the ocean, kiteboarding is a versatile sport that lets you express your unique style on the water.
Where is the Best Place to Learn to Kiteboard?
The Pamlico Sound in Hatteras, NC, offers some of the best conditions in the world for learning kiteboarding. With warm, waist-deep water, steady winds, and sandy ocean floors, it’s the ideal environment for both beginners and experienced riders. Depending on wind direction, you can even take your gear to the Atlantic Ocean for wave riding.
What Lesson Options Are Available?
- Fly & Ride Course (Full Day)
- Cost: $550 (1 person), $525 (2 people), $500 (3 people)
- Duration: 3–5 hours (depends on number of participants)
- Description: This introductory course is split into two parts:
- Learn to Fly: Learn kite control, safety, rigging, launching, and how to relaunch the kite.
- Begin to Board: After learning kite control, you’ll combine it with board balance and water starts.
- This course is designed for beginners and is taught in small groups (max 3 students per instructor).
- Private Lessons (2–3 hours)
- Cost: $390 (2 hours), $585 (3 hours)
- Description: One-on-one coaching for rapid progression. Perfect for students looking to fine-tune specific skills or get additional practice. A first-time student should book the 3-hour session for optimal learning.
- Semi-Private Lesson (2 hours)
- Cost: $250 per person
- Description: For pairs of students (must be within 30 lbs of each other and similar skill levels). You’ll share a kite and take turns practicing.
- Ultimate Way to Fly Package (4–5 days)
- Cost: $1650
- Description: A comprehensive package over several days, perfect for those who want to make quick progress. Includes a combination of group and private lessons, plus rental time to practice solo. Ideal for those with flexible schedules and consistent wind conditions.
What Should I Expect in a Kiteboarding Lesson?
In your Fly & Ride course, you’ll start with the Learn to Fly portion where you’ll learn how to control the kite, understand wind patterns, and practice safety procedures. The second part, Begin to Board, will focus on getting you onto the water, practicing water starts, and improving board control while riding the kite.
In Private Lessons, you’ll work one-on-one with an instructor to address specific areas you want to improve, whether it’s mastering water starts, learning how to jump, or improving kite control.
What Gear is Required?
- Water Shoes/Booties: Required for all lessons (neoprene or form-fitting). Available for purchase at the kiteboarding school or other retailers ($20–$70).
- Swimwear: Swimsuit or rash guard (there are facilities to change on-site).
- Wetsuit: Required for lessons from March–May and September–November. Available to rent or purchase.
- Towel & Sunscreen: Recommended for sun protection and comfort.
- Water: Bring a bottle to stay hydrated.
What Are the Booking Requirements?
- Minimum Weight: 90 lbs
- Maximum Weight: 300 lbs
- Swimming Ability: Must be able to swim.
- Waivers: Required for all participants. If under 18, a waiver must be filled out by a parent or legal guardian.
- Wind Conditions: Ideal winds are between 15-25 mph. Lessons are wind-dependent, so scheduling early in the week allows for rescheduling if necessary.
Are waivers required?
Yes, waivers are required for all participants. You can read and sign the online waiver here.
- Participants under 18 years of age will need a parent or legal guardian to sign the waiver.
What Should I Know About Wind and Weather Conditions?
- Wind Conditions: Kiteboarding lessons generally require winds between 15-25 mph. Lessons will not take place in lighter winds, and insurance restrictions prevent us from operating in higher winds.
- Weather-Dependent: It’s best to book lessons early in the week to allow flexibility for rescheduling due to weather or wind conditions.
Can I Book Multiple Lessons in One Day?
Yes, if you’re booking for one person, you can take a 2-hour lesson in the morning and a 3-hour lesson in the afternoon. We recommend working with your instructor to plan your lesson schedule.It’s important to allow for rest between sessions, as kiteboarding is a physically demanding sport.
What Happens if the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate?
We monitor the weather closely, and lessons are scheduled based on wind conditions. If the wind is not suitable for kiteboarding, we will work with you to reschedule your lesson. We recommend booking lessons early in the week to allow for flexibility.
Are There Any Special Requirements for Semi-Private Lessons?
For Semi-Private Lessons, both students must weigh within 30 lbs of each other and have a similar skill level. These lessons are tailored to the student who needs the most help, so it’s important to communicate with the kiteboarding school in advance about the students’ abilities.
What Is the Cancellation Policy?
Our standard cancellation policies apply, please review them here. Please contact us ahead of time if you need to reschedule or cancel your lesson.
Accessibility Statement:
We are committed to making our activities as accessible as possible. While some activities may have limitations, we’re happy to work with you to explore accommodations. For assistance or questions, please contact us at (252) 441-4124.
