Windsurfing and Kitesurfing


Windsurfing

Wind chasers from all over flock to Canada’s rugged coastlines and big, beautiful lakes for some of the finest windsurfing and kitesurfing in North America.

Canadian waters, including ocean swells and glacier-fed lakes, are bracingly cold and can leave you hypothermic in a flash. Thermal winds, common throughout the province, can change in a heartbeat. Whether you are getting that next adrenaline rush by sail or by kite, arm yourself with the proper training, equipment and safe practices.

Top tips to be dialed-in for the ride of your life:

  • Take a safe boating course.
  • If you’re just getting started, take lessons.
The Right Gear

Take the Essentials:
  • Flashlight
  • Fire making kit
  • Signalling device (i.e. whistle)
  • Extra food and water
  • Extra clothing
  • Navigational/communication devices
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency blanket/shelter
  • Pocket knife
  • Sun protection
Leave a Trip Plan with responsible party, family member or friend.

Take equipment specific to wind surfing:

  • PFD (Personal Flotation Device) or lifejacket
  • Wet suit or dry suit and other waterproof clothing
  • Proper footwear
  • Helmet
  • Gloves
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Maps or local knowledge of hidden obstacles
  • Proper equipment in good condition
  • Quick-release harness safety system (kitesurfing)
  • Knife attached to harness
  • Know your limits and stick to them, regardless of your skill-level.
  • Test your equipment before you head out.
  • Be aware of hazards such as jellyfish, strong currents, hidden rocks/reefs, debris, gusty/lofty/onshore wind, and boaters or other riders.
  • Learn to recognize various weather systems. Know when to call it a day – or at least sit out until the winds are back to your level.

Watch the weather, know your environment, and respect your abilities, for a safe, enjoyable day on the water!

Cool Links

GENERAL
Windsurf Canada
Windsurfing Canada
Canadian Masters Windsurfing Association
Skypilot Kiteboarding
Office of Boating Safety
Weather Office

BRITISH COLUMBIA
Costal BC windsurf
Squamish BC Windsurfing Society
Kiteboarding in British Columbia
Lifesaving Society - BC & Yukon

ALBERTA
Northern Alberta Windsurfing Association
Windsurfing Alberta

SASKATCHEWAN
Saskatchewan windsurfing club

MANITOBA
Windsurfing Manitoba

ONTARIO
Northwest Ontario Windsurfing
Toronto Windsurfing club
Barrie Windsurfing Association
Ottawa Windsurfing
Ontario Kiteboarding Association

QUEBEC
Windsurfing Québec
Association de planches à voile de Montréal
Association des Kitesurfers et Véliplanchistes de Québec
Kite Zone

NEW BRUNSWICK

NOVA SCOTIA
Nova Scotia Windsurfing Association

PRINCE-EDWARD ISLAND
PEI kiteboarding

NEWFOUNDLAND/LABRADOR
Windsurfing in Newfoundland and Labrador

Photo: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism (banner);
Greg Pucher - Royal Military College of Canada Windsurfing Club

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