The NWF team are setting up in Rutland this year – they tell us more about NWF 11 plans and their new location –

The National Watersports Festival – Ten Years of Togetherness & Teamwork!

Togetherness is a hugely important part of life. It unites us, gives us security, support and a sense of belonging. For over 10 years, The National Watersports Festival (NWF) has been bringing watersports enthusiasts together. The NWF caters particularly for families, teams and clubs, as well as individuals who want to connect with others who share their interests and passions.

The saying “Families who play together stay together” has a particular resonance in my own experience of watersports. I have friends who still enjoy weekends and holiday with their kids well past those awkward teenage years – because they have watersports in common!

There is generally also a whole lot more fun to be had when you share things with a few buddies or join a team. This is why The NWF is particularly encouraging people to get together their own teams or bring along their clubs to participate this year.

Team participation has always been a feature of the NWF. Let’s face it, there is a lot to be said for sharing the travel and the fun with people you know; camping and going to the parties to celebrate your achievements in like-minded company. It is also an opportunity to represent your club at a National event, with all the elation, adulation and everlasting fame and glory that success in the races (or beating your sibling or mate!) will bring!

The founding principle behind NWF has always been that it is open to EVERYONE, from complete beginners trying a new sport for the first time to the top of national racing squads. The NWF offers coaching, taster sessions and all the latest equipment to view or demo in the disciplines of windsurfing and SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding.) It is not even unknown for the odd Olympian to drop in to share their skills, experience and passion! If you want to learn or improve, while having LOTS of fun, The NWF is a great place to start.

Moving The NWF to Rutland Water, the largest man-made reservoir in Western Europe, means that The NWF can deliver all the NWF disciplines of SUP and Windsurfing in the safety of inland waters with family friendly facilities. NWF Founder, Allan Cross says “It is suitable for all levels of windsurfer and SUPer. I have been told so many times that people would love to come to the NWF, but the South Coast is too challenging for them or the kids. I am hoping that the venue will attract more families and more participants from the North, while still being accessible to those in the South.”

There is an old African Proverb which says “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

For over 10 years, The NWF has been encouraging families, friends, clubs, teams and individuals to get together – and go further!

NWF 2017 will take place at Rutland Water on 3-4th June 2017. Please follow us on Facebook, Twitter or www.nationalwatersportsfestival.com for news and further developments.

www.anglianwater.co.uk/leisure/water-parks/rutland gives further details of the venue and attractions.”

The post THE 11TH NATIONAL WATERSPORTS FESTIVAL (NWF) 2-4 JUNE 2017 appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

A short video edit from a very windy morning in El Medano, Tenerife with gusts over 50 knots!
Top Professional Windsurfing Association (PWA) guys showing off how it’s done.

Via Bartosz Wozniak Photography

The post HIGH WIND SLALOM ACTION IN TENERIFE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

The Canary Islands are year round destinations, only four hours flying time from Europe. They boast an especially pleasant subtropical climate, excellent infrastructure and European ambience. ION Club offers 2 centres on Fuerteventura – Risco Del Paso and Costa Calma.

Summer season at ION Club Fuerteventura offers flat water, strong offshore winds up to 40 knots at times. The warm trade winds the island is famous for are very reliable from May – Sept. The winter season still offers offshore winds but not as strong as in summer and, especially in winter, they do not blow as often as in summer.

Spot 1 – The centre is located in the middle of the large sandy beach of Costa Calma, just in front of hotel Monica Beach.
Spot 2 – The beautiful natural beach and the lagoon at Risco del Paso is located seven kms south of Costa Calma.

The latest Fanatic boards and North Sails rigs. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing and sup lessons for all levels. The Costa Calma centre has approximately 25 boards and 30 sails (up to 6.9m). Crisco Del Paso has approximately 70 boards and 100 rigs (up to 6.9m)

There is a wide variety of good quality hotels to recommend like the SBH Monica Beach, SBH Costa Calma Palace or H10 Sentido Playa Esmeralda.

CONTACT
ION Club
www.ion-club.net
company@ion-club.net
+49 (0)881 9254 960

Back to main Travel Guide

The post MICRO GUIDE : RISCO DEL PASO & COSTA CALMA, FUERTEVENTURA, CANARY ISLANDS appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

Welcome to my world film is featuring extreme athlete, semi-pro Greek wave windsurfer Thomas Kousioris – GRE78 a.k.a. KOUS in the most recognised wave venue in Greece and in Athens @ Nissakia. KOUS uses Starboard boards, Neilpryde sails and he is supported from Starboard – Sportop, Neilpryde – Funsports, Gecko Head Gear UK, Maverx Masts, Mauil Ultra Fins and KOUSgroup…Enjoy and don’t forget to visit Greece and have a great time…Lovegreece.gr !!!!

Via Thomas Kousioris

The post KOUS @ NISSAKIA !!!! WELCOME TO MY WORLD !!!! appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

When the Moon meets the Earth.

Via Sebastijan Jankovic

The post KING’S & QUEEN’S appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

If you are looking for a unique place to spend your summer holidays, then look at the special offers from Sigri Surf in Greece which has got a variety of specials just waiting for you!

If you want to feel like a windsurfer who has discovered a new spot then Sigri will be the right place to be! A traditional fishing village on the west end of the island and has about 300 inhabitants, some nice bars, coffee shops and tavernas! Travel back in time to the 1960’s. The right place for anyone who wants to discover a new secret place but don’t want to miss the mod cons. Pure Greece!

Here are some special offers for the season 2017!

Early booking discount -15%! (on all Windsurf/Kite offers)

May/June offers on accommodations!

Studio sea view 245 Euro  (based on 2 persons for 7 nights )

Apartment directly at the beach 525 Euro (price based on 2-4 persons 7 nights)

Hotel incl. breakfast and sea view 462,- (price based on 2 persons. 7 nights incl. breakfast)

Direct flights from Gatwick and Birmingham!

More infos: www.sigrisurf.com

info@sigrisurf.com

The post SIGRI HOLIDAY DEALS appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

The world champion Victor Fernandez shows why he is exactly that as he tears up Cape Town in off season training –  📷 @beasanchezd @lovetheocean#southafrica #elejidogourmetquality#fanaticwindsurf #northwindsurf #ionwater#shamalwindsurfing #mfchawaii #vfcenter#surfergalaxy

The post VICTOR FERNANDEZ CAPE TOWN 2017 appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

WINDSURF MAGAZINE #363 MARCH ISSUE ON SALE NOW

The March 2017 Issue of the world’s only monthly English-language windsurfing magazine is out now!

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Subscribe or buy your copy here in either 

Digital or 

Print versions!

Fresh – Racecraft: Racing Secrets, Kevin Pritchard’s Motivation, Lancelin Classic 2017, Peter Hart’s Forward Loop Technique, Tested: Freeride Special – 2017 105 Litre Boards & 6.5 Sails, Lake Garda Guide, Jem Hall’s Chop Hop Tips, The Pleasure And Pain Of Jaws

BIG JUICY READS

RACE, RIDE, RAGE, REPEAT
Combining competition with a healthy social scene, the Lancelin Ocean Classic kicks off the windsurf event season in style. Read the lowdown on the action on and off the water.

PLEASURE AND PAIN
For every great gybe, jump or reach comes the inevitable crash, splash and fail. Antoine Martin and Marcilio Browne tell how they balance pleasure and pain when sailing and surviving at Pe’ahi / Jaws in Maui.

RACECRAFT
A selection of the world’s elite windsurfers share their insights on best practice for the race course, covering everything from training to start line, gybing, overtaking and the all important podium.

FRESH LINES
When Kevin Pritchard won the Aloha Classic in 2016, he surprised everyone but himself. So how in his 40s does he do it? Read on as Pritchdog explains his motivational tools.

INSIDE ARNON
Arnon Dagan from Israel has been a stalwart of the PWA scene for well over a decade and a tester for both RRD and Neil Pryde. JC gives an insight into one of the professional tour’s most interesting characters.

ÎLE AUX VACHES
West Brittany has a reputation for world class windsurfing. On hand for a day at one of its best breaks, Île Aux Vaches, was photographer Loïc Olivier and Thomas Traversa, they tell us more about one of France’s premier wave sailing spots.

FRESH WATER
Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, is a home away from home for Italian freestyle young gun Riccardo Marca. Read on as Riccardo gives us his guide to Europe’s most popular freshwater windsurfing venue.

FRESH START
Vickey Abbott tells us about her adventurous journey to follow her dreams of becoming the first British women to sail Jaws and making a fresh start on her newly adopted homeland in Maui.

GEAR SHED

105 LITRE FREERIDE BOARDS
The test team report on the latest 2017 105 litre freeride hulls.

FANATIC GECKO LTD 105,
GOYA VOLAR 105,
JP MAGIC RIDE PRO 103,
RRD FIREMOVE 100 LTD,
STARBOARD ATOM IQ 104 CARBON,
TABOU ROCKET WIDE LTD 100,

6.5 FREERIDE SAILS
2017’s 6.5 freeride designs are put to the test on UK waters.

EZZY LEGACY 6.5M,
GA SAILS HYBRID 6.2M,
GOYA NEXUS 6.4M,
NEIL PRYDE RYDE 6.5M,
NORTH SAILS E_TYPE 6.6M,
POINT-7 AC-F 6.4M,
RRD EVOLUTION MKVIII 6.8M,
SEVERNE CONVERT 6.7M,

TEKKERS

PETER HART – OPERATION ROTATION

MOVE ON UP WITH JEM HALL – JUMP THE BUMP
Jem Hall focuses on the chop hop and how to start getting air under your board.

HOW TO JUMP HIGHER

BOARDSHORTS

LATEST & GREATEST  
No ‘Alternative facts’ or ‘Fake news’ here, we have analysed every possible leak, tweet and trending hashtag to bring you windsurfing news so fresh, even the Russians haven’t hacked it..yet!

RYA KNOWLEDGE   

SITTIN’ ON THE DUNNY

EDITORIAL -FRESH

AFFAIRS OF THE HART – COME THE REVOLUTION     

.

Get your 

Print

The post MARCH 2017 ISSUE ON SALE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

New vid from Julien Taboulet.. From the West to the Med showcases some great French winter waveridng.. check it out..

From the West to the Med from Julien Taboulet on Vimeo.

The post FROM THE WEST TO THE MED appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

The post DIS.TRACTION TRAILER appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

I’m happy to present you the first episode of ” 2017 Season “. This year I will realize some episodes like this one, to show you the behind the scene of young windsurfer. I want to show all the good times (also the bad ones) that Windsurf allows me to live.

This first epidose it’s about my begining of the year, I spent a month and a half, like most Windsurfers of the Tour, in Cape Town, South Africa, pushing my limits and practicing as much as possible. We were also able to discover all the beautiful landscapes that offer South Africa !! I let you look and I hope you will like it!

The next episode will be about my preparation at home before the first stage of the world cup in the Canary Islands.

Caméras: Liife_Diary / Lou / Arthur & Alice Arutkin / Phillipe Mesmeur / Thomas Vincent

Music: Kishi Bashi – Ha Ha

Via Alex Grand-Guillot

The post 2017 SEASON – EP 1 – COUNTRY OF VITAMINS appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

The post POINT 7 TEAM LANZAROTE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

Check out this video from Baja 2016 trailer

Via Alex McKirgan

The post BAJA 2016 appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

The student windsurfing association report on their series final – pics by Tom Pidden & Laura Titheridge – “The Puravida SWA Wave Series reached its climatic conclusion this weekend, in the storm whipped waters of South Wales. Students from far and wide converged on Cardiff to compete for a place on the overall podium, strutting their stuff both in the waves and in the bar.

Saturday saw small waves rolling into the event site at Trecco Bay with a light westerly breeze. After some time playing the waiting game, the single elimination kicked off in gentle conditions, perfect for those new to wave sailing. After a couple of hours, Sara Kellett returned victorious after managing to make the most of the light wind conditions. Louis Morris looked solid in second place with George Norcott in third. Anticipation was running high, with a full power forecast for Sunday, Sara would have to be on her game to defend first place.

As storm clouds brewed in the sky, the students headed out for a night in Cardiff at another infamous ‘under the sea’ SWA fancy dress party.

The double elimination gave sailors a second chance at working their way up the ranks to challenge Sara for the event title. This second round of the contest was held in by far the best conditions we have seen on the SWA tour this year. Sets breaking over head high and solid 4.2-3.7 weather for the majority of sailors. Stand out performances in the early rounds came from Arthur Fox of Cardiff and Tom Pidden of Nottingham. Both Arthur and Tom were sailing extremely well and looked set to be challenging the leaders, but fell victim to a broken UJ and boom respectively. The big balls award for the weekend has to go to Reuben Lansley, this wave series rookie was on an absolute charge. His forward loops propelling him into fourth place in the single. It was in the double however that he truly outdid himself, advancing past George Norcott into third place. Sailing wildly over powered on a 4.7, he was sending some huge floaty jumps. Reuben had the best crash of the contest with what looked like a bailed tabletop, into Polakow style arm waving decent, into prolonged swim and mauling session.

The big story of the event was the rivalry at the top between Sara Kellett and Louis Morris. These two sailors were very evenly matched and the final of the double elimination was by far the highlight of the weekend. Both attacked the riding with late hits, throwing spray and breaking their fins out as they devoured the waves on offer. Matched on riding, it came down to the jumps. When the red flag went up it was Louis with the better forward loop, forcing a super final to decide the outcome of the event.

The super final was hit by a squall, reducing Trecco Bay to a cauldron of driving spray as the wind tore water from the tops of the waves. Both Louis and Sara had a tough time of it and there were some serious spankings at the hands of the rampant gusts. Another closely fought battle, it was Louis who emerged from the carnage to claim victory at this final event of the year.

Second place did not dampen Sara’s spirits however, as she secured the overall Puravida SWA wave series title for 2017. A well deserved second for George Norcott and third place for Ben Bulson. A particular success for Ben, last years winner of the judges choice award, using that prize of a Vandal 5.3 to good effect in every event this year. They win themselves a pile of ION goodies as well as a free entry to a BWA event! Full series results will soon be available on the SWA website.

It’s been a spectacular year for the Puravida SWA Wave Series, three great events across the country, a truly deserving champion and a few parties along the way! This location was especially perfect, two beaches within walking distance of each other, Trecco had solid breakers while Newton offered a calmer option for those new to the waves.

The SWA would like to thank Jim Brooks-Dowsett of Puravida Boardriders for helping to run the tour, Lloyd for the safety cover, Anthony Pitt for helping out on the beach and Cardiff University Windsurf Club for their efforts in organising the event. In addition, we would like to thank our other event hosts: RB Sails, Funsport and emergency saviours Varcity Living.”

The post PURAVIDA SWA WAVE FINALS CARDIFF appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

Skyeboy releases his best of 2016, telling us – “This is the best of my 2016. Action from South Africa in the January 2016 shooting for RRD, plus some big wave riding from the PWA Aloha Classic contest in November 2016. Some of the biggest Hookipa I have ever sailed.”

The post JOHN SKYE 2016 HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

Janine Avery from Planet Windsurf tells us of her experience of learning to windsurf in the highly versatile destination of Langebaan, around 120kms north of Cape Town, South Africa. – “I am a sailor, that’s my claim to fame as far as water sports are concerned. But I knew when I took a job at Planet Windsurf Holidays that I would have to broaden my horizons to a sail and a water sport of a slightly different kind. And so it came to be that I headed down the coast from my picturesque home of Cape Town to the wide expense of blue that is South Africa’s Langebaan lagoon to learn to windsurf at the Cape Sports Centre.

I had been warned that the experience would be frustrating, I had been told that I would probably fail to tack and that turning around was best done by dropping the sail into the sea, swimming breathlessly while trying to maneuver the board and then flicking the sail over the board and attempting, but most likely failing, to pick it up on the other side.

Needless to say I think there is definitely a perception that windsurfing is difficult to learn, and while I think this may have been the case when my dad first tried and spent hours treading water I was pleasantly surprised that the very early learning stages were not as difficult as I had imagined.  The equipment has come on leaps and bounds in recent years and really makes the beginning stages a pleasant experience. I pictured myself doing a lot of swimming but am happy to say I spent less time in the water than I had originally thought I would. I was up and riding on my first try and if my fellow sailors could have seen me they probably would have been rolling with laughter at my tiny sail and buoyant board, but I felt as if I was flying along!

I spent the first couple minutes with my instructor from the Cape Sport’s Centre going through the basics on the beach before taking to the water. As I have the sailing background, I was lucky in that I already had a firm understanding of wind direction, conditions, and sailing angles so we were able to whiz through the theory pretty quickly, whereas for a complete novice this section might have taken longer. Once I had got the knack of increasing and decreasing power to the sail and had been shown how to sail upwind and downwind, which involves a fair level of control and stability in stance and movement, I was on the water and giving it a go. The Cape Sports Centre doesn’t have a training simulator but there is no real need for it due to the great conditions in Langebaan.

Langebaan is the perfect place to learn to windsurf as it gives you a protected lagoon environment with a consistent wind but when you are ready to venture out, the massive area provides a variety of sheltered and more windy spots, flat water and waves for as your skill level progresses. The water is also fairly shallow for some distance in the learning area, allowing my coach to always remain close to me. This allowed me to ride with confidence and meant I could easily stand up and take a breath when necessary.

Perhaps it was the Greek instructor, the chilled out vibes or the beginner’s board with its mini centreboard, but I felt a little bit like a windsurfing master by the time my two hour lesson was done.

However, in all those warnings, the one thing I wasn’t told was how tiring it would be! If you decide to learn with a friend, or just give it a go with the wrong equipment or a sail that is too big or too heavy, then I would imagine that you definitely have your work cut out for you because even with the right equipment my little ‘learn to windsurf’ session sure did knock the wind out of me. I went in guns placing, using all my energy to hoist myself up, effortlessly sailing through the waves, and tacking on the first try, like a pro. However my beginner’s luck did begin to wane as the wind picked up and my arms and legs screamed to return to my comfortable bed and even through a smaller sail was provided, my body was failing me. I can understand why the progress from beginner to intermediate and then on to advanced level takes many years of practice, patience and time on the water. I can’t wait for next time and look forward to learning how to use a harness and master the beach start!

Fun wave conditions outside the lagoon.

Quick tips for those who want to learn how to windsurf

– Do a lesson with a professional instructor at a good windsurf centre. The wrong equipment and instruction can end up doing you more harm than good. Quality, modern equipment offers much more stability and is light and easy to work with, so you end up progressing much quicker than you would on your friend’s board. You will also spare yourself hours of frustration and arguments with your mates who haven’t been trained in teaching someone the best techniques to get started!

– Allow yourself enough time for breaks, rests and short spurts of sailing. Learning to windsurf is tiring and a few hours solo practice is really necessary for progression. It is also nice to be able to rest for an hour or two before giving it another go so you need the freedom to use the equipment when and as you like and not worry about the clock. I recommend booking a windsurfing holiday – this will allow you a relaxed week in which you can learn at your own pace and really take the time to progress and enjoy it.

– Pick the right spot. The right location is as vital to your success as using the right equipment. A lagoon with flat water, no shore break and a shallow area is perfect for learning to windsurf and a destination with consistent wind will minimize frustrations. Langebaan was ideal!

– Remember to enjoy it! I was concentrating so hard I almost forgot to admire my surroundings, the wind whipping past me and the seal nipping beneath my board!”

Check out the Gallery of Langebaan centre, marina and lagoon below.

The post LEARNING TO WINDSURF IN LANGEBAAN SOUTH AFRICA appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

 RRD give us news on their foil board – “With this board you can finally go in the water with 7/8 knots and make the most of light wind and locations with marginal conditions. We fully believe that FOIL WINDSURFING will have a future in our sport. The H-Fire 91 is designed to be used with sails from 5 meters up to 7.5. It is 236 x 91 cm and 150 litres, the right size for quick and easy learning; it also allows you to maintain control during the ups and downs of the FOIL, especially at high speeds. The 236 cm length also makes it more manageable in your first jibes with a FOIL. The back of the board is particularly wide for ease of use and planing.

The H-Fire 91 is specifically designed with a FOIL FIN BOX to hold the strong forces generated from the hydrofoil mast, board, sail and rider. It is also covered largely with a pad, for maximum comfort and proper alignment throughout the launch phase and is additionally provided with a handle for transport. It can also be used with the standard Windsurf fin and becomes a “no compromise light wind board” as we have added  cut outs to make it easy planing and gybing.”

Price – £1713 – http://www.robertoriccidesigns.com/

The post RRD H-FIRE FOIL BOARD appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

Ever wondered what it’s like to take a road trip in Western Australia – Dan Freeman takes us in the passenger seat – “43 days windsurfing road trip Western Australia to Gnarloo scoring a decent swell and lifestyle with girlfriend and daughter.”

The post WEST AUSTRALIA ROAD TRIP appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

“I will have a few weeks off work in May, can we drive somewhere south with the van?”, asks my girlfriend out of the blue. “Yes, sure! Let’s go to Brittany”, I answer. “Brittany is west not south and anyway it’s too cold there.” “What about Ireland?” – no answer. Then she said, “I thought about somewhere like Italy. They have good wine, delicious food, ice-cream, Florence..” Hmmmmm, “and wind?”, I asked. “I am sure the wind is strong enough for me!”, she smiled back in answer. I realize I’ve lost this argument, probably before it even started.

Words  Leon Jamaer //

Photos Franziska Doose & Leon Jamaer

This feature was originally published in the November/December 2016 issue.

Things go her way and a few weeks later we are crossing the Alps, a quick stop at Lake Garda and then further into the heart of Tuscany. At least the wind forecast is not as bad as I imagined; a storm is on its way and unbeknownst to my girlfriend I have brought my small sails. While we cruise in summer like weather through the curvy roads there is not much sign of any storm though. The stunning scenery invites us to do Cappuccino stops behind every road bend or to explore castle after castle. When it gets too hot we jump in one of the many streams to cool down. By late afternoon we arrive in Livorno at the Mediterranean Sea. The ocean’s surface is like a mirror and the water is amazingly clear – the calm before the storm. As it starts to get dark, black clouds appear on the horizon. Full of excitement for the coming day, I fall asleep.

The next morning the weather has changed, onshore winds have swirled the sea. During the next few hours the wind picks up further and within no time I am looking at solid but chaotic three to four metre waves. My first try is a spot right in Livorno called Tre Ponti. The locals are excited but the wind is too onshore to enjoy the wind and waves. After a short and rather disappointing session we drive further south. Along the coastal road, cars stop everywhere to photograph the exaggerated sea. Even though I couldn´t find a suitable spot yet, I am thankful my girlfriend took me here. A look at her face tells me I better not tell her so. My next try is a spot called Vada. And again the wind is almost dead onshore. It has got even windier and I doubt I can hold my smallest sail, a 4.2. Also the water colour is strangely white. Before I can spend any thought on that, Roberto, who has a surf school a few hundred meters north, speaks to me. He says the coast makes a little bend right where his school is. The problem is there is no parking so I would have to sail along the coast and around a little jetty to get there. All my hope is in his words so I trim the 4.2 as flat as possible and sail up the coast towards Lillatro. He was right, the coast does make a tiny bend, which is enough to create pretty decent Pozo-esque conditions – just with bigger and better waves. When I return completely exhausted to the beach, Roberto proudly shows me his surf school. “Many people leave their gear here as they mostly sail at this spot anyway”, he says. “And what about the water colour?”, I ask. “Ah, that is because of the run-off of the big factory. But it’s not too bad, we are in this water for decades already.”

The next day the wind has dropped quite a bit and turned further north too. Roberto sends me a message, “Today Marina de Cecina is the place to be!” By the time I arrive there are a few guys out already, enjoying the mellow 5.3 starboard-tack conditions. Not my favourite type of sailing but the atmosphere in front of the pine trees is great so I give it a go. I have a fun session but the wind drops even more and a few kilometres up the coast is a beautiful beginner spot where my girlfriend can practice beach starts and planing. More and more familiar faces appear on the beach. Most of them I have only seen a few times at the parking lot in Haagkat in South Africa, nonetheless, a moment later we are invited for dinner. The happy crew demonstrates how to live La Dolce Vita, the sweet life. Delicious meals and wine are served and stories of mystic down-the-line spots close by are told. I had never expected to be welcomed here so warmly as the parking separation of Germans and Italians at South African spots is rather strict. The guys explain where else we should go on our trip and which places we definitely need to see. First of all, we ought to spend the night at the beach and park our van right next to the surf school – “It’s the best place you can find!” They are right and I realize I haven´t really missed cold wind, Guinness or crepes since we hit the road. The remaining time of our stay we cruise up and down the coast, find remote bays for freeride sailing or swimming, explore ancient towns like Volterra, Bolgheri and Sienna or join the tourist crowd in Florence. By the time we drive back home I have understood that once in a while it can be good to listen to your girlfriend!

General Info

Getting there
The Tuscan coastline stretches roughly from La Spezia to Grosetto, which is 100 kilometres north of Rome. The easiest way to get there is by car. There are some great places like Lake Garda or Lake Comer to stop for a day or two while driving south. Italian roads are decent and most highways have an affordable toll. Coming through Switzerland, Austria and Italy you can plan for approximately 70€ per way. Once you are there it’s worth it to have your own car and all the freedom and mobility that comes with it. The Italian’s driving can be a bit hectic but as you are on holiday – relax! Of course you can also fly to the region with affordable charter airlines available.

Weather
The Tuscan spots have sailable conditions all year around. High-season is in July and August and not recommended for two reasons – first, almost all of Italy is on holiday which leads to crowded beaches and higher prices. Second, the steady Azores high-pressure, which is common in these months, blocks storms and allows normally only a light thermal breeze. If you bring bigger freeride sails than these thermal winds can be fun, although they hardly ever reach 20 knots. In summer water temperatures rise to 24 degrees and a shorty will do. The best combination of consistent wind, warm temperatures and empty beaches can be found from September to December and from March to June. During these periods the Tuscan coast is frequented by low-pressure systems and there is enough wind to plane more than 40 percent of the days. Good waves are more likely this time of year too. Water and air temperatures in October are around 20 degrees. The water temperature does not drop below 12 degrees the whole winter so it’s sailable with a good suit, booties and hood. ‘Scirocco’ wind from the southeast is quite common during this time of the year. ‘Scirocco’ wind will blow when low-pressure systems move in from the west. The wind normally comes with warm air and good waves. If the system moves a little bit further north, Italians call the resulting southwest to west wind ‘Libbecchio’, and is also associated with good waves. ‘Mistral’ winds from the west to northwest come from the south of France and can get stormy, especially during winter. As the wind often turns quite westerly, waves can be blocked by Corsica.

Living and camping
One can easily find a place to stay for any kind of budget. Apartments are best to find via the internet and especially in off-season there is a broad variety of options. A classier offering is the Agritourismo farms that carry all the charm of Tuscany with beautiful gardens and rustic interiors. Wild camping is not allowed and in high season a fine from 100-500€ is not uncommon. However, the region has plenty of official caravan parks. Here is a list of several camping sites close to the spots:

Viareggio: www.campingversiliamare.it

Marina de Pisa: www.campeggiointernazionale.com

Calambrone: www.camping-pineta.it; www.campingmareesole.it

Vada: www.campingtripesce.it; www.radatrusca.it; www.baiadelmarinaio.it; www.campingmolinoafuoco.com

Le Gorette: www.campingmareblu.com

Marina de Cecina: www.boccadicecina.it

Baratti: www.santalbinia.it

Perelli: www.pappasole.it

Punta Ala: www.campingpuntala.it

Centres
Normally you would want to bring you own gear so you are flexible in choosing the right spot for the day. However, there are several rental options.

Viareggio: Windsurfing Toskana (www.laversilia.it)

Calambrone: Oasi del Mare (www.oasidelmare.it)

Livorno: Centro Windsurf 3 Ponti (www.windsurflivorno.it)

Vada: Centro Windsurf Vada (www.centrowindsurfvada.it)

Le Gorette/Cecina: Spot1 (www.spot1.it)

Punta Ala: Punta Ala Water Sport (www.puntaalawatersport.it)

Shops
Vada Spot 1 (www.spot1.it)

Alternative program
Tuscany is culturally very diverse and offers a lot of possibilities to enjoy days off the water. Besides the stunning nature that can be explored by bike, foot or car, the cities attract a lot of tourists. Lucca, Florence, Sienna or Pisa are the highlights that you don´t want to miss. In one of the many museums you can find out all about the most important characters of the Renaissance like Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo. For foodies the Tuscan cuisne is a highlight itself: wine, cheese, ham and, of course, the beautiful olive oil.

Darksides
Crime is not that big of a deal in this region. Nonetheless, you should never leave valuables within the car. Furthermore, It is recommended to park in a paid and secured parking area just to be sure your car is still there when you come back from a great Pizza dinner.

Spots

Forte dei Marmi / Viareggio
From Forte dei Marmi to Viareggio stretches a long sandy beach in a north west to south east direction. During summer this area is populated by thousands of tourists and swimmers. Though, if you can find a parking lot and the water is free of people, the beach can be good for mellow wavesailing too. South to south west wind is side to side onshore. The further you drive south the more sideshore it gets. The cleanest waves are just north of the harbour in Viareggio. North west wind comes close to Forte dei Marmi more side shore and can also produce relaxed free ride conditions. Beach access is granted through a Bagni (private beach club) almost everywhere. Therefore infrastructure (Toilet,
Shower, Café) is normally decent.

Conditions – Wind: S-NNW, freeride, mellow waveriding, bump and jump.

Marina de Vecchiano
Marina de Vecchiano is located a little bit further off the beaten track and just north of the river Serchio. The access road is narrow and cars more than 1.90 metres are officially not allowed. During summer the spot gets busy with sunbathers and parking can get difficult. However, in off-season, you can have the beach almost to yourself. In all westerly wind directions small waves break along the beach, perfect for jumps. Straight south or north winds are side shore. The chilled atmosphere and steady winds also welcome free riders warmly. As there are no jetties you can cruise along the beach in a straight west wind and really enjoy the view. If the wind doesn´t show up at all, Pisa is just a few kilometres away.

Conditions – Wind: S-N (westerly sector), freeride, mellow waveriding, bump and jump.

Calambrone
Calambrone sits north of the industrial harbour of Livorno. Therefore, water quality is not the best. Because of the flat vegetation the wind is normally very steady. Even south east can be sailed; in strong south or south west it is time to unpack the wave board. The mellow waves break on sand. Calamvrone is mostly known for its relaxed beginner and free ride conditions. The windsurf, kite and catamaran school – Oasi del Mare – provides a good setup if you need a lesson or equipment.

Conditions – Wind: E-W, freeride, mellow waveriding.

Livorno / Tre Ponti
The city spot of Livorno, Tre Ponti, is located two kilometres south of the harbour. When you drive past the spot and the conditions are not there you would not expect that this little rock formation can live up to its name as a regional classic. Especially in Scirocco winds from south east to south, Tre Ponti turns on with side to side off conditions and powerful waves that peel over a rocky shelf. The water access is not that easy: ten metres from shore are shallow rocks that can only be passed through a tiny channel that is marked by buoys. Best is to ask locals for advice before you enter the water. You can park at the main street and rig on the green area next to the spot. Due to the obstacles within the water and the powerful waves, Tre Ponti attracts more experienced wave sailors.

Conditions – Wind: SE-S, waveriding, down-the-line.

Lillatro / Spiagge Bianche
The beach’s colour differs from the normal dark Tuscan beach: it is white! A soda factory’s run-off water has simply bleached the sand over the last decades. No one really knows if the discharge is an actual threat to humans. However, families, swimmers, surfers, kiters, windsurfers are all frequently coming here to enjoy the pristine conditions. On the north side of the bay towards Lillatro are several reef breaks that excel in north west wind. Rocks and surfers mean it is experienced riders only! Further south and into the bay the conditions are mellower. During summer thermal northwest conditions mean this area is frequented a lot. Strong south wind will produce nice port tack conditions. A lot of options for everyone, always worth checking out!

Conditions – Wind: S and NW, waveriding, freeride.

Vada
The surf spot Vada sits between the huge factory and the village and is known for its broad variety of conditions. North of the little jetty in front of the ‘Centro Kite-Windsurf Vada’ strong south to south west winds will create solid side to side onshore conditions. The further you travel north into the bay the smaller and mellower the waves get. Even when Vada is big it is still rather easy to sail as the beach runs smoothly underneath the surface. Between the jetty and the long pier, conditions are even more user friendly. All the big waves break far outside and in the inside the small waves that come through are ideal for freestyle or bump and jump. In thermal north west winds Vada is also great for free riding as the wind is a bit stronger than at other places. Vada is a regional classic and you will always find other windsurfers here, only parking is limited!

Conditions – Wind: N to S (westerly sector), waveriding, bump and jump, freestyle, freeride.

Le Gorette
Just a few kilometres south of Vada you will find Le Gorette with two different spots: North of the harbour is the surf station Spot 1 with easy conditions for beginners to advanced sailors in westerly winds. In stormy south west winds you need to drive a few kilometres further north to where nice side-shore conditions can be found. Le Gorette has it all: friendly atmosphere, beginner lessons, wave riding and a bar to buy beer for the sundowner. Parking is normally available for free; only in summer it can prove difficult and one might need to park behind the pine woods.

Conditions – Wind: SE to NNW (westerly sector), wave riding, bump and jump, beginner, freeride.

Marina de Cecina
Close to Le Gorette you will find Marina de Cecina just south of the harbour where the long beach begins to the south. When the wind turns to west or northwest Cecina offers starboard tack wave riding conditions with nice waves that break in between the jetties. Access can be a little difficult as the wind is gusty up front and the shore break can be solid too. Nonetheless, you can have a lot of fun on the water and after a session the restaurant La Capannina is a must: seafood or pizza with a sea view! It doesn´t get much better.
Conditions – Wind: W-NW, wave riding, bump and jump.

Baratti
The beautiful bay of Baratti offers superb beginner and freeride conditions. Southerly winds can be a little gusty as they come over the hills, on the other hand they smoothen the surface nicely. In strong north west to north winds Baratti can even produce decent starboard tack bump and jump conditions.

Conditions – Wind: E-S, WSW-NNW, freeride, bump and jump.

Perelli
Perelli is famous for its steady thermal summer winds and frequented mostly by freeriders. Although, if a low pressure system creates waves and the wind comes from the east, Perelli turns into a top wave spot. Corsica and Elba block some of the swell and normally the waves are smaller than up the coast. In strong south or south east wind it is too onshore to have fun here. In that case better to move to Carbonifeira where it can get good for jumping. Strong west is also good for starboard tack. A lot of options in this area!

Conditions – Wind: E-S, WSW-NNW, wave riding, bump and jump, freeride.

Follonica
Follonica is, like Perelli, known for its steady summer winds. North west is ideal for free riders as the water is smooth. Only swimmers and tourists can be distracting you from all the pleasure. In stronger winds it can also be a good place to get into wave riding.

Conditions – Wind: W-NW, freeride and wave.

Punta Ala
Punta Ala is a great place in all wind directions from south to north east. In northerly wind you should go further to the south and in southerly winds to the north to get the steadiest wind. The shallow water is ideal for beginners and learners. If the wind does not come through, Punta Ala is a great place to hang around in. Nature is all around you and if gets too hot, one can hide under the pines.

Conditions – Wind: S-NE, freeride.

“ Tuscany is culturally very diverse and offers a lot of possibilities to enjoy days off the water ”

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