Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing is an exhilarating water sport that combines elements of surfing, wakeboarding, and paragliding. Using a large, controllable kite to harness the power of the wind, riders are propelled across the water on a small board, performing jumps, tricks, and high-speed runs. It’s a sport that offers both an adrenaline rush and a deep connection with nature, making it one of the most exciting ways to experience the ocean.

The roots of kitesurfing can be traced back to the 1980s, when French brothers Bruno and Dominique Legaignoux developed the first inflatable kite design. Over the following decades, advances in kite and board technology made the sport more accessible, leading to a surge in popularity worldwide. By the early 2000s, kitesurfing had evolved into a recognised extreme sport, with professional competitions, dedicated schools, and thriving kiting communities across the globe.

Here on Walney Island, kitesurfing has been a way of life for over 20 years. The area’s combination of shallow lagoons and powerful waves makes it an ideal spot for riders of all levels. Back in 2005, Gary Powell, a BKSA Senior Instructor and kite speed champion, opened one of the first kitesurfing centres in Europe, helping to establish the sport locally. Since then, world-class kitesurfers have visited and competed in the bay, taking advantage of its fantastic conditions.

Kitesurfing isn’t just for professionals - it’s a sport that anyone can learn. With modern safety systems and structured lessons, beginners can get up and riding in just a few sessions. Whether you're looking for the thrill of big air jumps, the challenge of wave riding, or simply the joy of gliding over the water, kitesurfing offers something for everyone.

So if you’ve ever wanted to give it a go, there’s no better time. Come and experience the freedom of kitesurfing - it’s a sport like no other!