Insurance

It’s really important to have at least 3rd part insurance so that you’re covered if you collided or injured someone else. Some windsurfing kit insurance policies cover third part too, but if you join the RYA you’re automatically covered, so has to be worth it!

BEACH ETIQUETTE

Before you even get on the water, it’s possible to upset the locals or hurt someone.

1. Never leave a rig unattached on the shore.

2. Carry board and rig together or take your board down first and then attach the sail.

3. Leave your rig downwind of the board and always attach rig to mast base.

Top Tip: Right hand closest to the mast = You’re on ‘Starboard Tack’ and have ‘Right Of Way’.

So there you go, just a few simple rules to live by and you should avoid any incidents both local or international.

The only exception to all of this is the coaches rule, which allows you to sail within inches of your clients and give them on the fly coaching – effective but totally illegal!

All images and text © Simon Bornhoft Windwise.

‘Accelerated Progress’ with windsurfing clinics, holidays and windsurfing adventures for all levels – www.windwise.net – [email protected]