Taking advantage of the fact that beaches are starting to get crowded, we want to talk to you about something very important that beginners, in particular, may not be aware of, and that even experienced riders should always be reminded of. Our kitesurfing courses begin here, by knowing the right of way rules, which are valid for both kitesurfers and windsurfers.
It’s worth dedicating some time to understand these rules to avoid accidents.
- Rule nº1: Bathers
Bathers have absolute priority over any kitesurfer, so we must always respect them.
In some beaches like Tarifa, there are designated areas for bathers and others for sports enthusiasts, which is ideal because it helps avoid issues.
There will always be conflicts with bathers accessing sports areas and vice versa. In any case, if we are kitesurfing in a designated kite zone and encounter a bathers, we should keep a safe distance and, of course, not enter the bathers area. We must be aware that we could cause serious harm.
- Rule nº2: Access-Exit
The kitesurfer entering the water has the right of way over the one trying to leave, so if your intention is to go back to the beach and someone is trying to enter from the same spot, you should turn around to give way and try again on the next tack. This is because the kitesurfer on land is at a higher risk than the one in the water.
- Rule nº3: Maneuvers
When we want to perform a maneuver or change direction, we must look for a clear area and check with a panoramic look before starting the turn or jibe.
- Rule nº4: Opposite Tacks. Crossing at Different Levels
The kitesurfer on the windward side (the direction closest to the wind) must raise their kite, and the kitesurfer on the leeward side must keep it down to avoid crossing. Both should maintain their course.
- Rule nº5: Opposite Tacks. Crossing on the Same Line or Level (King of the Ocean)
The kitesurfer on starboard tack (riding with their right hand forward) has the right of way over the kitesurfer on port tack (riding with their left hand forward). This means the rider with their right hand forward has priority.
- Rule nº6: On the Same Tack
The downwind rider has the right of way when they are on the same course as us. We cannot catch up with them, so we must turn around or change our course. This is because, being on the windward side of the other rider, they cannot see us, while we have a panoramic view of everything ahead of us.
- Rule nº7: Waves
Any athlete riding a wave has priority over everything else. Imagine catching the wave of your life and someone ruins it!
If we all respect these simple rules, coexistence in the water would be much easier. Don’t forget to use common sense, and you’ll have a fantastic day of kitesurfing.