Guide to kitesurfing in Germany

Overview

In Germany you kite on two seas. The Baltic Sea, with no tide, has shallow and fairly flat water. The North Sea is more exposed and ruled by the tide.

The wind comes from passing lows: it is not guaranteed, but there are many spots, well served by schools.

When to go

You can ride all year, but a wetsuit is always needed.

• November to March: the wind is strongest and most frequent, with lows passing through. You need a thick wetsuit, boots, gloves and a hood.
• April to October: the mild season, with water between 10 and 20 °C. The wind is solid in spring and autumn and lighter in summer, sometimes boosted by thermal effects in the afternoon.

Where to kite in Germany

The island of Fehmarn, on the Baltic, is the best-known destination: shallow water, spots for all levels and many schools. You change side of the island depending on the wind direction.

Rügen, further east, has flat-water spots suited to beginners. Heiligenhafen and Pelzerhaken complete the Baltic coast.

On the North Sea, Sankt Peter-Ording is the most renowned spot in the country, with kilometres of beach and zones for all levels. People also ride around Cuxhaven, Norddeich and on the island of Sylt. A few Bavarian lakes are among our spots too.

Practical info

Tide. On the North Sea the tide uncovers huge flats. Check the times before you go out.

Cold water. Bring a full wetsuit, even in summer. In spring and autumn, add boots and gloves.

Schools. Fehmarn has many centres offering lessons and rental.