Kite Surfing
The extreme sport of kite surfing has been practised in Weymouth and Portland since the turn of the millennium and the region offers one of the best locations in the Country to practice it. The all year round venue of Portland Harbour offers the ideal kite surfing conditions. With links to The Philippines, New Zealand and Hawaii, Portland comes highly regarded around the World. With its icy smooth conditions, it is an ideal playground for the novice or expert. In order to kite surf in Portland Harbour, a permit is required. Apart from Portland Harbour, many kite surfing enthusiasts congregate at The Pier Bandstand on Weymouth Seafront. With the right winds, racier conditions, often with larger waves can be experienced. The Esplanade enjoys an enviable location smack opposite the Pier Bandstand so if you fancy a bit of luxury, The Esplanade is the place for you. By that we mean, if the days of changing in to your wetsuit without hanging your rearside out the back of a van and would prefer to change in the comfort of your own room before jogging across the road for your adrenalin fix, then you know you need to stay. Note that kite surfing is only permitted in the centre of town from 1 September until 31 May. By prior arrangement, The Esplanade will help dry your wet gear as well as store your boards and equipment. For year round kite surfing in the Bay, you will need to travel out to Overcombe corner, just a couple of miles to the East of the town centre. If you have never kite surfed before and want to learn, then Portland Harbour is ideal. Shallow waters combined with south westerly winds creates a surfing arena as smooth as a skating rink; which is perfect to learn on, practice your new moves or race as fast as a rocket when your confidence is high. The school at Paracademy in Victoria Square on Portland offers a range of courses to suit all levels of ability. See www.paracademyextreme.co.uk or telephone 01305 824797 for further information.