You want to learn how to windsurf or improve your technique?

Well guys, I found THE solution for ideal conditions for windsurfing lessons: take a trip to Cabarete in the Dominican Republic. During the summer, you can easily find all-inclusive packages (flight, hotel, food and drinks) for $1,200 to $1,500 per person for 2 weeks. There, everything is geared to making you want to learn to windsurf. In June, July and August, the wind is there every day: about 13 knots around 10 or 11 a.m. and up to about 17-18 knots in the afternoon. Since it is like a bay, the wind is off-shore, which keeps you from drifting really far. It's nice and hot, so there is no need for a wetsuit. Lastly, the equipment is always ready right on the shore, which makes it so much easier for a beginner.

You might be interested to know that there are several windsurfing schools teaching in English or in French exclusively. I chose the Club Nathalie Simon (www.cabaretewindsurf.com). Their beginner's package ($187 US) offers you equipment suitable for beginners, a 4-hour lesson with an instructor and 5 hours of free windsurfing.

What I found interesting was being able to divide the total of 9 hours as you pleased. So, I started with 3 hours of instruction followed by 2 hours of free windsurfing to practice on my own. Then, I learned to tack during the last hour with the instructor and completed the beginner's lesson with the last 3 hours of free windsurfing. I had a choice of Zen AHD (225 litres) or Bic (200 litres) boards and 3.3 meter or 3.7 meter Neil Pryde sails.

When I left Cabarete, I was able to wander anywhere I wanted (well, most of the time), tacking and sailing upwind. Learning in the ocean where there are plenty of waves gave me a real head start and I will probably find Quebec sailing areas more stable.

One thing for sure, I can't wait to go back to Cabarete. After a day well spent windsurfing, there is nothing like sitting at one of the many restaurants on the beach, with both feet in the sand, enjoying a good beer!

Joey Melançon

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