THE DESTINATION
Hurghada is where the Red Sea adventure
all began. Windsurfers were coming here
before there was an international airport,
the 3-4 hour transfer from Luxor was worth
it. Now it is a well established resort
for windsurfers, divers and sun worshippers
with the airport only 10 minutes away.
There is wind throughout the year, with
some of the best in the Summer. It is also
very popular in winter as it is a good break
from the British climate. The original fishing
village has now built up into an international
resort with many hotels stretching along
the coast to the north and south of the
town. It is worth a visit to the old part
of town at Sakalla where you will find the
real Egypt. |
|
|
|
THE
SPOT
A shallow launch that reaches 5m into
the lagoon, guarantees a good start here
into a perfect flat water area. Beyond the
bay, with the wind blowing cross shore from
the left, you will find a classic swell
of 1m. The large beach is also particularly
appropriate for learning to kite surf with
plenty of space downwind.
Lying on the windward side of the bay, beginners
will appreciate having the larger part of
the bay in front of you without having to
tack. Stocked with the latest Fanatic boards
and Arrows rigs, the centre is only 15m
from the water. PW also offer an excellent
Move On instruction program teaching techniques
from beginners through to advanced surfers.
|
|
|
THE
WIND
The wind in the Red Sea is created by the
difference in temperature between the land
and sea. In Hurghada this is accelerated
by the mountain range and a bit more by
Giftun Island offshore. It will generally
pick up during the day and can often start
early and sometimes blow all day.
|
|
|
|
THE KITE
SURFING
Hurghada is a must for those who want to
learn to kite surf. There is plenty of space
to practice flying the kite, body dragging
and water starting in shallow areas. This
extends far enough from the beach to allow
100m runs before getting into deeper water.
Once your skill and confidence has built up,
you will be able to blast out to a sandbar
approximately 1km offshore. From there you
can walk up wind |
|
a little and head
back to the beach. Even on the first runs
you should be able to get back to the downwind
end of the 2nd bay. It's no problem if you
drift further downwind as there is another
km of beach to land on.
|