With no mountains to climb or rivers to raft, it might seem that Cayman has little to offer adrenaline junkies. Yet the warm waters and tropical breezes, that signify a relaxing day at the beach to some, are exactly what kiteboarders need to get their adrenaline fix.

The colourful kites are a spectacle to behold from shore, but it is the aerial manoeuvres executed by the more advanced kiteboarders that make the sport attractive not only from a spectator’s point of view, but also for participants.

For the folks at Sail Cayman, including kiteboarding in their quiver of watersports was a natural fit.

With three International Kiteboarding Organisation certified instructors, the company can provide everything you need to get into the sport, from providing kiteboarding lessons to supplying you with the kiteboarding gear you need.

The team base themselves at Barkers in West Bay, where, according to watersports instructor Walter Fajette, the conditions are perfect for kiteboarding.

“It is a fantastic spot to learn. The water is pretty shallow and protected by the reef, so the water is flat as well,” he says.

The absence of buildings and power lines for the kite to snag on is also a big plus, as beginners often lack the skill to guide their kites down carefully and accurately.

Another important factor in favour of learning to kiteboard at Barkers is the wind direction.

“The wind is generally onshore, so you always end up on the beach, and not in Cuba or somewhere,” laughs Walter.

East End also draws the kiteboarders who don’t mind a bit of a drive, and during the summer months kiteboarders can also be found out on South Sound. However, kiteboarders have been known to accidentally drape their kites over some of the homes that line the beach, so novices beware.   WH

For more information on kiteboarding, call 916-7742.