Disclaimer
The information given here is taken at your own risk and we can not be held liable for any accident or incident resulting from the use of this information
Overview
Learning when it's safe to kitesurf can be a bit confusing when you first start out. All the terms, offshore, onshore, south west, Isobars, Knots, Low pressure etc may not mean very much for the new kiter.
Below is some information that will help guide you to choosing safe times and locations to head out. Much of the information can be applied to any location.
Wind direction
This can be easily assessed at any beach using my simple method.
- Stand with your back to the wind
- Where you are looking is where you will end up!
Looking out to sea: (Offshore wind) This is not safe and should only be practiced with boat support or if the area is shallow enough to stand. Consider also the movement of the tide as the depth may change quickly.
- If something goes wrong! You will quickly be dragged away from the beach.
Looking directly at the beach: (Onshore wind) You will need to be able to get at least 150m out before starting any practice .This is to allow enough room for your practice and room for error. You also must aim to stop practice at least 50m away from the shore.
- If something goes wrong! You will be dragged straight up the beach.
Looking along the beach at an angle away from the shore: (Side Offshore wind) As you have the ability to drag or kite to either side you will need to consider if there is an area further along the shore where you can land.
- If something goes wrong! You will likely be dragged away from the shore
Looking along the beach at an angle towards the shore: (Side Onshore wind) As you have the ability to drag or kite to either side you will need to consider if there is an area further along the shore where you can land and also ensure you stop your practice at least 50m away from the shore.
- If something goes wrong! You will likely be dragged towards the shore.
Tides
The time of High and Low tide changes every day but can easily be checked for the Southend area here
The best time to go kitesurfing in the Southend area is around low tide. This allows you to easily deal with a dropped or tangled kite and ensure you can safely get back to dry land if you need to.
The approximate times to enter and leave the water for Southend Area can be found below. These will vary according to the Moon phase so should only be used as a rough guide.
East Beach:
- Enter the water - Approximately 1.5 hours after High tide
- Leave the water - Approximately 1.5 hours before High tide
Uncle Toms:
- Enter the water - Approximately 3.5 hours after High tide
- Leave the water - Approximately 3.5 hours before High tide