Private Hydrofoil Kite Lesson

Kiteboarding or kitesurfing (as it’s referred to in Europe) is one of the most exhilarating and fast growing sports we have come to experience. It is a combination of paragliding, sailing, wakeboarding, surfing and more in one compact easy to learn the sport. You use a kite to manipulate the wind to sail and jump over water, land, or even snow. Ride whatever you want wherever the wind blows with only the power of nature at your back.

Hydrofoiling is a type of water sport that involves riding a special board with a hydrofoil attached underneath. The hydrofoil is a wing-like structure that lifts the board above the surface of the water when the rider gains speed, reducing drag and allowing for a smoother and faster ride. This "flying" sensation is what makes hydrofoiling unique. As the rider accelerates, the hydrofoil (which is typically a wing or fin) generates lift, raising the board out of the water. This reduces the contact between the board and the water, which eliminates most of the drag. The result is a smooth, gliding ride where the board hovers above the water, creating a quiet and almost effortless experience.

The Board:

• Hydrofoil: In hydrofoiling, you use a board with a hydrofoil attached to the bottom. This hydrofoil is a wing-like structure that extends below the water’s surface, lifting the board out of the water as you gain speed.
• Traditional Kiteboarding: Traditional kiteboarding uses a regular twin-tip board that stays in constant contact with the water, relying on the board’s edge and the kite’s pull for control.

Riding Experience:

• Hydrofoil: Once you reach enough speed, the hydrofoil lifts you above the water, creating a smooth, almost silent glide. The ride feels much smoother since you're not dealing with choppy water or resistance from the board against the surface.
• Traditional Kiteboarding: In normal kiteboarding, the board stays in the water, which means there’s more resistance and you’re more affected by the chop and waves, making for a less smooth ride at times.

Speed and Efficiency:

• Hydrofoil: Because the hydrofoil reduces drag by lifting you above the water, hydrofoiling allows you to ride at lower speeds, especially in light wind conditions. It’s more efficient, allowing you to maintain speed even in lighter winds.
• Traditional Kiteboarding: Regular kiteboarding requires a bit more wind to generate enough power to ride because the board has more drag and stays in contact with the water.

Learning Curve:

• Hydrofoil: Hydrofoiling generally has a steeper learning curve. It requires precise control and balance to stay above the water as you ride. It can be harder to master since small movements can cause you to lose control or fall off the foil.
• Traditional Kiteboarding: Traditional kiteboarding tends to be easier to learn in the beginning, as it’s more familiar, and you’re not having to balance above the water. However, progressing to advanced maneuvers can still be challenging.

Applications:

• Hydrofoil: Hydrofoils are particularly great for exploring and riding in flat water or choppy conditions. They’re also commonly used for wave riding and downwinders, as they allow you to glide over the water with less resistance.
• Traditional Kiteboarding: Regular kiteboarding is ideal for freeride, freestyle tricks, and wave riding (using a regular twin-tip or directional board).

The official windy season in Puerto Rico is from mid-November until the end of August. We are conveniently located to get the best of the winds all season long. Winds range from 16-25 knots 20+ days a month.