Getting Started with Windsurfing at the Baltic Sea

Magazine
Surfers on the water
©
13.09.2018, Usedom Tourismus GmbH

Windsurfing on the Baltic Sea has become one of Germany's most popular water sports. But riding the wind on a board is a skill that takes practice.

It All Comes Down to the Technology

For many years now, more and more beginners have been trying their hand at windsurfing. After just a few hours, they’re already gliding skillfully across the calm waters of the Baltic Sea. At first, however, you'll quickly realize that it won't work without the right technique. Especially in the beginning, you lack the right feel for the interplay between the board, the sail, and the wind. That’s why attending a surf school is the fastest way to success.

Learn to windsurf at a surf school on the Baltic Sea

Those who already have some experience with board sports will be able to learn windsurfing more quickly. Over the years, many surf schools have been established at popular surf spots along the Baltic Sea. There, certified surf instructors first teach the basics about the right equipment, as well as important rules and potential hazards. In addition, at the surf school you’ll always meet like-minded people who are also interested in windsurfing. Windsurfing on the Baltic Sea as part of a group isn’t just more fun—it’s also safer.

Usedom offers a wide selection of excellent surf schools with experienced instructors. Here, you can learn the basics of windsurfing during an active vacation. You’ll find the most popular schools at the following surf spots:

 

How do you choose the right surf school?

In recent years, the number of surf schools on the Baltic Sea has risen rapidly. But how can you tell if a water sports school is any good? Before booking a course, it’s best to do some research online first. That way, you can learn about the experiences and opinions of other course participants and make an informed decision. The surf school should also be internationally recognized according to the quality standards of the VDWS.

The best surf schools along the Baltic Sea are those that offer courses in small groups. This ensures that the surf instructor can give each participant individual attention. Theoretical instruction should take place in classrooms specifically designed for this purpose.

The surf school should also provide the equipment for the courses at no additional charge. This includes the board, the sail, the wetsuit, as well as additional instructional materials on DVD or in reference book form. The course should conclude with a recognized certification. With this certification, you are authorized to surf in designated areas. You can also rent surfboards at VDWS schools worldwide.

How long does it take to learn how to windsurf?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this, as participants with prior experience can get the hang of it more quickly. One-day courses teach the basics and cover the associated risks. After a few dry runs, you’ll head out on a short surf trip—always under the supervision of a surf instructor, of course. Surf schools along the Baltic Sea provide beginners with a special surfboard equipped with a fin, which offers greater stability in the water. During multi-day surf courses, you’ll focus primarily on gaining hands-on experience on the board. Within three or four days, every participant should be skilled enough to stand on the board on their own.

Who can learn to windsurf on the Baltic Sea?

Anyone who can swim can learn how to handle the sail properly while windsurfing. It doesn’t matter whether you’re 8 or 60 years old. The biggest challenge in windsurfing is maintaining the right balance. People who are physically active in their free time and are in good shape find it easier. Even though it might not seem like it, windsurfing engages many parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, and the back and abdominal muscles. Quick reflexes are just as important. When windsurfing, you sometimes have to adjust the position of the sail very quickly and adapt your body position to the wind and waves.

The World of Windsurfing

With the knowledge you’ve gained from the course, nothing stands in your way of surfing at the world’s most beautiful surf spots. (But what could be better than windsurfing on the Baltic Sea along Usedom’s long beaches?) One thing is certain: once you’ve fallen under the spell of gliding across the shimmering water on your board, this fascinating sport will hold you in its grip for a long time to come.

Share this discovery

By clicking the icons, you leave this website.

Book Your Vacation Now