The popularity of kitesurfing has taken off impressively during the corona pandemic. While many people had to stay indoors, more and more adventurous souls chose to take to the water with their kite. Even today, sports enthusiasts from all over the country come to West Friesland for the special surf spots in the region.
Sven Luijbe, owner of kitesurfing school KiteFEEL in Schellinkhout, can hardly keep up with the demand. “During corona it was already incredibly busy, so much so that the beaches here were closed. After that, the popularity of kitesurfing did not decrease, but increased.”
It was previously thought that it would be a hype, but still they see an increase every year. Together with the association, they do their utmost to keep it safe, for example by offering beginners a lesson package with at least five lessons before they can get started independently.
Safe place
The surf spot in Schellinkhout is suitable for both beginners and very experienced kite surfers. “The spot faces south-west, and the Netherlands usually has a south-westerly wind direction,” says Luijbe. For kitesurfing you need an onshore wind, so from the water towards the beach. “This allows you to use this place often, in a safe way, with stable wind.”