Guide to Windsurfing in CabareteOur mini guide to the spot, history, centers and right of way rules.For over 30 years, Cabarete has offered the perfect playground to watersports fanatics from all corners of the globe. So much so that it has been named as one of the top wind sports destinations in the world. Let’s kick start this guide off with a trip down memory lane to where it all began with windsurfing in Cabarete. A Brief History LessonIf you’ve visited Cabarete before, then you’ve probably heard this story. If not, then let us fill you in on where it all began. Around the 1980’s, Hawaii was the place to be for windsurfing. It’s where everyone went to train, compete and socialise. Canadian windsurfer, Jean Laporte, quickly became tired of the lengthy and expensive flights so began to scope out closer training grounds. After putting his trust in his travel agent, he was on his flight to the Dominican Republic. Jean was quickly disappointed with his findings on the south side of the island, but after discussing the wind direction with local fisherman, he realised the north coast was the best bet. After scouring the north coast, Jean and his travel partner were enjoying a cold one with the locals when they noticed the wind and waves starting to pick up. The midday trade winds were filling in. They hopped in the car, drove around the corner and there it was … Cabarete Bay. From that moment on, this little fishing town transformed into a watersports mecca and has since welcomed top athletes. In addition, Cabarete has hosted prestigious windsurfing and kitesurfing competitions like the Windsurf World Tour, Master of the Ocean and the Cabarete Classic! Cabarete Windsurf Spot GuideWindsurfing Conditions in Cabarete
Obstacles While Windsurfing in CabareteIt’s not particularly tidal meaning less current, no predators, and a vast amount of space! We have no big obstacles here, we just recommend paying attention to the reef at low tide as sometimes areas can become exposed. The only other obstacles are other water users. As an increasingly popular wind sports location, it’s important to be aware of other windsurfers, kitesurfers, sailors, kayakers, SUPers, and swimmers in the water. Fortunately, there is a set of right of way rules that take care of this problem! Right Of Way Rules For WindsurfingOvertaking Sailor Needs to Give Way As the sailor in front is rightfully looking where he/she is going, the person overtaking needs to avoid a collision by giving way and space to them. When two windsurfers are heading towards each other, the one with the left hand closer to the mast must most out of the way and the person with the right hand nearer the mast can stay on their course. As the downwind sailor cannot see the windsurfer upwind, he/she holds the right of way. If they decide to change course and bear upwind, the upwind windsurfer must change course. Aside from these rules, it is everyone’s job on the water to avoid a collision. Always be conscious of people around you and be aware that they might not know the rules. Graphics courtesy of howtowindsurf101.com. Windsurf Centres and Schools in CabareteAll of the windsurfing action takes place right in our backyard and conveniently all the schools and centres are located within a 5 minutes walk of our condos. Right next door to us at Villa Taina Hotel is the Cabarete Windsports Club, then midway through town is Vela Cabarete, and at the far end is Ion Club. Each offer lessons, coaching and rentals. With the combination of ideal and safe conditions, Cabarete is the perfect place to learn and improve. The post Guide to Windsurfing in Cabarete appeared first on Better Than a Hotel – Cabarete Palm Beach Condos. from Better Than a Hotel – Cabarete Palm Beach Condos https://cabaretecondos.com/windsurfing-in-cabarete/ via Tumblr https://cabaretedr.tumblr.com/post/174886505993
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AuthorLearn about traveling and living in the Cabarete, Dominican Republic. Good places to visits and fun things to do in Dominican Republic. Archives
October 2018
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