VANCOUVER ISLAND WINDTALK

hey all! i have been fascinated by windsurfing for the last little while and would love to give it a shot some time soon... are there any places in victoria that offer lessons for beginners? ive been perusing the internet but so far no luck... hoping maybe someone here can offer a suggestion!
gracias!

Kevin Forsythe at Windsurfing Parksville ( 250-951-9873 ) was giving lessons on the beach in Parksville a few years back, don't know if he is still operating ...

PM "Windsurfing Parksville". Kevin is in operation this summer in Parksville.

keep thinking of resurrecting my orientation sessions....but September looks pretty busy, perhaps I can help you get going individually. Age, weight, ability, location would help. The lake is the best place to learn but Willows can be really great too. Got a suit??

Well this is embarassing.. looks like I made my first major rookie mistake.. I was actually talking about kiteboarding. oooops! Haha I made up a name for it in my head and got too excited. To be honest though I would be down to learn either.. I just want to get out on the water!

As for me: 23, 130 lbs. I live downtown, no experience whatsoever as you can tell. I'm in the process of buying a wetsuit.. is a 4/3 ok or would you suggest something a little warmer?

Thanks for your help guys

yep it is....and there are tons of threads on this and your questions, check the forum under kitesurfing

For lessons email Marty at

For a wetsuit, I'd say get a 5:4 with hood, especially since we are headed into the winter months. Keep an eye out for a thin full suit or a shorty for kiting at Nitnaht. Mark at Elevation kiteboarding (at Nitinaht) sells some good Mystic wetsuits. Ocean River Sports sells Excel shorties.

You may also want to keep in mind the Soul or Predator breathable drysuits from Ocean Rodeo. http://oceanrodeo.com/products/soul

Feel free to come to Cook St (Dallas Rd and Cook) and watch this evening. There should be some decent wind. Ask around and people will point out Marty or look for the guy "mega looping".

Also avoid ebay \ usedvictoria used gear that say "good beginner package". Ask for advice from your kite instructor.

She tricked us! lol

I'm the worst!!

so breezy are you learning yet??

Hi Breezy,

If you still want to get on the water. Come see me in Parksville.

Lessons are $ 50.00 per hour; bring a friend and they are $ 25.00 per hour.

I will have you sailing in two hours.

Lessons include all equipment, wetsuits and booties.