Happy surfing

Enjoying windsurfing in the Canaries is always a fascinating experience due to the unbeatable year-round conditions that allow you to practise at any level. However, it is important to remember that navigating in the sea can be dangerous if you do not take precautions. Fifty percent of accidents are due to unforeseen events; however, the other fifty percent result from the thoughtlessness of some windsurfers who through inexperience try to conquer fierce or unknown waters and are later incapable of returning to shore, causing rescues that are sometimes difficult and worrying. Some simple precautions can prevent unpleasant surprises that could ruin a marvellous day of surfing.

For this reason, we strongly urge you to consider the following recommendations: · Take into account the classification of danger of the areas highlighted in this guide; some suitable only for very experienced surfers. · Make use of the many clubs and schools that exist in the Canaries to get information about the specific characteristics of the area that you choose, prior to venturing out. · Check the state of your equipment before entering the water. · Bring a spare cable and always surf with a suit such as one of neoprene, which can float as a life preserver and protects you from the cold. · Never surf alone, especially in isolated areas. · Don't go too far from the shore. You should calculate the distance that you would be able to handle swimming and not go past that distance. · Always rig the board to the sail. With a strong wind it is difficult to reach it if you should become separated while out at sea. And if the situation becomes complicated, leave the rigging behind and return to shore by paddling on top of the board. · Don't surf late in the day. You will reduce the possibilities of success in case of rescue. Remember that the law limits surfing to two hours before sunset. · Before trying a surfing manoeuvre, make sure that you are not too close to other surfers and avoid surfing in places where there are many swimmers or where you might obstruct the way of boats. Keeping in mind the safety of others as well as of yourself can help guarantee happy surfing. The wind in the Canaries will provide you with the rest.