The water start is the moment kitesurfing clicks: the kite pulls, the board planes and you are riding. It is also where most beginners spend the most time. The secret is to let the kite do the work instead of trying to stand up.
📖 3 min read · Updated September 2026 · By Sergei Sharvarok · Founder & Head Instructor
The Set-Up
- Sit in the water with the board on your feet, knees bent and close to your chest.
- Kite at 12 o'clock, steady, bar in both hands.
- Point the board slightly downwind in the direction you want to go.
The Dive
Steer the kite smoothly from 12 o'clock down towards the side you are riding to, then back up. That dive creates the pull. The bigger and faster the dive, the more power — in light wind you need more, in strong wind very little.
Let It Pull You Up
- Keep your legs bent and your weight over the board while the kite pulls.
- Straighten your front leg as you rise and push a little on the back foot.
- Bring the kite to about 45° once you are up, and edge gently to control speed.
Common Mistakes
- Standing up with your legs — you pull against the kite and fall backwards. Let the kite lift you.
- Too little dive — no power, you sink. Too much — you are pulled over the board.
- Board pointing upwind — you stall. Start slightly downwind.
- Looking at the board — look where you want to go.
If you keep falling forward, dive a little less. If you keep sinking back, dive more. Change one thing at a time between attempts.
Learning on Koh Samui
Shallow, flat water at Nahai Beach (December–April) makes water starts much easier: you can stand between attempts and set up again quickly. Water starts are the core of our Full Beginner course — 6 hours private or 9 hours in a group of two, 14,000 THB — coached through radio helmets so you hear corrections during each attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I fall forward on my water start?
Usually too much power — the kite dives too deep or too fast. Make the dive smaller and smoother.
Why do I sink back during a water start?
Not enough power, or you try to stand with your legs. Dive the kite more and let it pull you up.
How long does it take to learn the water start?
Most students manage their first water starts within the Full Beginner course, often on the second or third lesson.
Which way should the board point?
Slightly downwind in your riding direction. Pointing upwind stalls the start.
Stand Up and Ride
Radio-helmet coaching makes the water start click faster.
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