Curacao shops?

Bokeh · Since 07 Feb 2008 104 Posts Vancouver, WA Stoked

I'm looking for options for an onsite gear rental/classes on Curacao. Normally I bring my own gear, however this time I'd prefer to get gear on site if possible (even if it mean taking 'lessons').
I've heard Klein Curacao is sick, anyone cares to share experiences?

Scriffler · Since 03 Jul 2005 581 Posts LYLE Addicted

You won't find any gear for rent there. Some locals might be able to lend you gear though. Your best contact will be a guy named Ingmar at Windsurfing Curacao.

http://windsurfingcuracao.com/

The kiting is super epic there. You will need a rental car to get around, but those are pretty cheap. Check out Spanish Waters for the most insane flat water, or get a boat ride to Klein Curacao and do an epic open ocean downwinder back to sea aquarium beach. There could also be waves there(Klein Curacao or Sea aquarium) if you are lucky. If the wind is not up(highly unlikely this time of year), head to Playa Canoa on the North shore for super fun surfing. El Campo is also the largest collection of brothels outside Amsterdam if you need some nightlife. Have fun, Curacao is a good place almost untapped for kiting.

Scriffler · Since 03 Jul 2005 581 Posts LYLE Addicted

Just found this website too. http://www.curacaokiteboarding.com

Don't count on there being gear to rent there though. With all the money you will spend taking a lesson just bring your own gear. Where I am from in Bonaire they have a ton of gear but will charge you a full lesson rate($150 an hour) to use it. If you are a high roller and that averse to traveling with gear, you will be able to get gear I am sure, but who knows what kind. Besides, kite gear isn't much of a hassle to travel with. I go everywhere with a 10 foot coffin bag full of surfboards(5) and kites(2). It is the most unpleasant thing to lug around and pay for(have paid 500 dollars one way before), but having your own gear makes traveling to far off places that much better when you get there. Good luck, I hope you have the sickest trip ever.

Scriffler · Since 03 Jul 2005 581 Posts LYLE Addicted

Check this video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpEejIz_XpQ

Was there for this swell. Check the big right hander on Klein Curacao. Have never kited it but have windsurfed and surfed there. It is one of the sickest waves in the Caribbean, albeit rarely all time. This time of year is your best chance though.

flyin_dutchman · Since 12 Dec 2008 106 Posts LandLocked Stoked

It has been two years, so not sure about gear rental, but take your gear and MAKE SURE you do a FULL MOON Ride at Klein. Full moon nights they boat out there for a sess. The best thing I have ever done.

Bokeh · Since 07 Feb 2008 104 Posts Vancouver, WA Stoked

Thanks for the tips! About travelling with my own gear - my concern is the weight and size limit on a small Dutch Antilles Express flight between Aruba and Curacao. They list 20 kilo max, and I don't want to pay through the nose for extra or - worse yet - leave my boards behind.

Scriffler · Since 03 Jul 2005 581 Posts LYLE Addicted

Don't worry about those guys, they never charge for boards. Those flights are usually pretty empty, and if they can't fit it the evening flights usually always will. Worst case one day. Go get it, I have heard it is really windy right now.