Below, we have provided a list of our frequently asked questions. Please feel free to browse through them. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, do not hesitate to email us at info@dpc-kappaladi.com.
Seasons
Summer (May - Sep) with SW wind around 18-24 knots all day long
Winter (Mid Dec - Feb) with NE wind around 12-16 knots
Working hours
08:30 - 19:00
We are situated at the Kappaladi Lagoon, which is smaller than the Kalpitiya Lagoon. However, we have significantly fewer kiters and wingers on the water. Most importantly, we benefit from the cleanest and most consistent winds in the area.
Kiteboarding, kitefoiling & wing foiling
English, German, French, and Sinhala
Lessons: max. 2 Students per instructor
Safaris & downwinders: 2 - 8 people
We issue an IKO certificate to individuals who complete a 6-hour course, signed by our IKO-qualified instructors.
There's a minimum of 2 people for the safaris. If you're a solo traveler we will do our best to find other guests that you can join!
All safaris are guided with a safety boat and a kite assistant, meaning that if you get into trouble, help is always at hand. However, to avoid constant boat pickups we expect you to be confident riding upwind. If you're still learning that, we suggest booking an instructor with your trip to get you riding upwind consistently in no time!
Transportation, meals, and drinks (water is complimentary, soft drinks/beer are available at an additional cost) are included. Additionally, we provide a first-aid kit and a kite pump. So, what do you need to bring?
We have the most comfortable and safest boat on the coast. Our RIB boat has twin engines and is extremely well-maintained. There's a board rack and kite hangers to make sure your equipment doesn't get damaged and there's space to bring multiple sizes. And with the shade it provides, you have a nice place to chill in between your sessions. We also provide transport to and from the boat, including lunch (rice and curry), snacks and drinks! So no hidden costs, just full service!
We maintain a reliable and secure boat for our sessions. Our instructors are certified in first aid and carry first-aid kits along with an ample supply of water at all times. However, it's crucial to recognize that your safety while kiting depends significantly on your own actions. We kindly request you to consider that the nearest hospital is 1.5 hours away, emphasizing the importance of caution and responsibility during your activities.
Kite and wing sizes are determined based on your weight, skills, and chosen discipline. During the main season, the most common kite sizes are 10 m and 8 m, while in the winter season, 12 m and 10 m kites are popular. For wings, sizes typically range from 3.5 m to 5 m in the main season and from 4.5 m to 6 m in winter. However, if you have your own equipment, it's advisable to bring it with you instead of leaving it at home.
Additionally, we recommend bringing:
Our rental gear is generally not older than two seasons and is always in excellent condition.
Any damage resulting from normal use of the equipment will not be charged to you. However, before renting, you are required to sign a standard rental agreement, stating your liability for damages caused by your obvious negligence only. Additionally, we provide an optional insurance plan that offers coverage in case of accidental damage, providing you with added peace of mind during your rental period.
Yes, you can switch your rental gear and try to either find the best fit or simply try out different models.
During the main season, from May to September, the average wind speed ranges from 20 to 26 knots. In the winter season, from December to March, the wind speed typically varies between 14 and 20 knots. For more detailed and up-to-date wind information, please check https://www.windguru.cz/579409.
As soon as the wind picks up at the start of the May to September season, you're practically guaranteed kiteable conditions 24/7! During the winter season, from December to March, we typically experience around four days of good wind per week.
If you're arriving from Colombo airport, simply provide us with your flight details, and we can organize a transfer by car or van, depending on the number of passengers and gear bags. Alternatively, you can opt for the train to Palavi station, followed by a 3-wheeler ride, or take the bus to Palakuda Junction and then a 3-wheeler from there.
We are located at the Kappaladi lagoon, approximately 30 minutes south of Kalpitiya, which is smaller than the Kalpitiya lagoon. We do however have significantly fewer kiters and wingers on the water plus most importantly we get the cleanest and most consistent winds in the area. The village of Kappaladi is a small fishing village bordering the lagoon.
A stone's throw away, we are located right on the lagoon.
While Kalpitiya is fantastic, we firmly believe that the Kappaladi lagoon is even more suitable for teaching as well as accommodating advanced riders. Come and experience it for yourself!
Although it can get busier during the peak season (June - August), it's always quiet enough to ride, practice, and learn comfortably and safely.
When you book, you have the option, in addition to the included breakfast, to add 'full board'. This means you can enjoy our Sri Lankan buffet for lunch and dinner, which is a preferred choice for most guests due to the limited number of restaurants in the area.