jibing

Question
QUESTION: Where are the best places to go to learn/practice jibing?

ANSWER: Hey Hanalei,

Anywhere that there is enough wind to have you planning comfortably will work. Preferably where there is no waves. A sheltered bay, inside a reef, the upwind side of a bay or lake. The less waves or chop but enough wind would be the best for learning & practicing jibes. It would also help to get a video or two to help you get things going in your head. If your mind can think it through, you can train your body to perform. Look online for Alan Cadiz or Peter Hart. Both have great instructional videos.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Can you recommend some specific places that have the characteristics mentioned?

ANSWER: Hey Hanalei,

Not sure how to answer your question. I don't know where you are or what sailing areas you are near. I could mention some places but they may involve a whole lot of traveling. Not knowing your personnal situation, I'm not sure where to suggest. Let me know where you would be doing the most sailing and I could narrow it down some for you. If you can travel anywhere you want, then let me know that. There are some great places in the carribean that would be good for jibing. So, send me some info on your location and where you can travel to and I should be able to help you better.

Keep on sailing,
Windlover

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hiu Windlover,

Assume I could travel anywhere to get better at jibing.

Answer
Hey Hanalei,

My first recommendation would be Margarita in the Virgin Islands. Flat water, good winds, good instructions available, decent packages. Next would be Bonaire, also in the Virgin Islands. Next would be Aruba. Then Maui, Hawaii, Kanaha Beach. All these places offer great instruction, warm water, good winds, and a variety of packages for lodging, gear, etc.

Check out windsurfingmag.com, travel for more info. Also check out Velawindsurf.com for some great package deals.

If you are looking for in the United States, Florida Keys and South Padre Island, Texas are both great destinations for flat, warm water.

Hope this will help you get dialed on those jibes.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover