General Guidelines:
- Know right of way rules for kiting, especially if you go out into the waves in Maui
- No Kiteboarding before 11 AM on the northshore of Maui
- Keep 300 feet from Humpback Whales and divers
- Select a safe launch and ask the locals before attempting to ride at a new location for the first time
- Carefully check the weather and wind
- Don’t fly in offshore or onshore winds unless you have done a proper risk assessment
- Check all equipment before launching and do not launch close to people or dangerous obstacles
- Check lines for knots, wear, and twists. Make sure screws are properly tightened on board and kite is properly inflated.
- Always use a kite leash and attach it before hooking into the chicken loop
- Don’t launch or land in crowded areas. Don’t fly near or over people/obstacles
- Stay clear of power lines, trees, and roads. Maintain a 2 line length downwind buffer from all obstacles
- Keep downwind of other ocean users (eg. windsurfers, stand up paddle boarders, spear fisherman)
- Assist fellow riders with launching/landing if they need it
- Always kite with a buddy, but if you have to go alone, tell someone where you are kiting and what your plan and backup plan are
- Never kite further from shore than you can swim
- Carry a safety cutter knife
- Help out other kiters in need
- Kite with respect for others and you will get respect
Rules of Riding (Right of Way):
Responsible kiteboarders know the right of way rules, and always ride with courtesy and respect. Kiteboarding rules help to avoid collisions with other water users and other kiters.
- Always use a kite leash
- Never launch or fly you kite over a non-kiteboarder
- Incoming Kiter gives way to the Kiter who is launching
- The kiter with the right hand forward (starboard tack) has right of way
- The upwind kites gives way to the downwind kiter
- The overtaking kiter gives way to the slower kiter
- Look before you turn or jump
- The outgoing kiter gives way to the kiter on the wave
- Avoid collisions at all costs
- Stay clear of beginner kiters
- Do not jump close to shore
- Stay away from swimmers, surfers, fisherman, canoes
Remember: Your conduct is representative of all kiteboarders, Please always ride with respect and tolerance. Kiting on the north shore is a privilege, do not take it for granted. Always follow the directives of the lifeguards, and stay in the designated kiteboarding areas.