A downwind around Essaouira is reserved for independent riders: you need to know how to manage the course, the waves, the priorities and the unexpected. The itineraries change depending on the wind, the swell and the level of the group. The team chooses the useful route, not the most spectacular on paper.
A downwind around Essaouira is reserved for independent riders: you need to know how to manage the course, the waves, the priorities and the unexpected. The itineraries change depending on the wind, the swell and the level of the group. The team chooses the useful route, not the most spectacular on paper.
A good downwind begins before launching. We look at the real direction of the wind, the size of the swell, the possible exit zones and the way the coast presents itself between Essaouira and the arrival point. On paper, a run may seem simple; on the water, a cross swell or a decreasing wind completely changes the session.
The briefing serves to define the pace of the group, the distances to keep between riders, the regrouping points and the procedure if someone breaks equipment or decides to leave before the end.
Classic run of around 30 km. 1h30 to 2h30 depending on the wind and the level. Semi-exposed coast, some waves depending on the swell of the day. Return transport included from Sidi Kaouki.
From the north. More exposed coast, more waves and swell, more changeable conditions. Advanced riders only. Transport to the starting point in Moulay included.
Confirmed autonomous rider: capable of handling waves of 1 to 2 meters without losing control. Transfers controlled (clean jibe, tack possible). Known safety procedures: depowering, self-rescue, body drag. Otherwise: in-bay diagnostic sessions first. This is not a test, it's common sense.
The run begins on Essaouira beach, in the usual launch area. The first minutes are in the bay: steady wind, flat water, clear markers. You take your downwind gait and descend towards the south.
After the bay, the coast opens up. You leave the protection of Mogador Island and enter the direct Atlantic swell. Coastal waves form depending on the swell of the day: between 0.5 and 1.5 m in normal conditions. You have to manage momentum, stay the course and anticipate the waves. This is where the level shows.
Halfway along, the sandy coast gives way to intermittently more rocky areas. You sail offshore to avoid shallow areas. The end of the run is on the open beach of Sidi Kaouki, with a large space and a clear landing.
Stable forecast for the 4-5 hours of the run, clear north to northwest direction, moderate swell (0.5 to 1.5 m), no expected drop in wind, no cross swell.
Kite in good condition, lines checked, reliable leash, suitable suit and telephone in waterproof cover for emergency contact.
Someone knows your ETA, return transportation is arranged, and the Seagull team number is recorded.
Wind: 22-28 knots, clear north to northwest direction. Too little wind makes the run long and exhausting. Too strong a wind (35+ knots) makes coastal waves difficult to manage.
Swell: moderate (0.5 to 1.5 m). A big swell is manageable for advanced riders but not recommended for a first downwinder. Best period: June to September for regular conditions. July-August offers the most dynamic runs. To avoid: unstable winds, rapidly decreasing forecasts, cross swells, coastal fog.
When logistics are planned, the rider can concentrate on his riding. The departure is validated at the right time, the return is organized, the group knows where to meet and no one discovers on arrival that they have to negotiate transport with a wet board and a kite full of sand.
Know how to take off again, ride waves and return to the edge if necessary.
Coastal option to the south: €40, return transport included.
More committed, advanced riders only: €40, transport to Moulay included.
The organization depends on the spot chosen the same morning depending on the weather.
We check the wind and swell forecasts. If the conditions are not suitable for the planned downwind, we adapt or cancel. Safety takes priority over the program.
Yes. The Essaouira-Sidi Kaouki run is also done by wingfoil. Same level requirements.
Not an expert, but a confirmed intermediate to advanced rider. You must manage the waves, maintain your course and arrive at an open beach without assistance.
This is the scenario that we avoid with stable forecasts. If this happens, the procedure is to go to the nearest beach and call for return transport.
Contact us 48 hours in advance. We check the forecasts and confirm the spot and schedule the day before.
Essaouira riders guide · Local guides by the Seagull team
When to come kitesurfing in Essaouira? Month by month analysis, wind strength, required level and recommended spots depending on the period. Seagull Club.
Read the guide
Medina or beachside for a kitesurfing stay in Essaouira? Material logistics, riads and storage solutions. Seagull Club.
Read the guideDescribe your last session to us: we will answer you honestly.
Google Reviews · Seagull Club Essaouira
A few reviews left after kitesurfing, surf and wingfoil lessons with the team.
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