Winter break for water sports schools: surfers are changing industries!

Winter break for water sports schools: surfers are changing industries!

In the Fischland-Darß-Zingst region it’s time for the surfing and kite stations: season over! The stations have closed their doors, the last waves have been ridden and wooden panels now protect the shops from uninvited guests. Marius König Kiefer, who runs the surfing station “Surfschuppen” in Born, can look back on a busy season with over 25 employees. But what happens to surfing instructors and water sports enthusiasts now that the wind used to provide the right buoyancy?

As Ostsee-Zeitung reports, many of the water sports instructors are moving for the winter months in different industries. While some work in the snow-capped Alps as ski and snowboard instructors in Switzerland or Austria, others head to distant Cape Town, South Africa, to enjoy the warm currents of the Atlantic. Local talents, such as those from the “Kite Mafia” in Saal, are also returning to the universities or taking up other study assignments. A trend that could be important for the regional economy.

Fluctuating wind conditions pose a challenge

But not everything is rosy. The season at the “Surfcenter Wustrow” was one of the worst in history, as unfavorable wind conditions severely limited surfing opportunities. Oliver Kuschke, owner of the station, unfortunately had to realize that many wind lovers were looking for fun elsewhere this year. This means that the pressure on the continuous acquisition of trainers and planning for the coming season remains high.

Only three to four employees stay in Born all year round to take care of strategic planning for the next season. Fortunately, employee turnover has decreased, improving stability and the working atmosphere in the industry. A good hand that could also prove advantageous in the coming months.

Water sports in German-speaking countries

In a Germany-wide comparison, the analysis by BeyondSurfing of 6,431 water sports providers shows that quality and variety in the offering are of great importance. Providers are divided into different categories, from boat rentals to diving schools to the best water sports facilities of the year. This ranking provides useful guidance for water sports fans in Germany and shows that the industry is diverse but also challenging.

At the moment, water sports on the coast have become quieter, but the anticipation for next season remains high among many teachers and providers. In the meantime, there remains hope for better wind conditions and therefore a prosperous 2026 season!

Further information about water sports and current trends can be found at nudevista.net and BeyondSurfing.