Optimum Kite is Sylvain Hoceini's kitesurfing and wingfoil school, founded in 2003 in Palavas-les-Flots and now based in Frontignan-Plage, between Sète and Montpellier. A former funboard rider, Sylvain Hoceini has had a long competitive career in kiting: several times world speed vice-champion, French speed champion in 2014, French and European long-distance champion, with a personal best of 54.54 knots averaged over 500 m. He has also raced kitefoil (Hydrofoil Pro Tour), winning the Grand Master category at the 2017 Festikite.
Lessons mostly take place on the Étang d'Ingril, a shallow lagoon between the sea and the Gardiole hills, exposed to the Tramontane and Mistral winds. Depending on the wind direction, the spot may change on the day: Les Aresquiers beach, Palavas-les-Flots, Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone, L'Espiguette or other spots along the coast. The school uses recent equipment, including kites designed for very light wind.
The school offers private lessons and 1 to 5-day group courses in kitesurfing, kitefoil and wingfoil (groups of 3 at most for wing), supervised riding with equipment provided, and rental of kite and wing gear, stand up paddles and an 8-person giant paddle board. Instructors hold the French state teaching qualification, the school displays the FFVL and AFKite logos, and students must be able to swim.
Prices shown on the school's website (no year stated), per person.
Third-party liability insurance is compulsory and can be taken out online with AFKite. Cancellations less than 48 hours before the lesson are charged 30%. Payment by cheque or cash, according to the tourist office.
Open all year round.
Out of season: Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm. In July and August: every day, 9 am to 7 pm.
Lessons by appointment. The weather check is done the day before, and lessons only run in conditions suitable for beginners.
Book by phone on +33 6 64 88 39 52 or by e-mail.
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