Philovent

Philovent is a kitesurfing school created in 2007 by Emmanuel Larmier, who has run it since the start and says he has trained more than 5,000 people. It is open year-round on the island of Ré, at the La Couarde-sur-Mer spot (Boutillon beach), 25 minutes from La Rochelle, with two set-ups: beach start (thigh-deep water) or offshore start by boat. Its address is 50 rue de la Tonnelle in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, and the website features a 2025 spots map and a "New: Foil" banner.

Courses range from initiation to improvement, including jumps and tricks, for ages 12 to 77. Group lessons are offered from €100, supervised sessions from €60, and special youth formulas are announced. Equipment rental is reserved for riders able to ride upwind and turn around; otherwise the session is charged as a lesson. Equipment is renewed every year and includes wetsuits, booties, flotation vests, harnesses, walkie-talkies and helmets.

Emmanuel Larmier has been an instructor since 2001, holding the professional state diploma in kitesurfing and the state sailing diploma; Romain Bureau holds the same diplomas.