Kitesurfing in Essaouira is a dream for many water sports enthusiasts, thanks to the city’s steady winds and vibrant kite scene. While lessons are available for beginners, experienced kiters will find renting gear offers the freedom to hit the waves whenever the wind is right. We’ve gathered insights and reviews from those who’ve experienced Explora Watersports’ rental service to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
What we love about this experience: the quality of equipment, the helpfulness of staff, and the flexibility of rental options. One thing to consider is that you’ll need to be confident in kite control and upwind riding — this isn’t suited for complete beginners. If you’re an experienced kiter looking for reliable gear and a friendly atmosphere, this rental service in Essaouira checks all the boxes.
Key Points
- High-Quality Equipment: Explora offers brand new Duotone kites and a variety of sizes, ensuring your gear matches your skill level and wind conditions.
- Flexible Rental Options: Rent for half a day, a full day, or an entire week, with the possibility to customize your gear needs.
- Inclusive Service: Launch, landing, and rescue boat services are included, providing peace of mind while you’re on the water.
- Ideal for Experienced Kiters: You must be able to kite upwind confidently and swim, making this more suitable for seasoned surfers.
- Prime Location: The shop is located right at the beach, next to Beach & Friends bar, offering easy access and a relaxed vibe.
- Excellent Customer Reviews: With a perfect 5.0 rating from 55 reviews, many mention the helpful staff, top-notch gear, and great wind conditions.
The Setup: What to Expect from the Rental Process
The rental operation runs daily from 8am to 8pm at Explora Watersports, a dedicated kitesurf, surfing, and wing foil centre in Essaouira. You can opt for half-day rentals (45 Euros) or full-day rentals (65 Euros), with prices decreasing for longer durations — €180 for three days or €350 for a week. This flexible setup means you can match your rental to your trip plans, whether you’re chasing the wind for a single session or planning a kite-focused week.
The rental package includes kite, bar, board, harness, wetsuit, and launch, landing, and rescue services. Reviewers particularly appreciated that the equipment is brand new and variety-rich, with some noting that the gear is suitable for all wind strengths thanks to the different sizes available. If you have specific needs, such as a smaller or larger kite, you can rent just the kite or board separately, which offers added flexibility.
The team’s professionalism shines through in reviews, with many praising staff like Elhoumadi, Youssef, and Aziz for their helpful advice and friendly attitude. The shop is located right at the beach, making it easy to grab your gear and hit the water without fuss. Many reviewers highlighted the convenience of the location, just in front of the kite spot and near local bars and restaurants.
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The Experience: What a Typical Day Looks Like
You’ll start your day at the shop around 9:30am, where staff will pump up the kite and set you up with the right size based on current conditions. If you’re a seasoned kiter, you’ll appreciate their knowledge of the local wind patterns, which many reviewers say is spot-on. For example, some guests mentioned that the staff recommend the perfect kite size daily, leading to consistent, enjoyable sessions.
Once geared up, you’ll launch from the shore with the launch, landing, and rescue boats all ready to support you. This is a key feature, especially for those who want to focus on riding without worrying about safety or retrieval concerns. Several reviews mention the helpfulness of the staff during launches and landings, describing them as attentive and always ready to assist.
During the day, you can enjoy multiple sessions if conditions allow. Some guests took downwinders or explored nearby spots with the help of Explora’s arrangements. The overall vibe is relaxed but professional, with many reviewers saying the team creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages confident riding.
The Gear and Conditions
The equipment is consistently praised for being new and well-maintained. Many reviewers have remarked on the high quality of the Duotone gear, which makes a noticeable difference in performance. The variety of kite sizes means you can adapt to changing wind conditions — critical in Essaouira, where wind can fluctuate.
Guests also appreciated the free wetsuits, which are especially valuable if you plan to spend multiple days on the water. The wetsuits allow for longer sessions without discomfort, and reviewers have noted that the team is attentive in fitting them properly.
Unique Offerings and Extras
Beyond simple rentals, Explora Watersports offers downwinders and kite trips to explore more remote or less crowded spots. This adds a layer of adventure and variety to your stay, perfect for those who want to extend their kitesurfing experience beyond the main spot.
From reviews, it’s clear that the team offers more than just gear — they share local tips, assist with launching, and create a community vibe. This makes the experience more enjoyable, especially for those traveling solo or in small groups.
The Value: Is the Price Worth It?
At $46.53 per person, the rental prices are quite reasonable considering the inclusions — especially the launch, landing, and rescue boat services, plus access to top-tier gear. When you compare the cost against the quality and convenience, many reviewers agree it’s a great value.
For the longer durations, the per-day cost drops significantly, making it economical for those planning multiple days on the water. Plus, the flexibility to rent just what you need, whether a kite, board, or wetsuit, ensures you don’t pay for unnecessary equipment.
Reviewers like those who used the gear for multiple days emphasized the quality of the equipment and the helpfulness of staff, which further boosts the perceived value.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
Many guests have shared their positive experiences, often mentioning the friendly staff, the quality of gear, and the consistently good wind conditions. One reviewer marveled at how the staff pumped up the kite daily and assisted with launching, making their sessions smooth and enjoyable. Others pointed out that the shop’s location next to the beach made it super convenient to start and finish sessions without hassle.
A common theme was the professional yet relaxed atmosphere, where the team’s helpfulness made every visit stress-free. Several mentioned that they felt safe and supported during their water sessions, thanks to the rescue boat and attentive staff.
One reviewer summed it up: “Super team, very good equipment, and good advice”—a testament to how well Explora maintains its reputation as a top kitesurf rental in Essaouira.
Who Should Consider This Rental?
This service is ideal for experienced kiters who are confident riding upwind and in control of their gear. If you’re looking for reliable equipment, excellent service, and a friendly environment, this is a top pick. The inclusion of rescue and launch services offers extra reassurance, especially in a sometimes unpredictable wind.
However, beginners or those wanting lessons will need to look elsewhere, as this rental is geared toward those with prior kitesurfing experience. Also, you should be at least 16 years old and able to swim comfortably.
Final Thoughts
If you’re an experienced kiter visiting Essaouira, renting gear from Explora Watersports offers great value and peace of mind. The combination of new, high-quality equipment, friendly staff, and inclusive support services makes it a standout choice for a flexible, hassle-free water adventure.
The spot’s consistent winds and stunning views promise memorable sessions, whether you’re chasing that perfect jump or simply enjoying the ride. Plus, the option to extend your rental or arrange custom trips means your kitesurfing trip can be as adventurous or laid-back as you wish.
Though geared towards seasoned riders, the welcoming environment hints that even intermediate kiters will find plenty to enjoy here. With a reputation for excellent service and top gear, Explora Watersports is well worth considering for your next Essaouira water sports experience.
FAQ
Can I rent equipment for a half-day or full-day?
Yes, you can choose from half-day (45 Euros) or full-day (65 Euros) rentals, providing flexibility based on your schedule and wind conditions.
Does the rental include safety support?
Absolutely. The rental includes launch, landing, and rescue boat services, ensuring safe and confident sessions on the water.
What gear is included in the rental?
The package covers a kite, bar, board, harness, and wetsuit. If needed, you can also rent just the kite or board separately.
Are the equipment brands reliable?
Yes, many reviewers mentioned using brand new Duotone kites and lines, which are among the best in the industry, ensuring quality and performance.
Can I rent gear if I have my own equipment?
Yes, you can rent just the kite or board if you already own some gear or need a different size.
What’s the best time to rent?
The centre operates from 8am to 8pm, with the best wind typically in the daytime. Booking in advance guarantees gear availability.
Is the location convenient?
Yes, the shop is right at the beach, next to the kite spot and near local bars and restaurants, making it easy to jump into your session.
Do I need to be experienced to rent?
Yes, you should be confident in kite control and upwind riding, with a minimum age of 16 and the ability to swim.
Can I extend my rental during my stay?
Yes, the flexible rental options and the ability to book multiple days make it easy to extend your time on the water.
What should I bring?
Just your confident riding skills, swimwear, and perhaps a towel — the rest of the gear is provided, including wetsuits.
Whether you’re chasing the thrill of kite power or just want a reliable setup to enjoy Essaouira’s winds, Explora Watersports’ kitesurf rental delivers on quality, service, and convenience.
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