When things get out of hand you need to know self rescue. For example, if the wind gets too strong to handle or if something breaks in your equipment, such as a rope going off. Then it is important that you know how to get back to the beach.

This is something that you should really practice with an instructor. In our kitesurfing lessons we will teach you how to do it.

Step 1: Release the boom
Release the boom before releasing the quick release. Then the boom will be pushed away from you and the kite will lose its power.

Step 2: Release the quick release.
Each security system is different, so make sure you know how to fix your quick release before heading out into the water. Most modern systems are triggered by pushing them away. When this is done, the kite will "flag out" and fall into the water as it loses its aerodynamic stability. Only the line that is stuck in your leash will hold the kit.

Step 3: Get back to the boom and wrap up the leash line.
After the quick release is pulled, you must now return to the boom as it is between 5-15 meters from you. Take the line that comes from your leash and with the overhead pull the line to you until you reach the boom.

NEVER wrap the lines around a hand or other body part, so try to stay still with your legs so you don't risk tangling. When you reach the boom, you immediately wrap the line you pulled in on the boom, ending with a double half stroke so that the line does not go up by itself.

Wrap only the line you pulled to the boom with, the other lines must be soft in order for the kite not to become stable and catch wind again.

Step 4: Roll up the remaining lines.
Now you can start rolling up ALL the lines together in the same way you would normally pack a boom. All lines except the "first" must be soft! If the wind is strong you can "fish in" the line by setting the bar against the hip and using the bar as a lever to pull you towards the kite.

Stop winding the lines when you are about 1.5 meters from the kite. Grab the kite and relax on your leading edge.

Step 5: Secure all lines.
Attach all lines to the bar in the same way as before with a double half stroke around the boom.

Step 6: Turn the kite.
With the lines secured, you can now use the kite to get you back to the beach (as long as it's onshore wind). Turn the kite upside down and place you and your board on the kite (or leave the board for later pick up). Grab one of the kites bridles or "self rescue handle" to shape the kite as a "C" (the same shape as when starting and landing the kite firmly pressed). The kite becomes a sail that you can use to get to the beach, note that it is impossible to go upwind in this way. Use your free hand and your body as a rudder.