Real "Zero to Hero" vs. Kitty Hawk Kites "Fast Track"

[ice1969]

Looking to go to Hatteras in August for kiteboarding lessons/camp. Total newbie. Debating whether I should do Real Kiteboarding's "Zero to Hero" camp or Kitty Hawk Kite's "Fast Track" camp. Both seem to be in the same general location (Waves, NC).

Some specifics:
Kitty Hawk Kites:
-- $600 for 14 hours over 2 days
-- Considerably less expensive ~ $42/hr
-- Held during weekends - less impact on family vacation plans.
-- Student:instructor ratio 3:1

Real Kiteboarding
-- $1200 for 18 hours over 3 days
-- More expensive ~ $67/hr
-- Incredible reputation in the kiting community
-- Lower student:tinstructor ratios 2:1

I generally subscribe to the notion that you get what you pay for, but in this case the difference is pretty big, especially if you throw in an extra nights lodging for the extra day of instruction. Anyone have any experience with either or both? Thanks!

[skiyak777]

I went to a Real camp. They have good instructors and a well developed curriculum. 2:1 ratio means you'll spend more time on the kite than with 3:1, which means you'll learn faster.

Be aware that August is not the windiest month in Hatteras, so there is a fair chance you will not complete your 18 hours of lessons in 3 days, or even in the week allowed for rescheduling lessons. Rather than getting a refund, you will be entitled to store credit at Real.

Nothing bad to say about KHK- they've always seemed nice and knowledgable when I shopped there and they have a nice new facility.

[Bstevs]

I dont know anyone who has gone to kittyhawk but people i know that have gone to real all have had bad experiences, no wind etc... Plus it seems kind of pricey.

[CaptainArgh]

Either should be fine, but ask them both what their policies are regarding the wind forecast. It would suck to shell out $1000, get skunked on wind, and end up with some "ground school" and a store credit for gear or future lessons. Unless, of course you're content with ground school and some wakeboarding "board skills," lessons. There is some value there, but I'm sure you want to come out of your lesson being able to kite on your own (safely rig, attempt to kite, self rescue, land, pack up, etc.)

[Steve Martin]

Are there any local instructors in your area? If yes, try them.

[FL Kiteboarder]

-
I'm sure most reputable companies would prefer to do business with an educated consumer.

I'd request to have any of the 'forms'
(that each kite school makes you initial/sign on your first day)
mailed to you in advance for your review (or faxed or emailed-if available as a .PDF)
BEFORE you actually book your trip, flight, etc.

These forms should include all the fine print, policies, liability waivers, and cost.
Then call each school with any questions you may have for additional clarity, as needed.

You will have a much better time if you do your homework to minimize surprises.


Marc
GK Trix 9m,12m / Eclipse Nano 4m, 6m
Kiteboarding Videos: Feat. Eclipse, Cabrinha, GK, Turbolauncher, & More

[KiteboardingTampaBay]

If it were any other time of year, I'd say come down here, but we're windless until Fall.

7 hours of lessons in a day is a LOT for a new student, and may end up being counterproductive if you're tired.
Buyer beware-Some places charge for lessons even though you get skunked.
I think Real offers a store credit, but no refunds.

www.kiteboardingtampabay.com

[hiway12]

a much better bet would be Ty Luckett at kitehatteras.net or Jay Crawford at outerbankskiting.com
- better policies, more personal, better instruction

[2tall]

I think you could save yourself a lot of time and money by getting a 2-3M trainer kite. Fly the crud out of it until you are sick of it. If you are thinking of spending that much money, you could probably get some private lessons. I've done the Zero to Hero thing....it was good, but it was much cheaper when I did it. I did some private lessons later and learned much more.

Is there anyone local that can get you started? The $1200 in lessons is just the start...you are going to spend another $2000-3000 in gear.

Good luck, and shop around....I think you can do better than $1200 in August.

[FL Kiteboarder]

a much better bet would be Ty Luckett at kitehatteras.net or Jay Crawford at outerbankskiting.com
- better policies, more personal, better instruction

Capt Ty & the 'Kite Rite Tower'

The Flats of Miami & Ty Luckett's Magical Pole Boat


Marc
GK Trix 9m,12m / Eclipse Nano 4m, 6m
Kiteboarding Videos: Feat. Eclipse, Cabrinha, Naish, GK, Litewave, Turbolauncher, & More