I want to windsurf in Alaska

[Del Carpenter]

Can you tell me how to contact someone in the Juneau or Anchorage AK areas who windsurfs or who knows someone who does? I'm hoping to be able to windsurf in either area by renting from a local sailor or by donating to the local sailor's favorite charity. I'm hoping to do this sometime in July this year or next.

I've found safe places to windsurf in each area by checking satellite pictures on Google Maps: such as the small boat harbor at Douglas across from Juneau or either Delong Lake or Jewel Lake in Anchorage which are both too small for float plane traffic.

I'm trying to figure out how to add Alaska to my list of states where I have windsurfed. Alaska is one of the 17 I'm missing.

Thanks for any assistance.

Del Carpenter C443

[Paul F]

You could try the Turnagain Arm of Cook Inlet near Anchorage. It is famous for having a high tide differential.

http://www.peconicpuffin.com/the_peconi ... g_in_.html

[Brian M]

Check out turnagain arm, must be surfed on incoming tide for safety, 25 foot tides are like a raging river, Skilak lake south of anchorage also sounds good, check out video. My brother lives in Kenai but his gear is a little old. (80's)
http://broadbandsports.com/node/6566

[BBAddict]

I was just up there for almost a month snowkiting. Turnagain arm is an amazing spot to see. The tidal wave is supposed to be something to see--I'm going back for sure for a bunch of kiting spots that must be tried on water. There's a great group of people up there that was a great experience! Anyway, you might try those guys--they might know something. They were definitely helpful in helping you find places to ride and making sure you had a good time. Try
eastofanchorage.net or alaskakiteadventures.com

Good luck and have fun--I went there thinking it was the trip of a lifetime, but I think it's going to have to be at least an annual thing!

[JRN]

You might also try to contact Kathy @ The House Boardshop. She's an excellent windsufer & part-time Alaska resident. Sounds like a great adventure! Have fun & be careful.

[Del Carpenter]

Thanks to each for the help so far. I've been slow to check out the leads because I had a presentation due tonight.

The Turnagain Arm windsurfers may be the right contacts for equipment and other locations. I will not be windsurfing there because I'm a flat water sailor who would be way out of my league on Turnagain Arm.

Del