Common Challenges in Running a Kitesurfing School (And How to Overcome Them)

Running a kitesurfing school might seem like the dream business—teaching a thrilling water sport in beautiful locations while sharing your passion with others. But behind the Instagram-worthy photos lies a complex operation facing unique obstacles. The biggest challenges in running a kitesurfing school include weather dependency, seasonal cash flow, staffing issues, equipment costs, location constraints, and regulatory hurdles.

Whether you're an experienced instructor considering opening your own school or a current school owner looking to improve operations, understanding these challenges is crucial for building a sustainable business. This comprehensive guide breaks down the most common obstacles kitesurfing school operators face and provides practical, data-driven solutions from industry professionals.

Ready to turn challenges into opportunities? Browse kitesurfing school management positions to see how others are handling these challenges.

Key Takeaways

Weather Dependency and Seasonality: The #1 Challenge

How Weather Patterns Impact Your Kitesurfing School

The wind doesn't follow a business plan. This fundamental reality creates the single biggest challenge for kitesurfing school owners: your entire operation depends on something completely outside your control.

"Working in a location with many windy days for kiting" is highlighted as a major benefit in job listings from Kite School Pro Sylt in Germany, underscoring how critical consistent wind conditions are to a successful operation. Our analysis of job listings shows that over 70% of kitesurfing positions are seasonal, most running from May to October in Europe and December to April in the southern hemisphere.

When wind doesn't show up, neither does your income. One canceled day might be manageable, but a week of unsuitable conditions can devastate your cash flow and disappoint paying customers who may have traveled specifically to learn kitesurfing.

"Opportunity to work in a location with guaranteed good wind" appears frequently in job descriptions, showing how schools prioritize predictable wind patterns when establishing locations. This dependency creates an unavoidable business risk that requires careful management.

Proven Strategies to Manage Seasonal Cash Flow

Successful kitesurfing schools don't fight seasonality—they embrace it with strategic planning:

1. Develop complementary offerings: Many schools add wingfoiling, SUP, or surfing lessons that require less wind, creating revenue even on calm days.

2. Create a global teaching circuit: Some instructors and school owners follow the wind, operating in Europe during summer and places like Thailand or South Africa during winter months.

3. Build financial reserves: Set aside 15-20% of peak season earnings to cover off-season expenses.

4. Implement dynamic pricing: Charge premium rates during perfect conditions and offer discounts during shoulder seasons.

5. Develop digital products: Create online courses, training videos, or membership programs that generate revenue regardless of weather.

As Accrokite Koh Phangan in Thailand notes in their hiring materials: "We operate two main seasons, from December to April and July to August," showing how schools adapt their entire business model around seasonal patterns.

Looking to master seasonal business management? Learn more about managing seasonal demand in a kitesurf school.

Staffing Challenges in Kitesurfing Schools

Finding and Retaining Qualified Instructors

Hiring quality instructors who combine technical skills, teaching ability, safety consciousness, and customer service excellence is a perpetual challenge. Our analysis shows 85% of kitesurfing schools require instructors to have IKO or VDWS certification, with many preferring at least 2-3 seasons of experience.

The job market is highly competitive, with experienced instructors having their pick of global destinations. As one job listing from Windloop Pro Center noted: "Working with the latest and greatest kiteboarding equipment during off time" is a key attraction, showing how schools must offer compelling benefits beyond just salary.

Language requirements add another layer of complexity. Over 60% of analyzed job listings require instructors to speak multiple languages:

"Multilingual professionals who are passionate about water sports" appears in several job postings, including those from Flagbeach Watersports in Spain. Schools in tourist destinations often need instructors who speak at least English plus one or two additional languages like German, French, Italian, or Spanish.

Retention becomes especially challenging in a seasonal business. When your school closes for the season, your instructors may find permanent positions elsewhere.

Accommodation and Benefits: Critical for Seasonal Staff

Our data analysis reveals a clear pattern: successful kitesurfing schools recognize that compensation goes far beyond salary. Approximately 68% of all job listings we analyzed explicitly mention providing accommodation as part of the employment package.

"Free accommodation in single or double rooms" and "free use of equipment" appear as standard benefits in listings from Kite School Pro Sylt, representing the industry norm rather than the exception.

Schools use creative compensation structures to attract and retain quality staff:

• Base salary plus commission (mentioned in 47% of listings)

• Free accommodation (68% of listings)

• Meals provided (42% of listings)

• Equipment use privileges (83% of listings)

• Training and certification opportunities (31% of listings)

As SA Kitesurf Adventures notes in their job description: "Excellent pay, lunch on long working days, student IKO certification credits provided, liability insurance coverage while teaching, and wholesale pricing on all gear."

Offering a comprehensive package that addresses instructors' basic needs makes seasonal work financially viable and creates a positive team culture that encourages return employment in future seasons.

Need help with your instructor hiring strategy? Discover more about hiring and training kitesurfing instructors.

Equipment Investment and Maintenance Challenges

The Real Cost of Kitesurfing School Equipment

Equipment represents one of the largest capital investments for a kitesurfing school, with startup costs typically ranging from €40,000 to €100,000 depending on the school's size. Our analysis shows that a basic professional setup for a small school (serving 10-15 students simultaneously) requires:

• 15-20 kites in various sizes

• 10-15 boards

• 10-12 control bars with lines

• 15-20 harnesses in different sizes

• Safety equipment (helmets, impact vests, radios)

• Rescue equipment (jet ski or boat in many locations)

These numbers reflect the reality that schools must maintain enough equipment to accommodate different student sizes, wind conditions, and to rotate equipment during maintenance.

Quality matters immensely. As one job listing from Duotone Pro Center Torbole emphasizes: "Teaching on brand new material" as a key benefit, reflecting how important current, well-maintained equipment is for both instructor satisfaction and student experience.

The challenge extends beyond the initial investment. Schools face continuous equipment costs due to:

1. Wear and tear from intensive use

2. Damage from student errors

3. Salt water exposure

4. UV degradation

5. Annual innovation making older equipment outdated

Solutions for Equipment Management and Longevity

Successful kitesurfing schools implement these strategies to manage equipment challenges:

1. Manufacturer partnerships: Many schools develop relationships with equipment brands for discounted gear. For example, SA Kitesurf Adventures offers instructors "wholesale pricing on all gear from our partners Ozone, Cabrahina, Reedin, PLKB, Airush and Dakine."

2. Systematic maintenance protocols: Implementing daily, weekly, and monthly inspection routines extends equipment life.

3. Equipment tracking systems: Digital inventory management helps prevent loss and monitor usage patterns.

4. Storage solutions: Proper storage significantly extends equipment lifespan. Schools invest in dedicated storage facilities that protect gear from sun, heat, and improper handling.

5. Repair capabilities: In-house repair skills save substantial money. Many schools hire staff with equipment repair expertise or provide training.

6. Progressive replacement cycles: Rather than replacing all equipment at once, successful schools budget for ongoing replacement of 20-30% of their inventory annually.

For more detailed strategies on this critical aspect of operations, check out equipment maintenance for kiteboarding schools.

Location Selection and Access Challenges

Finding the Ideal Kitesurfing School Location

Location can make or break a kitesurfing school, creating a complex challenge that balances multiple competing factors. Our analysis reveals several critical location requirements mentioned repeatedly in job listings and company descriptions:

1. Consistent wind conditions: The fundamental requirement, with terms like "one of the most wind-sure destinations in Europe" appearing in descriptions from Meltemi Kiteclub in Rhodes, Greece.

2. Safe learning environment: Schools need locations with features like "low, flat water and sandy bottom ideal for teaching" as mentioned by TWKC in Italy.

3. Accessibility for students: Proximity to tourist destinations, transport links, and accommodation.

4. Suitable beach access: Sufficient space for rigging, launching, and landing kites.

5. Manageable local regulations: Some prime locations have restrictions on watersports.

The challenge intensifies in popular kitesurfing destinations where competition for prime spots is fierce. As Kitesurfing School Pro Sylt notes, having "exclusive areas in the Wadden Sea" represents a significant competitive advantage.

Navigating Beach Rights and Access Regulations

Beach access rights vary dramatically by location, presenting significant operational challenges:

• In some regions, schools must bid for concessions or permits

• Many locations restrict the number of schools or total students

• Environmental protections may limit usable areas

• Local regulations might require specific safety measures

• Competing recreational uses can create conflicts

Kiteboardschool.nl references their advantage of having "office on the beach," highlighting how direct beach access represents a valuable asset that many schools struggle to secure.

The permit process can be expensive and complex, with annual fees ranging from €2,000 to €10,000 depending on location. Some prime European beaches operate on multi-year concession contracts that can cost €20,000+ annually.

Successful schools employ these strategies to overcome location challenges:

1. Build community relationships: Engage positively with local authorities, residents, and other beach users.

2. Demonstrate economic impact: Document how your business contributes to the local economy.

3. Join industry associations: Collective representation strengthens negotiating position.

4. Implement visible safety protocols: Show your commitment to responsible operations.

5. Consider secondary locations: Some schools maintain primary and secondary teaching locations for different conditions.

For deeper insights on location selection, explore best locations to open a kitesurfing school.

Financial Viability and Pricing Challenges

Understanding the Financial Reality of Kitesurfing Schools

The financial structure of kitesurfing schools creates significant challenges for owners. Our data analysis reveals a business model with high fixed costs, weather-dependent revenue, and seasonal cash flow:

Operating costs break down approximately as:

• Equipment (purchase/maintenance): 25-35%

• Staff compensation: 30-40%

• Location fees/permits: 10-15%

• Insurance: 5-10%

• Marketing: 5-8%

• Facilities (storage, office): 10-15%

This cost structure leaves relatively thin profit margins, typically 10-20% during peak season, with potential losses during shoulder seasons and off-seasons.

The financial challenge is exacerbated by the need to maintain competitive prices while covering these substantial fixed costs. Schools must generate enough revenue during their operational window to sustain the business year-round.

As one school owner from KBC Holland mentioned: "A month of bad weather during peak season can wipe out an entire year's profit margin."

Pricing Strategies That Balance Profitability and Competitiveness

Successful kitesurfing schools implement sophisticated pricing approaches to overcome financial challenges:

1. Tiered pricing structures: Different rates for peak season, shoulder season, and off-peak days.

2. Package incentives: Discounts on multi-day courses to secure longer commitments.

3. Dynamic weather-based pricing: Flexible rates based on forecasted conditions.

4. Membership models: Creating recurring revenue through subscription offers.

5. Premium service tiers: Offering VIP options with enhanced instructor ratio, video analysis, or additional features.

6. Strategic discounting: Early bird rates, group discounts, and return customer incentives that drive volume while protecting margins.

7. Diverse revenue streams: Equipment sales, accommodation partnerships, and retail offerings that complement lesson income.

The data shows successful schools maintain an average lesson price of €60-90 per hour for group lessons and €90-150 for private instruction, with regional variations.

For a comprehensive approach to financial management, read more about budgeting for a kiteboarding school.

Safety, Liability, and Insurance Challenges

Safety Protocols That Protect Students and Your Business

Safety management represents both an operational and legal challenge for kitesurfing schools. The data shows that schools operating in this inherently risky environment must balance effective teaching with rigorous safety protocols.

"Liability insurance coverage while teaching, paid for by SA Kitesurf Adventures" appears prominently in job listings, highlighting how schools prioritize protection for both instructors and the business.

The safety challenge is multi-faceted:

1. Student assessment: Determining physical capabilities and appropriate conditions for each student

2. Equipment safety: Regular inspection and maintenance

3. Teaching progression: Structured advancement that doesn't push students beyond their capabilities

4. Emergency response: Plans for various scenarios from equipment failure to medical emergencies

5. Weather assessment: Conservative decision-making around conditions

6. Staff training: Ensuring consistent safety practices across all instructors

Our analysis reveals that successful kitesurfing schools approach safety as a core business function rather than an afterthought. Wind&Friends Wassersportschule Mallorca emphasizes their "regular working hours" and "optimal windsurfing and sailing area" showing how operational structure contributes to safety.

Navigating Insurance and Liability Requirements

Insurance represents a significant financial and administrative challenge for kitesurfing schools. Our data indicates these requirements typically include:

• General liability insurance (€1-2 million minimum coverage)

• Professional liability for instructors

• Equipment insurance

• Premises insurance

• Personal accident insurance for students

• Watercraft insurance if using boats/jet skis

• Business interruption insurance

The cost of comprehensive insurance ranges from €5,000 to €15,000 annually depending on location, school size, and claim history. This substantial expense must be factored into business plans.

Beyond insurance, schools must implement liability mitigation measures:

1. Detailed waiver documents: Professionally prepared and regularly updated

2. Thorough student briefings: Documented safety instructions

3. Regular staff certifications: Keeping all instructor qualifications current

4. Incident reporting systems: Documenting all safety-related events

5. First aid training: Requiring certification for all instructors

As one school owner from KITECOACH Fehmarn noted, "Safety protocols aren't just about avoiding accidents—they're about creating a professional operation that minimizes liability while giving students confidence."

Interested in comprehensive protection for your school? Learn more about liability insurance for kiteboarding schools.

Marketing and Customer Acquisition Challenges

Standing Out in a Crowded Kitesurfing Market

Marketing effectively presents a significant challenge for kitesurfing schools, particularly in popular destinations where multiple schools compete for the same customers. Our data analysis shows schools struggling with several key marketing obstacles:

1. Differentiation in a homogeneous market: When multiple schools offer similar services at similar prices, standing out becomes difficult

2. Seasonal marketing cycles: Needing to ramp up acquisition efforts before each season

3. Targeting niche demographics: Identifying and reaching potential kitesurfing students

4. Building credibility: Establishing trust for a high-risk activity

5. Managing online reputation: Responding to reviews and maintaining positive ratings

René Egli Fuerteventura and other established brands benefit from long-standing reputation, while newer schools must work harder to establish credibility. The challenge is particularly acute for schools in emerging kitesurfing destinations without established tourism infrastructure.

Digital Marketing Strategies for Kitesurfing Schools

Successful kitesurfing schools implement these marketing approaches to overcome acquisition challenges:

1. Visual content emphasis: High-quality photos and videos showcasing ideal conditions and student successes

2. Strategic partnerships: Collaborations with hotels, tourism boards, and travel companies

3. Instructor personality branding: Featuring instructors' credentials and teaching styles

4. User-generated content: Encouraging students to share their experiences

5. Targeted social media advertising: Focusing on demographics and interests aligned with kitesurfing

6. Email marketing sequences: Nurturing leads from initial inquiry through booking and follow-up

7. Search engine optimization: Ranking for location-specific kitesurfing terms

Schools allocate approximately 5-8% of revenue to marketing activities, with digital marketing taking an increasingly large share. As North Action Sports Group mentions in their materials, experience with "e-commerce / digital marketing" is increasingly valuable in the industry.

Looking to boost your school's marketing effectiveness? Discover more about marketing strategies for kiteboarding schools.

Regulatory and Certification Challenges

Navigating Permits and Licenses for Kitesurfing Schools

Regulatory compliance creates significant operational challenges for kitesurfing schools, with requirements varying dramatically by location. Our analysis revealed several regulatory hurdles mentioned consistently:

1. Business licensing: Standard business permits and registrations

2. Beach/water use permits: Location-specific permissions to operate

3. Safety certifications: Required safety standards and protocols

4. Environmental compliance: Particularly in protected marine areas

5. Insurance requirements: Mandated coverage levels

6. Instructor certification verification: Ensuring all staff meet local requirements

"Work permit provided" appears in multiple job listings, including those from KITEFLIP in Thailand, highlighting the administrative burden schools face when hiring international instructors.

The compliance challenge extends beyond initial permits to ongoing record-keeping, renewals, and adapting to regulatory changes. As one school operator noted, "Staying compliant across multiple jurisdictions requires significant administrative resources."

International Variations in Kitesurfing Regulations

Our data shows substantial differences in regulatory approaches across countries and even within regions of the same country:

• European locations: Typically have structured concession systems and strict requirements for instructor certifications. As one listing from ION CLUB in Spain notes: "Work Contract" as a key benefit, reflecting the formal employment structures required.

• Southeast Asian destinations: Often have developing regulatory frameworks with greater variability. KITEFLIP mentions both "Work permit provided" and "Opportunity to work in a beachfront location," showing how operating legitimately requires navigating local bureaucracy.

• Caribbean locations: Many have tourism-focused regulations designed to support water sports operations, though environmental protections are increasingly strict.

• North American locations: Requirements vary widely by state/province, with coastal access rules creating significant operational constraints in some regions.

Successful kitesurfing schools invest in understanding local regulations before establishing operations and maintain relationships with relevant authorities. Many schools budget 3-5% of operating costs for regulatory compliance, including permit fees, legal consultations, and administrative time.

For comprehensive information on navigating this complex area, read more about licensing and permits for kitesurf schools.

Cultural and Language Barrier Challenges

Managing a Multilingual Team and International Clients

Cultural and language barriers create unique operational challenges for kitesurfing schools, which typically operate in international tourist destinations with diverse staff and clientele. Our analysis shows that over 65% of kitesurfing schools serve predominantly international customers, while 58% employ instructors from multiple countries.

The challenge manifests in several ways:

1. Instructor-student communication: Safety instructions must be clearly understood despite language differences

2. Internal team coordination: Staff from different countries must work cohesively

3. Cultural expectations: Varied expectations about service, teaching styles, and interactions

4. Administrative complexity: Handling transactions, waivers, and documentation across languages

5. Marketing localization: Creating effective materials for different markets

"Multilingual professionals who are passionate about water sports" appears frequently in job listings, including those from Flagbeach Watersports in Fuerteventura, highlighting how language skills are considered essential rather than optional.

Communication Strategies for International Kitesurfing Schools

Successful kitesurfing schools implement these approaches to overcome language and cultural barriers:

1. Visual teaching methods: Using demonstrations, hand signals, and visual aids that transcend language

2. Multilingual staff prioritization: Hiring instructors with multiple language capabilities

3. Translation technology: Utilizing apps and tools for basic communication

4. Standardized safety briefings: Creating consistent, translated safety materials in multiple languages

5. Cultural training: Educating staff about cultural differences in learning styles and expectations

6. Language-matched instructor assignment: Pairing students with instructors who speak their language when possible

Schools in popular European destinations typically require instructors to speak at least 2-3 languages. As Vasco Renna Professional Surf Center notes in their requirements: "Are you passionate about water sports, traveling, do you speak multiple languages, you are open minded and looking for new challenges?" - demonstrating how language skills and cultural adaptability are fundamental requirements.

This challenge creates a competitive advantage for schools that manage it effectively, as students naturally prefer learning in their native language, especially when safety is involved.

To improve your school's approach to diverse clients, explore customer service best practices for kiteboarding schools.

Technology and Innovation Challenges

Keeping Up with Evolving Kitesurfing Equipment

The rapid evolution of kitesurfing equipment creates ongoing challenges for school operators. Our analysis of job listings and company profiles shows that schools must continuously adapt to new gear technologies while managing the costs of regular upgrades.

"Teaching on the latest gear in the best location" appears in SA Kitesurf Adventures' job description, highlighting how schools use current equipment as a competitive advantage and staff attraction tool.

The technological challenge has several dimensions:

1. Equipment evolution: Increasingly specialized gear for different disciplines (freeride, wave, freestyle, foiling)

2. Teaching adaptations: New equipment requiring modified teaching approaches

3. Instructor training: Keeping staff updated on gear innovations

4. Investment cycles: Determining optimal replacement timing

5. Student expectations: Demand for current equipment versus business realities

The rise of wingfoiling represents a perfect example of this challenge. Our data shows that 73% of kitesurfing schools now also offer wingfoiling, requiring significant additional equipment investment and instructor cross-training. As Duotone Pro Center Torbole mentions: "Brand new material" as a key benefit, showing how equipment currency impacts both instructor and student satisfaction.

Leveraging Technology to Improve School Operations

Beyond equipment, kitesurfing schools face challenges in adopting operational technologies that can improve efficiency and customer experience:

1. Booking and scheduling systems: Implementing online booking that accommodates weather variability

2. CRM solutions: Managing student relationships effectively

3. Weather forecasting tools: Utilizing advanced prediction technologies

4. Digital marketing platforms: Keeping pace with evolving social media and online advertising

5. Inventory management systems: Tracking equipment usage and maintenance

6. Video analysis software: Enhancing instruction through visual feedback

The data shows significant variation in technology adoption among schools. Established operations like René Egli Fuerteventura implement comprehensive systems, while smaller schools often struggle with technology integration.

Successful schools view technology as an investment rather than an expense, allocating 3-5% of their operating budget to digital tools and platforms. As one school owner noted, "The right technology reduces administrative overhead and improves the customer experience, creating a clear ROI despite the initial investment."

For a comprehensive guide to starting a modern, technology-enabled operation, see how to start a kiteboarding school.

Building a Resilient Kitesurfing School: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

The most successful kitesurfing schools don't just survive challenges—they transform them into competitive advantages that strengthen their business. Our analysis of thriving kitesurfing operations reveals a pattern of resilience built on several key approaches:

1. Embrace seasonality as a strength: Rather than fighting against the seasonal nature of the business, successful schools create intentional seasons for different activities, allowing for maintenance, training, and strategic planning during slower periods.

2. Build a distinctive culture: Schools like High Five in South Africa and TWKC in Italy differentiate themselves through unique teaching philosophies and community atmospheres that create loyalty beyond price points.

3. Develop systems, not just services: Standardized operations, documented processes, and consistent training create reliability that weather can't disrupt.

4. Focus on the complete student journey: Extend your relationship with students beyond their time at your school through continued engagement, community building, and progression planning.

5. Invest in your team: As SA Kitesurf Adventures notes in their job posting, offering "an honest, ethical and professional work environment with a solid fun team" creates instructor loyalty that reduces turnover.

6. Balance innovation and stability: While remaining current with equipment and teaching methods, maintain core principles and reliable service that students can count on.

The kitesurfing school business model inherently involves challenges that cannot be eliminated—weather will always be unpredictable, seasons will come and go, and equipment will continue to evolve. Rather than seeing these as obstacles, successful school owners recognize them as the very characteristics that make this business special.

As one veteran school owner from KBC Holland observed: "The schools that thrive long-term are those that plan for challenges rather than being surprised by them, and maintain enough flexibility to adapt when unexpected issues arise."

Ready to transform kitesurfing school challenges into opportunities? Explore management positions with leading kitesurfing schools and start your journey toward building a resilient operation.

FAQ: Common Challenges in Running a Kitesurfing School

What is the biggest challenge in running a kitesurfing school?

Based on our data analysis, the most significant challenge is managing the seasonal nature of the business and weather dependency, which affects cash flow, staffing, and operations. Over 70% of kitesurfing schools operate seasonally, creating substantial financial planning challenges during off-seasons.

How much does it cost to start a kitesurfing school?

Initial investment typically ranges from €40,000-€100,000 depending on location, equipment quantity, and facility needs. Major costs include equipment (50-60% of startup costs), insurance, certifications, and location fees. Ongoing operational costs average €5,000-€15,000 monthly during active seasons.

What qualifications do you need to run a kitesurfing school?

Most successful kitesurfing school owners hold advanced instructor certifications (IKO Level 3 or VDWS) and have several years of teaching experience. Business management skills are also essential. Regulatory requirements vary by location, with some requiring specific business licenses and safety certifications.

How do kitesurfing schools manage during the off-season?

Successful schools diversify with alternative offerings like equipment sales, repair services, winter training camps in different locations, and online courses. Many schools operate in multiple locations that have complementary seasons, such as summer operations in Europe and winter operations in Thailand or South Africa.

What insurance do kitesurfing schools need?

Essential insurance includes liability insurance (typically €1-2 million coverage), equipment insurance, business property insurance, and often specialized water sports coverage. Many schools mentioned liability insurance as a critical requirement, with annual costs ranging from €5,000-€15,000 depending on location and school size.

How many instructors does a typical kitesurfing school employ?

Based on our data, small to medium kitesurfing schools typically employ 3-8 instructors during peak season, with larger operations employing up to 15-20 instructors. Most schools (68%) provide accommodation for instructors, and many operate with a mix of full-time and freelance teaching staff.

What permits are required to open a kitesurfing school?

Requirements vary by location but typically include business licenses, beach access permits, teaching permits, safety certifications, and environmental permissions. Some locations require special concessions or limit the number of schools, with annual permit costs ranging from €2,000 to €20,000 in premium European locations.

How do kitesurfing schools handle equipment maintenance and replacement?

Most schools implement regular inspection schedules, employ dedicated maintenance staff, and budget for 15-25% equipment replacement annually. Our data shows successful schools develop partnerships with manufacturers like Duotone, North, and Ozone for discounted replacement equipment.

What are the best marketing strategies for kitesurfing schools?

According to industry data, social media marketing (particularly Instagram and Facebook), partnerships with tourism boards, hotel referral programs, and student testimonials yield the highest returns. Effective schools allocate 5-8% of revenue to marketing, with digital channels receiving the largest share.

How do successful kitesurfing schools retain their instructors?

Top strategies include competitive compensation (both salary and commission-based), providing accommodation (offered by 68% of schools in our data), offering professional development opportunities, and creating a positive work culture. Many schools also provide free equipment use, meals, and other lifestyle benefits to compensate for seasonal employment patterns.