The Suez Canal has been a source of wealth for Egypt for decades. This waterway, linking the Mediterranean with the Gulf of Aden, saved European seamen a lot of time and money on their trading voyages to Asia. About 80 km south of the Canal mouth, we have discovered a new source – not yet a source of wealth but an oasis for windsurfers and kiters that is unequalled. Seldom has a spot made such a strong impression on us at first sight.
Admittedly, the infrastructure on this part of the coast is still relatively undeveloped and one has to put up with a 2.5-hour transfer. But the windsurfing and kiting conditions that await you are unique, not only for novices and intermediates but also for expert freeriders and freestylers.
MAIN SPOT Let us commence with a summary of the advantages of the spot: steady sideshore wind with no turbulence, turquoise-coloured flat water, a 100 m touch-the-bottom area, the finest of sandy beaches and a coastal strip with no reefs or pebbles. Even dolphins like the outstanding beauty of this spot and sometime become windsurfers' and kitesurfers' playful companions.
THE LAGOON About a 20 minute walk up wind is a massive lagoon that is perfect for training. There is ample space, an area of shallow flat water and a huge expanse of open beach.
As with all the Egypt resorts the best wind is in the summer months between May and October. However, although the winter months from December to March generally do not provide enough power for the consistent windsurfing there is still at least a regular bft 4 blowing (a popular time for kitesurfers).
The north to north-east wind blows sideshore gaining force during the morning, reaching its maximum by midday, so there's no need to hurry with breakfast. Towards the end of the afternoon the wind generally dies down again. With a light breeze and flat water, the mornings offer ideal conditions for novices.
Constant sideshore winds and a shallow area stretching for more than 100 m make Ras Sudr one of the most suitable and safest spots for both beginners and intermediates. Freestylers and freeriders, however, also appreciate the crystal-clear, flat water.
The long coastal strip curves windward here, creating a bay, and stretches further and further out into the water for a kilometre, forming a sandbank, before receding again.
This has two effects. First, the wind can blow sideshore across the wide sandbank without hindrance and there are no gusts or turbulences. Second, flat water with a very slight chop ensures freeride and freestyle enjoyment pure. Another advantage: a (tide-dependent) touch-the-bottom area extending about 100 m into the sea at this part of the beach.
The vicinity to Cairo naturally offers a unique opportunity to combine one's windsurf holiday with a trip to the sights in and around the capital of Egypt.
Depending on one's wishes, this programme can be limited to a day trip or can extend over several days. The pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum are the two most popular sights around Cairo given limited time.
Ras Sudr is a perfect resort for a combination of both windsurfing and kiting. The Skyriders' kite school runs along side the Club Mistral windsurf centre that offers a full range of the latest 2005 kit from North along with a comprehensive instruction programme.
Ras Sudr is certainly no party town. It is the ultimate dream spot for those who wish to spend most of their time on the water and enjoy the quiet, both onshore and offshore!
UK / EU passport holders should have a full 10 year passport valid until at least 6 months after date of return. Other passport holders please check with Egyptian Embassy (020 7235 9777).
You will require a full Egypt visa for entry into Ras Sudr. The easiest way to get it is on arrival at Cairo Airport where it will cost £12. It can also be obtained in advance from the Egyptian Embassy at a cost of £15 - £20.
There are no compulsory inoculations if travelling from the UK although Hep A and Typhoid are recommended. Please check with your GP or local travel health clinic for the latest advice.
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