Kite-surf Barassie

Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Expert Type: Ocean Water type: Shallow, Flat, Chop, Small wave, Medium wave Water hazards: None Water quality: Clean Infos: Warmed by the Gulf stream/North Atlantic drift, however water quality is poor after a lot of rain due to local industry and agriculture. No ground swell as is protected by the Isle of Arran and Argyle peninsula. Very shallow water waist deep for several 100m, ideal for beginners with the occasional ramp for boosting big. Can have butter flat water in SW wind. Beach type & size: Sand - Medium Infos: Situated at the southern end of of 15km Irvine bay, has huge area of sand from mid to low tide with great shallow play areas behind the numerous sand banks. High tide is safe for launching as there is a large area of grass between the beach and main road. Park practically on the beach if you like but should be mind full to stay upwind of the kites. Generally this area is safe and hazard free for kitesurfing and never very crowded with other beach users even in the hight of summer. Identified hazards: None Beachgoer: None Weather specificities: In Scotland you can expect to get relatively mild air temps even in mid winter, however no two days are ever the same and a 15 degree variation is possible at any time of the year. Water temp is between 12-17C a full length steamer is probably required year round. Wind type: Frontal Wind specificities: Bring all your kites in all sizes. So if your here for the day pump up your whole quiver on arrival and be ready for anything and everything. Best direction is Southwesterly, which is the prevailing wind. Best months: March, April, May, September, October, November Access description: by Car - Follow the signs for Prestwick Airport down the M77/A77 and take the Troon turn off before you hit the airport. If you pass the end of the runway then you've missed the turn off. The car park is just beside the 1st tee of Royal Troon Golf Club. Specific rules: None Extra: No restricted zones, but don't launch on the grass area next to the road. Accommodations: Rooms, Rescue, Toilet, Food, Parking