What a downwinder is
On a downwinder you do not return to your starting point: you ride downwind from one point of the coast to another, with a support vehicle following on land. There is no upwind work to do, which makes the ride more comfortable, but it does require independence: riding both ways, recovering your board and managing the kite's power.
At Cabana do Kite the routes run from 5 to 50 km along the Ceará coast, with 4x4 ground support for the whole trip. The team carries water and spare equipment, and picks up anyone who would rather stop before the end.
Our routes
Icaraizinho → Moitas
This is the first guided downwinder, designed for riders who have just become independent. It works as an introduction to the discipline: short distance, full briefing before leaving and an instructor on the water with the group.
Icaraizinho → Patos
15 km downwind, intermediate level or above, finishing with a ride in the Patos lagoon. It is the most requested route among riders already comfortable in the sea who want the contrast between waves and the flat water of the lagoon.
Caetanos → Icaraizinho
25 km with a variety of spots along the way: flat sections, waves and scenery that keeps changing through the ride. Here you drive out and finish at home, right in front of the Cabana.
Praia da Baleia comes up in requests from time to time, but we have no documented route to it: ask on WhatsApp before counting on that trip.
What level do you need?
For a first guided downwinder, the minimum is riding independently both ways and recovering your board on your own — it takes around 12 hours of lessons to get there. The 15 km and 25 km routes call for intermediate level or above, because the ride is long and conditions change along the way.
If you are not there yet, kitesurfing lessons with radio support are the fastest way, and the guide on how long it takes to learn explains each stage.
When they run
Downwinders run throughout the season, from July to January, peaking from August to October. November is excellent for long rides, with 20 to 28 knots and fewer people on the water. Departures depend on the wind and on the day's group: check availability on WhatsApp.
What is included and what to bring
- An instructor or guide from the team, with a briefing before departure
- 4x4 ground support for the whole route
- Duotone and Ozone equipment, checked every day, if you do not bring your own
- Bring swimwear, water-resistant sunscreen, a rash vest and, if you wear contact lenses, a spare pair
Prices are on request and depend on the route and the size of the group. We confirm everything in writing before departure.
How a downwinder day works
It all starts with the briefing: the guide goes through the route, the possible exit points, the signal agreed with the support vehicle and the day's wind forecast. Then comes the equipment check — kite sized for the wind and your weight, lines, harness and vest.
During the ride, the 4x4 follows along the beach with water and spare equipment. There are meeting points along the way: you can take a break, change kite or get in the car if tiredness sets in. At the finish, the team collects the gear and drives everyone back.
Safety
Being able to swim is mandatory and the instructor's instructions must be followed at all times. The school can stop or refuse a trip if conditions or a participant's behaviour create a risk — on a downwinder that rule matters even more, because the group moves away from the base.
Personal insurance covering water sports is strongly recommended; each participant remains responsible for their own cover. Before departure, tell us about any health condition that could affect your safety in the water.
Frequently asked questions
What level do I need for a downwinder?
For the first guided downwinder at Cabana do Kite you need to ride independently both ways and recover your board on your own — it takes around 12 hours of lessons to get there. The 15 km route to Patos and the 25 km from Caetanos call for intermediate level or above, because the ride is long.
How long does a downwinder last?
The duration depends on the day’s wind and on the route chosen, so we do not publish a fixed time. The Icaraizinho → Patos run is 15 km and Caetanos → Icaraizinho is 25 km; 4x4 support follows the whole route, so you can take breaks or stop before the end without any problem.
Is equipment included in the downwinder?
Yes, if you do not bring your own: Cabana do Kite downwinders in Icaraizinho go out with Duotone and Ozone equipment checked every day, vest and helmet included. Riders travelling with their own gear can use it, and the storage on the beach stays available throughout your stay.
When do downwinders run?
Downwinders run throughout the season in Icaraizinho, from July to January, peaking from August to October. November is excellent for long rides, with 20 to 28 knots and fewer people on the water. Departures depend on the wind and on the day’s group: check availability on WhatsApp.
How much does a downwinder cost?
Prices are on request and depend on the route chosen and the size of the group. Send your level and your dates on WhatsApp (+55 88 98152-1670): we will suggest the right route for you and confirm everything in writing before departure, with no hidden costs.
Book your downwinder
Send your level and your dates on WhatsApp: we will suggest the right route and the best wind window. See also the Icaraizinho spots and the season guide.