April 2023

The ban on kitesurfing at Hayle (aka “the Bluff”) has been lifted but is restricted to kitesurfers who are insured and display a bluff pass. There are restrictions with a permit system. Please see the “Bluff Code of Conduct“.

The Code of Conduct short version is “have insurance, have a permit, give way to boats at all times (keep 100m away).

Where to get your Bluff Pass…

To get your Bluff pass go to one of the outlets (list below) with your BKSA card. If you don’t have BKSA membership, you’ll  need other documentary proof that you have insurance to kitesurf. BKSA Members pay £10 Other Insurance £20 If you have the KKC as your affiliate club on your BKSA card the pass is free.

• Down The Line, Hayle
• Cs Watersports Academy, The Bluff

The system is working well, so please use, don’t abuse the spot and the code of conduct.

Free parking for Bluff Pass holders…

The Bluff pass also currently comes with free parking at Harvey Towans (the rough car park on top of the slope above the river mouth – see attached map- it is not for parking at The Bluff Pub).

If you want to take advantage of this you will need to display the Hayle Harbour Parking Permit that comes in the envelope with your pass and zip tie for attaching the pass to your harness.

Please also give the number plate of the vehicle you intend to use when buying / picking up your pass (Automatic Number Plate Registration Parking is going to be installed in 2023).

Key Elements of the Hayle Kitesurf Agreement

• Any person kitesurfing within the jurisdiction of the Hayle Harbour Authority must wear a valid Bluff permit tag on their harness.
  • Wearing a tag is important as it signifies the kiter has a valid third party liability insurance of 5 million pounds, that the kiter has agreed to abide by the Code of Conduct, and by purchasing it has made a small contribution to the annual Water Users Licence for which Kernow Kitesurfing Club has to pay the Hayle Harbour Authority.
• All kite surfers MUST keep at least 100m away from AND turn away from all vessels using the channel. This remains the key guideline for the 2011 trial.
• No kitesurfing at any time south (which means inland) of Chapel Anjou markeb by a large 5 knot speed restriction sign.
• All kitesurfers must be at intermediate level or above; no learning or teaching.

The permits are free for members of the KKC, £10 for non-members, and run from 1st April each year. Non-BKSA members may purchase a tag for £20 provided they have valid liability insurance of 5 million pounds.