Jörg and Margarita Grether, owners of Windsurf City Cyprus, talk about the benefits of an active lifestyle and explain how the water sports scene has evolved since they opened their business on the island almost two decades ago.
Windsurfing is a challenging sport that requires ideal conditions to be properly enjoyed. How does Cyprus measure up and how would you describe the windsurfing culture here?
Jörg Grether: When I opened the school 16 years ago, Cyprus wasn't really known as a windsurfing destination but I immediately saw the potential. The warm climate, clear waters and reliable winds in the summer make it ideal. Travelling to Germany to educate myself was an important part of the journey. Earning instructor licences, a water sport management licence and certifying the school according to international standards made a huge difference. Learning from professionals who have worked in this field for decades was an invaluable experience. Over the years, more and more people have discovered Cyprus as a place for the sport and I'm proud to say that we have helped build a strong community around windsurfing here. I should also mention that Margarita followed the same path as me as regards certification she is now one of the most experienced windsurfing instructors in Cyprus.
Margarita Grether: I joined the school five years later and, as a Cypriot, it was amazing to rediscover my island through windsurfing. This journey gave me confidence and new perspectives, which I try to bring to every student. Together, we've grown the school and helped people connect with the sea in a new way. Today, Cyprus has a vibrant water sports culture and it's exciting to see it becoming a destination for both locals and international visitors.
How have windsurfing and other water sports become more popular in Cyprus over the years? What were things like before you opened Windsurf City Cyprus and what’s the situation today?
J.G.: Back then, water sports in Cyprus were mostly centred around beach rentals, pedal boats, canoes and jet skis. Windsurfing and kitesurfing were still niche. Over the years, windsurfing has gained traction, stand-up paddle boarding has become very popular and wing foiling has exploded. People are looking for sports that combine fitness, fun and a connection with nature and Cyprus is increasingly being recognised as a great destination for all of that.
What kind of people are looking to take up windsurfing?
M.G.: It's incredibly diverse. We teach kids as young as six, teenagers, adults, and even retirees. We've had doctors, lawyers, engineers, artists, entrepreneurs – people from all walks of life. More adults are realising that it's never too late to start. Windsurfing is not only physical; it's mental and emotional too. After a hard day or if you're carrying personal problems, once you're out on the water, they disappear. The only thing that matters is the wind and the sea. Many tourists actually travel to Cyprus specifically to learn windsurfing and more and more international windsurfers are exploring new spots around the world. We're proud to say that Cyprus has become a great destination not only for windsurfing but lately for wing foiling too. Once people have discovered it, they always want to come back! Apart from those on holiday who want to try something new, we also have plenty of locals who want a healthy hobby.
J.G.: It's a way to disconnect, release stress and come back with a clear mind. It helps create a healthy balance between work, personal life and mental wellbeing.
Larnaca is looking to upgrade its tourist product through a new marina and there are substantial investment projects planned for the city. How do you see these developments affecting your business?
M.G.: New investments can attract more visitors to Larnaca, which is positive for us. For Mackenzie Beach specifically, having a family-friendly hotel or a direct shuttle connecting major cities such as Nicosia, Limassol and Ayia Napa would make visiting Mackenzie Beach much easier. Improved accessibility would benefit the beach and the water sports community alike.
J.G.: Any development should also prioritise sustainability to protect the natural beauty of the sea. If managed carefully, these projects can support local businesses, enrich tourism and highlight Larnaca as a top spot for wind and water sports enthusiasts.
You have expanded your business by opening a surf shop here and online. How has this opened new doors for you?
M.G.: The surf shop was something we had always wanted to do. For years, Larnaca was lacking one and we finally took the decision to open our own. Our goal is to support the local community by giving people access to quality equipment and lifestyle products right here in Cyprus. But we also need their support; it's important for people to buy locally rather than always turning to international online stores.
J.G.: And it's been amazing to see how the community has embraced it. Students can train with us at the school and then come to the shop for trusted advice and gear. It helps keep the whole surf and wind sports culture growing in Larnaca.
Do you have any more plans for Windsurf City Cyprus?
M.G.: Always! For us, it’s about growing the sports in Cyprus, making them more accessible and staying ahead of the latest trends. We are proud to be the first wing foil centre in Cyprus, offering coaching and rentals, to introduce this exciting sport to the island.
J.G.: We focus on evolving while maintaining the highest quality standards. We already offer electric jetboards and electric foil boards, which are environmentally friendly and ideal for no-wind days. At the same time, we’ll keep building the community, organising events, promoting Cyprus internationally and highlighting Larnaca as a hidden gem with so much to offer to wind and water sports enthusiasts.
Since, as you say, Cyprus is an outstanding location for wind and water sports, what more can be done to promote the island internationally?
M.G.: Windsurfing and wing foiling enthusiasts are constantly searching for new spots across Europe. Many end up in better-known locations like Greece or Spain because those destinations are heavily promoted. Cyprus has perfect conditions but there’s still untapped potential for local authorities to highlight the island internationally and attract more visitors.
J.G.: Exactly. Larnaca and Cyprus have so much to offer to wind and water sports enthusiasts and, with greater international visibility, the island can truly shine on the global stage.
(Photo by Michael Kyprianou)
- This article was first published in the October issue of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it.
