Wingfoiling has taken the watersports world by storm and has quickly become the hot topic in any conversation. Best described as a cross between windsurfing, kitesurfing, SUP, and surfing, wingfoiling offers an exciting challenge that many experienced watersports enthusiasts are eager to try. With the added thrill of riding two feet above the water, it’s a discipline that captures attention from the very first glide
Why Become a Wingfoiling Instructor?
A Growing Sport
Wingfoiling is expanding rapidly across the globe, with more people taking an interest each year. Becoming an instructor in a growing sport gives you the chance to master something unique and become an expert in an area that many haven’t even dared to try yet.
More Job Opportunities
Many watersports centers and holiday companies are now including wingsurfing and wingfoiling lessons in their holiday packages. With the rising demand for wingfoil instruction, there are currently more job openings than qualified instructors available. Since it’s still a relatively new sport, the industry isn’t yet saturated with instructors, making it a great time to get certified.
Globally, dedicated wingfoiling coaching setups are already established, with new ones emerging regularly. Often, wingsurfing is offered alongside other watersports, so having a variety of coaching qualifications can maximize your employment opportunities. While you could specialize solely in wingfoiling, starting with multiple disciplines will likely make job hunting easier.
Skills for Life
Becoming a watersports instructor is an incredible way to develop lifelong skills that extend far beyond the sport itself. From sharpening your communication and leadership abilities to learning how to break down complex techniques and manage different students, instructing teaches you just as much as you teach others. These skills are transferable to almost any career path, making this experience invaluable for the future.
How to Become a Wingfoil Instructor: Step by Step
1. Understand the Qualification Process
As with windsurfing and dinghy sailing instructor qualifications, wingfoiling accreditation is done via the RYA (Royal Yachting Association). The course was launched a few seasons ago in Weymouth (UK) and has since seen large uptake. Since then, there has been a growing opportunity to train as a wingfoil instructor.
At Watersports Nomad, we now host a wingsurfing and foiling instructor course here in Vassiliki; making it so much easier to start teaching this growing sport.
2. Learn to Wingsurfing and Wingfoiling
For anyone at an intermediate to advanced level with their windsurfing (as one example), learning how to wingsurf isn’t that tricky. With the right equipment, in the right spot, and at the right time, you’ll be up and flying in no time.
Wingfoil boards – at least during those initial runs – are a little like compact stand-up paddle boards. If you can SUP, then you should find standing on a high-volume wing board fairly easy.
Learning to handle the wing is important. This can be done on land first before trying it out afloat aboard a standard paddle board or large windsurf board. In both cases, a craft with a centreboard or middle fin is key to avoid drifting too far downwind. This is pretty vital for the course when learning to wing, so you can limit how much you have to walk back upwind.
The most challenging part of wingfoiling is the foiling bit. Balancing on a ‘stick,’ which initially feels like a bucking bronco, can be unnerving. Towing behind a boat is a good entry for anyone who has access. Focusing just on the board and foil while being towed allows you to get the feel of foiling without the added complication of a wing in the mix. After a few sessions, it’s time to step up in a windy environment with your wing back in play.
3. Get the Certificates
Mastered the art of flying? Then, getting the right qualifications is next.
Luckily, if you are already an RYA sailing & windsurfing instructor, you may have most of the prerequisites for the wing instructor course. For those without any instructor experience, gaining these prerequisites will teach you more about handling the water and teaching.
- First Aid Certificate
- RYA Powerboat Level 2
- Safe and Fun Safeguarding Course
- RYA Membership
It is also recommended that you have some prior experience winging before an instructor course.
4. Pass the Wingfoiling Instructor Course
To qualify as a wingfoil instructor, you’ll need to complete an RYA windsurfing and foil instructor course.
Over five days, you’ll receive expert training and assessment from an RYA Wing trainer and moderator, who will help you fine-tune your teaching techniques for courses such as:
- RYA Learn to Wingsurf
- RYA Improved Wingsurfing
- RYA First Foil Flights
- RYA Sustained Flights
The course finishes with an independent moderation on the final day, allowing you to showcase your progress. Your final assessment outcome will be based on the skills and confidence you develop throughout the training.
5. Gain Experience
Once you’re a qualified wingfoil instructor, hands-on experience is key. We believe this is a crucial step in landing your first job, which is why we support new instructors in gaining valuable experience in watersports centres, such as those in Vassiliki. This practical training helps build confidence, refine your skills, and make a strong impression in the industry. Plus, many new instructors receive job offers from the very schools where they train!
6. Apply for Jobs
Now that you’ve got all the necessary qualifications, it’s time to explore job opportunities and connect with industry professionals. Watersports Nomad provides guidance to help you navigate the job market and find a role that suits you.
Why Train with Watersports Nomad?
Top-Notch Location
Vassiliki is the ultimate place to train as a watersports instructor. The reliable cross-shore wind creates ideal conditions for learning and teaching. With flat water and perfect wind, you’ll be able to focus on progressing your skills in an unbeatable setting.
Expert Tuition
Our trainers at Watersports Nomad are dedicated to delivering high-quality instruction. We’ve helped countless students kickstart their careers in watersports. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, we have a course designed for you.
Exciting Social Scene
Vassiliki isn’t just famous for its epic watersports conditions-it also has a buzzing social scene. With five-plus watersports centres nearby, instructors from different schools come together, creating an incredible atmosphere and plenty of events to enjoy. From the Club Vass BBQ to Wildwind’s cocktail nights, there’s always something happening in Vassiliki’s social calendar.
Build Confidence & Communication Skills
Our courses provide more than just a qualification—they help shape you as a person. You’ll develop strong communication and interpersonal skills, from explaining techniques clearly to active listening. Many past students (and their parents) have shared how the course has positively impacted their confidence and teamwork abilities, preparing them for life beyond the water.
