Egypt, but where?

[boards_PaulP]

Does anyone go to El Tur anymore, full stop? Last I heard was it was only the Russian Centre there now? Oceansource no longer involved as far as am aware. I didn't rate El Tur when I was there 5 or 6 years ago, but never got to the wave beach which I've had good reports of.

[/Vico]

Does anyone go to El Tur anymore, full stop? Last I heard was it was only the Russian Centre there now? Oceansource no longer involved as far as am aware. I didn't rate El Tur when I was there 5 or 6 years ago, but never got to the wave beach which I've had good reports of.

There were never many at El Tur even when there was a British centre, but that wouldn't be an issue in itself. The "wave beach" was good when I was there - basically good south coast "wave" conditions with warm water. I've long lost interest in super flat water, offshore wind beaches, but like the short journey, reliable wind and cheapness of Egypt.

[TwoFish]

Things must have changed considerably. When I was there 12 years ago the big little bears were everywhere, though in those days I did spend a fair amount of time downwind due to a combination of the old Gybemasters board rental policy (you chose it, you're stuck with it), the iffy winter wind, and my tyro technique. There were times when I'd sit on the board and hope to drift over a gap in the buggers so I could get off unscathed.

Oh the spineys are certainly there, and in great numbers, but in pretty well defined reef areas. My one material encounter with one was when I was sailing (unusual) offshore wind and did end up downwind in one of their patches. Beginners drifting downwind at low tide also need to do just as you say, and drift over the spinefield before getting off.

Moon Beach had a certain certain charm when I went there but it was a bit like El Tur - ramshackle hotel, make your own entertainment etc. It's presumably changed a bit.

I'm not sure the hotel will have changed much. The odd lick of paint in some places and gradual decay in others perhaps. The beach bungalow / chalet style rooms are much nicer to stay in than the El Tur (Moses Bay) 'barrack block' style accommodation. I do hear good things about the wave beach hotel in El Tur.

There's certainly nothing ramshackle about the MB windsurfing centre though. It's well designed, well run, has a good selection of kit and (as Martin hints) a very pleasant place to hang out and chat over a G&T or two.