Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 6 years of historical weather data.
14%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
7.7kts
Avg Wind
year-round
9°
Avg Temp
feels 7°
6yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏖️
BaySpot Type
BeginnerSkill Level
E90°Best Wind
Partially sheltered coastline with moderate, varied conditions
About This Spot
Ardersier Bay is a shallow, protected bay located on the Moray Firth coast in northern Scotland. The south-facing coastline provides a contained, enclosed water environment with significant infrastructure development adjacent to the shore. The bay's shallow depth and flat water conditions make it primarily suitable for beginners learning body dragging and basic control techniques. Wind from the east provides side-shore conditions aligned with the bay's orientation. The presence of industrial facilities, seawalls, and visible mudflats requires careful navigation and awareness of launch and landing zones. Wave energy is minimal, making this spot unsuitable for wave riding progression. Wind reliability is notably low at 14.4%, requiring patience for suitable conditions. Water temperatures average around 9.4°C, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. The spot's protected nature and flat conditions appeal to kiters focused on light-wind riding and technical skill development rather than performance or wave riding. Tide considerations and shallow areas demand local knowledge before sessions.
Hazards & Safety
shallow water areas
industrial facilities and infrastructure near shore
seawall and concrete structures
vegetation and trees along shore
potential boat traffic from adjacent harbor
low wave conditions limiting progression
mudflats visible in water
limited fetch distance
Live Wind Forecast
Real-time wind conditions and 10-day forecast powered by ECMWF
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Wind speeds shown in knots (kt). Tap expand for full-screen view. Forecast updates every 6 hours from European weather model.
Water Conditions
Historical ocean data for wetsuit planning & water type
11°C
Avg Water Temp
0.3m
Avg Waves
🪞 Flat Water
Typical Conditions
🥶 6/5mm + Boots/Gloves
Typical Wetsuit
Glass-like conditions, perfect for foiling & beginners
Wind Characteristics
SWDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
18%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
23%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
16%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 6 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
27%
10kts
4°feels 0°
4°
PM
~16d
Feb
39%
10kts
5°feels 1°
5°
PM
~14d
Mar
15%
8kts
6°feels 2°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water