DeafVentures

DeafVentures on Ummanz – Kitesurfing for the Deaf on the Baltic Sea

DeafVentures on the island of Ummanz in western Rügen is Germany’s first kitesurfing school to offer its courses entirely in German Sign Language (DGS). Since 2018, founders Marie Kohlen and Pia Boni have been creating an opportunity here on the Baltic Sea coast of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania that was previously almost inaccessible to deaf kitesurfing enthusiasts.

Sign language-proficient kitesurfing instructors right on the water

The DeafVentures team includes two deaf kitesurfing instructors, a sign language interpreter, and a hearing kitesurfing instructor who is also learning DGS. In 2019, the founders, together with the VDWS, trained two native German Sign Language speakers to become certified kitesurfing instructors—a milestone for inclusive water sports on the German Baltic Sea.

Five-day kitesurfing courses with SUP polo, wing surfing, and pizza night on Rügen

The five-day courses combine theory and practice in kitesurfing with other activities: SUP polo on the water, a session with the wing, and a group pizza night at the Tiki Bar of the UMMAII Surfhostel on Ummanz are all part of the program. This creates not only a learning experience but also a genuine sense of community in one of the most beautiful natural regions of Northern Germany.