The sea waters of Karpathos are ideal for windsurfing thanks to the powerful northern winds (meltemia) blowing from May till October. The Windsurf Speed World Championship was hosted in Karpathos in 2006 and 2007. The recommended beaches for windsurfing are Afiartis, Vatha, Makris Gialos and Agrilaopotamos. There are also several windsurfing academies where you can either rent your equipment or improve your windsurfing skills by attending classes.