Our Story
I get it—because I’m living it.
I’m John, a father of two daughters in their late teens. My youngest is currently finishing her final exams. As a graduation gift, I’m taking her on a kitesurf adventure this summer, together with one of her best friends and her dad, a close friend of mine. Two fathers, both passionate kiters, taking our daughters on a trip to celebrate the end of one chapter and the beginning of something new.
That experience is at the heart of KiteMates.As a parent, I’ve watched my daughters and their friends plan their first trips away from home. For many, it’s a rite of passage: heading off to places like Lloret, Cherso, or Albufeira for party holidays. And while there’s nothing wrong with celebrating, I couldn’t help but wonder—isn’t there a more meaningful alternative?
That’s why I created KiteMates: an exclusive kitesurf liveaboard experience designed specifically for parents and their young adult children. It’s an adventure that’s just as exciting and social as those typical party holidays—but instead of hangovers and hazy memories, it offers connection, personal growth, and a shared passion that lasts a lifetime.
A Modern Rite of Passage
KiteMates is a chance to mark the transition from childhood to adulthood together—side by side. Over the course of seven days on Egypt’s Red Sea, you and your son or daughter will learn (or improve) kitesurfing or wingfoiling, explore stunning locations, and connect with like-minded families from around the world.
One of the most powerful things about KiteMates is learning something new together. You don’t have to master it on day one—it’s about the process. The experience of starting from scratch, working through challenges, and gaining a new skill builds self-confidence that lasts a lifetime. It reminds both parent and child that growth doesn’t stop when you leave school, and that learning something new—especially together—is one of the most valuable things you can do.
What You Can Expect
- A seven-day adventure aboard a luxury liveaboard yacht
- Comfortable private cabins for each parent-child duo, with two separate beds and a private bathroom
- A maximum of 50 parent-child duos per trip, creating an intimate yet vibrant international community
- World-class kitesurf and wingfoil instruction for all levels
- Relaxed, social evenings with music, drinks, and fun on deck
- Multiple boats anchored together—your own floating beach club under the stars
- These trips are exclusively for parent-child combinations
- Each trip is confirmed once the boat is fully booked, ensuring an energetic and connected group vibe
Who I Am
I’m John van Stolk. Over the past 20 years, I’ve built a career as an entrepreneur, event organizer, and kitesurf instructor. As the founder and owner of Kite Doctors, we organize accredited medical congresses that combine professional learning with kitesurf adventures in breathtaking destinations.
I also run the Kitesurf School in Bergen aan Zee, where I teach people to kitesurf every season—whether they’re taking their first lesson or mastering advanced techniques. I know firsthand how transformative learning to kitesurf can be, and I’m passionate about bringing that experience to parents and their kids.KiteMates brings together everything I love: connection, adventure, and the freedom of the open water.
My Mission
To offer parents and young adults a unique way to reconnect and strengthen their bond through shared adventure and learning.
KiteMates isn’t just a trip; it’s a moment of transformation. A redefinition of your relationship. You’re not just parent and child anymore.
You’re mates.My Vision
I believe that the strongest connections are built through shared experiences—especially when you’re learning something new together.
After KiteMates, you won’t just have amazing memories; you’ll have a shared passion, and a new adventure partner for life.Live the Dream. Share the Ride.
