While a little different, it is way to enjoy the fun withouth the need for a boat. Here in Oregon, Hood River, Or on the Columbia River is the mecca for this sport. As of yet, I have not tried this sport. I did buy a 3 Meter trainer kite to learn how to fly and launch. I am looking forward to hot weather to go take some lessons in Hood River.
Here are some links to schools for lessons and rentals:
Kiteboarding Lessons at Hood River WaterPlay
Big Winds Hood River: Located in the Columbia River Gorge
Kite The Gorge - Kitesurfing School at Hood River, Oregon.
http://gorgekiteboardschool.com/
Welcome to Gorge Kiteboarding School ! - ..
With the windsurfing and kiteboarding in Hood River Oregon, the local saying about the Columbia Gorge is "that when it does`nt blow, it sucks"