Kiteboard branch and recreational tourism potential in Turkey

The aim of this research is to determine the profile and expectations of kiteboard consumers in Turkey and to examine the effect of kitesurfing on recreational tourism potential. Qualitative research method was used in the research, in which observation, face-to-face interviews and all other events were analyzed realistically in the natural environment. 88 kitesurfers participated in the study in Turkey. Since kitesurfing, which is the subject of the research, is a special field, all necessary care was taken in determining the participants. In the research, age was not taken into account because it was not an important factor, while gender, expertise levels, and experience and experience levels of the participants were taken into account. In order to ensure validity and reliability in this research process; The method, process and results of the research were explained to the participants in a clear and detailed way, the participants were also met during non-interview times, they were in a long-term interaction environment, an in-depth research and examination approach (collection, analysis and evaluation of data) was adopted. A consistent and interrelated process was followed until the results were analyzed and the study group was determined, the purposeful sampling technique was preferred, the research data and results were shared with the participants for verification purposes, they were presented to other researchers and their opinions were taken. The "interview form approach" was used as a method to collect data. Interviews were held between September 2020 and February 2021 by prior communication on the date of the meeting. The participants answered the questions comfortably without being pressured in any way. In any case, the interviews were recorded. The questions in the interview form were classified according to the answers and their percentages were evaluated. Two questions were summarized and interpreted according to predetermined themes. The majority of the participants said that Kiteboard is a very popular sport, its equipment and materials are quite expensive, there are regions with regular winds that are very suitable for Kiteboard, this has a very large tourism potential for Turkey, the existing areas should be taken under control and protected, They stated that the state and the federation should provide the necessary support for the promotion and development of Kiteboard. In order for Turkey to get the share it deserves from tourism revenues, which has such a dynamism affecting the economies, necessary efforts should be made in the development of other recreational activities and tourism types, especially kitesurfing. As a result, it is estimated that 63 million tourists and $86 billion foreign tourism income will be obtained in 2023 if the studies to be carried out within the framework of the strategic approaches determined in the Turkish Tourism Strategy-2023 Document are completed and the infrastructure and accommodation needs of the regions foreseen to be developed are met. In this sense, it can be said that Turkey, which has a long coastline surrounded by seas on three sides, has ample opportunities to be used for the sport of kitesurfing, kitesurfing has an alternative tourism potential and this situation should be evaluated. The tourism potential of kitesurfing is not only important for the spread of this sport, new investments and marketing, but also for the continuity of Turkish tourism. Within the framework of the findings, suggestions were made that will contribute to recreational activities and tourism.