Mary,

From what I understand, that's the tricky part. The current 'boat type' kite sails have to be reeled in and out. If they drop the kite into the water while it's flying, they have to reel it back and relaunch it. The kiteboarders have some kites that are inflated with air and I believe they can be more easily water launched but getting them properly oriented without swiming to it can be difficult.