Well basically its a kite connected to lines which drag a person on a board across the water. And yes, it is a good time although I could imagine similar experiences that are not, such as kite pulls person without board through brier patch. Anyway, its considered a sport and pretty much all who try it consider it awesome. It is also frequently called kitesurfing. Here's what Webster has to say.

Here is some question and answer type info to help get you up and kiting in a jiffy.

Get Lessons at a Kiteboarding School  
Oh, how this is important. Let me count the ways. Really! Some sports demand lessons and this is one of them. Your safety and good health is the first reason, unless yer a jerk, then the safety and health of those around you will have to take precedence. (kiteboarding safety article)A good instructor will not only teach you how to control your kite, but also to understand the weather and risks that can so easily be avoided if you know what is up.

Other reasons for Lessons?  
You will learn faster. duh! Spend more time having fun and less time cursing at your kite. Lessons can be cheap. Some places offer discounts on board packages with lessons, and you will know   more about what you actually want to purchase once you have taken a few lessons.

What stuff do i need to buy?  
The kite, the bar and lines to control the kite, a harness, a safety system and the kiteboard itself are the immediate NEEDS. Here are a few other objects of desire though: a helmet, life jacket, wet suit, booties and a car, truck, SUV or minivan for you family folk.

So what's this all gonna cost me?  
Somewhere between $1,000 and $3,000 to start. Or maybe $30,000. Some people haven’t discovered a good local charity yet. There is used equipment available and that could definitely cut costs.  Check our Classifieds Forum for some good deals.

Is kiteboarding easy to learn?  
Like most sports kiting comes more naturally to some than to others. Obviously kitesurfing lessons help   to speed the learning curve. Peeps who have surfing, windsurfing, snowboarding, wakeboarding and or some other similar skills under their belts will certainly have a learning advantage too. Basically anyone can learn with a good instructor and a little patience.

Do I need to have a great bod?  
No, er what do you mean? It’s a good idea to know how to swim and be in reasonable health. Yer   gonna be in better shape once you have been kiteboarding for a while.

Should I join a club?  
Its a pretty good idea to get involved in a local kiteboarding club if there is one. They are usually free to join and will only make your life better. It's networking! Meet new people, buy sell and trade gear, go have a drink after the session, whatever. Also, kitesurfing with others is a great way to improve your skills, learn new tricks and have mo fun.