After becoming independent in the lineup and entering the realm of the intermediate surfer, the world of wave riding begins to open up before you.
Previously unsurfable waves become surfable. You see the beauty in reef breaks (rather than the fear). You might even start toying with a surf trip – the top of the pyramid when it comes to surf experiences.
But which destinations offer the best waves for intermediate surfers? Where can one find breaks that strike the perfect balance between challenging and fun? What's the ultimate surfing destination for surfers who spend most of the year landlocked?
The answer, good friends, is a Maldives boat trip.
How do I know if I'm ready for a Maldives boat trip?
A Maldives boat trip requires a decent level of skill in the water. It's not the domain of beginners, and you'll need to meet certain requirements before booking your ticket.
Later in life or landlocked surfers are perfectly capable of surfing the Maldives provided you meet these criteria. Here's a quick checklist to help you determine if you're ready to plan a Maldives boat trip:
- Do I know how to duck dive or turtle roll?
- Can I paddle out the back in chest to head-high waves with confidence and ease?
- Am I motivated to surf reef breaks?
- Am I comfortable navigating through crowds in the lineup?
- Can I ride a wave down the line without losing control?
If you answered "yes" to most of these questions, then you're likely ready for a Maldives boat trip. However, it's important to note that each surfer progresses at their own pace and what may be considered intermediate for some may not necessarily be the same for others.
Check out this article for more information on surf skill levels.
What makes Maldives boat trips suitable to intermediate surfers?
Nothing gets the imagination firing like the thought of a boat trip. For intermediate surfers, surfing the Maldives with a charter boat is especially appealing.
Not only do you have easy access to a variety of excellent waves, but you also have the luxury of surfing with a small group of likeminded people on reefbreaks that aren’t as intimidating or dangerous as those in other parts of the world. This will help you become more comfortable with surfing over reef.
Perhaps the best part of being an intermediate surfer in the Maldives though is that its many breaks strike the perfect balance between fun and challenging.
Some days you'll enjoy playful walls, while other days you'll have the opportunity to push yourself in more powerful barreling waves. Given that you're on a charter boat and not a land camp, you're also able to move with the conditions and escape the more crowded spots.
We've personally scored the Central Atolls on our boat trips with hardly any people, and we're big believers in the convenience and freedom that come with being on a boat.
Check below a video of some of the fun waves we surfed in our April boat trip in the Central Atolls of the Maldives.
FAQ about surfing the Maldives for intermediates
Q. What kind of waves can I expect in the Maldives?
Surfing the Maldives means you'll encounter a variety of waves catering to different levels of surfing. Central Atolls offer mellow, fun waves perfect for intermediates during shoulder months (April and October). Read this article for a detailed breakdown on the Maldives.
Q. What should I pack for a Maldives surf trip?
You'll need at least two surfboards suitable for different wave conditions, rash guards, reef booties and your personal surf gear. Don't forget tropical essentials sunglasses, a hat and eco-friendly sunscreen or zinc.
Q. Are the waves crowded?
Surfing in the Maldives can be less crowded than other popular destinations, particularly when you're on a charter boat that can move away from busy spots. The Male Atolls in the north and the high season (May to August) are busy. Shoulder months like April and October are mostly uncrowded.
Q. Do I need reef experience to surf in the Maldives?
No. While having experience surfing reef breaks is useful, it’s not essential. The reefbreaks and wave sizes that we surf ensure you’ll have an easy entry into surfing over reef. Reef booties make the experience even easier by protecting your feet.
Q. What's the ideal season for intermediate surfers in the Maldives?
The shoulder months, particularly April and October, are ideal for intermediate surfers. During these months, the waves are typically less powerful and more manageable, providing the perfect balance of fun and challenge. There are also less people, which means you won’t be subjected to crowded surf sessions.
Q. How many people are on a charter boat?
It depends on the size of the boat, but anywhere from 10-12 people not including hosts, crew and surf guides.
Conclusion
The Maldives are a veritable paradise for intermediate surfers, and a charter boat trip is the ultimate way to experience it. If you dream of getting barrelled for the first time, lounging around on a gently rocking boat between surf sessions and sharing unforgettable moments with likeminded legends, Maldives is the way to go.
Book a Maldives trip here
