Visitors to the idyllic Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives can now learn to catch that perfect wave, with the opening of a top-notch surf ‘shack’ on the island. The high-end resort has teamed up with renowned surfing company Tropicsurf to offer expert instruction for all ages and levels, complementing the five-star, luxury experience.
In the North Male atoll, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Gili Lankanfushi is ideally located for great surfing. Some of the best breaks in the country lie at its doorstep, with three just a ten-minute boat ride from the resort and several more within 20 minutes. Tropical water temperatures, consistent swell and low crowds add to the appeal. While the main surfing season is usually between April and October, there’s great surfing all year, and Tropicsurf will operate year-round, with beginners and first-timers able to enjoy the smaller waves and empty line-ups outside of the peak period.
Gili Lankanfushi shares the same stretch of reef as the famous ‘Jails’ surf break, where the more experienced surfers can push their performance. Thrill-seekers will love the challenge of the open tubes at Cokes, or the excitement of racetrack waves like Honkies, while mellow waves at Ninjas or in the calm of the lagoon keep novices happy.
Tropicsurf specialises in combining the best surfing with the best resorts around the world. Experienced instructors personally ensure that everyone – from the complete beginner to the hardened surfer – feels inspired and in safe hands. All lessons and surf trips are tailored to guests’ needs, whether it’s a private or group session. Schedules are never fixed, and depend on ocean conditions and individual requests. Options include surfing from the resort and trips by dhoni (a traditional sail boat) or speedboat to other waves, and range from an hour’s beginner lesson to all-day excursions.
State-of-the-art equipment can be hired at the new Surf Shack, with all surfer needs – from special sun cream to protective clothing – on sale too. And at the end of a day in the swell, the fantastic facilities of Gili Lankanfushi await for pampering, relaxing and celebrating newly-learned skills.
