The Ocean Spell × Billabong x AyadaWin a $20K Maldives Luxury Surf Holiday! (AUS & NZ residents only)

The Ocean Spell × Billabong x AyadaWin a $20K Maldives Luxury Surf Holiday! (AUS & NZ residents only)

CONTACT OUR TEAM

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Coed Big Boards Coaching Adventure

Josie Prendergast & Wispy

18th to 25th October, 2025

Take your longboard skills to the next level

This year, we’re back at it again with an 8-day boat trip across different atolls of the Maldives, in search of mini peelers to take our longboarding skills to the next level, guided by the expertise of longboard gurus Josie & Wispy.

If you’re interested in joining this trip, act quickly – we have a feeling it’s going to sell out fast once again. It’s our most sought-after longboard coaching adventure.

Remember, we’re offering only this option with Josie Prendergast. We have another longboard coaching trip with Wispy 3rd to 13th October .

We can’t wait to embark on this unique experience with you.

Malé to Central Atolls, Maldives

18th - 25th October 2025 (8 days / 7 nights)

Check in: 18th October 12:00 pm; Velana International Airport, Malé Maldives

Check out: 25th October 6:00 pm; Velana International Airport, Malé Maldives

Limited to maximum 12 surfer guests

Intermediate surfers

The minimum requirement is to catch your own waves and surf along the wall of the wave.

Fun and small waves

Cabin options: double or single occupancy

Shared cabin, double occupancy: 4,660 USD p/p

Couples Deluxe Shared Cabin, double occupancy:

4,960 USD p/p

Private cabin, single occupancy: 6,260 USD p/p

MORE INFO

La Familia

We believe the experience becomes unique not because of the destination but because of

the people you get to share it with.

Christian “Wispy” Barker

Josie Prendergast

Surf Performance

Coaching

Wispy has been surfing for over 30 years, and although he only took up longboarding when he moved to Byron in 2010, he has taken to the glide like a natural.

He is a magnificent coach, very humble and patient. He will be able to coach you with midlengths, longboards, single-fins, twin-fins…you name it. He is the master of the retro style surfing.

And what to say of our queen, Josie? It is a joy to see her gliding with her unique style, very supportive always, and with great coaching knowledge to share. Always reminding everyone that the core is to have fun.

Video Analysis

It allows you to visualise and understand how to improve your surfing. If you have never seen yourself surfing, it will be a game-changer.

Guided Surfing

Wispy and Josie will be in the water, guiding through the session, giving us feedback of what to work on and how. 

What is Included

• Private sailing charter with crew, including captains, skipper and chef offering a delightful stay;
• Accommodation (8 days, 7 nights) in luxury yacht (shared or private cabin) with full board (3 delicious healthy meals, afternoon snack, plus water, tea/coffee);
• World-class surf breaks for intermediate surfers onwards;
• Local experienced surf guide;
• Daily surf coaching with high-performance coach Wispy and Josie (video analysis, guided surfing);
• Professional videographer on board (digital copy of your surfing footage);
• Professional photographer on board;

• Snorkeling & fishing in crystal clear waters;
• Three boats (the main boat; the auxiliary boat, the dhoni; and the dingy);
• Visit uninhabited islands/beaches;
• The Ocean Spell goodies;
• Lifts to airport/charter/airport as a group;
• All current applicable taxes.

What is not included

  • International flights (check with our team for help);
  • Beverages, softdrinks, and alcohol (to be paid on board);
  • Photo package 300 USD;
  • Tips for crew (10 USD per night);
  • Surf travel & health insurance with cancellation (check with our team for good options).
LAST SPOTS

Our Home in the Indian Ocean

We love this boat, we have run the last few years a lot of trips on this boat. It may look old, however it is super cosy, very well-maintained, an extraordinary crew and the owners really support and take care of their crew.

We will be sailing across the Indian Ocean on this 34 m luxury yacht.  Each of the 11 cabins have ensuite toilet with hot/cold shower and a/c. All dietary requirements can be catered, prior early notice.

This boat allows a smooth and cruisy sailing journey. You will enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets. Not to speak about the yoga on the top deck as the stars fill up the sky.

Much More Than a Trip

Yoga

Plenty of Surfing

Exploring

New Surfing Familia

Empowerment & Limits

Wild Life

Pricing (per person)

Shared Cabin

(double occupancy)
4,660 USD

Cabin distribution:
Two twin single beds + ensuite toilet/shower.

Located in lower deck.

Private Standard Cabin

(single occupancy)
6,260 USD

Cabin distribution:
One bed + ensuite toilet/shower.

Located in lower deck.

Shared Couple's Master Suite

(double occupancy)
4,960 USD

Cabin distribution:
One double bed + One day bed + ensuite bathroom w/ hot tub. Spacious Master Cabin.

Located in upper deck, amazing views.

MORE INFO

Make your Dream Surf Adventure Real

And enjoy a five-star experience

First-time travelers with us: check if our philosophy & values resonate with you

A Message to First-Time Travelers with Us:

Surfing is one of the most challenging pursuits. It’s no surprise that, at times, you might feel stuck, frustrated, or even question whether improvement is still possible. Whether it’s battling harsh winter conditions, overcrowded lineups, or juggling responsibilities that leave little room for surfing, many of us know the struggle.

But then there are those moments—surfing until your arms can’t move, grinning from ear to ear after catching wave after wave, or finally nailing a maneuver you’ve worked so hard on. These are some of the moments that remind us why we surf. It’s fulfilling, rewarding, and simply part of who we are.

Our surf trips are designed to amplify these moments—to create an environment where frustration is replaced with fun, progress, and connection.

If surfing at home can be frustrating, is booking an overseas surf trip a good idea?:

If you’ve been feeling frustrated with surfing at home—whether it’s dealing with inconsistent waves, crowded agro lineups, or just not making the progress you want—an overseas surf trip can be the perfect solution.

With our surf adventures, the focus is on quality waves and a supportive environment. It’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover your love for surfing. A chance to relax, progress, and surf in some of the best conditions in the world.

We’re here to make sure you don’t just book a trip, but that you invest in a memorable, high-quality surf experience.

This trip isn’t just about getting away; it’s about resetting your surfing mindset, having fun, rediscovering the joy of catching waves in a stress-free, inspiring setting. The return on this investment? Increased confidence, improved skills, and a deeper connection with your sufing.

 

Overcoming Doubts About an Overseas Surf Trip:

It’s natural to wonder if an overseas surf trip will meet your expectations. You may find yourself asking:

  • Will the waves be right for me?
  • Will I fit in with the group?
  • What if the group is more skilled than I am?

We completely understand these concerns. That’s why we approach our trips differently. Our focus is on creating high-value surf experiences where every guest feels supported and valued, regardless of their skill level.

If you’ve been out of the water for a while, aren’t feeling surf-fit, or are stuck at a certain skill level, self-doubt can creep in. But here’s the truth: this trip isn’t about being the best surfer—it’s about embracing where you are and rediscovering the joy of surfing.

With a group of like-minded surfers and supportive guides, your confidence will naturally begin to build.

It’s completely normal to feel nervous, especially when facing new conditions. But don’t worry—whether you’re returning after a long break or looking to refine your technique, this trip is all about having fun with the waves.

The group will consist of fellow female surfers who are there to enjoy the journey and support each other. Plus, our team will be providing guidance and encouragement to help you progress.

The focus is on enjoying the journey of surfing, not aiming for perfection. Surfing is a process, and we’ll be there to support every step.

Looking for an affordable trip, is this the right fit?:

If by “affordable” you mean the cheapest trip available, then we might not be the right fit. But if you’re looking for a high-value, meaningful experience, then absolutely—this is the trip for you.

We prioritize quality in every aspect of our trips—from the waves and guides to the food and accommodations. We ensure that our guests are well-matched with the trip through personal videocalls, so they leave feeling fulfilled and inspired.

We don’t believe in packing a boat with as many people as possible to cut costs. Instead, we focus on creating an experience that offers the most value for the price. If you’re looking for a surf trip that goes beyond the ordinary, this is the one for you.

Here’s how we stand out from budget trips:

  • Carefully curated groups: We ensure compatibility and shared goals by speaking with guests before accepting bookings.
  • Quality over quantity: Limited group sizes mean personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
  • Maximized wave quality: We schedule trips to get the best waves while avoiding crowded spots.
  • Experienced team: Our team is dedicated to providing the best service, ensuring a memorable experience.

Cheap can often be expensive in the long run. Many guests who’ve tried budget trips elsewhere share their regrets and later join us for a truly fulfilling experience.

What cannot be guaranteed:

While we can’t control nature—waves and weather included—we can guarantee:

  • Trips scheduled for optimal conditions: Carefully planned during times expected to deliver fun, manageable waves.
  • Less crowded surf spots: We prioritize uncrowded locations, even if it means choosing slightly lower-quality waves (still epic by most standards!).
  • A flexible itinerary: Plans are shaped by the swell and wind, not rigid schedules.

Our priority is creating an enjoyable experience—for our guests and our team alike.

What to expect:

Daily Rhythm

  • Early morning surfs: Start the day with waves (weather dependent).
  • Healthy refueling: Enjoy nutritious meals to power through 2-3 surf sessions each day.
  • Relaxed evenings: Stretch, share surf stories at sunset, and occasionally dive into some evening fun—karaoke, anyone?

Flexibility

  • Adaptable plans: If conditions call for it, we’ll change locations to ensure the best waves for our group. Some days may involve cruising to new surf spots.
  • Personal pace: Prefer to sleep in? No problem. Our auxiliary boats and crew make it easy to join later sessions.

Supportive Environment

  • Encouragement and guidance: A team dedicated to helping you push your limits while feeling supported.
  • Respectful group dynamic: A welcoming environment where everyone feels valued.

Local Immersion

  • Cultural connection: Discover local islands, cuisine, and culture with guidance from our team, including local Maldivians.
  • Sustainable practices: From reducing single-use plastics to respecting customs, we embrace responsible tourism.

Lasting Impact

  • Transformative progress: Many guests improve more in one trip than years of surfing at home. Perfect waves, expert guidance, and a supportive vibe create a powerful combination.
  • Unforgettable memories: Return home stronger, more confident, and recharged—with incredible stories and a new surf community.
What normally happens on our trips:
  • Our trips are about more than just surfing—they’re about connection, fun, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s what typically unfolds:
    • Strangers become lifelong friends: Many guests leave with new friendships and plans for future overseas surf adventures. The combination of a videocall and our high-value experience naturally filters for special, amazing people who share a common passion for the ocean.
    • Transformative surfing progress: Guests often improve their surfing more in one trip than in an entire year at home. Here’s why:
      • Supportive group dynamic: Like-minded surfers sharing encouragement and camaraderie.
      • Expert guidance: Our hosts and guides provide tips, recommendations and guidance.
      • Perfect practice waves: Long, consistent waves (not frustrating closeouts) that allow time to think and actually try things and repeat till you make  it.
      • Daily practice: Surfing 2–3 times a day in ideal conditions boosts progress.
    • Balanced energy: Healthy, personalized meals keep you energized without weighing you down, so you’re ready for more waves.
    • Fun and relaxation: Switch off, enjoy the ocean, and embrace the joy of surfing.
    • Diverse surf experiences: Tackle different wave types and conditions, from comfort-zone surfs to more challenging days. Don’t feel like surfing? Go for a snorkel, relax on board, or cheer on the group.

    Flexibility and Comfort

    • Adaptable schedules: Nothing is set in stone. Want to sleep in? Join the morning session later with our auxiliary boats. If a request is possible, we’ll make it happen. If not, we’ll be upfront about it.
    • Local knowledge: You won’t waste time deciding where to surf or second-guessing conditions. Our team knows these waters and works with local guides, captains, and fishermen to find the best spot for the day.

    Building Confidence and Community

    • Overcoming fears: With a supportive team in the water, you’ll leave self-doubt behind, believe in your abilities, and maybe even learn to laugh at wipeouts.
    • A boost of confidence: You’ll head home feeling stronger, inspired, and eager for your next session or new surfboard.

    Authentic Maldives Experience

    This isn’t a typical surf trip or resort stay. You’ll experience the real Maldives:

    • Cultural immersion: Visit inhabited islands, savor local cuisine, and learn about the island lifestyle from our Maldivian team members.
    • Sustainable travel: We respect and connect with the local culture and communities—something missing from resort stays or standard boat trips.

    The Downside?

    The only bad news is that you’ll be hooked—on our vibes, our community, and our way of doing things. Chances are, you’ll be ready to book your next adventure with us before you even leave!

How you’ll feel when you return home:

When you return to your happy life, much will stay the same. Early mornings for work, family responsibilities, walking the dog, navigating traffic—your familiar routines will still be there. People (you know who) will still be doing their usual annoying things. That’s life. The comfort of your home and your loving community will surround you as always.

But there will be a subtle shift within you:

You’ll feel stronger, more confident, and a little less stressed—like you’ve hit a personal reset button. Those once-annoying moments will feel smaller, and being home will feel grounding.

When you close your eyes, you’ll savor the memories of perfect waves and fun moments that will bring a grin to your face. Those experiences will feel dreamlike, but the photos will remind you that they were real. You surfed those waves.

You’ll return to the water at home with newfound confidence, knowing exactly what to focus on if you want to build on the progress made during the trip. And yes, you might already start dreaming about your next surf adventure with us—trust me, it happens a lot. I’ve lost count of how many messages and calls I’ve received from repeat guests asking, “When’s the next trip?”

"Will I Only Be Able to Surf in the Maldives?"

If you jump into the water as soon as you get home, you might feel like you’ve forgotten how to surf.

This happens to many of our guests. They’ve called us saying, “I think I can only surf in the Maldives! What’s wrong with me?”

The truth? Nothing is wrong with you. You’re just surfed out. After 10 days of three sessions a day and a long flight home, it’s no wonder your body and mind feel wiped out. Give yourself time to rest and recover—you deserve it.

Also, remember that the waves in the Maldives are uniquely forgiving. They’re long, clean, and predictable, with a channel for paddling back out without battling whitewater or duck-diving every few strokes. You could surf wave after wave with minimal effort and maximum fun.

Back home, things are different. Many surf spots have beach breaks where you fight through whitewash, duck-dive endlessly, and contend with crowded lineups just to catch a short, fast-breaking wave. It’s not you—it’s the conditions.

Be kind to yourself, and don’t let this comparison hold you back. Instead, reflect on what you’ve achieved, remember the progress you’ve made, and know that your skills will adapt over time.

Is it a good trip, a worthwhile investment?:

For the right people, this trip is a valuable investment. While we know our trips aren’t for everyone, we’ve built a strong community of repeat guests who return time and time again.

If our philosophy and core values resonate with you and you can see yourself thriving on this adventure, let’s talk. Schedule a videocall with us to explore whether this trip is the perfect fit. We’re here to answer your questions and ensure you feel confident about your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the itinerary? The schedule?

Under our “unorganisation” there is an organised scheme.

We are surfers, and this is a surf trip; we do not want to offer a closed itinerary or schedule. The meteorology, the waves, the winds, and the swells are unpredictable. We know we want to take you to remote waves, but each area breaks with a different swell and wind. So the itinerary will depend on the conditions.

What we know is that we will start the trip in Malé, and cruise between North Malé, South Malé to Meemu atoll.

Our team will decide where and when we are heading, always thinking about the best conditions for our beloved frothers.

Do I need to bring my own surfboard?

Ideally, yes, we are going to have an adventure exploring the remote Indian Ocean, nowhere to rent a board.

We recommend you bring at least two surfboards in case something happens. You know how boards are sometimes handled at airports, and things happen in the water too.

If this is a problem, please notify our team in time so we can arrange an alternative solution. We can arrange for surfboards to be rented from a local surfshop (please note that in the Maldives, rental surfboards will not be in amazing conditions).

What else do I need to bring regarding surfing?

At least two or three good leashes, plenty of tropical wax, at least two sets of fins, and plenty of zinc. Remember, it’s an adventure in the remote Indian Ocean; we won´t find any surf shops—just coconuts and fish. 

Closer to the date of the trip, we send out a checklist with recommendations and ideas of what to bring. Also, we send out a questionnaire; the idea is to avoid bringing 10 medical kits, 10 ding repair kits, etc. We split it among the whole team, so each one is in charge of something. Teamwork!

Note: We highly recommend that you bring reef booties, no matter your level. It’s good to have them with you, just in case. It’s better to have them with you than to regret not having them.

Are there any pre-requisites to join?

If you want to make the most of the surfing, we recommend you be a confident surfer, so you will be able to improve your technique, style, power, etc.

If you just want to join us, cruise, have fun, and go with the flow, you are more than welcome to come along.

If you are a beginner or low intermediate, keen to join, and you are aware that possibly the waves will be big and you will have to either sit wide open or on the boat, if you feel comfortable with this, you are welcome to join this adventure.

We will encounter lots of different types of waves; however, beginners and low intermediates will not be able to surf most days. If you are comfortable with that, happy with sailing, swimming, snorkeling, chilling, hanging out with like-minded women, keen to have a blast, and listen to our recommendations regarding surfing, then we are stoked to share this adventure with you.

Is there an age limit/requirement?

You must be 18 years old to book a trip by yourself.

Minors are welcome on our family trips, or on our kids surf coaching trips. Please contact us for more information.

 

Am I too old to join?

Excuse me?

We have had young frothers join us, whose passports said they had done 65 loops around the sun.

Age is a number… we have had 65-year-olds who are ‘young’, younger in spirit than some of the 20-year-olds we know. You are welcome to share this adventure with us and inspire us!

Most of our guests range in age from 30 to 60 years old.

I do not have with who to travel...is it a problem?

These group surf trips were originally put together for solo surfers who wanted to travel overseas in search of waves and adventures, but with like-minded surf buddies.

Sometimes you find yourself that your friends or family..don’t surf. Or that you just want to go on a trip without your family, on your own, meeting new faces. Or your friends or family surf different kinds of waves. Or you want to switch off and on your internal world. Or in any other situation, you just want to do it on your own.

Our guests don’t know each other; complete unknown people in between each other. I (Silvia writing this) happen to be the one that knows everyone, due to our videocalls.

And hey, yep, unknown for the first day..after the second day, great friends…and by the end of the trip, seeing how to organize a future surf trip where they all can make it.

If you happen to be waiting for a friend to join you or trying to convince someone to come with you, we have two recommendations:

– Either “just do it”, do not wait for anyone..we are here for you, and we can chat about it on our videocall.

– Or, wait till you feel ready to travel on your own, but don’t try to convince people. That is our recommendation.

We have seen this situation many times, and the end result is that the one wanting to come either doesn’t come and regrets it or comes on their own and it’s the first of many trips on their own.

A group of strangers in a boat..how can that go?

You know what? These videocalls and the cost of the trip filter out a lot of people.

10–12 days on a boat can be a long time. You cannot just open the door and go for fresh air, like in a land-based camp. That is why video calls are important.

It would be way easier for us to set up a direct online payment form for people to just book their spot straightaway, selling out all the spots without having to spend time on calls. But hey, ‘I myself am strange and unusual’ (Silvia speaking..Im writing everything, Im here speaking straight and openly to you), what I mean is that I love my ‘me time’, I can at times feel out of places out of groups. Ten years ago, I would have never imagined organizing these group trips and traveling with strangers.

The first ever boat surf trip I arranged was because I couldn’t find a tour operator or surf travel agency that would take into consideration my concerns (travel agent was not my career; I used to be an engineer). The more I asked, the more I was ignored. I wanted to know who the other guests were (my concern was what kind of waves they were after, if I was going to enjoy their wave preference, if there were going to be waves for me), and if there was someone responsible for the group. Their concern was for me to just pay. If I didn’t catch waves or feel integrated within the group, it was my problem.

So, as the market could not give me what I wanted, I organised my own desired trip, ticking all the boxes I needed. I actually had calls with each person who was interested in joining before accepting a single dollar.

It was going to be just that one trip, but it turned out that I was not that weird. There were many more people throughout the world feeling exactly the same. And I have continued to use the same methodology. I have videocalls with anyone interested in joining any of the trips.

So, answering your question, how can a trip on a boat with strangers go?

Against all odds, epic! Our percentage of repeaters is 85%; I reckon we are doing something right.

If I do not surf...can I join?

Yes, you can join us; however, be aware that there will be no surf lessons for beginners and no pushing people into waves.

We will sail, cruise, relax, snorkel, visit local islands and uninhabited islands, practice yoga, meditation…and while we are surfing, the guests who do not surf but want to be close to us, can snorkel around or hang at the dhoni (the auxiliary boat that will be anchored beside the surfbreak).

We can chat about it on our videocall 😉

Is there WIFI?

Our recommendation is to buy a SIM card at the airport upon arrival. There are several packages of 15 Gigs and 30 Gigs, which are pretty reliable if you need to work or speak with your family. We can help you out once you arrive at the airport.

Can I work from my laptop?

Sure, you can if you buy a SIM card at the airport upon arrival. There are several packages of 15 Gigs and 30 Gigs, which are pretty reliable if you need to work or speak with your family.

Sometimes when we are crossing between atolls, there is no connection (for a few hours, until we are closer to the islands); however, every night we sleep beside a local island (or close by), and usually there is connection.

 

Do I need to bring snorkel, mask and fins?

Wow, the Maldivian underwater scenery is unreal!

We advise you to bring along your own mask and snorkel, as this means you’ll be assured your mask fits your face properly, is comfortable, and is less likely to leak.  We find that peace of mind goes a long way. A mask and snorkel are small and light and should take up very little space in your suitcase.

Sometimes fins are available on the boats; other times we arrange the rental for the guests. We recommend that you check with our team.

Dietary Requirements

No issues; all dietary requirements can be catered to, but please inform us in advance so we can arrange with the chef.

Yes, we have had plenty of guests with different dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free, allergies, keto, etc. Please inform our team when you book, and we will do our best.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our trips.

You can buy an insurance package to suit you and your travel plans, allowing you to depart on your holiday confident that you are covered. We recommend our clients get quality travel insurance with a well-known company: Blue-Cross, Manulife, Escapade, RBC, TravelGuard, etc. You should check the small print in the policy to make sure activities like surfing and snorkeling are covered. You need to be covered for medical expenses abroad and any emergency repatriation that may be required due to your illness or injury. We also recommend that you take out cancellation cover and baggage cover.

Note: We have designed and negotiated a health travel insurance policy with a cancellation policy with an insurance company. Ask our team for more information.

Important: We must have your travel insurance details (policy number, issuing company details, and emergency telephone number) before you depart, or you will not be allowed to join the trip. 

Do I need to arrive one day early?

There is no need to arrive one day early unless you want to rest and climatize to the tropical conditions.

If you decide you want to arrive early, we can help you book a hotel close to the airport with pick-up and drop-off or on a local island with surf. We are more than happy to help you.

 

When & where do we meet on the first day?

We will meet at Malé Velana International Airport at 12 p.m. on the 18th October.

When & where do we finish on the last day?

We will finish the trip at Malé Velana International Airport in the afternoon on October 25th, by 6pm you will be back at the Airport. IMPORTANT make sure your flight is not before 8pm.

If you need to fly out before, that is not a problem. There are options, or if you need to leave a day before, it can be arranged. There will be extra charges due to hiring a private speedboat to take you to the airport.

We recommend you to schedule a videocall with our team to check the options.

How much cash do I need?

This depends on personal preferences.

Almost everything will be covered: accommodation, meals (water, tea, coffee), airport transfer to the boat (as a group).

Here are some things you might need cash money for:

– boardbags on domestic flight is not included, can be payed by card or cash (aprox 160 USD, it will depend how many boards you have);

– alcohol, softdrinks;

– bottled water (we recommend to refill for environmental reasons);

– photo package (300 USD);

– tips (10 USD per day);

– SIM card (50 USD for 30 gigs);

On the boat you will be able to pay with credit card. Tips should be given to the captain and crew in cash. On local islands and at the airport there are ATMs.

Local Currency and Banking in the Maldives

The Maldives has a non-convertible currency, the Maldivian Rufiyaa, which cannot be purchased beforehand.

One US dollar is equivalent to approximately 15.5 Rufiyaa. The US dollar is accepted as legal tender. All major credit cards can be used.

The national bank, Bank of Maldives, has a branch and an ATM at Male’ International Airport.

The banks in the Maldives are very particular about the condition of bank notes and will refuse deposits of old-style USD$, even though it is still an active currency, damaged notes, badly creased, or well-worn notes will also be rejected.

Therefore, if you present such a note as a form of payment, you may be requested to change it to a note in better condition. Please do not take offense; it is purely that the note will have no worth to the individual to whom you are paying. Also, note that small bills, i.e., $1 and $5, have a lower exchange value, as the Bank of Maldives charges for small notes to be deposited.

Also, when you receive change back in USD notes, check them out thoroughly, as they will try to sneak in any damaged ones. If you live in the US, then the change won’t matter, as you can use the damaged notes back home.

 

Tipping

If you are happy with the services provided by the guesthouse staff or the boat staff, you should tip; though not compulsory, it is very appropriate and expected.

It is of great significance to the crew who will take care of you during our adventure and inspire excellent service.

The amount to tip is always subject to your satisfaction with the service provided and your budget; however, we recommend a minimum of 10 USD per night.

 

Is this trip for me?

That is a very personal question, and that is your decision.

Also remember, we need to give you the green light, making sure with the videocall that you have the right expectations of the trip, that it covers your needs, and that you truly feel that you want to be a part of this rare adventure.

We reckon that if, after reading this page, it doesn’t resonate with you, it’s not your trip, don’t book the videocall. This answer is not a marketing strategy. (In what universe is recommending someone not to book a selling strategy?)

We know our trips are not for everyone.

These trips are more expensive..than other operators

You are right. 100% right.

We know these trips are not for everyone.

Will the price be dropped if we are closer to the date and spots do not fill up?

Sometimes we get these questions randomly.

First of all, for the respect of our clients who book when they are ready and for the respect of our work, attention, service, and value, we never drop prices.

Actually, they go higher; we do not believe in deals.

We prefer to make less money and just go with the guests willing to pay our value rather than filling up last-minute spots by lowering our work. That’s not going to happen.

It happens that our group trips tend to be very sought-after, and they sell out pretty quickly. Plus the good old repeaters; each year we have more, and they all want to repeat again.

 

If there is only 1 spot left..can someone come with me?

No, we are strict with our numbers. If we have promised that 12 is the limit, then 12 is the limit.

Additional Questions & Information

Booking Information

A video-call must be organized with the team in order to be invited to book your space in this adventure. To fully confirm your spot, a non-refundable deposit is needed.

Private and shared room availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please book your reservations early to receive your preferred accommodation.

Travel & Flight Information

Please confirm your availability with our team, before booking your flights. The flights are not included in the package. We do offer concierge services to help you make all the arrangements needed.

If you decide to extend your stay, we can assist you in booking your desired vacation at our luxurious resort recommendations or affordable local accommodations.

Travel Documentation & Insurance Policy
To enter the Maldives, your passport must have 6 months of validity from the departure date. Most countries are not required to issue a visa to enter; it is granted upon arrival. During the check-in of your flight, you might be asked to show a return ticket from the Maldives. All clients must purchase medical and travel insurance to join any of our surf experiences. We highly recommend that you purchase your insurance with a cancellation policy.
Additional Travel Recommendations
Once you book your surf adventure, you will receive your contract and liability release forms. Closer to the date of the trip, you will receive: the link to a questionnaire (so as to split the medical kit and the ding repair kit, as well as emergency contact information, etc.); a booking voucher for entrance in the Maldives; and a checklist with helpful information you might need, including tips on how to pack, local currency, local traditions and how to respect them, etc.
Time in Maldives

Maldives Standard Time is GMT/UTC + 5 and during BST + 4.

Note that some resorts operate island time, which is 1 hour ahead of Maldives standard time.

Cancellation Policy

We want to make the booking process as reassuring as possible.

In the extenuating circumstances that the entire group trip needs to be rescheduled to new travel dates due to international border closures and/or restrictions due to COVID-19, all funds paid will be rolled over to the new travel dates. New dates will be discussed with all attendees before being confirmed. If attendees are unable to attend on new proposed group travel dates, existing booking payments will become credit for other The Ocean Spell signature group trips (value to exclude any group fees previously utilised by a third-party supplier). Credit is not redeemable for a refund.

It is mandatory to purchase travel and health insurance with cancellation cover. In the event that an individual attendee is encountered with an unfortunate event that obligates them to cancel in the days prior to the trip departure, the insurance provider will refund the credit, always with the proper evidence and proof. The Ocean Spell or our providers cannot refund the money, which is why it is mandatory to be covered for such circumstances, including COVID. We do know various good insurance providers, and we also work with some excellent products. Please get in touch with our team.

Non-Covid-related refunds. If you cancel 90 days or less before the trip departure date, we will reimburse any payments made to us (excluding the admin fee and any non-refundable monies paid to third-party suppliers), as long as we are able to resell the place(s) that we have been holding for you. The reimbursement can be either in the form of a refund or held in credit for a future booking. Either way, we will retain a $350 admin fee per person. We will be able to offer a partial refund (excluding the admin fee and any non-refundable money paid to third-party suppliers) only if we are able to resell the place(s).

Please note that fear of traveling due to COVID is not a valid reason for cancellation or for any insurance provider.

Payment Procedure
Payment will be:
– a non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot (your spot is only secure once your money reaches our account);
– final payment 75 days before the trip.
 
Payments can be made via:
– bank transfer to a USD account;
– bank transfer to Eur account (the team will calculate the conversion on the day you are paying);
– credit card payment link with surcharge;
– wise payment link via card (free if you have a free account with wise; ask our team).
 
Once you are welcomed to join the trip, let us know your desired payment method, and we will prepare a proforma with the details.
Once the money reaches our account, we will provide a receipt and an online contract for you to review and sign.
I cannot see any payment button
You are right, we do not have any direct payment buttons on the website; we provide them privately to each client once we have done the videocall.
We need to make sure you have the right expectations for the trip and that the trip satisfies your needs before accepting any money. For us, it’s not about selling all the spots as soon as possible; it’s about working to guarantee the satisfaction of our clients. So a videocall with our team is mandatory before we facilitate the payment methods.
Activities & Risk
All the activities supplied carry with them a degree of risk, both to people and equipment, even though enjoyed under proper supervision by qualified instructors. Some activities require those taking part to have a reasonable standard of health and fitness. All clients must inform us of any medical conditions, illnesses, or allergies they may have and any prescribed medication they might be taking prior to booking. No one should participate in any activity if they are suffering from a heart condition or are pregnant. No client should, under any circumstances, take part in an activity while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication, which may adversely affect their physical abilities.
Contract & Liability Release Forms
After reserving your spot, we will send out the contract and the liability release forms for you to fill out and sign before starting the trip.
There will be no exceptions to this policy.

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Basic Information on Data Protection

Information about the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) | Controller: The Ocean Spell Purpose: To manage the request you make in this contact form. Legitimation: Consent of the interested party. Recipients: Data will not be transferred to third parties except legal obligation. Rights: You can exercise your rights of access, rectification, deletion, limitation, opposition, and other legally established rights at any time through the following email: info@theoceanspell.com. Additional Information: You can consult additional and detailed information about data protection here Privacy Policy.

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