Coed Surf Coaching
Sailing Adventure
500 kms, 300 miles of the Maldivian Archipelago
The expedition will start from Malé where we will catch a domestic flight to Gaafu Dhaalu atoll (southern Maldives) and sail up slowly to Malé, exploring and surfing different waves, the itinerary will depend on the swell and wind directions. We can cruise up through the outer atolls in search of the SW swell breaks or across the inner atolls in search of the SE swells, or combine it. The wind and swells will be dictate the itinerary.
From Huvadhoo Atoll to Malé Atoll, Maldives
18th - 31st May (14 days)
Check in: 18th May 10:00 am; Velana International Airport, Malé Maldives
Check out: 31st May 18:00 pm; Velana International Airport, Malé Maldives
Maximum 9 surfer guests
Intermediate surfers
The minimum requirement is to catch you own waves and surf along the wall of the wave.
Mix, powerful conditions with easygoing waves
Shared cabin 5680 USD per person
The Team
For us the experience becomes unique not by the destination, but by the people you get to share the experience with.
Emmanuelle Joly
Ismail Miglal
Silvia San Laureano
Husain Simah
Surf Performance
Coaching
Emmanuelle Joly has been surfing for over 40 years, she was a French female athlete in the ASP. She has been coaching high performance level and also recreational surfers for over 10 years.
Video Analysis
Allows the surfer to visualise and understand how to improve their surfing. Day of arrival it will be free surfing, no video analysis, to get used to the waves.
Guided Surfing
When Emmanuelle is filming (1 filmed session a day for video analysis) Issey & Silvia will be in the water, guiding through the session.
Rest of the sessions will be guided, where the coach Emmanuelle will be with us in the water giving feedback.
What is Included
- Private luxurious sailing boat with crew, captain, skipper and chef (plus a team of 7 experienced staff members) offering a delightful stay;
- Accommodation (14 days, 13 nights) in our luxury sailing charter (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;
- Three boats (main boat, auxiliary boat the dhoni & dingy);
- Local experienced surf guide, athlete & surf coach, Kuda Issey;
- Daily surf coaching with high performance coach Emmanuelle Joly (video analysis, guided surfing);
- Professional photographer on board;
- Daily restorative surf yoga with Silvia;
- Snorkeling & fishing in crystal clear waters;
- Visit uninhabited islands/beaches;
- Opportunities to give back through environmental & social activities;
- BBQ on uninhabited island;
- Some goodies;
- Footage of your surfing waves on digital copy;
- Lifts to airport/charter/airport (as a group);
- Domestic flight back from Malé International Airport to Huvadhoo atoll, checked in luggage up to 20kg (excess luggage 2 USD/kilo);
- Late check out;
- All current applicable taxes included.
What is not included
- International flights;
- Beverages, softdrinks & alcohol (to be payed on board);
- Photo package;
- Tips for crew;
- Surf travel & health insurance with cancellation;
- PCRs.
Our Home in the Indian Ocean
We will be sailing across the Indian Ocean on this 34 m beautiful boat, Gurahali. Each of the 7 spacious 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
Fishing
Wild Life
PRICING
Owen Watson – Cronulla, Australia
“I have been home a few weeks now and cant stop thinking about how good this Maldives trip was. They have created the ultimate surf trip experience by incorporating surf coaching with video analysis and yoga for the mind and body. The surf coaching part of this trip is such a great concept, video analysis is the key to breaking down your surfing so the coach can give feedback on mistakes you are making and gives you the techniques needed to improve your surfing. My surfing definitely improved over the 10 days and I have lots of new skills to work on to make my surfing more enjoyable. This trip was awesome to share with my son (truly a family friendly trip) and all the other like minded people on the boat, it was such a great experience meeting all these people from around the globe becoming good friends and having a fun surf trip together! Thanks!”
Kerri Heard – Cornwall, UK
“My trip to the Maldives with Silvia from The Ocean Spell was INCREDIBLE. So well organised and I felt confident throughout the process of booking that I was going to be looked after by the team. I had the best trip of my life. Met incredible like minded souls and had the best coaching I could have ever imagined. I recommend The Ocean Spell to anyone, you’ll be guaranteed the best trip of your life and with amazing people to support you and show you that you are capable and can achieve anything. Cant wait till the next trip!”
Sunshine Makarrow-California, USA
“In the two weeks I spent working with the coaching in the Maldives, my surfing improved more than it would have in months if not years on my own (I have been surfing more than 20 years). The daily video analysis was especially helpful to truly understanding how to improve. I highly recommend The Ocean Spell surf coaching trips to anyone looking to take their surfing to the next level.”
Iván Fernandez – Spain
“I had a great and awesome surf trip with The Ocean Spell, all the organisation was fantastic, great surf coaching sessions, very nice boat (double room, AC, private toilet, towels), awesome surf photographer, and obviously amazing waves. Yoga sessions on the rooftop during unbelievable sunsets, unbeatable experience. Besides, the small group and the staff creating a cozy environment, good vibes. This trip was for experience surfers, and I can assure you everyone improved in the 10 days of perfect waves and video analysis. I also joined the group trip as The Ocean Spell has a strong purpose promoting environmental actions. Obviously everything can not be perfect, but was very close. I highly recommend to book your surf holidays! Great organization.”
David Becerra – USA
“If I could give them 10 stars I would!! The Ocean Spell team is formed by amazing, funny and down-to-earth people, I feel like I have made new friends for life. Definitely the best surf trip I have been on. The whole trip was super organised. After more than 20 years surfing, the video analysis was super educational, I was able to make changes to my surfing and improve in the 10 days I was there. Now I have a ton of tips I can work on to get my surfing to the next level for many years to come.We spent the entire time surfing, laughing, learning and having a blast. They are very well respected by the locals and regulars in the water, and they make sure to educate everyone on proper surf etiquette to maximise fun in the water for everyone. Highly recommend to any surf at any level who wants to surf great fun waves and meet some cool people. Will be definitely going back!”
Annie Croteau – Canada
“I have been in one of the all women surf trip in the Maldives and strongly recommend the experience if you want to improve your surf. 10 days in paradise with an amazing group of inspiring women that I am so happy to now call my friends. An excellent coach, very patient and passionate. I improved a lot in 10 days and I now know what to work on in the next year to keep improving. The yoga was also very nice after long days surfing, my back needed this! Thanks The Ocean Spell for the unforgettable experience.”
Karmen Lopez – Spain
“UNBEATABLE. I joined the only women Maldives trip, 10 out of 10! The boat with all comforts, surf coaching incredible, I have improved my level in just 10 days, what could have taken a couple of years! I have returned with amazing photos as we had a professional photographer on board! The food was varied, I am vegetarian, so I was afraid that I would be hungry, but the crew would surprise us each day with different delicious meals, lucky that we burnt all the calories while surfing! The opportunity of meeting women from all around the world, in an amazing atmosphere, it has been so much fun that the bad thing has been to return home. The Ocean Spell team took care of us, showed us the best waves in the Maldives. Every night Silvia would give us a yoga session on the top of the boat, watching the stars. Next year I will repeat! I recommend it 100%!” ❤️
Haruna Pager – Japan
“l really enjoyed my Maldives surf coaching trip, I went to the all genders trip. One of the best quality waves in the world with great people. The coach was very professional, passionate and funny.
Silvia is kind, caring and always making sure everyone is happy and things are going well.
My surfing skill definitely improved in 10 days especially with the video analysis was so helpful in understanding what needed to be improved.Also evening yoga helped my bad neck and shoulder a lot, to survive surfing 3 times a day for 10 days.
I highly recommend this trip to anyone thinking of joining. It included what you need, comfy boat, nice food, professional surf coaching, yoga, every morning surf session video and awesome photos, off the scale of my expectation!
Thank you so much, hopefully see you soon!”
Yael Zamir – Israel
“Highly recommended, amazing experience. Great hassle-free organization,professional attitude, with super fun environment. Will definitely do it again.
It was my first trip without my family (I’m a mum of three grown up kids), initially I was going with a friend to one of the only women surf coaching trips that The Ocean Spell organizes, but my friend pulled out…and honestly I was going to cancel it, as I was scared of traveling alone, joining a group of unknowns. Silvia transmitted trust and confidence and told me how everyone was in the same position as me, with doubts and fears. So good she insisted me, I have repeated again after that trip! And soon more! My recommendation, don’t think it twice, don’t look for a friend with who to travel…as you will find plenty of like-minded people at The Ocean Spell.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own surfboard?
Yes its a must, we are going to have an adventure exploring the remote Indian Ocean, nowhere to rent a board.
We recommend you to bring at least two surfboards, in case something happens. You know how boards are sometimes handled at airports, also things happen in the water too.
If this is a problem, please notify our team with time, so we can arrange an alternative solution with our local partners.
What else do I need to bring regarding surfing?
At least two-three good leashes, to make sure they will resist. Plenty of tropical wax. At least two sets of fins. Remember its an adventure in the remote Indian Ocean, we won´t find any surf shops…just coconuts 😉
Note: we highly recommend you to bring reef booties, no matter your level. Its good to have them with you, just in case.
Are there any pre-requisites to join?
If you want to make the most of the surfing, we recommend you to be a confident surfer, so you will be able to train and improve your technique, style, power, etc.
If you just want to join us, cruise, enjoy, 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 type of waves, however beginner/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 and keen to have a blast, and listen to our recommendations regarding surfing…then we are stoked to have you on board.
Is there an age limit/requirement?
You must be 18 years old to book a trip by yourself.
Minors are welcomed 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 been joined by 65 year old women who were younger in spirit than some of the 20 year olds we know.
Most of our guests range between 30 and 55 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 want to travel the world in search of waves, but want to do it with like-minded surf buddies.
If you are waiting for a friend to join you, our recommendation is “just go”, the people joining our trips are with similar circumstances to you.
If I do not surf...can I join?
Yes you can join us, however be aware there will be no surf lessons for beginners, nor no pushing people into waves.
We will sail, cruise, relax, snorkel, visit 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).
Shortboard? Longboard?
Everyone is welcome to join! We have both longboarders and shortboarders on board. Some of our guests bring different kind of boards to play around with.
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, pretty reliable if you need to work or speak with your family.
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, pretty reliable if you need to work or speak with your family. While crossing the big channels we might not have much reception, it may last for 2-3 hours.
Dietary Requirements
All dietary requirements can be catered, but they need to be informed in advance. Preferable inform our team when you book.
Do I need to bring snorkel, mask and fins?
We would advise to bring along your own mask and snorkel as this means you’ll be assured your mask fits your face properly and is comfortable and less likely to have leakage. We find that peace of mind goes a long way. A mask and snorkel is small and light and should take up very little space in your suitcase.
Fins are available on the boat. This means you won’t have to try and find room for them in your bag and leaves you space for other essentials!
Do I need to arrive one day early?
There is no need for you to arrive one day early, unless your air travel itinerary is long and you want to be fresh for the trip.
If you decide you want to arrive early in order to rest and become acclimatized to the weather, we can help you book a hotel close to the airport with pick up and drop off.
When & where do we meet on the first day?
We will meet at Malé Velana International Airport, at 10 am on the 18th of May.
Domestic flights have not been published yet, apologies for the inconvenience. We suggest that the flight arriving to Malé should be early in the morning.
When & where do we finish on the last day?
We will finish at Malé Velana International Airport, in the afternoon on the 31st of May.
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:
– 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.
Local Currency and Banking in the Maldives
The Maldives has a non-convertible currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa – this cannot be purchased beforehand.
One US Dollar is equivalent to aprox 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 in 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 still an active currency, damaged notes, badly creased or well-worn notes will also be rejected. Therefore, if presenting such a note as form of payment you may be requested to change to a note of better condition. Please do not take offence, 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.
Tipping
If you are happy with the services provided by the boat crew a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels and inspires excellent service. The amount to tip is always subject to your satisfaction with the service provided, and your budget. As a rough guide, we recommend you budget $10 a day extra for the duration of the holiday which you can use as tipping money at your discretion.
Time
Maldives Standard Time is GMT/UTC + 5 and during BST + 4
Note some resorts operate Island Time, which is 1 hour ahead of Maldives standard time.
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 to 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, snorkeling are covered. You need to be covered for medical expenses abroad and any emergency repatriation that may be required due to your illness/injury. We also recommend that you take out cancellation cover and baggage cover.
IMPORTANT: We must have your travel insurance details (policy number, issuing company details, and emergency telephone number) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the trip.
Additional 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 rooms availability are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please book your reservations early to receive your preferred accommodation.
Travel & Flight Information
Please confirm 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 to book your desired vacation in our luxurious resort recommendations.
Travel Documentation & Insurance Policy
Maldives Entry Requirements with Covid-19
Citizens/residents from most countries are currently allowed to enter Maldives by air. Passengers traveling as tourists arriving from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan or Sri Lanka are not allowed to enter.
Quarantine not required.
Specific entry requirements that must be met:
1) Mandatory Maldives PCR Test for Entry
All tourists traveling to Maldives in COVID-19 must take a mandatory PCR TEST (nucleic acid nasal & throat) taken no more than 96 hours before the departure time of the first ticketed flight to Maldives, counting from the first port of embarkation en-route to the Maldives. If the tourist makes a transit during the journey, the initial PCR test will be valid if the transit does not exceed 24 hours. If the tourist makes a transit exceeding 24 hours, the passenger must repeat the PCR test within 96 hours prior to embarkation at the port of transit.
Maldives Immigration requires the Negative PCR test results to show the name of the passenger (name as in passport), name & address of testing laboratory, testing officer & testing officer signature, type of test stated as a PCR test, date & time of sampling, result.
Tourists who have completed the full vaccination process and hold a valid vaccination certificate for a vaccine approved by the World Health Organisation are still required to take a mandatory PCR test for entry to Maldives when traveling to Maldives in COVID-19.
The PCR test result should be submitted through the IMUGA portal within 24 hours prior to departure to Maldives. In addition, the lab result should be presented in paper or electronic format during the airline check-in.
2) Pre-fill Online Health Declaration Form
The Health Declaration Form must be pre-filled 0-24 hours before traveling to Maldives. The Negative PCR Test results must be attached.
Recommended to take a screenshot of the form’s QR Code upon completion.
A separate form must be pre-filled 0-24hrs prior to your departure from Maldives . Take a screenshot y of the new QR code again upon departure as it’s required to enter the departures hall for flight check in.
3) Confirmed Reservation & Return Flights
Travelers must have a confirmed reservation at our licensed accommodation facility when traveling to Maldives (including a resort, liveaboard, guesthouse, that is approved by the Ministry of Tourism in conjunction with safe tourism guidelines).
4) Passport Validity
Passport must have 6 months validity from departure date for entry.
Exit Requirements
Cancellation Policy due to Covid-19
We want to make the booking process as re-assuring 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 to a third party supplier). Credit not redeemable for refund.
It is mandatory to purchase travel and health insurance with cancellation cover, that in the event of individual attendee tests positive for Covid-19 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, that is why it is mandatory to be covered for such circumstances. 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 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 $200 admin fee per person. We will be able to offer a partial refund (excluding admin fee and any non-refundable monies paid to third party suppliers) only if we are able to resell the place(s).
Please note that fear to travel due to Covid is not a valid reason for cancellation or for any insurance provider.
