Huge Christmas day swell in Hawaii

A massive swell hit the islands this christmas day with Peahi (Jaws) on Maui hit by waves with 50ft faces which were tackled in spectacular fashion by a host of tow teams. At the same time Waimea on Oahu's northshore was experiencing some of the biggest swell in years with 25ft sets pounding in with one wave completely closing out the bay and cleaning up every surfer out!

Biggest wave ever recorded-1720ft

The biggest wave on record occurred in Lituya Bay on the southern coast of Alaska in 1958. An earthquake measuring 8.3 on the Richter scale hit the area and shook loose an estimated 40 million cubic yards of dirt and glacier from a mountainside at the head of the bay. When the debris hit the water, a massive 1,720-foot wave was created and washed over the headland.

How did the scientists know the wave was so incredibly enormous? Simple. To measure the height of the wave, scientists found the high-water mark -- the line where the water reached its highest point on land. This probably is not the biggest wave ever, just the biggest documented. Three fishing boats witnessed the Lituya Bay event. Unfortunately, two people on one of the boats were killed. Incredibly, the other two boats rode the waves and their occupants survived.

*source: surfersvillage.com. Photo Byron Hale

Santa gets his priorities right

Every year Santa Claus manages to get his priorities right and gets in a quick surf before deliverying his presents, although all that paddling is keeping him slimmer than usual and the salt water seems to be playing havoc with his beard! Check out the video footage below of Santa captured surfing in France:

Oops! Santa's gone surfing from kevin Olsen on Vimeo.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL AT EXTREMEHORIZON.COM

Saltwater Buddha: The Film

For those of you that read our review of the book Saltwater Buddha, by Jaimal Yogis, last year, you'll know that we're big fans, so were stoked to hear that a film is being made. Not only that some of the profits are going to benefit Save the Waves and Surfrider. Check out the trailer below along with links to the website and our review



http://www.saltwaterbuddha.org

http://extremehorizon.blogspot.com/2008/11/book-review-saltwater-buddha-surfers.html

Taj Burrow claims Pipeline Masters 2009

Taj Burrow (AUS), 31, has claimed the 2009 Billabong Pipe Masters, defeating fellow Finalist Kelly Slater (USA), 37, in clean three-to-five foot (1 – 1.5 metre) waves at the Banzai Pipeline.

The final event of the 2009 ASP World Tour season, the Billabong Pipe Masters culminated the Vans Triple Crown (an ASP Specialty Series), and provided non-stop, high-caliber action from the outset.

Burrow wasted little time in putting Slater on the ropes in the 35-minute Final, racking up a 7.00 out of a possible 10 on his opening ride for an electric air reverse followed by some solid forehand maneuvers. With deteriorating conditions, Burrow stayed busy before collecting a 5.83 for an incredible full-rotation alley-oop, putting the pressure on Slater as time ran out.

“There were perfect backdoor waves this whole event and then for the Final it went onshore,” Burrow said. “It was strictly turns. It was all about turns and hopefully doing a few airs and I sped down to my shortboard and my plan was to just to let loose. It was tough because I knew Kelly (Slater) could do anything. Even when there was 20 seconds to go and I had priority, I was still scared. I just had nothing to lose and tried to let loose.”

Taj Burrow : photo ASP/CI Cestari via Getty Images

Mick Fanning claims second World title at Pipeline

Mick Fanning (AUS), 28, has been crowned the 2009 ASP World Champion, following a stunning performance at the Banzai Pipeline on Saturday.

Heading into the final stop of the 2009 ASP World Tour season, Fanning held the ASP ratings’ lead over fellow Gold Coast surfer Joel Parkinson (AUS), 28, and with Parkinson’s Round 3 exit in today’s Billabong Pipe Masters at the hands of wildcard Gavin Gillette (HAW), 23, Fanning secured his second ASP World Title.

“I’m just a bit overwhelmed right now and I don’t quite know what to say,” Fanning said. “It was hard out there. I was trying to get ready for my heat and then Gavin (Gillette) got that one score as I was paddling out and, I don’t know, I just sort of slowed down.”

*Mick Fanning : photo ASP/CI Cestari via Getty Images

2009 Billabong Pipeline Masters kicks off in great surf

Round 1 of the Billabong Pipeline Masters, Event No. 10 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, commenced yesterday in clean six-to-ten foot (2 – 3 metre) waves at the Banzai Pipeline.

The third and final event in the Vans Triple Crown (an ASP Specialty Series), the Billabong Pipeline Masters plays host to two dramatic story arcs: the showdown for the 2009 ASP World Title and the requalification race for the 2010 ASP Dream Tour. Amidst the world’s best surfers exists a spattering of Pipeline specialists, making the competition field particularly challenging to navigate.

Michael Picon (FRA), 30, current ASP World No. 39, is in need of an impressive result in the final event of the year to secure his position amongst the world’s elite in 2010. Today, the Frenchman put the rest of the draw on notice, first eliminating wildcard Manoa Drollet (PYF) before posting the highest heat total of the event, a 19.76 out of a possible 20, for a brilliant backhand tube-riding approach to take out Josh Kerr (AUS), 25, in the final heat of the day.

image* Phil MacDonald : photo ASP/CI Cestari via Getty Images

Greg Long takes the 2009 Eddie

8 December, 2009 : - - Waimea Bay -- After 25 years with most of those spent waiting, Waimea Bay delivered an event of legendary proportions today at the Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau, Fueled by Monster Energy. It was 25 years to the day since the first 'Eddie' was held and waves of up to 50 feet poured in to Oahu's North Shore as if on cue.

With younger brother Clyde still in the lineup, at age 60, joined by the contemporary top guns of big wave riding, a packed arena celebrated every gutsy ride in brilliant sunshine befitting of a tribute to local hero Eddie Aikau.

When all was said and done, it was California's Greg Long, 26, (San Clemente) who made a late charge in the final heat of the day to claim the $55,000 winner's purse. Long committed to an unbelievable never-say-die attack, securing all four of his top scores - several of them death-defying and one of them a perfect 100-point ride, in macking 40- to 50-foot waves. It was the high point of his career to-date - pretty incredible given that he only rode Waimea for the first time this week.

Nine-time world champion Kelly Slater (Florida, USA), who won here back in January of 2002, placed second after leading the score board from the first second heat of the day. Long turned the tables on him in the final hour of competition. All Slater could do was look on in as much disbelief as the frenzied crowd who were at that point ready to celebrate with anyone. Slater earned $10,000. Third was Hawaii's Sunny Garcia, earning $3,000. Fourth was defending Eddie champion Bruce Irons (Kauai), $3,000.

The Quiksilver Eddie 2009 could go today!

One of the Hawaii's biggest swells in years is starting to hit with huge waves pulsing through Waimea Bay at 4pm yesterday. Invitees and Alternates of The Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau, fueled by Monster Energy, are put on an incredible afternoon display where a 30-foot-plus set closed out at the Bay

Contest Director George Downing has announced that the event is 90 per cent likely a "GO" for today. The final call to officially call the event ON is still pending.

Powerstroke bungee Cord: Great new surf training product

Check out this great new product which Extremehorizon Distribution are working with....its a brand New Surf training Tool called "The Power stroke bungee cord". Its a resistance training tool for improving all upper body strength for surfing.

If used regularly it will improve all the major muscles involved in paddling for surfing. The powerstroke bungee will also improve aerobic surfing fitness and major muscles for surfing paddle power.




"Power stroke bungee" comes with 2 inter changeable 3m bungee cords with 2x handles the cord can be attached almost any where for a surfing work out! Its a great price and will help your surfing. For more info visit http://www.extremehorizon.com/surf-shop/power_stroke_bungee_cord_surfing_training.html

Will the Quiksilver "Eddie" GO next week?!

The official opening ceremony for The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau, Fueled by Monster Energy took place yesterday at Waimea Bay, December 3rd at 2pm. The official holding period is from December 1, 2009, through February 28, 2010.

Big surf is expected to hit the north shore of Oahu and the Hawaiian islands this weekend and into early next week. Waves could top 20 feet today on the north shores of O'ahu, Kaua'i and Maui, the National Weather Service said yesterday. But even bigger surf may be on the horizon. An accompanying surf forecast said there is a "strong potential for warning level surf late this weekend into the middle of next week."

Some surf forecasters and big-wave watchers are suggesting that waves having 40-foot faces are a possibility, with the surf being the biggest it's been in 15 years

Mindless slaughter of pilot whales in Denmark

I have to admit that this story came as a shock, especially as its right on our doorstep. We all know that Japan hasnt the best track record when it comes to hunting for whales and dolphins for "research" but I was astonished to hear that Denmark also participate in a barbaric act of slaughtering Pilot whales in the Faroe Islands. The story is even more tragic as the killing is seen as a right of passage to manhood and not even for subsistance. The following is from CNN:

"Every year in the Faroe Islands in Denmark (a European Union country), slaughter approximately 950 of the famous and intelligent Calderon dolphins (long finned pilot whales).

The hunts, called "grindadráp" in Faroese, are non-commercial and are organized on a community level; anyone can participate. The hunters first surround the pilot whales with a wide semicircle of boats. The boats then drive the pilot whales slowly into a bay or to the bottom of a fjord where they are then butchered with hooks.

Most Faroese consider the hunt an important part of their culture and history. Animal-rights groups criticize the hunt as being cruel and unnecessary, while the hunters claim in return that most journalists do not exhibit sufficient knowledge of the catch methods or its economic significance.

As of the end of November 2008 the chief medical officers of the Faroe Islands have recommended that pilot whales no longer be considered fit for human consumption because of the levels of toxins in the whales".

The EU needs to pressure Denmark to outlaw this barbaric practice immediately

Click here to join: Calderon Dolphin Facebook Group

or sign the petition:

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/stop-the-calderon-dolphin-slaughter-in-denmark

Brand new North sea Surf Blog

The North sea surf crew are a hardcore dedicated bunch...cold water and fickle waves dont make for a surfers paradise! but it can get really good and this cool new blog is dedicated to all things North Sea surfing...check it out at:

http://thedoggerlandchronicles.blogspot.com/

Stephanie Gilmore takes 3rd ASP Womens World Title

Sunset Beach, Oahu, Hawaii – Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), 21, has claimed her third consecutive ASP Women’s World Title today, making history as the only surfer ever to win the prestigious crown each year they have competed at the elite ASP World Tour level (men’s or women’s).

The clinching was somewhat unexpected as today’s competition began with six surfers in contention for the 2009 ASP Women’s World Title. With each heat advancement and the narrowing of the field at the Gidget Pro Sunset Beach, Event No. 6 of 7 on the 2009 ASP Women’s World Tour, the irrepressible Gilmore navigated her way to her third ASP Dream Tour Title.

“It’s surreal to win for a third time,” Gilmore said. “It’s amazing!"

Gilmore’s 2009 ASP Women’s World Tour Results:
Win at the Roxy Pro Gold Coast
Runner-Up at the Rip Curl Women’s Pro Bells Beach
Runner-Up at the Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic
Equal 5th Place Finish at the Rip Curl Pro Search
Runner-Up at the Movistar Peru Classic
3rd at the Gidget Pro Sunset Beach
TBD at the upcoming Billabong Pro Maui

*Pic © ASP/ CI/ SCHOLTZ

2009 ASP Europe Awards ceremony Hossegor

The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Europe will host their 2009 ASP Europe Awards Ceremony on December 18 at the Rock Food in Hossegor, France.

The 2009 ASP European Champions will receive their trophies in front of industry representatives, media and surfers to celebrate the end of another successful year for professional surfing in Europe.

Invites announced for the Quiksilver Eddie big wave event

Quiksilver.com/Eddie launches today with the announcement of the 28 coveted Invitees and 24 Alternates to this year’s 25th Anniversary celebration of The Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau, fueled by Monster Energy.

The ASP sanctioned event will be held on one day, between December 1, 2009 and February 28, 2010, when waves exceed the 20-foot minimum threshold and Invitees contend for the $98K prize purse. The traditional opening ceremony honoring this silver anniversary will be one to remember, taking place at 2pm, December 3rd, 2009, at Waimea Bay.

INVITEES
Andy Irons, Hawaii
Brian Keaulana, Hawaii
Brock Little, Hawaii
Bruce Irons, Hawaii
Carlos Burle, Brazil
Clyde Aikau, Hawaii
Darryl Virostko, California
Greg Long, California
Jamie O’Brien, Hawaii
Jamie Sterling, Hawaii
Kelly Slater, Florida
Keone Downing, Hawaii
Makuakai Rothman, Hawaii
Mark Healey, Hawaii
Michael Ho, Hawaii
Noah Johnson, Hawaii
Peter Mel, California
Reef McIntosh, Hawaii
Ross Clarke-Jones, Australia
Rusty Keaulana, Hawaii
Shane Dorian, Hawaii
Sunny Garcia, Hawaii
Titus Kinimaka, Hawaii
Tom Carroll, Australia
Grant “Twiggy” Baker, South Africa
Ibon Amatriain, Euskadi
Ramon Navarro, Chile
Takayuki Wakita, Japan

ALTERNATES
Kala Alexander, Hawaii Aikau Family Pick
Pancho Sullivan, Hawaii
Garrett McNamara, Hawaii
Kohl Christensen, Hawaii
Dave Wassel, Hawaii
Keoni Watson, Hawaii
Nathan Fletcher, Hawaii
Ian Walsh, Hawaii
Danny Fuller, Hawaii
Kalani Chapman, Hawaii
Taylor Knox, California
Chava Greenlee, Hawaii
Jamie Mitchell, Australia
Myles Padaca, Hawaii
Tony Moniz, Hawaii
Darrick Doerner, Hawaii
Ken ‘Skin Dog’ Collins, California
Ross Williams, Hawaii
Derek Ho, Hawaii
Paul Paterson, Australia
Anthony Tashnick, California
Koby Abberton, Australia
Laurent Pujol, France
Laurie Towner, Australia

Gabe Davies wins Spanish Quiksilver Big wave event

Gabe Davies wins 'Best Surfer' at The Quiksilver ‘La Vaca Gigante III’ Big Wave Invitational Event

Sunshine, strong offshore winds and a 4-metre (15ft) swell greeted the 15 competitors and hundreds of spectators, who lined the clifftops at this winter’s ‘La Vaca Gigante III’ big wave event on Saturday the 14th Nov. The spot ‘La Vaca’ or ‘The Cow’ breaks 400m out to sea, off a rocky coastline beside a rural Northern Spanish farm in Cantabria.

The cliff-lined surf spot is far from inviting, but allows spectators a gladiator style view of the proceedings. Armed with surfboards up to 12’6” in length, the invited surfers decided to compete in a four-hour final.

When the results were announced in ascending order, it was British Quiksilver and Gravis surfer Gabe Davies who rode a series of solid sets successfully and claimed the ‘Best Surfer’ first prize. The judges decided Gabe took off deeply and critically enough on a series of solid set waves to claim the top prize.

"I was stoked just to get an invite to the ‘La Vaca Gigante III’ Event and to surf alongside such respected surfers," he said. "Coming here for the first time was never about competition for me, its more like a celebration of surfing and an event which shows respect to all those surfers who continue to push themselves and the sport in ever more challenging situations."

Does Bournemouth's artificial surfing reef work?!

I was recently sent a link to a new blog by its creator, concerning the recent official launch of Bournemouth's artificial surf reef, Europes first man made reef. The Reef has been a major talking point amongst surfers since construction was given the go ahead a few years ago and its been eagerly awaited promising to produce a classic wave. Well it appears that the reef isnt quite working as it should..."The quality of wave produced by the reef is extremely debatable and can in my opinion can only be described as a wedge"

make up your own mind by visiting http://bournemouthgreef.blogspot.com/2009/11/bournemouth-surf-reef-officially-opens.html

Big waves, Surf fitness and Agave surfboards

The guys a Surf Stronger who produce fantastic workout programmes on DVD for surfing fitness met up with Big wave charger Don Curry to talk about, waves, Agave wood surfboards and keeping fit for surfing monster swells. Check out this great interview below:

Surfing- the Million Dollar prize

The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink made history today, announcing the TRIPLE CROWN - TRIPLE THREAT bonus purse that makes this prestigious Hawaiian series the first $1,000,000 stop on the Association of Surfing Professionals Dream Tour. More than 150 surfers from 17 nations have a crack at the loot as the series kicks off this Thursday, November 12, at Haleiwa on Oahu's North Shore.



The TRIPLE CROWN - TRIPLE THREAT will award $50,000 to the men's Triple Crown series champion, an extra $50,000 for the Billabong Pipeline Masters winner, a $50,000 bonus to the ASP's men's world champion, and a $25,000 bonus to the women's Triple Crown champion. The $175,000 Triple Threat is in addition to the existing $825,000 in event prize money, making for a $1million total purse.

Mavericks big wave contest waiting period begins

The waiting period for the 2009/2010 Mavericks Surf Contest® presented by Sony Ericsson has officially begun. On a picture perfect Friday afternoon, more than two-dozen of the best big-wave surfers from around the world, along with family members, friends, and members of the media gathered on the beach at Pillar Point to celebrate the opening of the new 2009/2010 Contest season.



The only big-wave paddle-in contest on the mainland, the waiting period for this year’s Mavericks Surf Contest® will last from November 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010. During this window, the 24 invitees will wait for Mother Nature to conjure up the “perfect storm”
that will produce waves that are 30-40 feet in height. Once such a swell is on the horizon, the 24 contestants themselves will vote on whether to call the Contest to compete for a record-breaking $150,000 prize purse, including $50,000 to the Champion.

Heat One:
Evan Slater, Darryl “Flea” Virostko, Ion Banner, Dave Wassell, Grant “Twiggy” Baker, Tyler Smith

Heat Two:
Peter Mel, Shane Desmond, Zach Wormhoudt, Nathan Fletcher, Matt Ambrose, Anthony Tashnick

Heat Three:
Brock Little, Tim West Jr., Kenny “Skindog” Collins, Josh Loya, Greg Long, Carlos Burle

Heat Four:
Chris Bertish, Grant Washburn, Ryan Seelbach, Ben Andrews, Shawn Rhodes, Jamie Sterling

Album review: Primal Sky: Tim Smith

Theres a buzz in the US surf world centred around a new CD/album, by Tim Smith, called "Primal Sky, Caballero Del Mar". The word has been triggered by a number of tracks being used in surf movies, most notably "A fist full of barrels", (which first exposed the Mexican "Rincon" to the world). So we were stoked to receive a review copy of the album from Tim.

Whenever anyone listens to a new track or piece of music they instinctively, knowingly or sub conciously pigeon-hole it into a genre, especially surf music, however even after a few listens this album for me, defied definition, which although unfamiliar at first eventually allowed the music to wash over me without feeling the need to over analyse.

Tim Smiths sound is so unique and distinctive, however there are obvious influences, which include a chilled rock vibe and a definate latin flavour- no doubt infused by Smiths life in California. An affinity with the ocean also pervades a number of tracks which brings us to the surfing connection.



The sound of Primal Sky isnt immediate but slot it into the cars CD player on your next surf trip, soak up the sounds of a Californian summer and you'll understand why this album is gathering such a following.

*tracks can be downloaded here http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/primalsky/ (its an external link so has no affiliation with Extremehorizon)

Minor Disruption: UK Juniors live webcast surf comp

For the first time ever a UK junior contest will be streamed live online.

You can watch the event at www.tiger24.com on the 7^th and 8^th of November 2009.

The contest will run using ASP format with prizes aimed at developing the surfers’ careers. It’s also an opportunity to offer surfing to a much wider audience which. To be part of it you don’t have to be on the beach, you can be anywhere in the world - just log on and take a look.

How valuable is your wave?

Businesses close to famous surf spots know it, surfers know it but it seems the fact that a wave can create, boost or regenerate a local economy is lost on everyone else (look at what happened to Mundaka as a case in point). So Save the Waves have done a "Surfomomics" study of Mavericks to find out the economic benefits to Half Moon bay by having a famous wave on their doorstep:

" Save The Waves Coalition announced the preliminary results from its second 'Surfonomics' study, a measure of the economic value of the world-famous big-wave break at Mavericks in Half Moon Bay, California. The study found that the surfing site and area has an estimated economic value to visitors of nearly $24 million per year, based on approximately 420,000 annual visitors.

“Mavericks is an iconic, world-renowned surf break that’s truly unique,” said Save The Waves executive director Dean LaTourrette. “This study provides evidence of not just its environmental value, but of its economic value as well. This further reinforces the notion that it and other special coastal areas around the world need and deserve to be protected.”

Nelscott reef big wave event goes off

Nelscott reef, 1km offshore from Lincoln City, Oregon scored an epic glassy 30 ft swell last thursday. Andrew "Cotty" Cotton from Devon was representing the UK...

Paddle in results:

Results
1st Anthony Tashnick-California
2nd Kealii Mamala-Hawaii
3rd Chris Bertish- South Africa
4th Travis Payne-Oregon
5th Greg Long-California
6th Gary Linden-California
7th Mark Visser-Australia
8th Shane Desmond-California
9th Mike Parsons-California

Rip Curl Portugal semis and finals today

Supertubos, Peniche/Portugal - The Rip Curl Pro Search is headed to Supertubos this morning and started at 8.30am with the Men's semi-finals. It's an all-Australian affair for the final three heats, with Bede Durbidge up against current ASP World No. 2 Joel Parkinson in Semi 1 and Current ASP World No. 1 Mick Fanning against Wildcard Owen Wright in Semi 2 - if Owen elects to surf this morning after perforating his ear drum yesterday. The finals will follow so it should all be over today

*Pic: ASP

Supertubes is firing for todays Rip Curl WCT

Round 3 is on today at Supertubes, Portugal which is firing at 6-8ft. Check out the live event at:

http://live.ripcurl.com/?aid=532

WCT Rip Curl Peniche 2009

The last event of the European leg of the ASP tour in Peniche Portugal is set to kick off this morning in clean 3ft waves after a lay day yesterday when a 15ft swell hit which saw some of the pro-surfers towing in and surfers across the Atlantic coast catching huge waves including 25ft sets at Aileens in Ireland.

*image ASP/Getty

Nelscott Reef big wave comp gets green light

Nelscott Reef Big wave comp has the green light for go this Thurs 22nd Oct with a classic 17ft, 15 sec swell forecast, which should produce at least triple overhead waves!

The Nelscott Reef Tow In Classic has become one of the world’s premier tow in events with contestants traveling from all over the world to compete. This big wave contest is held 1/2 mile offshore of Lincoln City, Oregon at Nelscott Reef. With a holding period of Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, organizers wait for a swell large enough to produce 30 foot or greater waves.




http://nelscottreef.com/

Adriano de Souza takes 09 Billabong Pro Mundaka

Adriano de Souza (BRA), 22, claimed his inaugural ASP World Tour win today, taking out the Billabong Pro Mundaka, eliminating fellow Finalist Chris Davidson (AUS), 33, in punchy two-to-three foot (1 metre) waves at the backup venue of Sopelana.

Stop No. 8 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Billabong Pro Mundaka experienced an array of conditions for the event, from clean surf on the opening day at Mundaka to a lengthy seven-day wait before a marathon 24-heat session yesterday, culminating into today’s dramatic finale.

Billabong Pro Mundaka: Update

MUNDAKA, Euskadi/Spain (Tuesday, October 13, 2009) – UPDATE: Due to the rapid deterioration of conditions at Mundaka, event organizers have put the event on hold while relocating to Sopelana for a 10am call.



Following yesterday’s marathon session that saw the world’s best surfers attack both the punchy sandbars of Sopelana as well as the roping lefthanders of Mundaka, the Billabong Pro Mundaka has the option to finish as soon as tide and conditions allow for it.

Surfer found dead on the South Coast

The body of a dead surfer has been found drifting in the sea close to a famous beauty spot.

The man's body - which was still attached to his surf board - was spotted by a passer-by at Kimmeridge Bay, Dorset, at 2.15pm 09th Oct. A police spokesman said the body was found next to a slipway.

He added that a camper van had been recovered and steps were being taken to identify the deceased. The spokesman said: 'Dorset police is investigating on behalf of the coroner because there are no suspicious circumstances.'

A spokesman for Portland Coastguards said: 'A member of the public had seen what they thought was a body on Kimmeridge Slipway. 'A coastguard helicopter and rescue team were tasked to attend the scene and confirmed there was a body of a man in the water.

'He was a surfer and was still attached to his board. We are unsure how long he was in the water but yesterday's sea conditions were not very good for surfing.'However, they were the day before, so he could have been at sea for a long period of time before being found.'

A post-mortem examination is due to take place today to establish the unnamed man's cause of death.

* Source: Daily Mail

UK pro tour hits the North Sea

The next leg of the UK Pro Surf Tour is set to hit the road for the weekend of the 24th 25th October. The event to be held at Longsands Beach, Tynemouth. This will be the fourth leg of seven UK Pro Surf Tour events for 2009.

Lets hope they get surf and I hope the Southern lads bring at least 5mm of rubber as its getting colder already up here :)

Billabong Pro Mundaka 2009 starts

After a swell on the opening day, a lay day (wed 07th) has been called for the Billabong Pro Mundaka, with only small one-to-two foot (0.5 metre) waves and high tide conditions on offer this morning. Event No. 8 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Billabong Pro Mundaka commenced competition yesterday at the primary venue, running the first eight heats of the man-on-man elimination Round 1.

“The surf we enjoyed yesterday has dropped substantially since then and we’ve called competition off for the day,” Mike Parsons, Billabong Pro Mundaka Contest Director, said. “We’re tracking some models for the end of the week that look promising, but we’ll be back tomorrow to make another call.”

Regulated Surfing: An end to our freedom?

If you surf in the UK during the summer you cant fail to notice the vast numbers of "surfers" in the water- hotspots like Croyde and Fistral are rammed with beginners and surf schools all vying for their own little space, all dropping into and onto each other. The situation is the same in SW France so much so that the city councils around the Hossegor area are considering regulating surfing!

We spotted this alarming news in Drift magazine, which is online at the moment but is up there with the best in terms of content, images, ethics and design. Well worth checking out. The paragraph below is from their story, the image is ours taken at Croyde bay:



According to regional French newspaper Sud-Ouest, after the high number of surfing related accidents resulting in injuries that occurred on the Capbreton – Hossegor - Seignosse stretch of coast this last summer (up to 35% more than the previous summer), these City Councils are studying the possibility of setting up some sort of surfing regulation. A regulation that, they say, would mainly affect surf schools (they will have a designated stretch of beach each, so as not to have an excess of learner surfers in the same break) but also surfers with rentals and, presumably, little or no ocean experience.

Surf aid apeal for Sumatra Earthquake victims

Last week two major earthquakes hit the Padang, West Sumatra, region - the initial 7.6 and then a second 6.6 quake. Padang, the gateway to the Mentawai Islands and where most of the surf charter boats are based, has been seriously damaged and the initial death toll is more than 1,100.



SurfAid has gone into emergency mode and has staff doing assessments of the needs of the people in the coastal areas south of Padang, which are heavily populated and impoverished. SurfAid had Mentawai health program staff already in Padang and they have been reassigned to emergency work. SurfAid will respond to the immediate urgent needs with medical staff and supplies. SurfAid has eight doctors and three nurses preparing medical supplies.

SurfAid is buying tents, tarpaulins, food, water and sanitation and medical supplies in Medan, North Sumatra, and getting these to Padang. The SurfAid office in Padang survived, however the internet system is down, along with electricity and phones, so a priority is to get a new internet system in place along with satellite phones and gensets for power, along with fresh water as the mains water supply is cut off.

Surfaid are asking for donations to help with the selfless relief work, aid and assistance they are providing in Padang. To donate to Surf Aid: CLICK HERE

Lets go surfing...

Ok so theres no surfing in the video but theres a swell picking up in the North Sea today and I thought this catchy tune was appropriate! :)

Extremehorizon Surf blog award

The Extremehorizon surf blog has received an award from the Daily Reviewer which rates the best blogs on the web...nice

Top surfing Blogs

"The Daily Reviewer selects only the world's top blogs (and RSS feeds). We sift through thousands of blogs daily to present you the world's best writers. The blogs that we include are authoritative on their respective niche topics and are widely read. To be included in The Daily Reviewer is a mark of excellence"

Tsunami hits Samoa

Tsunamis triggered by a strong quake in the South Pacific have killed at least 65 people in Samoa and more than 20 in American Samoa, say reports.The Samoan authorities say at least another 145 people have been injured and whole villages destroyed.

American Samoa's delegate to the US Congress said thousands of people had been left homeless in the territory.

An 8.3-magnitude quake struck at 1748 GMT on Tuesday, generating 15ft (4.5m) waves in some areas of the islands.

The Samoa islands comprise two separate entities - the nation of Samoa and American Samoa, a US territory. The total population is about 250,000.

A general tsunami warning was issued for the wider South Pacific region but was cancelled a few hours later.

Biggest Australian wave of 2009?

Sunshine Coast surfer Mark Visser has caught one of the biggest waves in Australia for 2009. Battling chaotic and gusty winds, along with rain, the big wave surfer rode a wave with a 36 foot face last Thursday.

The waves were surfed at Cowbombie, a break about 2.5km offshore from Western Australian suburb Grace Town. "The weather was unbearable out there. It was very windy, around 30 knots," Visser said. "Along with the wind, the water was icy cold. My feet ended up getting numb."

The Cowbombie break is gaining itself a reputation as one of the hot spots for big wave surfing, not only attracting Australian dare-devils. With news of the big swell in Western Australia, surfers from around the world came to check it out, including big wave specialists Grant 'Twiggy' Baker (SA), Doug Young (NZ) and Ross Clark Jones (sometime resident of Aus).

"I heard about the big swell on Wednesday morning and we arrived in Perth Wednesday night," Visser said. "On Thursday we got these monster waves and then backed up on Friday. The waves weren't as big, around 25 foot. I went in with a paddle board, but got smashed a few times."

*image: Cassandra Murnieks

Surfing in Cornwall?....watch for approaching fins!

The stories of big ocean predators arriving on our British shores are increasing and each one always makes headlines. We're just not used to being conscious of a shark threat so evidence of their existance in the South West is always a bit of a surprise. This story below is from the Telegraph and whilst Thresher sharks patrol deeper water and this one looks to have just washed up, it might just have you checking the water for fins next time you paddle out!

A group of surfers spotted the 6ft thresher shark- a close relative of the deadly great white - beached at Hayle near St Ives in Cornwall on 25th Sept, and called the coastguard.

Thresher sharks are predators known for their very long, powerful tail which they use to stun their prey.

Dave Jarvis, from the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, said the sharks can cause serious injury to humans.

He said: "It's in good condition physically, so we're going to take some measurements and see if we can make some arrangements for post-mortem."

Thresher sharks feed on fish and are normally found in coastal waters of North America and Asia.

Fanning takes Quik Pro France

28 September, 2009 : - - Seignosse, France – Mick Fanning (AUS), 28, has claimed his second consecutive ASP Dream Tour event, taking out the 2009 Quiksilver Pro France presented by Orange over fellow Finalist Bede Durbidge (AUS), 26, in punchy one-to-three foot (0.5 – 1 metre) waves at Les Bourdaines.

Event No. 7 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Quiksilver Pro France opted to utilize yesterdays swell to complete the event given the dismal surf forecast for the remainder of the waiting period. Despite today’s challenging conditions, the world’s best surfers executed well, blending their rapid-fire approach with progressive fin-free and aerial surfing.

Fanning continued to build momentum through the final day of competition before erupting in the Final with a flurry of excellent scoring rides, a 7.83, an 8.83 and a 7.33 in the opening half of the competition.

“I was really fortunate to get those couple of good ones at the start because I really ran out of gas there at the end,” Fanning said. “It’s two back-to-back events where I have had to surf four heats on the final day to get the win and it takes a lot out of you. The conditions were deteriorating and I was fortunate to get those scores on the board early on.”

Worlds first Shark sanctuary

The tiny Pacific nation of Palau in the Western pacific is creating the world's first shark sanctuary, a biological hotspot to protect Great Hammerheads, Leopard Sharks, Oceanic Whitetip Sharks and more than 130 other species fighting extinction in the Pacific Ocean.

With only one boat to patrol 240,000 square miles (621,600 square kilometers) of Palau's newly protected waters — including its exclusive economic zone, or EEZ, that extends 200 miles (320 kilometers) from its coastline — enforcement of the new measure could be almost like swimming against the tide.





Palau's president, who will announce the news to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, acknowledges the difficulty of patrolling ocean waters nearly the size of Texas or France with a single boat. But he hopes others will respect Palauan territorial waters — and that the shark haven inspires more such conservation efforts globally.

Quiksilver Pro France Day 1

Press Release:

Event No. 7 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Quiksilver Pro France was treated to some fantastic surfing throughout the opening day of the waiting period, with the world’s best surfers letting loose in the playful beachbreaks while the event wildcards stamped their authority as real contenders amongst the ASP Top 45.

Dane Reynolds (USA), 23, current ASP World No. 11, is coming hot off the heals of his best results on the ASP Dream Tour, a 3rd in South Africa and a 2nd in Southern California, and continued to push the limits of high-performance surfing today at the Quiksilver Pro France.

Opening with a blistering 8.83 out of a possible 10 with some rapid-fire forehand surfing, Reynolds then fell behind fellow Venturan Nathaniel Curran (USA), 24, who posted an impressive heat total of a total 15.40 out of a possible 20. Needing a score in the dying minutes, Reynolds detonated another roping righthander for grab and 8.50 and the advancement to Round 3.

Quiksilver Pro Hossegor kicked off today

The Quiksilver Pro France, Stop No. 7 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, in ON this morning with Round 1 of competition heading out in clean three-to-four foot (1 .5 metre) waves at Les Bourdaines.

“We have some very clean three-to-four foot waves this morning at the main site of Les Bourdaines and we’ll be getting underway at 8am,” Rod Brooks, Quiksilver Pro Trestles Contest Director, said. “



Kelly Slater (USA), 37, reigning nine-time ASP World Champion and current ASP World No. 6, has been clawing his way back into contention over the last three events, following an uncharacteristically slow start. With four events left on the 2009 ASP Dream Tour, the Floridian admits that France is critical to his bid for an unprecedented 10th ASP World Title.

“This is probably my last shot to get back in this thing,” Slater said. “The idea is to just focus on one heat at a time and one event at a time, but I definitely need to make up some ground in these next events.”

Can you surf on a horse!

I've heard of wakeboarders being towed along the shoreline by horses (very eco-friendly!) but this version of horse "Surfing" was new to us here at Extremehorizon. Apparently a business has been set up in Florida which takes paying customers out into the water standing on a horses back which they say is a great viewing platform to watch wildlife.

Could we suggest that a Stand Up paddle board may be an alternative as an SUP doesnt need feeding, stable fees or dump 20lbs of sh*t in the water each session! :)

Patrick Swayze dies age 57

Swayze had Pancreatic cancer but passed away after fighting the disease for almost 2 years. Most girls will remember Patrick Swayze for his dancing in a certain chick flick, boys are more likely to associate him with a certain Hollywood surfing themed blockbuster and its because of the latter we're placing this post.

Swayze played a character called Bodhi in the film Point Break which was full of classic quotes, but this one is probably most fitting "If you want the ultimate, you've got to be willing to pay the ultimate price. It's not tragic to die doing what you love"

Film Review: Bustin Down the Door

In recent years the surf film market has become like a conveyor belt churning out streams of new titles for a demanding, media savvy consumer, so its ever more the case that a surf film has to be exceptional to stand out from the crowd and establish itself as a movie worthy of owning and watching time after time. In my opinion the few recent films which fall into this category are "One California Day" and "Waveriders" and now "Bustin Down the Door" can be added to this list.




Over the years there have been a number of surf films which have documented the historical and cultural growth of surfing, tracing its origins and exploring its modern re-incarnation but until Bustin Down the Door none have studied the phenomenon which dragged surf culture from the disorganised stereo-typical surf bum culture and exploded into main stream culture. The film delves into this lesser known story of how a small group of Australian and South African surfers helped transform the surfing lifestyle into a recognised sport, a multi-billion dollar industry, a route for surfers to turn professional and the organisation of the pro-surf tours and competitions we know today.

The changes brought about by the sheer force of will imposed upon the North Shore of Hawaii by the likes of Rabbit Bartholemew, Sean Tomson, Ian Cairns and Mark Richards dragged surfing into mainstream consciousness and even though some of their methods were ill advised and not everyone appreciated what they were doing, they helped create what we recognise as modern surfing.

The film interviews every one of the leading players in the story, woven together with awesome footage from the 1970's including the infamous 74 Smirnoff at Waimea, Bustin Down the Door brilliantly captures this pivotal time in surfing's history.

Watch this film

Is surfing ruling your life?

I recently recalled a massive balls up I made by missing an important appointment because there was a decent swell running. It was only 3ft but with light offshores and sunny all other daily concerns were sidelined to get in the water. Without going into detail the missed appointment had some serious repocussions but on that day my mind was squarely focussed on catching some waves!

There have been plenty of other occasions where I have missed less important events but as long as there are waves to ride it will continue to happen!.....so does surfing rule your life?

For fun I've put together a poll below with some likely scenarios that have been missed due to a surf session. Feel free to vote or comment on your own experiences and we can add them to the poll if you like...

Book Review: Chasing Dean by Tom Anderson

The latest book by Tom Anderson landed on the desk of the Extremehorizon office recently and as I enjoyed this authors first publication "Riding the Magic Carpet", I was looking forward to reading and reviewing his latest work, "Chasing Dean- Surfing America's hurrican states":

By accepting a lifestyle which incorporates the full time pursuit of riding waves, surfers become blessed in many ways; the desire to travel, the ability to read the weather like a trained meteorologist and developing an open mindedness to embrace adventure are all attributes dedicated surfers will recognise. Tom Anderson has managed to captured and relay to the reader these corner stones of a surfers world in his new book "Chasing Dean".

The true tale is set around two childhood friends from a small town in Wales meeting in Miami for a summer road trip chasing hurricane swell across and along the Gulf and US East coast States. Their trip, its destinations, time frames and schedule are determined solely by the development and movements of hurricane weather systems. The pair track each new low pressure from its earliest conception and plot their journey upon how and where the storm may develop and where its most likely to send its powerful groundswells.

Woven into the journey is the dynamic between the author and his fellow traveller Dr Marc Rhys as the two re-aquaint themselves with their old friendship after years following very different lives. The story sees the author willing his companion into re-discovering the stoke he used to enjoy in his childhood by chasing and riding waves along the US "right" coast's most famous surf spots and by allowing the road to shape their immediate existance.

Anderson's road trip experiences and surf sessions will resonate with surfers who are going to have a personal understanding of the journey with all of its highs and lows. "Chasing Dean" is a travelogue with depth, viewed with a wonderfully British perspective, surfers will love it.

Powerstroke- Brand new surf fitness Product

Fit2surf Ltd have developed a brand new surf exercise product designed to improve and increase surf paddling fitness, strength and endurance. Endorsed by 2 of the UKs top surfers Ben "skindog" Skinner and Oli Adams "The Power stroke bungee cord" is a resistance training tool for improving all upper body strength for surfing.



If used regularly it will improve all the major muscles involved in paddling for surfing. The powerstroke bungee will also improve your aerobic surfing fitness and major muscles for surfing paddle power;

-latissimus doris- major muscles along side the back.
-trapezius-muscles that help support the head above the shoulder blades
-triceps- back of the arms.

"Power stroke bungee" comes with 2 inter changeable 3m bungee cords with 2x handles the cord can be attached almost any where for a surfing work out!

BUY ONLINE HERE

Waveriders DVD hits stores 07th Sept

The must buy, beg, borrow or steal surf movie of 2009 is Waveriders and its available on 7th Sept. To buy a copy online click here : for more info check out some of the amazing scenes and film synopsis below:

"From Hawaii to California and back to Irish shores WAVERIDERS tells the epic story of the unlikely Irish roots of the worldwide surfing phenomenon and today’s pioneers of big wave surfing.

Featuring renowned Irish, British and American surfers Richie Fitzgerald, Gabe Davies, Kelly Slater and the Malloy brothers, WAVERIDERS tracks the influence of legendary Hawaiian waterman, George Freeth, the son of an Irishman, and the first true soul surfer.

Through his legacy we return to the icy waters of Ireland, where the film reaches a spectacular climax as the surfers conquer an enormous sixty foot wave - the biggest swell ever to have been ridden off the Irish Atlantic coast; the event heralds the country’s emergence as one of Europe’s top surf destinations.

Breathtaking footage, an awesome soundtrack and record breaking surf, WAVERIDERS truly captures the spirit and extreme highs of big wave surfing."

The joys of Cornish surfing

For British surfers the journey down to the county of Cornwall to catch a few waves is almost a right of passage, at some stage in our lives we all travel there at least once and for many of us its an annual event. Its true that Cornwall is one of the better UK surf locations and picks up plenty of swell on both its North and south coast, there are some waves of real class and the scenery is stunning however Cornwall isnt quite a surf paradise some may believe and every trip is going to be laced with highs and lows. Heres a few of the peaks and troughs of a visit to Cornwall:

• Wherever you live in the UK, it will take a sizeable slice of your life just to get there. Cornwall funnels the overwhelming masses of summer traffic down an ever narrower strip of land, down ever narrower roads, resulting in endless traffic jams
• Prevailing North coast winds are westerly.... its onshore a lot!
• Every man and his dog feels the need to join the Cornish surf vibe during their 2 week holiday so EVERYONE brings a wetsuit, a bodyboard, foam surfboard etc and dives into the Atlantic with reckless abandon. The main beaches are like Zoos, but their "surfing" stories make great anecdotes during dinner parties back in Chelsea!
• Everyone who owns a Caravan and or a four wheel drive, will be on the road at the same time you decide to drive to Cornwall
• Not one single beginner knows about or is taught about dropping in. They will watch you ride a wave directly towards them, still try to paddle in front of you and then look surprised when they get run over!
  
• Does the AA own any yellow VW T5 vans anymore or have they sold them all off to surfers?!
• Every main beach especially in Newquay will have at least 3 surf schools running at any one time, whatever the weather and even if its flat. Some schools have 20 plus beginners in their classes!
• It does go flat!
• The water can be beautiful, with great visibility through crystal clear green waves
• It is a big enough county to find your own wave away from the crowds if youre prepared to search
• When the wind and swells do come together there are some quality waves to be had including, big wave spots, a rare reef or two, the odd point and plenty of barreling sand bars
  
• If you are under 25 the nighlife in Newquay is legendary
• If you are over 25 the nightlife in Newquay is a nightmare!
• In the main surf towns every plot of land has been bought and developed with modern apartments for city boys to spend their ill gotten bonuses on...want to buy a "Surf pod" anyone?

Love it or hate it, Cornwall is the hub of the UKs surf culture and although there are plenty of other areas with better waves I dont think thats ever going to change.

21 Days Later Surf DVD

Our online surf shop is now stocking the sick new Surf DVD "21 Days Later"

check online to buy it here BUY NOW. Watch the preview and read all about it below

'21 Days Later - Mentawais' follows seven of Britain and Ireland's finest surfers on a three week boat trip around the Mentawai Islands off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, home to some of the most perfect waves in the world! Featuring some incredible sessions at a variety of epic spots such as Macaronis, HTs, E-Bay, Lances Left, Pit Stops, Bank Vaults and more. Learn about the spots and share the surfers experience as they embark on the trip of a lifetime.

“I think it's every surfers dream, isn't it, to spend 3 weeks on a boat with perfect waves, good friends, good times...I didn't want to go home” - Alan Stokes.

Featuring Reubyn Ash, Lee Bartlett, Easkey Britton, Robyn Davies, Sam Lamiroy, Mike Morgan and Alan Stokes. Also including a host of international professional surfers we met along the way.

Dungeons fires on a monster swell

One of the biggest and best swells to ever hit South Africa arrived last Sunday, producing more eye-popping entries into the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards.

This was the third significant swell to strike the region in ten days, sparking a series of key sessions at the spooky big wave break of Dungeons, off of Cape Town. A warm-up swell hit the region on August 6, followed by a huge and windy episode on August 11 which saw some massive tow-in waves worthy of the XXL Biggest Wave category. And on August 16 yet another enormous swell arrived, but this time with pristine sunny weather and light offshore winds.

*Source: Billabong XXL. Image Kimi Stewart

Surfing in Japan

Most of us know that theres surf in Japan and perhaps that its fickle, but how good does it get in the land of the rising sun?

We've spoken with Andrew at Typhoon surf tours in Japan to find out:



"Japan is a very underrated country for surfing and has remained under the
surf travel radar. Each year the typhoon season arrives in August and with
it come consistent,often big swells. The season lasts through to October.

There are numerous world-class breaks in the southern islands, many of
them lie far from the cities and remain uncrowded. The variety is amazing,
boulder pointbreaks, coral reefs, heavy rivermouths, and fun beachies.

Typhoon Surf Tours aim to make it easy for surfers new to Japan, to surf the best waves and delve into the rich culture.

We do this with surf tour packages that begin in Miyazaki, Kyushu - the
southern-most of Japan's 4 main islands. Packages include 10 nights
accommodation, all breakfasts and dinners, all local transportation
including a sidetrip to a sub-tropical offshore island, and all day
everyday surf guiding.

For intermediate level surfers we also offer a surf instruction package
which includes comprehensive surf coaching and video analysis."

The Guys who run the tours are offering group discounts check out their website for more info:
www.typhoontours.com

Shipsterns scores biggest swell of the year

Shipsterns Bluff Tasmania- officially one of the worlds most mental waves, scored a big swell recently. read more below courtesy of coastalwatch.com

Saturday and Sunday August 1 and 2 delivered some incredible waves simultaneously in six of seven states in Australia.

Coastalwatch editor Ben Horvath said, “It is not very often you can say there have been quality waves simultaneously all over this vast surf drenched continent. In five of six mainland states there were some incredible waves ridden last weekend, and Shippies in Tasmania was bombarded by the biggest swell of the year.”

We alerted our readers to the incredible potential in a special weekend forecast feature on Friday July 31, and this week we have made it our number one priority to post all the highlights. The three features of highlights we have posted containing dozens of epic line ups and 5 separate videos.

*Pic: Gibson/Coastalwatch.com

Relentless Boardmasters Newquay kicks off 4-9th Aug

With solid overhead swell forecast for today and tomorrow with light winds it looks like this years 5 star WQS Boardmasters event in Newquay could be a classic.

"Fistral Beach, Newquay -- The Relentless Boardmasters in association with Vans, an Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Qualifying Series (WQS) 5-Star men’s event, kicked-off yesterday at Fistral Beach, main venue of the 28th edition of England’s biggest surfing event.

With consistent three to four foot (1 to 1.2 meter) waves greeting Round 1 competitors, the prestigious event could move straight into business completing sixteen heats of world class action led by favorites.

With most of the event top seeds securing their ticket through to Round 2 of competition, the day was marked by several high performances, Patrick Beven (FRA) and Travis Beckmann (HAW) taking control of proceedings to confidently advance through their heats with respectively the day’s highest single ride and highest heat result.

Beluga whale saves Free Diver

A drowning diver has told how she was saved by a whale that pushed her back to the surface when she suffered crippling cramps.

Yang Yun thought she was going to die when her legs were paralysed by arctic temperatures during a free diving contest without any breathing equipment.

Competitors had to sink to the bottom of an aquarium's 20ft arctic pool and stay there for as long as possible amid the beluga whales at Polar Land in Harbin, north east China.

But when Yun, 26, tried to head to the surface she found her legs were crippled by cramps.

"I began to choke and sank even lower and I thought that was it for me – I was dead. Until I felt this incredible force under me driving me to the surface," she explained.

To the Rescue

Mila, the Beluga whale, had spotted her difficulties and using her sensitive dolphin-like nose guided Yun safely to the surface.

"Mila noticed the problem before we did," explained an organiser. "We suddenly saw the girl being pushed to the top of the pool with her leg in Mila's mouth. She's a sensitive animal who works closely with humans and I think this girl owes her life."

Intelligent Belugas were among the first whales to interact with man and have facial muscles that allow them to smile.

*Source Base Camp Mag

Stand up Paddle for Charity

Steve Crawford of Fluid Concept Surf shop in Scarborough is to do a 16 mile sponsored SUP paddle to raise
money for SAS and the WDCS. Drop him a line if you'd like to sponsor this admirable venture

Whats the cost of taking a surfboard on a flight?

A company called APH have produced a report on surfboard handling and excess baggage fees for all major airlines. Its a useful report and worth having a look. Please note that APH are not affiliated to Extremehorizon and costs listed are as stated by APH at time of posting 15.07.2009

"Surfers planning to take their surf boards on holiday can often be faced with extra costs when it comes to check-in at the airport. APH (Airport Parking and Hotels) has recently carried out thorough research into every major airline flying out of the UK, revealing the excess baggage charges that surfers could be faced with before they fly.

As the research shows, extra costs can vary wildly from airline to airline and there are also many specific policies that relate to surfing equipment. Some holiday makers may find that getting a great deal on a flight can become a false economy if they want to take their surfboard with them. Worse still, the airline might simply refuse to take any surfboards as luggage.

One of the best airlines for surfers is Virgin Atlantic, who will carry boards in addition to your free baggage allowance at no extra charge. Easyjet and Flybe are also good choices for surfers, with the budget airlines charging no more than their standard excess luggage rates. At the other end of the scale is Air France who charge €150 per item that is in excess of the baggage allowance, and British Airways, who do not allow any surfboards on their flight. Below is a round-up of the best and worst airlines for surfers travelling abroad:

Air France – For surfing equipment in excess of the baggage allowance, the fee is €150 (£134.64) per item each way. A flat fee within a 20 kg limit is charged per trip each way and varies depending on the destination.

British Airways – No surf boards are allowed on the flight

Easyjet - £18.50 charge each way when pre-paid. When paying at the airport the charge is £26.00 plus any excess baggage charge at £9 per kilo

Flybe - Must be booked in advance and there is a charge of £20 per sector on a standby basis. On the turboprop aircraft they must be no longer than 4.5 feet in length. On jet aircraft they can be up to 10 feet in length

Virgin Atlantic - You can take surfboards/boogie boards in addition to your free baggage allowance and at no extra charge when you fly Virgin Atlantic. Your surfboard or boogie board must not exceed 477cm (109ins) and must not exceed 32kg in weight.

APH has put together an easy to read table detailing all of the airlines’ excess baggage policies and the extra cost you may face for taking your surfboard abroad. Check http://www.aph.com/news/surf-equipment-excess-baggage.htm for more details."