Chasing the Waves

 

Arguably, the Mentawai Islands are considered the most famous surf destination of the world. The islands are thought to be of remarkable consistency and quality.

 

The most important news, however, is that there are great waves even at these times of the year. The most ideal time to surf in the Mentawai’s is during the dry season (late March to early November).

 

This is the time of the southern hemisphere’s winter. This time, the Indian Ocean becomes an ultra-active groundswell producing machine.

 

Dry season

 

Normally, there are great waves in this area all-year round. However, surf charter boats offer

the average surfer the chance to score the best waves of their lives in the premiere surf location in the entire world.

 

Presently, there is now a compiled list of brief glimpses of the well-known surf spots in the Mentawai Islands that guests can access.  

 

North Sumatra

 

Being an archipelago of islands, Mentawai surf trip has dozens of well-known world -class waves scattered among several major island clusters. They are about 100km off the Sumatran mainland, Padang.

 

Since this is an extremely remote surfing destination, the typical trip durations here range from 10 to 14 nights minimum. By special request, charter boats can include any or all of the following regions.

 

Other regions to go to

 

Depending also on the size of the boats, they can go to Nias, Telos, Pulao Banyak, Hinaku, and Simeuleu.

 

North Sumatra trips are typically groups only and a North Sumatra itinerary must be requested at the time of booking. (A North Sumatra fuel surcharge may apply).

 

West Sumatra is the nearest point of access and major airport, serviced by daily flights from Jakarta. The islands are generally an overnight boat ride from Padang, hence this is an extremely remote surfing destination.

 

Typical trip durations here range from 10 to 14 nights minimum. Wave hunters' Mentawais fleet consists of 4 boats which service all of these islands. They also offer land-based surf resort in the Playgrounds zone of the Mentawai Islands.

 

Live aboard charter

 

For surfers keen on exploring the entire Mentawai island chain, a live-aboard charter is most ideal. These surfers have the advantage of mobility and flexibility in knowing where the right spot for any swell or wind direction crowds.

 

These days, mobile and satellite communications are making it routine for the onboard surf guides to consult swell models and weather conditions. Sometimes, they can even find some unexplored places.

 

Bookings

 

The live-boards accept both individual and group bookings. Groups bookings, normally full

Boats, are typically made 6 to 15 months ahead. Individual or small party bookings are done 6 months in advance.

 

It may also be possible to book a group charter much closer to sailing, or to book individual spots more than 6 months out. (You can inquire for openings.)

 

Some people fin the resort to be a great option for more independence than being with live-aboard people. Sometimes, they may need to get in touch with the world from the resorts satellite internet service.