Visitors to idyllic Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives can now learn to catch that perfect wave with the opening of a top-notch surf ‘shack’ on the island. The high end resort has teamed up with renowned surfing company Tropicsurf to offer expert instruction for all ages and levels, complementing the five-star, luxury experience.
In the North Male atoll, surrounded by the sparkling Indian Ocean, Gili Lankanfushi is ideally located for unbeatable surfing. Some of the best breaks in the country lie on the doorstep, with three just a ten-minute boat ride from the resort and several more within 20 minutes. Tropical water temperatures, consistent swell and low crowds add to the appeal.
The new programme starts on 1 April, coinciding with the main surfing season, from April to October. However, there’s great surfing all year and Tropicsurf will operate year-round, with beginners and first-timers able to enjoy the smaller waves and empty line-ups outside of the peak period.
Gili Lankanfushi shares the same stretch of reef as the famous ‘Jails’ surf break, where the more experienced can push their performance. Thrill-seekers will love the challenge of the open tubes at Cokes or the excitement of racetrack waves like Honkies, while mellow waves at Ninjas or in the calm of the lagoon keep novices happy.
Tropicsurf specialises in combing the very best surfing with the very best resorts around the world and amazing, experienced instructors personally ensure everyone from the complete beginner to the hardened surfer feels inspired and in safe hands. All lessons and surf trips are bespoke and tailored to guests’ needs, whether it’s a private or group session. Schedules are never fixed but depend on ocean conditions and individual requests. Options include surfing from the resort and trips by dhoni (traditional sail boat) or speedboat to other waves, and range from an hour’s beginner lesson to all-day excursions (although 3.5 hours is the general session length).
State-of-the-art equipment can be hired at Gili Lankanfushi’s new Surf Shack, with all surfers might need, from special sun cream to protective clothing, on sale too. And at the end of a day in the swell, the fantastic facilities of Gili Lankanfushi await for pampering, relaxing and celebrating newly-learned skills in style. Truly a match made in heaven.
Fact box
Surfing lessons start at US$125 per hour, with equipment hire. Age range from eight upwards.
Villas (based on two sharing) at Gili Lankanfushi start at $1,385 / night + taxes.
About Gili Lankanfushi – the Maldives’ jewel in the crown
Award winning private island and resort Gili Lankanfushi is an easy 20 minutes by speedboat from Male’ international airport – where guests enjoy a luxurious barefoot existence and 360° views of the Indian Ocean with its white waves breaking gently over the house reef.
Enjoy naturally chic accommodation and a 24/7 Mr. Friday butler service. The resort’s 45 huge over-water villas with outdoor showers, including the secluded Private Reserve, offer unrivalled privacy and space.
Highlights include diverse fine dining (many ingredients grown in the organic garden), a chocolate cave, a jungle cinema, ample water sport options, a coral restoration programme and the holistic Meera Spa.
Gili Lankanfushi offers an authentic, luxurious experience that embraces its natural surroundings.
For reservations, please contact:
Tel +960 664 0304
Email: [email protected]
For media or photo enquiries:
Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
Tammy Gan
Marketing Communications Manager
Email: [email protected]
For more information, please visit www.gililankanfushi.com
