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IBC SINTRA PRO FEST 2023

Sintra Bodyboard Pro Fest, the biggest bodyboard event in Europe is in Portugal

Praia Grande, in September, will stage the Sintra Bodyboard Pro Fest, the biggest bodyboard festival ever organized in Portugal, with the organization of the third stage of the Portuguese national bodyboarding tour, (2 and 3 of September), a stage of the men’s European Tour of Bodyboard (ETB) and a stage of the IBC World Bodyboarding Tour in the women’s, dropknee and pro junior divisions. An event of huge proportions that puts Sintra, and Praia Grande specifically, in the center of bodyboarding world scene. Something that is far from being a novelty for Sintra, the oldest (uninterrupted) stage on the world tour. “It is another year of this organization, that this year is rather special, because it joins the world tour with the European tour and the Portuguese tour, transforming this event in a unique festival in the international context”, says João Campos, president of the Bodyboarding and Surfing Association of the Coast of Sintra, the organizing entity behind the history of success of this sport in Portugal. “We have, once again, a lot of work and responsibility, since we have a heritage of prestige that we have to honor as well as our sponsors, with the Sintra municipality as our main supporter”, adds João Campos. With the submissions still open, there are no definitive numbers but the organization expects more than 150 riders, Portuguese and international, with the added interest of awarding the dropknee world title.

“We still can’t predict the number of entries, but we expect to break the record of one hundred and a half participants, even for national athletes who will be competing, ideally, in the three competitions on the event. It will be a monumental challenge from a physical point of view, but it adds a lot of emotion to this Sintra Bodyboard Pro Fest”, concludes João Campos.Now it’s time to enter the countdown to what will be the biggest event in the rich history of Portuguese bodyboarding.

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A List Of The Best Bodyboarders Of All Time

Bodyboarding was invented in the early 1970s, giving us nearly 50 years of action, 5 decades in which we have witnessed the rise and fall of many great athletes. But who are the best bodyboarders of all time, and what makes them so great?

Let’s find out as we look and the greatest bodyboarders in the sport’s history.

Table of Contents

Mike Stewart

• When Was He Born? 1963
• Where Was He Born? Hawaii, USA
• What’s His Favorite Spot? Pipeline, Hawaii
• What’s He Known For? The most successful bodyboarder of all time.

Mike Stewart is to bodyboarding what Kelly Slater is to surfing or what Rodney Mullen and Tony Hawk are to skateboarding.

He has been a massive influence on the sport and has developed many new tricks while also acting as an advocate. He was one of the first bodyboarders to turn this sport into a profession and he helped to make it what it is today.

Often regarded as one of the best tube riders around, Stewart also created Mike Stewart Science Bodyboards, crescent tail boards regarded as some of the best in the business.

Guilherme Tamega

• When Was He Born? 1972
• Where Was He Born? Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• What’s His Favorite Spot? Cronulla, Australia
• What’s He Known For? Six-time world champion

Guilherme Tamega is a Brazilian bodyboarder who won 6 world titles between 1994 and 2002. He also finished as a runner-up on 6 separate occasions and was probably the best bodyboarder in the 1990s.

He won the Shark Island Challenge (held in Cronulla, New South Wales) three times and is the founder of GT Boards.

Tamega’s exploits have seen him become one of the most influential bodyboarders of all time, giving him legendary status.

Alexandra Rinder

• When Was She Born? 1998
• Where Was She Born? Canary Islands, Spain
• What’s Her Favorite Spot? El Fronton, Spain
• What’s She Known For? Won her first world title aged 16.

Alexandra Rinder was born in the Canary Islands, giving her plenty of opportunities to practice her skills. She began bodyboarding when she was just 9 years old and within a few years, she was competing against adults.

Alexandra Rinder won her first of two world titles aged 16 and has since established herself as one of the best female bodyboarders in the world.

Ayaka Suzuki

• When Was She Born? 1996
• Where Was She Born? Chigasaki, Japan
• What’s Her Favorite Spot? Nazare, Portugal
• What’s She Known For? A world title win in 2018.

Ayaka Suzuki is probably the best Japanese athlete that this young sport has seen. It took her a lot of time, effort, and training to move from the ranks of amateur to the heights of a professional, and in doing so, she has inspired many other young riders to follow in her footsteps.

Neymara Carvalho

• When Was She Born? 1976
• Where Was She Born? Vila Velha, Brazil
• What’s Her Favorite Spot? Canary Islands
• What’s She Known For? The most successful female bodyboarder.

Neymara Carvalho is a massively successful Brazilian bodyboarder who claimed five IBS World Tour wins between 2003 and 2009. She was unstoppable throughout that period and even won a national event when she was 5 months pregnant.

As with many influential and successful sports persons, Neymara has used her money and reputation to establish charitable organizations and give back to underprivileged communities.

Pierre-Louis Costes

• When Was He Born? 1990
• Where Was He Born? Vichy, France
• What’s His Favorite Spot? El Fronton, Spain
• What’s He Known For? An expert in the backflip

If you want to learn how to nail the backflip, check out some videos of Pierre-Louis Costes, a Frenchman who has mastered the technique of this popular trick. He is an aerial master and has won the Pipeline Pro on two occasions. He also won a world title while facing some of the best bodyboarders in the world.

Amaury Lavernhe

• When Was He Born? 1985
• Where Was He Born? Poitiers, France
• What’s His Favorite Spot? Reunion Island, France
• What’s He Known For? Runs the Amaury Academy and has won two world titles.

Amaury Lavernhe is a gifted and well-rounded bodyboarder who can handle waves of all types of sizes. His versatility is why he is so highly considered in the bodyboarding world and why he has two titles under his belt.

Dave Hubbard

• When Was He Born? 1992
• Where Was He Born? Lihue, Hawaii
• What’s He Known For? The most successful drop-knee bodyboarder.

Dave Hubbard is a Hawaiian bodyboarder who won 8 drop-knee bodyboarding titles between 2005 and 2016, making him the most successful athlete in the DK discipline. He is also the co-founder of Hubboards and one of the best-known boarders in the sport.

Jeff Hubbard

• When Was He Born? 19765
• Where Was He Born? Honolulu, Hawaii
• What’s He Known For? Landing a 720 and winning three world titles.

Jeff Hubbard is Dave Hubbard’s older brother and the other co-founder of Hubboards. He won an impressive three world titles between 2006 and 2012 and has also claimed 11 US national titles and 5 Pipeline Pros.

Joana Schenker

• When Was She Born? 1987
• Where Was She Born? Faro, Portugal
• What’s Her Favorite Spot? Zavial, Portugal
• What’s She Known For? One of the best European bodyboarders.

Often regarded as one of the best European bodyboarders and female bodyboarders, Joana Schenker claimed an amazing four titles on the European Tour of Bodyboarding (ETB) between 2014 and 2017.

She has also won over half a dozen national titles and is a strong and fearless competitor that always puts on a good show.

• When Was He Born? 1979
• Where Was He Born? Margaret River, Australia
• What’s His Favorite Spot? North Point, Australia
• What’s He Known For? An icon of Australian bodyboarding

Ryan Hardy is a bodyboarding legend with numerous titles under his belt, including two victories at the Shark Island Challenge and one at the Pipeline Pro. He has yet to win a world title, but he did finish second on the 2006 IBA World Tour.

Sari Ohhara

• When Was She Born? 1995
• Where Was She Born? Tokyo, Japan
• What’s Her Favorite Spot? Shidashita, Japan
• What’s She Known For? A leading Japanese bodyboarder.

Ohhara won an APB World Tour title in 2019 and has also claimed numerous national titles. She began bodyboarding when she was just 11 years old and is one of the most successful female Japanese riders.

• When Was He Born? 1964
• Where Was He Born? Maryland, USA
• What’s His Favorite Spot? Point Mugu, California
• What’s He Known For? The first pro bodyboarder to come from the east coast

Jay Reale has had a substantial impact on the bodyboarding world. He was a full-time professional in the 1980s and was considered to be the best bodyboarder on the east coast. He was voted as one of the top wave riding athletes from the Eastern Surfing Association and he also founded eBodyBoarding.com.

Kainoa McGee

• When Was He Born? 1971
• What’s He Known For? A versatile waterman

Kainoa’s life story is one of triumph and incredible fortune. He was given a 5% chance of surviving after contracting viral encephalitis in 2000, but survive he did. He worked his way back to full health and went on to earn a reputation as a leading waterman, one who has competed in numerous water sports, including bodyboarding, stand up paddle boarding, and longboarding.

Michael Eppelstun

• When Was He Born? 1970
• Where Was He Born? Parkes, Australia
• What’s He Known For? Won the International Morey Boogie Board Pro Championships in 1993.

Michael Eppelstun is an Australian bodyboarder who invented the Backflip and Air Roll Spin. More importantly, he won the International Morey Boogie Bodyboard Pro Championships in 1993, ending a reign of Mike Stewart dominance that had lasted for 6 straight years.

• When Was He Born? 1978
• Where Was He Born? Australia
• What’s He Known For? Owner of Movement Bodyboarding magazine.

Ben Player is often regarded as one of the best Aussie bodyboarders in history. He won the 2005 Pipeline, finished second a year later, and then won again in 2007. He repeated his victory in 2013 with yet another victory.

These days, Player helps to run Movement Bodyboarding, an Australian bodyboarding magazine.

Damian King

• Where Was He Born? Port Macquarie, Australia
• What’s He Known For? A two-time world champion

Damian King was the one who beat Ben Player to the punch in 2006, beating him by a fraction to claim the Pipeline title. He was also a two-time World Bodyboarding Champion, claiming the title in 2003 and 2004.

In 2011, King became the first-ever athlete to win both the Prone and Drop-Knee world titles.

Other Great Bodyboarders

Although the names above are widely considered to be the most skilled and accomplished, there are many more great bodyboarding champions out there. Some of them called time on their careers many years ago, others are still going strong.

All of the following athletes have won major titles in this sport and many of them deserve to be mentioned on a list of the “best bodyboarders”:

• Isabela Sousa: A Brazilian rider who won the IBA World Tour in 2010, 2012, and 2013, followed by the APB World Tour in 2016.
• Andre Botha: Won GOB World Tour titles in 1998 and 1999.
• Stephanie Pettersen: A top female rider who won the International Morey Boogie Board Pro Championships in 1990, 1993, and 1994.
• Ben Severson: The Hawaiian won the International Morey Boogie Board Pro Championships in 1986.
• Soraia Rocha: A Brazilian who claimed two successive GOB World Tours in 2000 and 2001.
• Jared Houston: One of the most successful African riders ever, Jared Houston claimed APB World Tour titles in 2015 and 2018.
• Tristan Roberts: A South African who won an APB World Tour in 2019.

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Euro Bodysurf Tour

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2024

4 - 6 october, Anglet, France 9-10 november, Mehdia, Morocco  

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2023

Inform atio n – Ran king

29 september - 1 october, Anglet, France Information – Result s – Ran king 11-12 november, Mehdia, Morocco Information – Result s – Ran king

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2022

7-9 october, Anglet, France

Information – Results – Ran king

19-20 november, Mehdia, M orocco

Information – Results – Ranking

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2021

9-10 october, Anglet, France

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Not held due to the pandemic.

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2019

9-10 november, Mehdia, Morocco

Results – Ranking

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2018

13-14 october, A nglet, France

17-18 november, Mehdia, Morocco

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2017

15-16 april, Peniche, Portugal

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18-19 november, Mehdia, Morocco

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12-13 november, Mehdia, Morocco Ranking

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10-11 october, Anglet, France Results

24-25 october, Mehdia, Morocco Ranking

Euro Bodysurf Tour 2014

Ranking 11-12 october, Anglet, France Results – Ranking

25-26 october, Mehdia, Morocco Ranking

Organizing a bodysurf meeting between countries, it was not easy, but we did it!

The project was born in 2014 from the desire to create a place for Bodysurfers in Europe at a time when nothing existed outside France or in Morocco, Portugal, Spain or England ...

The idea was to allow the emergence of communities through national competitions before creating a meeting place and sharing through the organization of a tour.

This event was then built around the friendship between two clubs, two countries of Bodysurf: France with the club Guides des Bains Angloyes, and Morocco with the KAC Surf Club of Mehdia.

It also draws its legitimacy from the support of two Federations affiliated to the ESF:  the Royal Moroccan Federation of Surfing and Bodyboard and the French Federation of Surfing.

The first to answer present were the Spanish Bodysurfers. We have always wanted to open this project to others and it is with joy that we welcomed Portuguese bodysurfers since 2015, and the Portuguese Federation of Surfing organize a stop in Peniche in 2017.

The quality of European bodysurfers is undeniable and what matters above all through all these talents, is the bodysurfers, the organizers Federations and volunteers, judges, photographers etc ... 

Meet Joana Schenker, Women’s Bodyboarding World Champion

Joana Schenker is Portugal’s first world champion – surfing or bodyboarding.  And while the world is just getting to know her, 2017 was actually the fourth year she locked down a European title, securing her as one of the best bodyboarders in the game. It was a crazy year for Joana, seemingly making her arrival in 2017 with both the world title, a GQ Portugal title, and all the hype that’s surrounded her accomplishments.

Where in Portugal are you from, Joana?

I’m from Sagres, which has one of Portugal´s strongest bodyboard communities. Almost every local rides a bodyboard.

My friends from school were already into it and when I tried it myself. I was 13 years old and I was hooked. Of course, I would look up to the good riders from Sagres, but also legends like Neymara (Carvalho) and Kirra (Llewellyn) were my early idols.

When I started, Neymara Carvalho and Kirra Llewellyn were some kind of superwomen to me. They shaped a whole generation of girls in bodyboarding. Rita Pires became a good friend and an absolute role model. Despite the fact, we were competing against each other all the time she always helped me and pushed me to travel with the attitude of a real champion.

How long have you been competing on the World Tour?

I have been competing for a long time at a national and European level and won four national and four European titles consecutively.

I used to attend only the Sintra Pro here in Portugal. In 2016, I got a new sponsor that allowed me to finally compete in all events and things started to go pretty well from there, and at the end of the year, I ranked fourth, which I thought was a good result to start off 2017, only my second year doing the full tour.

Both women’s surfing and bodyboarding seem really strong in Portugal.

Yes, that’s true. Portugal has had one of the strongest women’s bodyboard scenes for many years now. Athletes like Dora Gomes in the early days, Rita Pires, and Catarina Sousa a few years back were all ripping on the World Tour. So we are not short on inspiration for the new generation that is now growing in great numbers. I’m sure the future of female bodyboarding in Portugal secured.

I think when there are a good number of women in bodyboarding or surfing it is just so much easier for more to follow. When I started there were at least eight girls already bodyboarding and it just made me feel more comfortable. Now, in Portugal, we have events just for girls to try bodyboarding and national and European tour events that are exclusively female. The media loves those events and we get a pretty good exposure. All this helps the sport grow and get more girls on board.

What supports and structures were in place in Portugal that helped you reach your full potential as a competitor?

I started out at our local bodyboard club. They made sure we had a ride to the beach and all my friends were training there as well. With them, I attended my first junior contests.

The Portuguese Surfing Federation works on the competitive side of the sport in Portugal, with no implication on coaching or training of athletes. That has to happen locally in the bodyboard schools and clubs around Portugal.

After a few years training with the club, my boyfriend Chico Pinheiro who happens to be a great bodyboarder also became my trainer and biggest support, he is super critical, always pushing me to do better, I think his input got me here.

What did it feel like winning your first world title on home soil in Nazare?

We had a long world tour this year: Brazil, Chile, Japan, three events in Portugal, Madeira, and Gran Canaries.

My title campaign really started in Japan, an event I was super excited about, and with a record number of girls competing. I finished fourth, a result that made me quite happy because the Japanese riders where surfing super strong.

From there the tour came to Europe. The Sintra Pro was the most important event of the year, all top girls came to chase the win. The victory in that event opened the door to the title, putting me in the lead in the rankings. Madeira was the next stop [which was] very important for being a double sanctioned event, so the European title was also at stake there. I ended up third and got the European title again.

When I arrived at the Nazaré event, things were looking good for me. I had a good lead in points, and for Alexandra Rinder or Isabela Sousa to keep the world tour race alive for the final event in the Canaries, both had to advance to the final. That didn´t happen so the title was automatically mine.

It sounds cliché, but 2017 was the perfect year for me. Everything went my way and not only in competition.

I became National, European and World Champion in the same year, I was featured on the cover of GQ Portugal, which is a big deal. I felt so much support from the Portuguese bodyboard community, the crowd at the beach, and people on social media. I actually felt really relieved when everything was over and that I didn’t disappoint all those people.

What was it like seeing yourself on the cover of GQ Portugal?

The GQ cover was a crazy – almost a strange experience. The invitation came out of the blue, way before the world title, and it’s not really normal for them to feature athletes.

You are the first Portuguese world champion in either surfing or bodyboarding, so great news for Portugal. The media exploded around you.

Yes, that’s right. I´m so happy to bring it to Portugal. I really think with all the talent we have we already deserved a professional world title. The media went crazy over it. It was everywhere on the news, on prime time TV. I got like ten covers in all major newspapers, I did countless interviews and went to speak on the radio shows. I never expected all this. It’s a little bit overwhelming and it’s still going. I honestly I had no time to surf since this hype started.

I think the GQ cover and the media from the Sintra Pro win kind of prepared the way for the media bomb after the world title. The newspapers were already more aware of the possibility Portugal getting the title.

I´m happy I could contribute in a positive way to my beloved sport, I do feel a huge responsibility to do my best in representing all of us athletes.

What is next for Joana Schenker?

Well, right now I only want to get back in the water and enjoy the winter waves at home. Next year, everything starts all over. I will be competing for sure. But, I don´t want to set a fixed goal, I just want to surf better. I feel so motivated to evolve and just do my best when I´m competing.

Only the best. We promise.

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2017 APB Bodyboard World Champion

Joana Schenker

Professional Bodyboarder 2017 APB Bodyboard World Champion

Joana was born on October 1987 in the beautiful Costa Vicentina, Algarve. She is the oldest daughter of four girls, her German parents settled in Portugal to raise the family in a natural and relaxed environment.

Joana caught her first wave on a bodyboard at the age of 13 and since that day she has never stopped again. Making the sport a priority she managed to finish high school and pursuing her dream of becoming a professional athlete simultaneously. Training every day and competing from a very young age, she quickly became successful in many competitions and started to get attention for her good performances. She started to compete in the junior division in 2002, one year later she already made it into her first ETB European event final. In 2004 she was Portuguese Junior champion, Portuguese Open Vice Champion and ESF European Junior Champion. Not satisfied with simply being good, she always keeps striving to improve her surfing and challenging her limits.

Today she has won many national and European professional titles and is considered to be one of the most talented and stylish riders in the World. Joana lives in and around the ocean, whenever she is not training at the beaches of her hometown, Sagres, she is travelling for competitions and free surfing.

With her peculiar way of loving life and all good things about it, she is very enthusiastic about health and environmental issues, so Joana tries to be an example and inspire others to enjoy nature and to pursue a healthy lifestyle.

When Joana became a professional bodyboarder in 2013 her competitive success kept growing. Dominating the Portuguese National and European Tour since 2014, she won both titles for 4 years in a row. Competing on the World Tour was the next logic step to keep pushing her abilities. In only her second season competing on the APB world tour, Joana wins the APB World Title, and makes history by becoming Portugal´s first professional World Champion in wave riding sports.

2017 was the perfect year, National, European and World Bodyboard Champion. In 2017 GQ Portugal featured her on their July/August cover and sets the tone to the incredible media exposure.

The media loved it and made Joana not only the new Queen of bodyboarding but also a star in the Portuguese sports scene.

On October 11th, 2018, Joana was awarded a one of a kind Barbie doll. The Barbie Awards is an international project by Mattel that celebrates and distinguishes women who inspire children and younger generations in their respective countries. Joana, received a super limited edition (only one unit), of a fully equipped Barbie bodyboarder.

On the 13th of May 2019, Joana Schenker was awarded the Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Portuguese Republic, from the hands of the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

Always focused and training for more competitive achievements, Joana is now also very active with her social and environmental project, spreading Ocean awareness and in her free time modeling for renowned fashion and beauty brands.

Achievements

• 1x APB World Bodyboard Champion 2017.
• 4x ETB European Bodyboard Champion 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014.
• 7x Portuguese National Bodyboard Champion 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 & 2014 (won also 2013, but due to nationality issues the title went to the second in the ranking).
• Bronze Medal ISA World Bodyboard Championship 2015.
• TOP 4 @ IBC World Tour 2023.
• TOP 5 @ IBC World Tour 2022.
• TOP 4 @ APB World Tour 2016 & 2018.

Awarded "Oficial da Ordem de Mérito" in 2019 by His Excellency President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

• 2x ETB European Vice Champion 2009 & 2010.
• 5x Portuguese National Vice Champion 2004, 2009, 2010, 2022 & 2023.
• 3x Portuguese National Junior Champion 2003, 2004 & 2005.
• ESF European Junior Champion 2004.
• 3x German National Champion 2002, 2003 & 2004.

IBC WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR ( currently TOP 5 )

• 5th @ event 1 (Morocco) IBC Moroccan Pro.
• 9th @ event 2 (Brazil) Arcelormittal Wahine Bodyboard Pro.
• 2nd @ event 3 (Chile) Iquique Bodyboard Pro.
• 9th @ event 4 (Chile) Antofagasta Bodyboarding Festival.
• @ event 5 (Maldives) Maldives Pro.
• @ event 6 (Portugal) Sintra Pro.

FPS PORTUGUESE NATIONAL TOUR

• 5th @ event 1 Santa Cruz.

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD

• No events calendar yet.

IBC WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR (TOP 4)

• 3rd @ event 1 (Brazil) Arcelormittal Wahine Bodyboarding Pro.
• 5th @ event 2 (Chile) Antofagasta Bodyboard Festival.
• 13th @ event 3 (Maldives) Maldives Pro.
• 5th @ event 4 (Portugal) Sintra Pro.
• 2ndh @ event 5 (South Africa) Walker Bay Pro.

FPS PORTUGUESE NATIONAL VICE CHAMPION

• 2nd @ event 1 (Figueira da Foz).
• 7th @ event 2 (Santa Cruz). (competed with injury)
• 1st @ event 3 (Praia Grande).
• equal 4th @ event 4 (Matosinhos) (Event was not completed due to fog and lack of sunlight. Split points between the 4 finalist).
• 9th @ event 5 (Peniche).
• event 1 (Grand Canária).  ETB Gran Canaria Pro. (Not attended due to overlapping with event 5 IBC World Tour)

IBC WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR (TOP 5)

• 5th @ event 1 (Chile) Iquique Bodyboard Pro.
• not attended @ event 3 (Brazil) Wahine Bodyboard Pro.
• 5th @ event 4 (Maldives) IBC Maldives Bodyboar Pro.
• 5th @ event 5 (South Africa) Walker Bay Pro.
• 2nd @ event 6 (Portugal) Sintra Pro.
• 1st @ event 1 (Figueira da Foz).
• 5th @ event 2 (Matosinhos).
• 2nd @ event 3 (Nazaré).
• 7th @ event 4 (Peniche).

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD (TOP 3)

• 3rd @ event 1 (Gran Canaria) ETB Gran Canaria Pro. (competed with injury)

IBC WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR

• Cancelled due to Covid-19.
• 5th @ special event (Sintra).
• No schedule released.

FPS PORTUGUESE NATIONAL TOUR (7th FINAL RANKINGS)

• @ event 1 (São Jacinto) cancelled.
• 7th @ event 2 (Figueira da Foz) injury.
• 9th @ event 3 (Terceira) injury.
• 4th @ event 4 (Peniche) injury.

APB WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR

Fps portuguese national champion.

• 1st @ event 1 (Santa Cruz).
• 1st @ event 2 (Nazaré).
• 5th @ event 3 (Peniche).
• 4th @ event 4 (Póvoa Varzim).

APB WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR (7th PLACE)

• 5th @ event 1 (Chile) Bellavista Bodyboard Pro.
• 3rd @ event 2 (Chile) Antofagasta Bodyboard Festival.
• 5th @ event 3 (Portugal) Sintra Portugal Pro.
• 5th @ event 4 (Gran Canaria) Fonton King Pro.
• 9th @ event 1 (Portugal) Caparica Surf Fest.
• 5th @ event 2 (Portugal) Miss Activo Cup.
• @ event 3 (France) not competed due to Injury.
• 1st @ event 1 (Peniche).
• 1st @ event 2 (Costa da Caparica).
• 1st @ event 3 (Santa Cruz).

APB WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR (4TH PLACE)

• 3rd @ event 1 (Chile) Antofagasta BB Festival.
• 5th @ event 2 (Australia) Kiama Bodyboard King Pro.
• 1st / 2nd @ event 3 (Portugal) Sintra Portugal Pro. (The final was not held due to fog)
• 3rd @ event 4 (Portugal) Nazaré Pro.

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD (3RD PLACE)

• 3rd @ event 1 (Portugal) Caparica Primavera Surf Fest.
• 3rd @ event 2 (Portugal) Miss Activo Cup.
• 3rd @ event 3 (França) La Salie Pro.
• 1st @ event 1 (Costa da Caparica).
• 1st @ event 2 (Santa Cruz).
• 1st @ event 3 (Ilhavo).
• 2nd @ event 4 (Peniche).

APB WORLD CHAMPION

• 9th @ Antofagasta Bodyboard Festival (Chile).
• 1st @ Miss Activo Bank (Ilhavo - Portugal).
• 4th @ Tahara Pro (Tahara - Japan).
• 1st @ Sintra Pro (Sintra - Portugal).
• 3rd @ BB Girls Experience (Madeira - Portugal).
• 5th @ Nazaré Pro (Nazaré - Portugal).
• 5th @ Fronton King (Galdar - Canárias).

ETB EUROPEAN CHAMPION

• 1st @ event 1 (Portugal) Miss Activo Cup.
• 3rd @ event 2 (Madeira) MBBGE.
• 1st @ event 2 (Esposende).
• 1st @ event 3 (Ílhavo).
• 1st @ event 4 (Ericeira).

APB WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR (4th PLACE)

• 13th @ World Tour event 1 (Itacoatiara - Brazil).
• 5th @ World Tour event 2 (Arica - Chile).
• 2nd @ World Tour event 3 (Sintra - Portugal).
• 3rd @ World Tour event 4 (Nazaré - Portugal).
• 1st @ event 1 (France) Le Salie Pro.
• 1st @ event 2 (Portugal) Miss Sumol Cup.
• 5th @ event 3 (Madeira) MBBGE.
• 1st @ event 1 (Basque Country) Zumaia Pro.
• 1st @ event 2 (Portugal) Azores Pro.
• 1st @ event 3 (Aveiro).
• 4th @ event 4 (Nazaré).
• 3rd @ event 5 (Guincho).

APB WORLD BODYBOARD TOUR (18th PLACE missed 2 events)

• 13th @ World Tour event 4 (Sintra).
• 4th @ World Tour event 5 (Nazaré).
• 3rd @ event 3 (Madeira) MBBGE.
• 4th @ event 2 (Cascais).
• 3rd @ event 3 (Santa Cruz).
• 4th @ event 4 (Cortegaça).
• 1st @ event 5 (Aveiro).
• 1st @ event 6 (Açores).
• Equal 5th @ event 7 (Nazaré) split points.

ISA WORLD BODYBOARD CHAMPIONSHIP

• Bronze Medal @ ISA WBC (Chile).
• 9th @ World Tour event 3 (Sintra).
• 1st @ event 1 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup).
• 4th @ event 2 (Figueira da Foz).
• 1st @ event 3 (Morocco).
• 2nd @ event 1 (Sagres).
• 1st @ event 2 (Azores).
• 5th @ event 3 (Guincho).
• 9th @ event 4 (Santa Cruz).
• 1st @ event 5 (Cortegaça).
• 2nd @ event 6 (Aveiro).
• 1st @ event 7 (Nazaré).

1st @ Vert Mag readers poll (best national athlete).

Ranked top 15 best women bodyboarders in riptide readers poll., etb european tour of bodyboard (5th final rankings).

• 5th @ event 1 (France).
• 7th @ event 2 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup).
• 2nd @ event 3 (Figueira da Foz).
• 4th @ event 4 (Morocco).
• 5th @ event 1 (Santa Cruz).
• 1st @ event 2 (Cortegaça).
• 1st @ event 3 (Azores).
• 21st @ World Tour event 3 (Sintra).

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD (4th FINAL RANKINGS)

• 4th @ event 1 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup). (best european).

FPS PORTUGUESE NATIONAL TOUR (4th FINAL RANKINGS)

• 2nd @ event 1 (Cortegaça).
• 7th @ event 2 (São Pedro Moel).
• 5th @ event 3 (Azores).
• 2nd @ event 4 (Carcavelos).

3rd @ Vert Mag readers poll (best national athlete).

World bodyboard tour (19th final rankings).

• 17th @ event 2 (Praia Grande).
• 9th @ event 3 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup)
• 25th @ event 4 (Venezuela).
• 9th @ event 5 (Puerto Rico).
• 9th @ event 5 (Azores).

FPS PORTUGUESE NATIONAL TOUR (3rd FINAL RANKINGS)

• 2nd @ event 1 (Ericeira).
• 9th @ event 3 (Azores).
• 1st @ event 4 (Carcavelos).

2nd @ Vert Mag readers poll (best national athlete).

World bodyboard tour.

• 5th @ World Tour event (Sintra).

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD VICE CHAMPION

• 3rd @ event 1 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup).
• 5th @ event 2 (Morocco).

FPS PORTUGUESE NATIONAL TOUR VICE CHAMPION

• 2nd @ event 1 (Azores).
• 1st @ event 2 (Sagres).
• 5th @ event 3 (Carcavelos).
• ? @ World Tour event (Sintra).
• 7th @ event 2 (France).
• 9th @ event 3 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup).
• 1st @ event 4 (Morocco).
• 2nd @ event 1 (Peniche).
• 4th @ event 2 (Costa da Caparica).
• 3rd @ event 3 (Açores).
• 3rd @ event 1 (France).
• 5th @ event 2 (Sagres).
• 4th @ event 3 (Morocco).
• 17th @ event 4 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup).
• 4th @ event 5 (Peniche).
• 4th @ event 1 (Porto).
• 1st @ event 2 (Figueira da Foz).
• 3rd @ event 4 (Sagres).
• 2nd @ event 5 (Carcavelos).

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD (6th FINAL RANKINGS)

• 4th @ event 1 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup).
• 13th @ event 2 (Ferrol).
• 5th @ event 3 (Sagres).
• 3rd @ event 5 (Morocco).

FPS PORTUGUESE NATIONAL TOUR (5th FINAL RANKINGS)

• 4th @ event 1 (Figueira da Foz).
• 2nd @ event 2 (Sintra).
• Cancelled @ event 3 (Viana do Castelo).
• 4th @ event 4 (Peniche).
• 5th @ event 5 (Sagres).
• 13th@ World Tour event (Sintra).

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD ( ? FINAL RANKINGS)

• 13rd @ event 1 (Sintra).
• 13rd @ event 2 (Aveiro Miss Sumol Cup).
• 7th @ event 5 (Bilbao).
• 5th @ event 6 (Sagres).
• 2nd @ event 1 (Tocha).
• 9th @ event 2 (Viana do Castelo).
• 9th @ event 3 (Sagres).
• 33th@ World Tour event (Sintra).
• 2nd @ event 1 (Espinho).
• 9th @ event 3 (Praia Grande).

FPS JUNIOR NATIONAL TOUR CHAMPION

• 2nd @ event 2 (Nazaré).
• 2nd @ event 3 (Sesimbra).
• 1st @ event 4 (Espinho).
• 2nd @ event 5 (Tocha).
• 1st @ event 6 (Sagres).
• 17h@ World Tour event (Sintra).

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD (13th FINAL RANKINGS)

• 17th @ event 1 (Sintra).
• 13rd @ event 2 (Galiza).
• 13rd @ event 3 (France).
• 13rd @ event 4 (France).
• 3rd @ event 1 (Sintra).
• 3rd @ event 2 (Porto).
• 2nd @ event 3 (São Torpes).
• 1st @ event 1 (Sesimbra).
• 1st @ event 3 (Nazaré).
• 2nd @ event 4 (Sintra).

ESF EUROPEAN JUNIOR CHAMPION (Caparica)

German champion.

• 9h@ World Tour event (Sintra).

ETB EUROPEAN TOUR OF BODYBOARD (7th FINAL RANKINGS)

• 3rd @ event 1 (Morocco).
• 17th @ event 2 (France).
• 9th @ event 3 (France).
• 9th @ event 4 (Carcavelos).
• Cancelled @ event 1 (Espinho).
• 7th @ event 3 (Porto).
• 4th @ event 1 (Nazaré).
• 2nd @ event 2 (Caparica).
• 1st @ event 4 (Praia Grande).
• 1st @ event 5 (Sesimbra).
• 2nd @ event 6 (Sagres).

LUSO GALAICO CHAMPION

Caparica primavera surf fest, (photo by herberto smith), (photo by tim wendrich), jornal noticias, (photo by salty frames), gq portugal (branislav simoncik), (photo by luis bento), (photo by francisco pinheiro), sisab portugal, (photo by ricardo alves), isa world bodyboard games, (photo by josh tabone), gala confederação do desporto, boot düsseldorf, confraria da cerveja, madeira bodyboard girls experience, (photo by joão corvina), casablanca pro, (photo by ricardo bravo), miss activo cup, santa cruz bodyboard pro 2018, apb mundial antofagasta bodyboard festival 2018, miss activo cup 2018, fundação oceano azul - oceanário de lisboa, barbie awards 2018, humaneyes.co, santa cruz 2018, boot dusseldorf 2018, apb mundial sintra pro 2018, apb mundial nazaré pro 2018, algfuturo awards, national champions 2018, skin protect ocean respect by avéne.

photo by Gabriel Rosa

photo by Dave Imms

photo by Kat Piwecka

photo by Francisco Pinheiro

photo by João Cabrita

photo by Ricardo Santos

photo by Alex Silva

photo by Nuno alves

photo by Carlos Teixeira

photo by Mendo de Dornellas

Awarded "Oficial da Ordem de Mérito" in 2019

photo by Salty Frames

photo by Nuno Lopes

photo by Pablo Jimenez

photo by Salsa

photo by Carla Pires

Printed Press & Magazines

Revista maxima dez 201 n178 pag 144.

Printed Press

Revista LuxWoman n202 pag 46 47

Revista luxwoman n202 pag 44 45, revista gq n178 pag 98 99, revista gq n178 pag 96, revista gq n178 pag 54, revista gq n178 pag 102 103, revista gq n178 pag 101, revista gq n178 pag 100, revista gq n178 capa, revista domingo cm 12novembro2017 pag 28 29, revista domingo cm 12novembro2017 pag 26 27, revista domingo cm 12novembro2017 pag 04, jornal record 24setembro2017 pag 38, jornal record n14134 pag 30, jornal record maro2017 pag, jornal record 25setembro2017 pag 37, jornal record 24setembro2017 capa, jornal record 11maro2018 pag 24 25, jornal record 09outubro2017 pag 39, jornal record 09outubro2017 capa, jornal record 05novembro2017 pag 11, jornal record 01outubro2017 pag 10 11, jornal publico 09outubro2017 pag41, jornal ojogo 10outubro2017 pag 33, jornal ojogo 10outubro2017 capa, jornal ojogo 09outubro2017 pag 40, jornal mundo portugues pag 30, jornal mundo portugues pag 02 03, jornal mundo portugues capa, jornal jornaldenoticias 9out2017 capa, jornal jornaldenoticias 14out2017 pag 04 05, jornal jornaldenoticias 14out2017 capa, jornal diarionoticias 25setembro2017 pag 39, jornal jornaldenoticias 09out2017 pag 58, jornal i 10outubro2017 pag 46 47, jornal i 10outubro2017 capa, jornal diariodenoticias 24setembro2017 pag 27, jornal diarionoticias 22maro2018 pag37, jornal diarionoticias 09outubro2017 capa, jornal diarionoticias 25setembro2017 capa, jornal diarionoticias 09outubro2017 pag 36, jornal correiodelagos n 327 pag 22, jornal correiodelagos outubro2017 pag 24, jornal correiodamanha 30setembro2017 pag 15, jornal correiodamanha 09outubro2017 pag34, jornal correiodamanha 09outubro2017 capa, jornal canarias 15outubro 2017, jornal abola 15out2017 pag 44, jornal abola 14out2017 pag 20 21, jornal abola 14out2017 pag 19, jornal abola 14out2017 capa, jornal abola 09out2017 capa, jornal abola 09out2017 pag 32, revista movementmag n 43 pag 74, revista movementmag n 43 pag 75, revista movementmag n 43 pag 76, revista must n105 capa, revista must n105 pag 16 17, revista must n105 pag 18 19, revista tomorrow algarve n74, revista nativo n2017 18, revista caras n 1185, revista boa vista outono 2018, revista edit mag n61 capa, revista edit mag n61, revista saber viver agosto 2018, 2019. revista womens health outono, 2019. revista caras n1253 agosto, 2019. jornal correio manhã 25 maio pag18, 2019. jornal diario de aveiro 31 julho, 2019. jornal record 30 out, 2019. jornal record n14632 seg 20 maio contracapa, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag36_37, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag26_27, 2019.revista_caras_n1253_agosto_01, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag40_41, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag38_39, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag34_35, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag32_33, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag30_31, 2019.revista_activa_n344_julho_pag28_29, capa revista hipoalergiczni, revista flyjournal capa, revista flyjournal pag13, revista flyjournal pag38 39, revista flyjournal pag40 41, revista flyjournal pag42 43, revista flyjournal pag44 45, revista flyjournal pag47, revista flyjournal pag50, revista saber viver maio pag107, revista sabado n785 pag41, tv program (tvi 24), mtv talento, tv program "100% surf e bodyboard", tv program "o mundo ao contrário" (sporttv), tv news (sic notícias), radio interview "prova oral" (antena 3), tv news (rtp madeira), radio interview "manhãs da comercial" (radio comercial), tv program "ás +" (fuel tv), tv program "sala vip" (a bola tv), tv program "verão total" (rtp).

• TV news highlight

SIC NOTÍCIAS

Fuel tv portugal.

• Action Sports Plus
• Prova Oral com Fernando Alvim

RÁDIO COMERCIAL

• Manhãs na Comercial
• Era o que faltava
• Programa da Cristina
• TSF news highlight
• M80 Zona Verde Podcast
• All news highlights

CORREIO DA MANHÃ

Tribuna expresso, jornal de notícias, revista maxima, jornal postal, revista forbes, revista solo.

• All news Highlights

MAIS FUTEBOL

Sulinformação, jornal do algarve, jornal mundo português, revista vogue portugal, jornal dn ócio, revista rua, revista saber viver, revista algarve lifestyle, revista visao, sociedadevegan.

• News highlight

PORTALAVENTURAS

Google news, swell-algarve, bodyboard pt, sapo desporto, girls on board, greenefact.sapo.pt, surfertoday, riptide mag, movement mag.

• All news highlight

THE MERMAID SOCIETY

Ibc world tour, imagensdemarca.pt, facebook nações unidas, surfline.com.

Schenker School Tour

PT Joana conta a emocionante história dos seus desafios na alta competição aos jovens, através de um tour pelas escolas de Portugal ( Palestras presenciais ou Online via Zoom) com uma mensagem inspiradora e pedagógica sobre o caminho do sonho à concretização, aliado a literacia e proteção do Oceano! Professores, alunos ou pais podem candidatar a sua escola (turmas do 3º ciclo e secundário) através de uma simples inscrição no formulário ou via e-mail: [email protected] As palestras serão agendadas fora da época competitiva, de acordo com a disponibilidade da atleta.

Uma oportunidade única de levar a Joana Schenker à sua escola!

EN Joana visits Portuguese schools (Live events or Online via Zoom), to tell the exciting story of her challenges competing on the world tour, and her path from the dream to reality. An inspiring and educational message for young people allied to Ocean literacy and its protection. Teachers, students or parents can apply their school (junior and senior classes) by simply registering on the online form or via e-mail: [email protected] The "school talks" will be scheduled outside competition season, according to Joana availability.

A unique opportunity to bring Joana Schenker to your school!

PALESTRAS ATÉ HOJE: +107

JOVENS PRESENTES: +15.000

Schenker School Tour 01

Joana Schenker School Tour

Palestra "Schenker School Tour" conta com o apoio da Fundação Oceano Azul e do Oceanário de Lisboa.

Schenker School Tour 02

Schenker school tour 03, schenker school tour 04, schenker school tour 05, schenker school tour 06, schenker school tour 07, schenker school tour 08, schenker school tour 09, schenker school tour 10, schenker school tour 11, schenker school tour 12, schenker school tour 13, schenker school tour 14, schenker school tour 15, schenker school tour 16, schenker school tour 17, schenker school tour 18, schenker school tour 19, schenker school tour 20.

[email protected]

Get In Touch

Sponsors & partners.

MOBILITY PARTNER

Book Online | Call (+44) 1637 879571

THE HOMELAND OF EUROPEAN BODYBOARDING

• Improve your riding in Europe’s best bodyboard waves
• Our guides take care of everything in and out the water
• Great coaching = More waves and faster progression
• Share good times and create lifelong friendships

Find Out More

Quick Facts   Experience   Dates   What’s Included   Videos   More Info   FAQs

Quick Facts

• Our local team of passionate, fun and friendly instructors
• Accommodation is only a short walk from the beach
• Southern Portugal: Mediterranean climate and consistent swell
• Surf: 1ft – 8ft, perfect for all levels
• An abundance of beaches and wedges
• Water Temperature: 17°C to 21°C
• Structured, personalised coaching
• Inclusive video and photo
• All logistics and planning catered for
• Create a network of everlasting friendships
• Unforgettable memories to take home with you

Why join a Bodyboard Holiday in Portugal?

Southern Portugal is home to endless swell, gorgeous weather, stunning coastline, incredible gastronomy, as well as super-friendly people, low costs, epic surf and the best thing? For our UK and Ireland customers it’s only 2 hours away…

What to expect?

Mave our lead instructor, who lives in Portugal, regards him and his team as bodyboarding butlers! He takes care of everything from the logistics, accommodation and guiding you to the best waves for your ability to personalised coaching and capturing all the bodyboarding on camera. You just need to bodyboard, eat, sleep, repeat!

Who is this trip for?

All abilities, novice to proficient riders, that haven’t the time to organise a trip, wish to switch off their brain for a week and be looked after in our beach side accommodation, sharing good times with likeminded people. Those also looking to improve their riding through personalised coaching or just intensive free surfing in Europe’s best bodyboarding waves. What are you waiting for?

2024 14 jul All Day 21 Jeff Hubbard Portugal Camp 7 Nights £2499

July 14, 2024 – July 21, 2024 (All Day) (GMT+01:00)

Calendar GoogleCal

Get Directions

2024 12 oct All Day 19 Portugal 7 Nights £1549

October 12, 2024 – October 19, 2024 (All Day) (GMT+01:00)

2025 10 may All Day 17 Portugal 7 Nights £1549

May 10, 2025 – May 17, 2025 (All Day) (GMT+01:00)

2025 11 oct All Day 18 Portugal 7 Nights £1549

October 11, 2025 – October 18, 2025 (All Day) (GMT+01:00)

• A Zoom call with trip leader – Here we’ll discuss how to book your flights, insurance and where you will be met on arrival. We’ll cover your objectives, pre-trip planning, dietary requirements, physical preparation, kit list, trip expectations and you’ll have the chance to ask any burning questions about the holiday or bodyboarding in general.
• Upon completion of the call you will receive the trip leaders direct contact number so that you have personal, immediate line of communication until arrival in the destination.
• Bespoke Bodyboard-Holiday preparation fitness video.
• Bespoke Bodyboard-Holiday preparation Yoga video geared toward bodyboarding flexibility and cramp reduction.
• If you have footage of your riding, we can offer a pre-trip analysis.

AIRPORT ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE MEETING AND TRANSFERS

A member of our team will be waiting for you in arrivals at the airport, having tracked your flight. Airport pick up times are 2pm and 6pm. The transfer to our accommodation will include an explanation of the weather and waves forecast for the week, a guide to the local area, useful Portuguese language and complimentary drinks. After a surf stoked week we will return you to the airport in good time for a stress-free check-in.

Our Portuguese bodyboard week comprises 7 nights shared accommodation in a handpicked, beach side apartment in the historic seaside town of Lagos. 

• Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym and outdoor spaces for chilling out.
• Shared Twin Bedrooms (Private Bedrooms Available)
• Quality towels and bed linen
• Use of washing machine, dryer
• Self-catering cooking facilities
• 5 minute walk into Lagos
• A continental breakfast of cereals, toast, fruit, yoghurts, cheeses, hams, fruit juice, tea and coffee. All dietary requirements catered for.
• Lunch included – grab bag ‘sack lunch’ to keep you fuelled between breakfast, dinner and your surf sessions.

One of the advantages of visiting Portugal is the excellent yet affordable restaurant options. We take pride in choosing the best coastal eateries for us to enjoy on a nightly basis. Evening meal price not included. Budget 15 euro per day.  This flexibility allows us to eat at a vast selection of coastal locations, near to the surf spots that we will visit, allowing a full flavour of Portugal. Full self-catering option available at the villa.

EQUIPMENT STORE

• We have a selection of bodyboards and fins available to hire. Please get in touch for more details about our hire equipment.
• Every day throughout the week our expert trip leaders will draw upon their collective 40+ years of experience to find the best waves for your ability. This includes all fuel, tolls and parking.
• Each day we’ll have one long 3 to 4-hour session or this may be split in to two shorter sessions. We work around the tides and daily conditions to guarantee the best waves for our guests.
• We can ensure personalised one-to-one coaching
• We will find the waves that suit your objectives discussed in pre-trip zoom call
• Using our bespoke resource bank of explainer videos we will help you to overcome your bodyboarding challenges
• Coaching can be optional, if it’s not for you we can focus more on free surfing, photography and good times. It’s your trip, we will facilitate your fun!

PHOTO AND VIDEO ANALYSIS

• Land and in water photo and video package to take home with you
• Daily analysis sessions of the footage to see you improve fast

BODYBOARDING WORKSHOPS

Throughout the week we will run several bodyboarding related workshops that are optional to attend.

• Surf forecasting & travel
• Equipment and latest tech
• Duck diving and paddling efficiency
• The secret to dropknee
• 360 and roll workshop
• Yoga, stretching and nutrition session
• Ask Me Anything session (a workshop tailored to your burning questions)

We spend a lot of time bodyboarding, but when it is finished for the day, people’s time is then their own to visit local tourist attractions, surf shops, walk to one of the many beachside cafes or explore Lagos’ old town and marina. We guide you to the areas of local interest.

EVENING ACTIVITIES

The evenings are for kicking back, hanging out and eating together.  Watching a stunning sunset at the beach with some cool drinks, or playing pool, table tennis, using the swimming pool or catching the latest bodyboarding film on the TV.

Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’ll know bodyboarding has taken off in Portugal – it’s absolutely buzzing with local talent. With so many breaks to learn their trade on, it’s no wonder the world tour has seen an influx of Portuguese riders stake their claim in recent years.

Our luxury headquarters in the south of Portugal is perfectly situated to take advantage of both the North Atlantic swells on Portugal’s west coast and the Mediterranean swells on the Algarve’s south coast. This gives us so many options regardless of wind direction and swell size.

Within a 30 minute radius of our new apartments, the two coastlines offer more than 20 breaks that are ideal for bodyboarding. It is our aim to seek out the best spot each day, to avoid crowds, to surf a variety of waves throughout the week and to share with you this beautiful corner of Portugal. 

We’ve got our hands on two self-catering apartments with an epic location, just a short walk to the historical old town and modern harbour. These accommodations serve as an ideal base to explore the captivating beauty of Lagos, renowned for its pristine beaches, shimmering sea, limestone cliffs, and laid-back cafes.

Situated within a larger condominium, our apartments grant you access to a range of communal facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool perched on the terrace, providing breathtaking views of the town and the expansive ocean – a perfect haven for a morning coffee or a spot of sunbathing. The condominium also boasts an indoor heated swimming pool and a gym for your convenience.

Step inside these thoughtfully designed apartments furnished to a high specification, featuring open living spaces featuring large windows that invite the warm Portuguese sunshine, and plush sofas for your relaxation. The well-equipped kitchens offer the flexibility of self-catering.

Additional features include complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, a dishwasher, and provided towels and bed linens – ensuring all the essentials for a comfortable stay in the heart of this traditional Portuguese town.

• Water refills for your drinking bottles each day.

One of the advantages of visiting Portugal is the excellent yet affordable restaurant options. We take pride in choosing the best eateries for us to enjoy on a daily basis. Budget 15€ per day to sample the variety of fine Portuguese cuisine as well as giving us the flexibility to eat at a vast selection of coastal locations, near to the surf spots that we will visit, allowing a full flavour of Portugal. Full self-catering option available at the villa.

Open to all abilities – with suitable bodyboarding conditions for all.

The spread of Portugal’s bodyboarding breaks means we’ll always be able to find quiet peaks – perfect if you’re a beginner learning the basics or an intermediate rider looking to reach the next stage. Then there are the incredible wedges and more challenging reefs for the advanced rider. With just eight riders, we can easily split the group by abilities to cater for all levels of bodyboarding experience.

FOUNDATION LEVEL INSTRUCTION

With two coastlines to explore, offering 20+ beaches we’ll be able to find you the right waves for your ability. This is great if you’re looking to test yourself without jumping in at the deep end.

Whatever your level, our coaching team is on hand to offer daily guiding and tuition should you want it. This is tailored to your ability, with instructors who are in-house qualified and fully insured, and includes beach, water and classroom-based tuition. We can really progress your bodyboarding in just one week.

Our team comprises of two local bodyboarders that are fluent in English and Portuguese, experienced lifeguards, and that have 20 years of surfing and worldwide travel behind them.

We’ve got your back whatever your ability, and that’s a promise. Don’t stress if you’re only now giving it a go – on this trip there’s something for everyone, and we all have to start somewhere.

In fact, you’ll be amazed how quickly you master paddling out to catch good-quality waves, and we’re committed to patiently helping you progress.

Foundation coaching includes:

• An oceanography class at the start of the week to understand breaks, rips and currents
• Video and photo analysis including brand new split screen videos to help to master the main moves
• Bodyboarding safety, beach awareness, and how to catch waves
• How to paddle out, gain speed, duck-dive and wipe out safely
• Learning moves such as cutbacks, barrel rolls and 360 spins
• How to get the most from your equipment, while having heaps of fun
• Our instructors are on hand with groups in the water, able to give extra tips on the beach and give detailed feedback during our informal classroom analysis.
• Brand new split screen videos to help to master the main moves
• As well as coaching, we’re also keen to develop your learning and understanding of the sport in general. This is why we offer a separate  Ask Me Anything Session , answering all things bodyboarding: equipment, travel, safety, surf prediction, understanding pressure charts and bodyboarding fitness.
• Fitness and yoga videos supplied to prepare for the trip
• Bodyboarding Tree of Knowledge to plot your progress

INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED INSTRUCTION

There is good reason why there are so many amazing bodyboarders spawned from these shores. The waves lend themselves to high level bodyboarding and we can help you perfect specific moves from reverse spins to airs. The variety of the waves in this area is huge and as a result we can focus on every aspect of your riding. Or put more of a focus on guiding you to the best waves each day and letting you enjoy them while being videoed by our team. Joao and Mave rip prone and dropknee respectively. They not only have the riding experience but they both take great pride and pleasure in taking people’s riding to the next level. They have an innate ability to explain the technical aspects of bodyboarding and give game changing tips in an understandable and practical manner. If you’re already a ripper and are just looking forward to exploring and tackling some Atlantic swell in good company, you’ll love Portugal – a daily routine of seeking out the best breaks in the area, pulling into glassy tubes and boosting out of barrels in the sun.

Intermediate and Advanced coaching includes:

• Land and Water photos and videos, for analysis and to keep forever
• Ask Me Anything Sessions

We don’t book your air travel, but super-cheap flights are always on offer through budget airlines to Faro. It’s only a couple of hours from the UK, with fantastic air links with the rest of Europe and the world.

We include an airport pick up at 2pm and 6pm on the first day of the trip and a drop off at 8am on the last day, so organise your flights accordingly.

If you would like to arrive or depart at another time of the day, we can help you to organise a transfer to or from the airport for around 50 Euros.

For our English customers you can fly to Faro Airport (FAO) from Manchester, Birmingham and London airports with EasyJet and Ryanair. If you are flying from the UK, we work closely with the good people at Dial-A-Flight, so get in touch and they can hook you up – just give them a call and ask to speak to our bodyboarder-friendly agent, Lee (020 7295 1556).

Alternatively, check out SkyScanner to find the nearest flights to your location. When booking, make sure you check the airline’s baggage charges by weight and number, so you don’t get hit with any nasty hidden fees on the day.

Remember we also hire equipment, which works out cheaper than paying extra for a large ‘sports equipment’ bag in the hold and saves you carrying the thing! Just let us know in advance if this is something you’d like to do.

Once you’ve collected your bags, we’ll meet you at the arrivals area. Our representative will have a clipboard that clearly states ‘Bodyboard-Holidays’, and we’ll be looking for people with bodyboard bags.

You may have a short wait at the airport as the rest of the group assembles. If this is the case, it might be worth bringing a good book, a Kindle or an iPad. There is a Costa Coffee with WiFi in the arrivals area.

Once everyone has been located, we’ll check you in. We’ll then transport everyone back to the luxury villa, where you’ll be shown to your room. Shortly after arriving we’ll have a big group welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead.

You’re of course free to fly into wherever you choose, but please note you’ll need to find your own way to Lagos if you’re not landing at Faro. If you would prefer to make your own transfer arrangements or can’t make the whole week that’s fine – just let us know.

This corner of Portugal has it all. From Lagos, which boasts a beautiful old town, modern marina and vibrant nightlife, to the rugged cliffs and barren landscapes of Sagres, an old seafaring town situated on the most south-westerly point of mainland Europe. As well we’ll be spending time exploring the hidden and spectacular beaches of the Costa Vicentina – a lush green natural park on the Atlantic coast which has one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the country with an abundance of marine life and wildlife.

It’s the ridiculous wave potential in this region which excites any bodyboarder with a heartbeat – from the desolate sandy stretches along the Costa Vicentina to the better-known wedges of Sagres and the super fun beach breaks around Lagos.

A week barely scratches the surface here, but we’ll be sure to maximise every minute for you, helping you progress in your riding and getting you the best waves for your ability every single day.

We suggest you budget €15 Euro per day to cover your evening meal and any additional snacks, coffees or ice creams during the day.

EQUIPMENT HIRE

If you decide not to bring your own kit (or you don’t own it) to hire equipment for the week the prices are as follows;

Swim fins – £40 per week

Board – £85 per week

Wetsuit – £70 per week

You organise and book your own flight to Faro.

The climate in Lagos is determined by the warm Gulf Stream which create Mediterranean style temperatures, so you can be sure to expect reliably dry, sunny weather.

During the months of May and November you are most likely to experience good weather with average temperatures that fall between 20 degrees Celsius (68°F) and 25 degrees Celsius (77°F).

In the ocean, swell season is year-round! The water temperature rarely gets lower than 17°C in the spring, and can reach 21°C in the autumn, so a 3/2mm or a 4/3mm wetsuit will be fine for either end of summer. It can also be warm enough for a shortie on the hot days.

What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss, with the trip leader, the required kit and equipment, on the pre-trip video call.

Please check our kit hire prices under ‘What To Budget For’.

Quick Facts Experience Dates What’s Included Videos More Info FAQs

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2025 30 aug All Day 31 Newquay Coaching Weekend £219

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2026 01 mar All Day 10 Southern Sumatra 9 Nights £1650

2026 11 apr All Day 18 Bali 7 Nights £1650

How do I pay?

We Offer 3 Easy Ways To Pay!

• Pay In Full  – Pay the full amount in one, that’s it your done! (Available online)
• 50/50  – Pay 50% deposit and then 5 weeks later pay the remaining 50%. (Available online)
• Payment Plan  – Pay an initial deposit of as little as £100 to save your place and the rest in instalments!  (Contact us using our online chat for this option)

We can’t guarantee your place until we have received a payment from you.

Once you have made a payment, you’ll then be sent a trip confirmation email with all details on.

Can I attend on my own?

Yes definitely! We pride ourselves on being super welcoming and friendly. Most of our guests arrive solo and leave with a host of new bodyboarding buddies.

Can I reserve a spot to think about it for a few days?

Due to this trip being in high demand and having limited spaces, we can only hold your space for up to 24 hours without payment.

I’d like to come on the trip but I can’t attend for the full duration?

You are welcome to attend for a shorter period to suit your personal schedule, however the package price will remain the same.

Do I get a discount if I book a group of people?

Group booking discounts are available, please contact us for more information.

How soon should I book?

ASAP! These holidays fill up quickly and, with limited spaces available, sell out fast. We operate on a first come first serve basis. If you want to secure your place on the trip, it is advised that you pay as soon as you can.

Can I make contact from abroad?

If you are based outside of the UK and would like to book or chat through the holiday details, we can be contacted through our online chat.

Can a non-bodyboarding partner stay with me in the accommodation?

If you wish to bring a non-bodyboarding partner with you, that is absolutely fine, however, the price stays the same.

Are the holidays predominantly young people/men?

We have a great mix of all ages from young whipper-snappers to silver surfers.

The gender ratio at the moment is around 60% men to 40% women. However, this is constantly changing and Bodyboard Holidays is inclusive to all.

Can I use my mobile overseas and at the villa?

Nearly all International mobile networks work in Portugal. For internet calls, there’s WiFi access at the villa with a decent connection.

Is there an internet connection available in the accommodation?

Yes, a strong connection throughout the villa.

My friends are different bodyboard levels to me, will this be ok?

You’ll be asked to fill in an enrolment form as part of the booking process. You’ll signify which level of bodyboarder you are. You may be in a different group suited to your ability, however, there will be plenty of time to see each other back at the villa and during our social evening meals.

What happens if the surf conditions aren’t good enough?

We choose the time of year and location for our holidays based on local knowledge and historical swell data. In the event of flat waves or stormy conditions, we will offer alternative activities and day trips to help you get the most out of your holiday.

Please take a look at our Area section for more information. We may also adjust the format of the week, for example, choosing to run more bodyboard sessions on the days that the waves are at their best.

Please visit our Terms & Conditions for more information.

What are the surf conditions likely to be during my stay?

The area that we visit is blessed with constant surf, you can expect great conditions most days of the trip. To give you a clearer idea, the videos on this webpage were all filmed during previous bodyboard holiday trips.

Please refer to the Waves section for more details.

Do I get a discount for bringing my own bodyboard or/and wetsuit?

We do not offer a discount for bringing your own equipment.

What is the best way to transport my bodyboard and kit?

Remember to check the baggage size and weight allowance with your airline, as well as reading their guidance for carrying bodyboards. Baggage handlers can be unforgiving, so a tough bag and intelligent packing are a must.

Firstly, pack your board(s) in a protective, padded board bag, and write FRAGILE and TOP LOAD ONLY on it with a permanent marker. Make sure you wrap your towel and clothes around your board inside the bag for added protection. Place your shampoo and other wet toiletries in a separate sealed bag in case of leakage. We also recommend locking the zips on your bag with a padlock.

Do I need a visa?

Visas are not required for British and European passport holders for stays under 90 days. Passports must be valid for three months from the date of entry into Portugal. Non-European travellers should seek advice about visa requirements from their travel agent.

If you’re not a British national, please check international travel requirements for your nationality.

Please contact your travel agent or airline if you have any further questions. It’s a good idea to carry photocopies of your important documents and guide books and pack them separately. We also suggest scanning copies and emailing them to yourself for extra reassurance.

Are there any age restrictions?

If you are under 18, we will need to chat to you on the phone and you will need to be accompanied on the trip by a parent or guardian throughout the holiday. If you are 60 or over we’d love to chat with you about the trip before you book. Please contact us via our online chat.

Can we contact you if we have any travel problems?

On the day you travel please keep your mobile phone handy so we can stay in touch in case of delays and flight changes. Please inform us if you’re early or delayed for any reason.

If you need help booking your flight then just drop us a line or read our helpful blog post about booking flights .

If you can’t find our representative at the airport, stay there and wait, they won’t be far away. Our transfer representatives will have access to your arrival details. However, if you’re having difficulties finding them follow the instructions in your pre-arrival email. One of the team will locate you.

Do I need personal travel insurance?

As with any holiday, full travel insurance is a requirement for all guests booking a trip with the company. 

Please also ensure that your policy covers you for ‘disruption to travel’ and ‘cover for cancellations’ as standard.

For further help please read our helpful blog post about travel insurance .

You may need to add additional cover for surfing or bodyboarding, it is essential that your insurance policy covers you for all activities during your stay. Failure to take out travel insurance breaks the contract between Bodyboard Holidays and the client.

If you are joining one of our trips and you are native to the country of its location (i.e you live in Lisbon and are joining our Portugal trip) you do not need to take out medical travel insurance. This is as long as you have your own personal health-care plan or are covered by your country’s National Health Service. Although, we kindly request that you still take out trip disruption and cancellation insurance to cover all possible eventualities.

How can I find out about medical or Covid advice before travelling?

Visit your government’s travel advisory website for the latest Portugal health advice. Here’s a link to the UK government Portugal travel advice page .

What currency should I take?

The currency in Portugal is the Euro which you can pick up from travel agencies, banks or post offices. There are exchange facilities in airports as well as ATMs.

Please get your money changed before the trip or bring a valid card to withdraw from an ATM in Lagos. This is within walking distance from the villa. We plan to be surfing and chilling as much as possible, so please don’t bring currency other than Euros. It’s your responsibility to organise your currency in your own time.

How much will I spend?

Please refer to the “What to budget for?” section.

Is this trip open to international travellers or only UK residents?

We are a UK based company that delivers trips all over the world welcoming travellers of all nationalities.

What happens if I want to cancel my booking?

If your circumstances change and you can’t join the trip, please let us know as soon as possible via email. Your cancellation notice will start from the date we receive it.

Cancellation terms:

We hold part or full costs, depending on when you cancel:

• If you cancel 12 weeks or more before the trip we retain one-third of the total trip price
• If you cancel between 36 days to 12 weeks before the trip it’s 50% of the total cost
• If you cancel between 21-35 days, we retain 75% of the total cost
• Under 20 days – we keep 100% of the total cost.

Cancellation may fall under the terms and conditions of your holiday insurance policy and you may be able to claim.

Still have questions?

Please take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions videos.

Bodyboard Holidays 58 Fore Street Newquay Cornwall TR7 1LW

UK: 01637 879571 Int: +44 1637 879571

[email protected]