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If you value surfing safely, having your time maximized and improving your surfing rapidly, then you’ ll love surfing with your Tropicsurf guides. Over the last twenty years, we’ve curated a global team of over forty pros.

We believe this is a testament to our company’s success with five-star resorts and discerning private clients. More than just delivering you to surf breaks, you’ ll be offered personal instruction or coaching in case you’d like to learn secrets that will lead you to rapid progression.

Tropicsurf guides also function as the nexus between you and the resort (or liveaboard) so that your vacation experience is truly care-free.


Adi Wilson

Adi Wilson is one of our most senior coaches. Our ‘veteran' of countless live-aboard tours, Adi's dry sense of humour, friendly and patient nature, and expertise in coaching make him a favourite. Consequently the Kiwi from Down Under is high on our repeat request list. In fact many customers refuse to book a trip unless 'Uncle Adi' will be onboard with them. You will make a great friend and improve your surfing if you are fortunate enough to have Adi as your coach.

Four Seasons Explorer, Maldives

Ryley Haskell

Born in California, but raised in a globetrotting family of surfers, over the years Ryley has grown to call various countries home. He is a big wave charger, prior NSSA competitor, and multilingual super coach. Ryley has a contagious energy that’s one of a kind, with a smile from ear to ear. His infectious energy and genuine enthusiasm for coaching shine through as he shares his extensive knowledge with guests, whether they’re catching their first wave, or seeking to master advanced techniques. Over the last decade Ryley has worked in nearly all of Tropicsurf’s resort properties, and is now the lead guide of Tropicsurf’s Private Collection. In this role Ryley works exclusively with our most esteemed VIP guests, as well as leads all private boat charters, where he curates bespoke surf adventures tailored to the guests every preference and desire. Throughout these excursions, Ryley brings a level of professionalism and expertise that redefines the pinnacle of luxury surf experiences worldwide.

COMO Laucala

Ross Phillips

Tropicsurf's Founder. Ross has an extensive background in surf coaching and has dedicated the better part of his 25+ year career to systematizing his industry-leading coaching techniques for the benefit of guests. He is passionate about surfing and helping others maximize enjoyment through technique, confidence and education. Ross has pioneered the 'art of luxury surfing' and is passionate about making a meaningful difference through philanthropy. These days Ross works with a handful of clients between secret reconnaissance trips to far flung corners of the world.

Four Seasons Voavah, Maldives

Pete Tayler

Growing up in the south west of Western Australia, Pete spent every waking moment in the ocean, surfing, diving & fishing. His passion for the ocean has always been at the foundation of his big decisions. Pete made the move away from WA in his early 20’s in search of warm water, perfect point breaks & to start his surf coaching career in Burleigh Heads on the sunny Gold Coast. While combining surf coaching and evening work in a local bar, Pete’s love for seeing first time surfers have a great time, soon carried over into another genuine passion; hospitality. He went on to open and run his own restaurant for many years until he decided to refocus his original passion and become a surf guide. Drawing on his years of surf coaching and hospitality experience, Pete’s mission is not only to gets his guests into the best waves of their life but to provide guests with an unforgettable experience and lifelong memories.

COMO Maalifushi, Maldives

"Juzzy" van Vuuren

Growing up in the water representing his home country, South Africa, in water polo and swimming, Juzzy’s love for the ocean and surfing was a natural progression. After matriculating, Juzzy used his uber social skills and vibrant personality to run a successful fitness and wellness business during which time he completed two Iron Man races. Juzzy is a frother and perfect example of the saying “if you don’t go you won’t know”. His 100% all in attitude and love for people makes him one of the most motivating guides on the team.

Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives

Chamath Perera

Chamath was born and raised on the beautiful south coast of Sri Lanka. As a lifelong waterman his transition into his role as a surf instructor was an easy one. Chamath has been an integral part of the Tropicsurf team in Sri Lanka for over 8 years. His kind and gentle approach to instructing has gained him the adoration of surfers from all over world. When Chamath isn’t coaching the local Tangalle Cricket team, he is making the rounds at local beaches where everyone is excited to see him. If you make it to Sri Lanka a session with Chamath will surely be the icing on the cake of a great holiday.

Anantara Peace Haven, Sri Lanka

CJ Kimmel

As a Swede you’d expect CJ to be more comfortable in the mountains than among the waves, but hailing from the cold corner of Scandinavia has given CJ the motivation to traverse the globe in search for waves. Once he finished his architecture degree he did the most logical thing and moved to Indonesia to spread the stoke as the archipelagos seemingly only viking surf guru. Balancing between thorough analysis, wide life perspectives and pure fun; a session with CJ will always start and end with a smile, a chat and some shared wisdom. His adaptive approach to life translates well into all levels of teaching and through all ages. Find CJ at COMO Uma Canggu, Qamea Fiji and throughout the Maldives.

COMO Uma Canggu, Indonesia

Courtenay Ellish

Courtenay grew up on the South Coast of Durban, South Africa and started surfing with her older brother when she was 9 years old. From there she surfed competitively with a Roxy sponsorship until she was 17. Courtenay is super passionate about the environment and all things ocean. She also loves free-diving, running and spending quality time with family. Whilst studying Courtenay was a surf coach and after finishing her degree in law she decided to coach surfing and travel which lead her to join the Tropicsurf team. Courtenay loves helping people in and out of the water, and believes kindness goes a long way! Courtenay is a happy go lucky person and always up for a challenge!

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Shane Veenstra

Shane grew up on the wave rich shores of the Gold Coast in Australia where he found his passion of surfing at an early age. After years in the building industry and running a successful fashion business in Bali, Shane decided to toss the tools and sewing machine aside to follow his passion of surfing and sharing the stoke with others. His calm, cool demeanour and years of experience in the waves will make any guest feel comfortable and surfing better sooner. If you are looking to perfect your technique and style, he has you covered. Shane is currently managing our program at Anantara Dhigu Resort in the Maldives with his partner Tereza.

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Clive Scherer

Surfing. Rugby. Cricket. In true South African form Clive Scherer is fanatical about all three. Surfing takes the cake though, to the point that Clive turned his back on a commerce career to live the dream as a globe-trotting surf coach. Fifteen years later and Clive still rates beginners as the most rewarding people to teach. Forever hooting like a grom it’s hard to tell who is more stoked when a guest catches their first ever green wave. Having guided in Costa Rica, Indonesia and the Maldives, Clive is still as stoked as his very first day on the job. It sure beats commerce.

Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico

Josh Button

Growing up in the UK, surfing isn’t just about riding waves. It’s the anticipation of the forecast, the journey to the spot, the camaraderie with friends and the unique enjoyment of the whole experience. This background is what makes Josh Button a tremendous guide with a laser sharp focus on a wholistic guest experience. A Bachelor of Science graduate, Josh majored in Surf Science and Technology (who knew such a thing existed?) and immediately got to work sharing his knowledge in the lineup, paving his way to be a Tropicsurf coach. Yep, our very own Surfing Scientist.

Six Senses Laamu, Maldives

Hamish Willans

Growing up on the sunny Gold Coast of Australia, you could always find Hamish Whillans sitting inside a Burleigh barrel. No matter the conditions, Hamish is perpetually stoked and brings these contagious vibes to any lineup. After surfing competitively through his teens, Hamish developed a love of coaching the up and coming junior surfers in his local community through to their WQS careers. This passion of surf coaching drew him away from a 9 to 5 commerce role and into the dream job of a Tropicsurf guide. A fun-loving and humble person, Hamish will go the extra mile to ensure the guest has a surfing experience of a lifetime. Surf with Hamish at Four Season Kuda Huraa, Maldives

Six Senses Laamu

Mike Pinneo

Mike Pinneo somehow caught the surfing bug in Tofino Canada, wearing a 5mm hooded wetsuit. As luck would have it though, Mike was born with dual Canadian / Australian citizenship and capitalised on the opportunity to move to the warmer waters of the Gold Coast. It’s here that he completed a Sport Management degree before transitioning to Firewire surfboards where be co-designed one of the brand’s most popular models; the Greedy Beaver. The Beaver referencing his Canadian heritage. Fast forward to today and Mike takes great pleasure in pushing people into perfect waves on a softy, longboard or indeed a Greedy Beaver.

One&Only Mandarina, Mexico

Mohamed 'Navi' Naveez

Naveez (or 'Navi' as most guests refer to him using his Maldivian nick-name) started as an apprentice surfing guide at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa. After two years there, and multiple boat seasons under his belt Navi progressed through the TS ranks to become a qualified guide. Fast forward fifteen years and nowadays Navi’s a proud father, an esteemed photographer, a stalwart of the Maldives surfing scene, and a for sure the most experienced Maldivian surf coach on the planet after instructing at Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and the Seychelles.

Four Seasons Explorer, Maldives

Nicole van Vuuren

Growing up on the sunny south coast of Durban South Africa there was no shortage of waves and incredible weather to groom Nicole into a surfing enthusiast. Nicole, fondly known as Noccy (a mix of Occy and Nicole inspired by her powerful backhand turns) competed nationally from the age of 13 and was sponsored by Roxy until the age of 21 from which she entered into the corporate world as a Marketing Manager and took up kite surfing as her second love, after surfing of course. After pushing through a few years in the corporate scene Nicole finally found Juzzy, her now husband and fellow Tropicsurf guide, and they decided to live their passion! A passion fuelled by Tropicsurf. Nicole’s strategic background, drive for success, conscientious nature, positive attitude and infectious smile makes her a perfect fit for our Tropicsurf team.

Four Seasons Desroches, Seychelles

Adam Webster

Eighteen years of permanent dedication to surfing and snowboarding the globe is what Adman represents. Clocking up 17 full snow seasons as a highly-ranked, international snowboard instructor and over 120 Maldives boat trips as a Tropicsurf Guide, he has honed an insight into rider improvement that is second to none. Adam's eye for biomechanical analysis of a surfer's movement patterns is outstanding. Hundreds of TS guests now credit their rapid improvement thanks to Adman. This is a guy with a witty sense of humour who coined our service motto "it's all about you”.

Four Seasons Explorer, Maldives

Lenin Guido

Born to a Nicaraguan coastline littered with perfect waves, Lenin Guido Martinez grew up dreaming of surfing. At the age of 12 he scored a board from a friend on the proviso that he would be his full-time surf buddy. Together they taught themselves to ride the waves and experience the ocean lifestyle. Lenin says it’s like being transported to a whole new world. These days Lenin is a respected elder in the lineup and a master coach to local groms and Mukul guests alike. Look out for his trademark Lenin Layback in the water and trademark smile on land.

Mukul, Nicaragua

Jesse Halkett

Jesse Halkett is a drifter. Literally. If it doesn’t float it doesn’t interest him. Surfing since he could walk Jesse has an affinity for all surf crafts. He’s a pro on a longboard, super stylish on a SUP and absolutely rips on a shortboard. His love for the ocean led him to a career working aboard super yachts before becoming a Tropicsurf coach in 2011. Since then he has had the pleasure of helping guests discover their surfing potential in the Maldives, Fji, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Jesse’s philosophy is that anyone can get totally stoked no-matter how big the waves are if they choose the right board.

Four Seasons Costa Rica

Hannah Bing

A former world longboard title competitor representing her home country of South Africa, Hannah is Tropicsurf’s diva of style. Her progression into a coaching career with Tropicsurf has taken her from the Maldives to Mexico where she’s been a favoured guide for aspiring comp surfers, intermediates and first-timers alike. Particularly popular amongst the kids, Hannah’s fun sense of humour keeps her busy with the groms. Out of the water Hannah’s a qualified helicopter pilot and famous for her Mexican philosophy of “a surf a day keeps the taco belly away"

Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico

Blake McKinnon

His surname is synonymous with the Australian surfing scene; the son of World Longboard Champion in Andrew, and WSL media evergreen Mandy, Blake McKinnon has surfing running through his veins. A product of the Gold Coast’s competitive surfing scene Blake’s appreciation of surfing style and function channelled him towards a successful career in surf coaching. These days the fun-loving father of one is lucky enough to travel the world with his family and extend his reputation for putting guests onto empty waves and secluded breaks no-matter where he is based.

Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay, Bali

Brad Beck

Bradley Beck is an unfortunate Goofy Footer, a proud South African, Brad was raised on the epic right hand point of Cape St Francis. It’s here that he was nicknamed 'Beck-hand' for his tight 12 o'clock turns and radical fin drifts. As a sports psychology graduate, Brad’s passion has always been for surf coaching; from first-timers to pros Brad has a keen eye for in depth technical analysis and has become a scholar of the Tropicsurf coaching system. A seasoned and well traveled Tropicsurf veteran, Brad is a pro at making progressing fun, never too series and full of stoke.

Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico

Erin Dark

Born and raised in a small coastal town south of Sydney, Erin at a young age made a footprint in the surfing community. Being self-taught at the young age of 10, she saw herself competing in surfing from shortboards, longboards to even SUPs. Competing in both state and national events along with the World Longboard Titles. Erin’s admiration and passion for surfing set her eyes onto the career path as a surf coach, now seeing herself with 10+ years of knowledgeable coaching experience. In and out of the ocean Erin’s caring and encouraging nature along with her contagious smile stands her out from the usual crowd. No matter the situation, you can count on her to always share her passion and knowledge on a big spectrum of surf craft.

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Travis Firrell

Travis has been a true waterman since a young age. He has represented Australia in Water Polo and is a champion swimmer. Hailing from the Gold Coast in Australia, he has an infinity with surfing. His caring nature and relaxed style makes all levels of surfers feel comfortable surfing with him. His keen eye for the technical side of progression will help all guests reach their next level in surfing. The feedback from guests is always stellar and his stoke and smile is contagious.

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Ryan Templeton

Ryan started surfing at a very young age on the shores of New Jersey. He surfed competitively along the east coast and on his University's Surf Team in California. Throughout this time he taught many different surfers of all abilities on the east and west coast of the states. His real passion is helping others and sharing the stoke with everyone. Ryan’s friendly demeanor and easy-going attitude make him approachable to people of all ages while his in-depth understanding and respect for the ocean enable him to provide the best experiences for surfers of all abilities.

Mukul Nicaragua

Giulia Conte

Giulia has grown up in love with the water, actually she’s an champion synchronised swimmer who is just as comfortable under the water as above it. Also a qualified yoga instructor, Giulia is totally in tune with body movements and how this correlates to a surfer’s body and mind. Hailing from both Italy and Germany she has been surf coaching throughout Europe and beyond in a career which has taken her to the most beautiful surf destinations in the world.

Nihi Sumba, Indonesia

Timothy Wood

Tim Wood likes to laugh. Possibly more than surfing itself. In the lineup you’ll hear him holler from the inside or embellish a wave that no-one else saw. It’s next level stoke and infectious. Growing up on the East Coast of the USA and Germany Tim has since been around the block a few times, teaching and surfing across the globe finding amusement at every turn. Beyond the smile Tim is an incredible waterman, with an emphasis on safety first and fun second you’ll never have a boring surf with Tim.

Nihi Sumba, Indonesia

Tereza Filipova

Originally from the Czech Republic, Tereza grew up pursuing a sporting life which saw her represent her country and then go onto earning a Law Degree at university. She fell in love with surfing in Indonesia and hasn’t looked back. She has travelled numerous countries chasing that perfect wave. Tereza’s patience and methodical way of teaching makes her the perfect coach for someone wanting to improve quickly. Feedback from guests is consistently stellar and everyone says how professional yet easy going she is. Tereza is currently managing Anantara Dhigu with her partner Shane

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Stephen Taylor

The son of a professor in plastic and micro surgery, Steve’s upbringing was clear. “Follow your passions, live life to the fullest, and be the best at what you do”. Fast-forward to today and Steve has clearly applied these principles to his life as a Tropicsurf guide. Guests adore Steve’s larger than life affection for fun, intuitive care, insightful coaching tips and ability to relate with all walks of life. Steve has worked at over eight different Tropicsurf properties and is a great source for surf intel and vacation inspiration.

Four Seasons Mahe, Seychelles

Noe Mar

I was born and raised in Pavones, Costa Rica and started surfing since I was 2 years old, doing tandem with my Dad. My Mom, Dad and Sister are all surfers and we have always been an ocean addicted family. I’m a former WSL competitor and in 2015, I won the ISA gold medal. I’m fluent in 3 languages: English, Spanish and Portuguese and adore teaching and coaching all levels of surfing and feel there is no better feeling than to watch another surfers happiness when catching good waves progressing their surfing. I love being in the water and nature also learning about the different cultures and traditions and of course trying some local food!

Four Seasons Desroches Island, Seychelles

Chucho Baeza

Chucho Baeza epitomises a warm local welcome. Mexican style. A long-time surf coach Chucho has been guiding guests in and around Palmilla or further afield throughout Mexico’s famous desert waves for years. He loves to share his knowledge and make others happy. It’s in his DNA. A stylish goofy-footer, Chucho is happy to carve it up on a shortboard or cruise on a longboard, whichever gives him the best chance to hang out with guests and hoot others into the sets.

COMO Uma Canggu, Indonesia

Aaron Kelly

Aaron hails from Tropicurf’s home, Noosa Heads in Australia. Aaron competed on the professional circuit for a few years and has hung up the jersey and donned the Tropicsurf rashie. His knowledge and enthusiasm of surfing will ensure guests progress and his friendly nature will be something all of his guests will remember about him. His technical analysis with surfers of all levels is what most guests appreciate the most.

Gili Lankanfushi

Keely Smallwood

Keely grew up beachside on the Sunshine Coast in Australia.Since a young age, Keely has mastered most surf crafts. Her fun, easy going personality is infectious and guests love her energy in and out of the water. If you are lucky enough to spend some time with her you will surely learn new skills and have great time whilst spending time with her.

Gili Lankanfushi

Cayman Durham-Vance

Cayman was born and raised in the wild northern region or California. He has a strong taste for adventure sports that was encouraged by his upbringing. He loves every aspect of surfing: the competition, the lifestyle, the forecasting, board design theory, and most of all the act itself. His enthusiasm and dedication to surfing, in all its richness and complexity, will help guests deepen their understanding and progress in their ability exponentially!

Six Senses Laamu

Spencer Thomas

Spencer finds his enjoyment in any form of being in the ocean. From free-diving, kite-surfing, foiling and surfing! He’s always keen to share the stoke with others. He was born in Idaho but raised in the southern coastal town of Dominical, Costa Rica. Spencer has dedicated his time to becoming a waterman of all disciplines. Since 2018, Spencer has worked as a San Diego City Lifeguard & Emergency Medical Technician. From intense water rescues to serious medical aids, Spencer shares the Tropicsurf motto of Safety is our #1 priority. From 2ft peelers to double overhead grinding barrels, Spencer will be thrilled to share a session with you!


Atria Peter

Growing up in a military family, Atria spent time in many corners of the world including Singapore, Alaska, the Caribbean, and California. After living in the Caribbean as a grom, Atria picked up a love for the ocean. From competing in local island competitions to world championships, windsurfing was the first ocean sport Atria fell in love with. After moving to California many years later, Atria learned how to surf, starting off with hang 10’s and then transitioning to shorter and shorter boards. Whether it’s surfing, free diving or kitesurfing, Atria’s love for the ocean is contagious and she is excited to share that passion with you!


Ahmed Saif

Saif grew up on Hithadhoo island in Laamu atoll, a stones throw from the world class wave Ying Yang. He first surfed the break at 8 years old, which naturally led him to sharing his knowledge through surf guiding. The ocean is an integral part of Maldivian history and culture with surfing as its latest chapter. Saif is Hithadhoo’s first surfer and one of Laamu’s best. Always smiling, he loves putting back into his local community and in his spare time when not guiding for Tropicsurf, he is a great role model teaching the locals of his island to surf and spreading the stoke.

Six Senses Laamu

Umar Imbrahim

Born and raised in a family of watermen, in a waterman’s paradise, the northern atolls of the Maldives. Umar’s passion lies in helping our guests into their first ever wave, just as he caught his first ever wave with Tropicsurf, while undertaking his apprenticeship program at the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa. In fact, he’ll be happier than you when you catch that first wave! Umar carries his smile and stoke for surfing to any lineup, ensuring that our guests are having the time of their lives while enjoying the ocean paradise that he grew up in.

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Martin Reynolds

According to Martin the English surf teaches the virtues of patience, determination and the willingness to travel. It’s this background and a subsequent life-long dedication to surf coaching, that has earned Martin a reputation as one of best technical surf coaches in the world. Actually, Martin heads up Tropicsurf’s guide training and mentoring programs. Forever bouncing between Tropicsurf resorts as our 'guru to the guides' Martin keeps himself connected to his true love of personalised coaching with regular VIP guiding trips and liveaboard expeditions.

Silolona, Secret Papua

Julien Passard

"Born and raised in France, Julien hails from a family of teachers so it was only natural that he became one himself. His gift for education crossed over into surfing and is taught with a balance of progression and entertainment. Julien's dedication to his guests making the most out of every wave, and the most out of every session, is nothing but contagious.

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Harry Dorington

Harry originates from the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. After bodyboarding and skateboarding from a young age, he finally merged the two and fell in love with surfing around 15 years of age. After moving to Melbourne in later years, he spent his time working in the only surfboard store in Melbourne gaining extensive knowledge of boards and hardware, before beginning his surf coaching career at the Urbnsurf wavepool. It was there that he found the love for coaching and sharing in the experience of people catching their very first waves.


Jose Luis Sanchez

Jose Luis, or ‘Pepe’ as he’s known defines the Punta Mita vibe, classic Californian longboard style mixed with an infectious Mexican energy. Big smiles, big hoots and more local knowledge than a Lonely Planet guidebook. Pepe’s skills aren’t just in nose-riding and good times, his eye for detail and passion for progression at the individual level set him up as an exciting coach too. Nobody works harder and nobody eats more tacos than Pepe, he knows where to find the best ones too.

Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico

Donna Scherer

How many Zimbabwean surf guides have you met? Donna Scherer is a rare gem. Her first passion was for scuba and after becoming a qualified Dive Instructor Donna quickly turned her attention to the action above the water. Rapidly becoming an impressive stand up paddle surfer Donna turned her coaching focus to helping others discover the art of luxury surfing. From Costa Rica, to Indonesia, to the Maldives, Donna is always aiming for uncrowded lineups for our guests, just like the Mozambique border where she learnt to surf on an empty pumping point break.

Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico

Joe Lawman

Joe grew up learning to surf on Australia’s east coast in a town called Byron Bay. His life has always revolved around the ocean, never residing anywhere that didn’t have a beach nearby. After completing his studies on the South Coast of Australia, he has decided to hang up the wetsuit for a more tropical orientated surf career. With a keen interest on creating and making his own surf crafts, Joe is able to share his knowledge on the intricacies of surfing equipment. His satisfaction comes from helping others progress and navigate through the different challenges of learning to surf. Look forward to sharing and hearing Joe’s stoke when you are surfing with him!


April Senske

I was born and raised in Costa Rica. Our home is the sweet second longest left in the world, Pavones. I’m a goofy footer, so I love going left :) My dad is huge surfer and this made me want to become one! I also speak fluent English and Spanish and am currently going to college and looking forward to graduate with a major in Hospitality from Texas Tech-CR. I love to share the love for the ocean with other people and this has brought the spark of loving to teach surfing and watching happy guests progress their level. Working with kids is a passion of mine and I enjoy meeting people from all around the world and learning their traditions. I am always looking to satisfy guests and making sure they have the trip of their life.


Mark Waldron

Mark is a surfer born and raised in Santa Barbara, California, with an affinity for chasing barrels and new experiences around the globe. He loves sharing his passion for the ocean with others. Whether you are a first time learner or an advanced surfer, Mark is eager to share his knowledge of the ocean with you as well as his extensive coaching repertoire.


Grant Beck

Grant Beck is a South African surfing champion and two-time WSL World Longboard title competitor. The experienced judge and long-time surf coach, Grant was responsible for managing Billabong’s African surf team before progressing to an international coaching career with Tropicsurf. An acclaimed short boarder Grant has also featured in numerous big-wave media stories and earned a reputation as an underground charger. Jovial by nature Grant brings a tremendous energy to any lineup. He can walk the walk on all surf craft and is an excellent technical coach.

Gili Lankanfushi

Julian Escott

Julian Escott was born in Sydney Australia however has spent most of his life travelling the globe to seek out secret empty waves. Boasting an inspiring vivacious lifestyle funded by a successful modelling career, Julian’s pursuit of travel eventually landed him in Costa Rica where he fell in love with the local culture and uncrowded high quality waves. It’s here that most Tropicsurfers find him, however Julian’s transient habits often find him boarding a plane to the Maldives, Australia or Mexico.

Four Seasons Costa Rica

David Lammin

David Lammin is one of Tropicsurf’s chief coaches. A consummate professional in every respect. David’s teaching background attracted him to the professional coaching scene on the Gold Coast of Australia before he progressed to a career with Tropicsurf in the early 2000’s. With countless Maldives boat trips up his sleeve and the experience of coaching literally thousands of Tropicsurf guests David is a common request on VIP trips, especially throughout his favourite region of Secret Papua.

Secret Papua

Jemma Lewis

Growing up on South Africa’s south coast with a family of surfers, there was little chance of Jemma not becoming a surfer. The cold and stormy waters of the Cape drove her to travel to the tropical warmer waters of Indonesia where she spent two years in the Mentawai Islands fulfilling the role of surf guide and private school teacher. In between travels, her love of the ocean resulted in her pursuing a degree in Marine Biology and Oceanography and obtaining her Master’s degree. As a surf coach Jemma is all about sharing the stoke and connecting people to the beautiful marine environment through surfing.


Leonard Hug

Leo, a passionate and experienced surf coach, has spent over a decade honing his expertise in various European countries, New Zealand and the Maldives. His patient and positive nature creates a warm and encouraging atmosphere for his students. What truly sets him apart is his exceptional care and resilience in helping people facing traumatic experiences in the ocean. Safety is his top priority, ensuring every surf session is enjoyable and exciting for those under his guidance. A true ocean enthusiast, Leo's passion for surfing shines through in every lesson, making him not just a surf coach but a mentor and inspiration to those who share his love for the waves.


Florentine Haas

Flora, hailing from Germany, finds the true joy of surfing in the entire journey. It's not just the adrenaline rush of riding a wave, but also a chance to embrace travel and immerse oneself in diverse cultures. During her time in far-off New Zealand, she realised - teaching others, especially women and children, about her passion for surfing - brought her an even deeper sense of fulfilment. Her fun-loving and caring character, combined with an unwaveringly positive attitude, leaves a lasting mark on everyone she encounters.


Jacob Stuth

"Living vicariously through guests surfing experiences is one of lives great pleasures." With a deep awareness of long boarding style and finesse, Jacob's keen to share his knowledge through his guiding . His experience riding various surfboard designs from Alaia , short board and longboards allows him to carefully communicate valuable teaching techniques with endearing enthusiasm. Jacob has been guiding with Tropicsurf in Maldives, Nihiwatu , Noosa and currently based in the Seychelles.

Four Seasons Seychelles

Robyn Dodd

Robyn’s zest for life and making sure that all of her guests have the time of their lives is what makes sharing waves with her is all about. Hailing from South Africa, Robyn loves nothing more than helping guests progress to the next level and sharing the stoke. If you are fortunate enough to spend time with her, you will be happy, surfing better and generally stoked on life! Guests always comment how enthusiastic and knowledgeable she is will all ages and surfing levels.

Nihi Sumba

Eli Jacobs

Eli was born in the sleepy seaside town of New Plymouth, New Zealand and was just 3 years old when he had his first taste of catching waves. Growing up with a father who has dedicated his life to building surf boards, Eli was destined to be a lover of the ocean. When the family relocated to the Gold Coast, Australia, Eli discovered his love for competitive surfing. This allowed him to explore different locations around the globe and gain a world of knowledge of the ocean. A humble, friendly and forever positive young man, Eli brings energy and excitement to every surf. Did we mention that he rips too? Surf with Eli at One&Only Palmilla in Cabo, Mexico.

One&Only Palmilla, Cabo

Jimmy Thompson

Jimmy grew up in Tasmania, Australia where he developed a love for adventuring, nature orientated activities and scoring uncrowded waves. Jimmy’s approach to surfing is relaxed and fun, enabling him to surf unique lines in a range of conditions. When out of the water, Jimmy is passionate about music and art and through this offers a creative and relatable coaching style for guests. As an Occupational Therapist, Jimmy has experience working with a diverse range of people and providing client centred therapy and care to individuals. Beyond past work experiences, Jimmy continues to offer a compassionate, positive and caring approach to providing and sharing amazing experiences with guests.


Avalon Starick

Avalon grew up in Tasmania, Australia where she formed a strong bond to nature and in particular the ocean. Travelling to the sunshine state of Queensland sparked a lifelong love for surfing and the surfboard industry. Avalon spent over two years shaping and glassing in a surfboard factory working for and collaborating with some of the best shapers in the world. This in-depth understanding of the design and manufacturing of surfboards gives her an edge when it comes to coaching. Avalon strongly believes the goal in surfing is to always have fun, and her infectious smile and bubbly personality continuously encourages this belief. Avalon is passionate about seeing progression in guests surfing ability and will go above and beyond to create enjoyable experiences for all!


Mika Hattingh

Mika was born and raised in Durban, South Africa. Growing up along the coast he spent most of his free time in and around the water, and found his passion for surf photography leading him to learn to surf. Mika turned his love for photography into a career and worked in the industry as a successful wedding photographer for over 6 years. With his business savvy skills and strong urge to travel and surf, Mika joined the Tropicsurf team. Mika loves working with people, teaching new skills and helping others. He is always happy, enthusiastic and determined to give his guests an over and above experience in and out of the water.


Jimmy Houghton

Jimmy hails from the Land Down Under. A gun swimmer, Jimmy has always felt at home in the water, but he was more used to following the black line than chasing waves. That was until he really caught the surfing bug while living on the North Shore of Oahu 10 years ago, where he got his first taste of surf instructing. He loves a frothy cappuccino as much as frothing on waves. A larrikin with a big old smile, and semi-professional merchant of stoke, Jimmy loves to surf with anyone and everyone, making their lessons memorable and full of laughs. Seeing the joy that surfing brings others is his favourite part of the job, and he truly believes that there is never a bad time to take up surfing! He loves riding longboards and mid-lengths, digging the style of the early surf pioneers.


Sean Setran

Sean was born and raised in Southern California where his love for surfing flourished at a young age. He was involved in competitive surfing and climbed the ranks of the NSSA. He later went on to captain his university’s surf team. When he’s not surfing, you can find him on the slopes of Mammoth Mountain snowboarding or ripping through the Southern Californian mountain biking trails. Sean is a friendly, outgoing, and enthusiastic guide with years of experience coaching surfing of all levels. Whether you’re a first time surfer or an experienced waterman, a session with Sean is sure to be a great time.


Monty Purkiss

Leaving behind the chilly waters of England, Monty's passion for surfing has taken him across the globe in search for warmer waters and better waves, naturally finding the tropics as his sanctuary. It is here with the turtles and dolphins, Monty shares his passion of surfing with all he meets, whether that's finding their feet on the first wave or polishing the skills of a seasoned explorer. With his fun-loving and caring nature, Monty inspires confidence and smiles all around.

Liveaboards means empty waves

Liveaboards means empty waves

The best way to get quality surf is by boat - true luxury for comfort and safety. Hitting the waves by boat lets the whole family enjoy an action packed itinerary whether you’re looking for fun on the breaks of in the flat water. We can set you up with private or set departures to offer you a truly customized experience.

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