Errant Ltd

We have a new blog!

2009-06-24T16:32:00.001-07:00

Times are a changing, and we ahve a cool lokoing new blog to go with our new website, check it out here http://blog.errantsurf.com/

See you there!

When can you start learning to surf?

2009-06-03T01:51:00.000-07:00

We get asked a lot how young can you start learning to surf.

Well ten years ago, before surf schools the typical start up age was about 16 - 22 years old. As surfers grew older and had children themselves surfing has started to be passed down to the kids. This is becoming quite the norm, since the explosion of surfing in the 60’s and its spread across the world, we are now seeing three generations of surfers in one family in the US, Europe, Australia and NZ.

As such the age of any budding surfer, can be as young at three. As long as the surfing is private, prefable with a parent who understands the basics of surfing, and is not going to push them to hard.

At our surf schools we typically teach as young as seven or eight, again it really depends on the childs confidence in the water. The surf coaching for young people is always done on a private basis, and it knee deep water. We find it is more about building confidence, over actual surfing technique.

SURF YOUR WAY INTO NEW JOB OPPORTUNITIES

2009-05-28T01:50:00.001-07:00

Do you know someone who’s a mad surfer and is aged 16-25 and currently out of education, work or training? If they’re looking for a fresh and wave-influenced way to make themselves employable then the perfect opportunity could be just about to take off for them and if they get in now, they could be on their way to earning a range of qualifications, skills and knowledge. That’s because an exciting six week programme called Cross Step is on the hunt for its first 10 Cornish recruits. Those who take the plunge will get to hit the waves and train as surf coaches and beach lifeguards, finding employment in those and other surf-related jobs at the end of the course.

The Entry into Employment Team within the Real Ideas Organisation (RIO) has teamed up with Groundswell (www.ground-swell.co.uk) the new initiative to inspire and educate surfers to create Cross Step. For the right recruits, this new programme is the ideal chance to gain real qualifications and confidence that can translate into a long term career in an area that the young people love. As a result of the six week course, attendees will leave with a NARS Beach Lifeguard Award, British Surfing Association (BSA) Award, work experience and further surf coach training. The course will be led by two highly respected surf coaches who will become the Cross Step in-house project leads. Both are BSA level 3 coaches which means that have already trained beyond the basic requirement for surf school employment or a job with the RNLI, so are more than ready to pass on everything they know to the Cornish crew. There will also be transferrable skills training for the Cross Steppers in making presentations and putting together CVs built into the course, making it flexible and relevant to all participants.

The course will start in late June so the deadline for applications is 15^th June. Anyone who thinks they may be eligible for the first 10 should contact Hannah on 01872 275187 by 29 May or check out the Groundswell young people’s surf website for links.

Surfing Lessons in Newquay

2009-05-27T16:02:00.001-07:00

Surfing Lessons in Newquay

Great surfing lessons in Newquay last weekend, sunshine, perfect waves and plenty of chill time after the surfing lessons in Newquay. Fiona and friends joined us for their Hen do in Newquay staying at the surf lodge in Newquay as did Victoria and her Hens who stayed with us at the Trebarwith hotel in Newquay.

The surfing lessons in Newquay took place at Great Western beach, with light winds and fun waves the girls had a blast! If you would like to book some surfing lessons with us in Newquay you can visit either www.errantsurf.com or www.errantsurfschool.co.uk

We cater for small groups, and provide the best possible surf lessons in Newquay from our surf coaches, all of which hold up to a level four British Surfing Association surf coach award, the highest in the UK.

Justin Lee Collins Takes On the Pro Surfers In Croyde

2009-05-25T05:10:00.000-07:00

After a month of training with Errant Surf Holidays coach Chris Thomson, British comedian Justin Lee-Collins headed out for his first ever surf contest. The BPSA Saltrock event took place over last weekend, the day started with small, almost flat conditions but as the tide came in through the day the swell increased to head high waves.

JLC found himself up against Europe's best surfer Russel Winter, local surfers Scott Rannochan and Lyden Wake. During the 15 minute heat JLC only managed to score a 0.4 and a 0.3, out of a possible 20.

Errant's Chris Thomson commented "Justin has come from never surfing before, to being able to go out into the Ocean, catch a decent size wave, jump to his feet and surf to the beach in total control is an excellent achievement for the short amount of time he has been surfing."

JLC has been training to surf for a new Sky One series out in July, stay tuned to find out when.

Errant Nominated for 2009 Awards

2009-04-27T00:49:00.000-07:00

As a UK registered company based in the Newquay, Cornwall, Errant Surf Holidays and managing director Chris Thomson have been nominated for the short list in the Cornwall's Young Business Person Award 2009. The Grand Dinner and awards take place on the 14th May at St Mellion International Hotel. Good luck!

Great Waves For Easter Weekend

2009-04-11T12:50:00.000-07:00

Fun surf is hitting the shores of Newquay this evening and we are expecting more good waves over the weekend, and into the week. Spring is generally one of the best times of the year to surf in Cornwall, due to better weather patterns and an abundance of surf from the Atlantic ocean.

Don't forget we have a massive 50% off surfing lessons in Newquay if you wish to join us next week.

Call now or e-mail us on escape@errantsurf.com

Recession Named The Reason For Worldwide Slump In Shark Attacks!

2009-04-07T12:58:00.001-07:00

A recent report from the International Shark Attack File at the University of Florida cited the recession as the reason for a decline in shark attacks last year.

“Shark attacks worldwide in 2008 dipped to their lowest level in five years, a sign that Americans may be forgoing vacation trips to the beach,” the report said.

It’s either that, or sharks have hunkered in the depths to weather the recession themselves. But people who are way smarter than me, namely George Burgess, an ichthyologist and director of the International Shark Attack File, thinks the drop in shark attack numbers is directly related to the economic downturn.

“I can’t help but think that contributing to that reduction may have been the reticence of some people to take holidays and go to the beach for economic reasons,” Burgess said. “We noticed similar declines during the recession that followed the events of 2001, despite the fact that human populations continued to rise.”

This may be so. After all, his logic is sound and his use of words such as reticence makes me want to believe him. But so far, the outlook for 2009 doesn’t look as rosy. Especially after numerous shark attacks on surfers around the world, including two fatal attacks in South Africa and an alarming number of incidents in Australia.

Couple this with the fact that the recession itself is freeing up a lot of time for people to go surfing when they would normally be working, it seems that this theory might not hold up in the long run.

Head Surf Coach Teaches JLC to Surf

2009-04-06T02:34:00.000-07:00

TV star Justin Lee Collins is took time out of hosting his chat show The Justin Lee Collins Show on ITV2, to learn to surf for a new Sky One series due out in June. Errant's head surf coach Chris Thomson, alongside Watergate Bay's Carl Coombe have been tasked with the mission to take Justin from total new surfer to compete in the May's English Nationals. All the surf coaching is taking place at the stunning Newquay beach of Watergate Bay.

Try Surfing For Less This Easter

2009-03-29T12:43:00.000-07:00

Come learn to surf in Newquay this Easter and save 50% on our half day taster surf sessions!
You day will start at 10am, where the team will meet you and equip you with the latest surfing equipment, you will head down to the beach via our private access to Great Western beach. A theory lesson, followed by quality water coaching from some of the best coaches in the UK. All for £15 with surfing equipment!

Check out our Newquay surf school website for the latest deals here.

Head coach Chris Thomson

Pasta Point Availability April Onwards

2009-03-23T00:37:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the most famous wave in the Maldives, this is where Tony Hussein-Hinde set up Atoll Adventures in the early '90s. Its name comes from the fact that the island used to be an Italian resort -- and after surfing the perfect lefts all day your arms will most certainly be noodled. Pasta Point is indeed probably the best left out here, as it picks up the most swell, is the least affected by wind, and offers a 100-yard-long tubing wall for your pulling-in enjoyment. The fast takeoff section leads straight into the so-called "Macaroni Bowl" tube section and then mellows for a couple top turns before the inside shallow racetrack, called Lockjaws.

Below is current availability for the Chaaya Island Dhonveli.

Now – 06 April / 4 surfer places

24 April – 06 May / 5 surfer places

07 & 08 May / 3 surfer places

09 May – 15 May / 4 surfer places

26 May – 05 June / OK

07 June – 14 June / WQS contest

15 June – 12 July / OK

14 July – 18 July / 2 surfer places

19 July – 29 July / 3 surfer places

04 Sep – 07 Sep / 2 surfer places

08 Sep – 11 Sep / 4 surfer places

12 Sep – 19 Sep / 8 surfer places

30 Sep – 10 Oct / 2 surfer places

11 Oct – 25 Oct / OK

09 Nov - end November / OK

Kelly Slaters Surf Travel Tips

2009-03-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

For pro-surfers like nine-time world champion Kelly Slater, flying from continent to continent looking for the perfect wave seems like a freewheeling lifestyle, but for amateurs, it requires careful planning.

Surfing champ Kelly Slater gains altitude at Hossegor, France, in 2002.

Surfers checking out unique vibes at sites in Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii and France are driven by the buzz that comes from exhilarating swells, breaking waves and amazing barrel tubes created by truly awesome forces of nature.

Unlike other travelers, surfers are interested in surfer-friendly places to crash, snagging the best airline rates for surfboards and where to hang out.

Here's Slater's list of five great surfing meccas along with some hints about how to fully enjoy your search for the proverbial endless summer.

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii

Event: Billabong Pipeline Masters, December 8 to December 20, 2009

"I grew up mesmerized by it, and it never lets you down," Slater said. "It's just an amazing place to be and a wave that always challenges you."

The vibe: Surfers compare this event to professional golf's Master's tournament. Since the 1950s and '60s, mobs of fans have traveled to view one of the sport's great venues to watch competing surfers.

How to get there: To find this quarter-mile long treasure trove of breaking waves, drive southwest of Ehukai Beach Park along the Kamehameha Highway, about seven miles northeast of Haleiwa.

During competition season -- in November and December -- visitors can soak up a lot of action on the beach, said Scott Bass, editor at Surfer Magazine.

Don't Miss

Surfer Magazine

"It's a unique spot because a large, crazy death-defying surf breaks only 100 yards from shore. It's very accessible as a viewer," said Bass.

Where to hang out: Got something sweeter in mind? Matsumoto Shave Ice has become a Hawaiian institution during its 60 years, serving the namesake snow cones, candy and crack seed, an island snack of dried fruits.

Where to get lunch: Locals will tell you that hanging out on the North Shore must include a stop at some of the island's tried and true mom and pop shops. Macky's Sweet Shrimp Truck is literally just that -- a brightly painted RV parked in a private lot. Macky's specializes in serving succulent shrimp, rice, fruit and veggies.

CLOUDBREAK, Tavarua, Fiji

Best waves: April to October

"One of the great surf discoveries ever," said Slater about Cloudbreak, the name given to a surfing reef about two miles off Fiji's island of Tavarua. The South Pacific waters off Fiji offer the perfect temperature and a "really good swell window" for timing waves, Slater said. "The wave has so many different faces to it. It's challenging and perfect."

The vibe: Exclusive.

How to get there: Surfing Cloudbreak can cost you, both physically and monetarily because of its distance off the island and the expense of traveling to the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Surfers get to the reef on local boats or jet-skis -- or by paddling on their boards, which will take a lot out of you.

Where to stay/hang out: Options are very limited. Surfer tourists can expect to spend at least $200 per night at the island resort.

SNAPPER ROCKS, Kirra, Australia

Event: Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast February 28 to March 11, 2009

It's no secret that surfing is a national pastime in Australia, especially during pro-surfing competitions in February and March, when the weather is toasty warm and the water is aqua blue.

How to get there: Arrive at the Gold Coast airport at Coolangatta or at the airport in Brisbane, which is about 68 miles (109 kilometers) to the north on the Pacific Motorway. The stretch of breaking waves between Snapper Rocks and Kirra is called the Superbank.

The waves are "perfect, hollow, fast," said Slater. Superbank's sandy-bottom, barrel point break makes it worthy of his list. "On its day, it's the wave you would draw on your school books," he said.

The vibe: The Gold Coast during competition season is similar to Spring Break in the United States, said Bass, a globetrotting surfer who has produced a documentary about the Vietnam War's surfing soldiers.

Gold Coast spectators tend to be young, hip trendy, college-age surf fans. For tourists with wider interests, the scene includes a music festival and skateboard competition.

Where to stay: Take your pick. There are plenty of hotels along the Gold Coast, ranging from upscale three or four-star destinations to modest beach motels. For $20 (Australian) you can grab a bunk bed in a backpacker hostel. At the posh Palazzo Versace, you can spend thousands of dollars for one night's lodging. Apartments near the shore run from $80 to $250 Australian per night. Book early if possible.

TEAHUPOO, Tahiti

Event: Billabong Pro Teahupoo May 9 to May 20, 2009

Cloudbreak's remoteness is matched by Tahiti's Teahupoo, which is described by Slater as "one of the most challenging waves and confronting waves in the world." When negotiating Teahupoo's South Pacific monster waves, said Slater, "Just make a decision and follow it. No second guessing."

The vibe: Teahupoo is very exclusive and expensive, according to Bass. "It's a grand spectacle along the same lines as the Pipeline, just not as accessible."

How to get there: You might have to pay a boater for transportation to the wave, which is about a quarter mile off shore, said Bass.

Where to stay/hang out: Small pensions,homes that island residents rent to tourists, are the way to go in Tahiti, said Bass. Hiti Moana Villa offers bungalows for $110 to $160 per night.

HOSSEGOR, France

Event: Quiksilver Pro France September 23 to October 4, 2009

For nonsurfers, Hossegor is a big secret.

"People don't realize how good the surf is there but it's incredible very often," said Slater. The elbow-shaped Bay of Biscay near the French-Spanish border offers "lots of swell and good weather that Ireland and England don't get."

The vibe: More waves, more surfing, less competition. The Hossegor area offers many fine beach breaks that result in abundant waves. These "peaky" beach breaks democratize the surfing experience. With more good waves, there's less jockeying among surfers for position. During most of the year, surfers will need to wear a wet suit. The Bay of Biscay is really cold.

Where to hang out: The area has great food, according to Slater, and, "Spain is just right next door for something different." Across the Spanish border, surfers can discover crashing waves along the shore of San Sebastian, the town made famous in Hemingway's "The Sun Also Rises."

Continue down the coast to experience amazing waves off the S3panish towns of Zarautz and Mendexa. There, surfers will discover a pure point break, with waves breaking off cobblestone rocks on the ocean floor.

Where to stay: All along the coast are dozens of beach hostels offering low-cost lodging. Also, there's camping in the area, if you feel like really roughing it. The Hortensias du Lac hotel offers rooms from €170 to €220 per night.

How to get there: From Paris, drive about 6 hours southwest to Bordeaux and then drive about 2 hours south to Hossegor. By train from Paris takes about 6 hours and costs about $130

http://www.errantsurf.com

Surfboards on airplanes

2009-03-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

The relationship between surfers and their boards is close. Sometimes very close. Many surfers feel their boards are like a physical part of them. As a result, they accept no substitutes -- or rentals. They bring their boards.

Traveling with a 9-foot, 70-pound piece of sporting equipment can be expensive. Several airlines hit surfboard-toting travelers with stiff fees, sometimes hundreds of dollars. But a few carriers will allow surfboards to be checked as baggage free, within certain guidelines.

Here's a quick list of policies among major airlines for travel with surfboards as checked baggage:

American Airlines charges a special handling fee.

British Airways bans surfboards as checked baggage.

Delta Airlines charges a special handling fee.

Singapore Airlines offers free baggage check for surfboards within certain guidelines. Otherwise, travelers are charged a handling fee.

United Airlines charges a special handling fee.

Virgin Atlantic offers free baggage checking within certain guidelines.

New Surf and Yoga Dates 2009 and 2010

2009-03-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

Our Surf and Yoga holidays in Morocco are the perfect balance of good food, chilled atmosphere, quality Yoga and surf coaching. Set in the region of Taghazoute, Morocco at thr exclusive apartments overlooking Killer Bay. These weeks are designed to inspire and invigorate the mind with a fine balance of action and relaxation.

As of today we have released new dates for the coming surf season in 2009 and 2010.

22nd - 29th April 2009 - Thomsonfly Flights from £158 London - Agadir return
18th - 25th May 2009 - Thomsonfly Flights from £128 London -Agadir return
21st - 28th September 2009
12th - 19th October 2009
4th - 11th January 2010
8th - 15th February 2010
8th - 15th March 2010
5th - 12th April 2010
3rd - 10th May 2010

Book now

May Surf and Pilates - FULL, but new date in September!

2009-03-11T02:27:00.001-07:00

Following on from last years amazing Surf and Pilates weeks in Spain, our first one in 2009 is now fully booked. In the same week this trip became fully booked we released our dates for the september Surf and Pilates week in Spain.

The week starts on the 27th September 2009, and runs for one week. Guests will stay at our cool, surfers guesthouse La Hosteria de Latas and will receive pro surf coaching from the team, plus daily Pilates coaching from London based Amy Swanson. All meals are included, and transfers to and from Santander airport. Flights are currently £44 return and direct from London Satnasted to Santander airport with Ryan Air.

Win a FREE surfing holiday to Spain!

2009-03-05T12:52:00.000-08:00

Complete the A1Surf.com survey and you could win a surf holiday for two people to Loredo in Northern Spain, courtesy of Errant Surf Holidays.

In order to help us improve A1Surf for you.

We have teamed up with Errant Surf Holidays and will pick out the name of one person at random. The winner will get a week’s ‘Stay and Surf’ with Errant at La Hosteria de Latas in Loredo.

Staying just two minutes walk from Playa de Somo, you can enjoy a week full of awesome, uncrowded waves in a beautiful location.

The prize includes:

Accommodation in La Hosteria
Breakfast
Airport transfers to/from Santander
Free WIFI
Free use of Lush Longboard skateboards
British Guide on hand 24/7
Free surfing lesson in UK
TextMate service
Flight emissions offset

Fights to nearby Santander are cheap and easy with Ryanair. Check out our review of La Hosteria de Latas here and a video clip to give you a flavour here.

The survey only takes a couple of minutes to complete so click here to take the survey.

Find out more about Errant Surf Holidays here.

Terms and conditions: Only one survey to be completed per person. Prize is for two people on the ‘Surf & Stay’ package. Flights are excluded. Personal travel insurance cover is required. Dates for holiday can be arranged directly by Errant Surf Holidays, and is subject to availbility. Deadline for entries: 31/03/09. The winner will be chosen at random from all completed surveys and contacted. No cash alternative. Prize is non-transferable.

Fat Face To Become Agent For Newquay Surf School

2009-03-03T03:39:00.000-08:00

After many years working alongside Fat Face, the active lifestyle clothing brand. Errant will be offering clients the chance to book surfing lessons and private surf lessons through shops in the South West for its surf school in Newquay, Cornwall. The new location for our surf school in Newquay is due to open this weekend, ideally located over looking the surf of Great Western, and with its own private access to the surf, it is quite simply the best location in Cornwall!

Errant on Twitter!

2009-02-21T14:24:00.000-08:00

MySpace, Facebook, WAYN, Blogs and now......Twitter!

Errant first used Twitter in conjunction with Fat Face during the Ultimate Convoy last year.

Now in 2009 we will be using Twitter to keep you up to date with the personal, behind the scenes surf travel news that keeps our team riders, staff and customers surf happy :-)

Check us out here, come follow us!

Only two weeks..

2009-02-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

....until we open La Hosteria de Latas in Loredo, Northern Spain for 2009. This year is looking good with a range of new surfboards from Fat Face, more rooms and a top crew all waiting to make sure your next surfing holiday in Spain is a good one. La Hosteria is exclusive to Errant Surf Holidays and was voted in the top 10 surf bars/surf camps by Carve magazine last summer. You can fly to Northern Spain from Dublin and Stansted with Ryan Air. You can also catch the boat from Portsmouth and Plymouth.

Latest Spaces Left...

2009-02-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

Below is current availability for the Pasta Point in the Maldives staying at Chaaya Island Dhonveli.

Please note that space has opened up in mid-March; this is probably one of the best periods to travel to Maldives with the least number of charter boats in the North Male region.

08 Feb – 04 March / OK

11 March – 17 March / 6 surfer places

18 March – 27 March / 9 surfer places

01 April – 09 April / 1 surfer place

18 April – 23 April / 2 surfer places

24 April – 02 May / 6 surfer places

03 May – 15 May / 9 surfer places

20 May – 26 May / 2 surfer places

27 May – 04 June / OK

06 June – 14 June / WQS contest

15 June – 12 July / OK

15 July – 20 July / 1 surfer place

21 July – 29 July / 2 surfer places

01 Aug – 07 Aug / 1 surfer place

30 Sep – 04 Oct / 3 surfer places

05 Oct – 25 Oct / OK

09 Nov - end November / OK

Location, Location, Location....

2009-02-10T02:41:00.001-08:00

....they say is everything.

And who would we be to argue? Errant Surf Holidays has just moved into our new premises at Trebarwith Hotel in Newquay, Cornwall. The surf school overlookings the entire Newquay Bay and has its own private steps down to the beach.

Moments from Newquay town, and seconds from the surf, this has to be the best location of any surf school in Newquay.

Check us out on the map, better still come by and see us :-)

View Larger Map

Errant Surf Video Of Los Lobos

2009-02-03T13:56:00.001-08:00

Errant lead International Tourism Fair in Santander, Spain

2009-02-02T04:02:00.000-08:00

This week the Cantabrian government launched the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) in Spain. The fair which is due to run for over a week in Santander will include attractions from all over the region, aimed at promoting this stunning part of the world.

Errant Surf Holidays who run one a cool surfers guesthouse in Loredo, Spain have also been caught on the front page of the supplement to cover the show. Head surf coach Damian Freeman takes to the waves on the front cover while coaching at Somo beach last summer.

Like we didn't need anymore convicing...

2009-02-02T03:54:00.000-08:00

..that now is the prefect time to head to the warmth and sunshine, of those surfing locations! This was shot this morning, as the snow came down in south west England at our office in Newquay, Cornwall.Anyone for snowboard lessons in Newquay? Maybe not, we will wait for spring.

The Island of the Wolves

2009-01-29T07:55:00.000-08:00

You don't have to go to the end of the Earth for perfection.....

...between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands lies the island of Los Lobos. This island is home to nothing, but the best right hand point break in Europe. Ocean swells travel from the North Atlantic, and wrap along the edge of the island, creating perfect, long waves.

These shots were taken on Wednesday by Will Blair. You can book the Lobos boat from the harbour which is near our apartments, and surf house in the town of Correlejo. The boat leaves each day at 10am and costs 10 euros. Returning back at 1.45pm or 4.45pm.

Waiting for the boat back, ready for a cold beer at the local Cafe Lounge and then to bed ready for some more action!

North Track Fuerteventura

2009-01-24T10:21:00.000-08:00

The north shore of Fuerteventura is home to some of Europe's biggest, and heaviest waves. From the town of Correjelo on the North-East side, a small dirt track runs along the coastline to El Cotillo on the west coast. Each day you will see hire cars, piled with surfboards searching for the best spot. With nothing around but a lot of lava and dirt, its fair to say the cars get a bit of a battering. Here Chris and James struggle to return the car to the airport.

Its not all burnt out cars, and massive waves in Fuerteventura. In fact on any given day it is possible to search out a surf spot to suit your level. Today the boys surfed on the west coast, a small beach break called Esquinzo.

Photos: Will Blair

Naked Golfers, Good Waves and Volcaneos

2009-01-23T10:32:00.000-08:00

The surf has been going crazy this winter in the Canary Islands, with big, hollow surf on the north shore of Fuerteventura, and super fun, warm waves on the east coast and south coast of Fuerteventura. The surf school in Fuerteventura has been scoring some great beginner waves, check out these photos from the south coast of Fuerteventura.

Errant Surf Holidays also offers surf tours for more advanced surfers around the more exposed surf spots on the North Shore of Fuerteventura. Check out Cornwall's, James Waters bomb at Bristol Playa this morning.

Surfing is not the only thing to do on Fuerteventura, you can dive, kitesurf, windsurf, get lost in the sand dunes or play naked golf, like these two fellas today on the North Shore of Fuerteventura. All photos were shot by Will Blair

All Time Surf Hits Morocco

2009-01-19T05:59:00.000-08:00

Check out this latest shot of a surf spot in Morocco, taken by surf guide "Dave the Grom", good surf continues to hit Morocco, and the following two weeks look even better!

This surf spot is just north of Taghazoute and Tamraght in south Morocco. We have a range of apartments, surf lodges, car hire, surf guide and surfing lessons in Morocco, not to mention the popular Surf and Yoga weeks in Morocco.

Spaces left at Pasta Point in the Maldives for the 2009 season

2008-12-29T00:24:00.000-08:00

Book a slice of surfing paradise, come stay with us in the Maldives!

The exclusive, and super fun surf spot Pasta Point is starting to book up already in the summer of 2009. The surf spot is limited to 30 people at any one time. We have the following "surfer" places left at Pasta Point, in the Maldives.

08 Feb – 03 March / Plenty of space

13 March – 28 March / 4 surfer places
18 April – 15 May / Plenty of space

20 May – 26 May / 3 surfer places
27 May – 04 June / Plenty of space

06 June – 14 June / WQS contest
15 June – 19 July / Plenty of space
20 July – 30 July / 3 surfer places
01 Aug – 07 Aug / 4 surfer places
18 Aug – 24 Aug / 2 surfer places
28 Aug – 03 Sep / 2 surfer places
04 Sep – 11 Sep / 3 surfer places
12 Sep – 19 Sep / 5 surfer places
30 Sep – 02 Oct / 5 surfer places
03 Oct – 20 Oct / Plenty of space
21 Oct – 31 Oct / 8 surfer places
09 Nov - end November / Plenty of space

www.errantsurf.com

New Surfing Holidays in Dominican Republic

2008-12-18T08:51:00.000-08:00

Pack your bags and come surfing this year with Errant Surf Holidays on the stunning island of Dominican Republic, in the Caribbean. We have just launched a number of amazing surfing adventures for all levels. With year round surf, sunshine and bath like water temperatures the Dominican Republic is on every surfer's wish list!

Check out some surfing on the north shore of Dominican Republic.

Goodbye 0870

2008-12-16T04:26:00.000-08:00

Hello free landline numbers!

That's right we are banishing our old 0870 number in favor of our new landline numbers, which for many people will mean it is free to call us, anytime of the day!

More reasons to give us a call and have a chat about our surfing holidays.

New Dates For Surf Adventures in 2009!

2008-12-12T02:36:00.000-08:00

Today we launch our new dates for our popular surf tours, including our surf and yoga in Morocco, surfing and Pilates course in Spain and our Longboard coaching weekends in Newquay, Cornwall. Numbers are limited and you can reserve your spot with a £50 deposit.

8th - 15th January Surf and Yoga in Morocco
5th- 12th February Surf and Yoga in Morocco
7th - 8th March Longboard Coaching Weekend in Newquay
12th - 19th March Surf and Yoga in Morocco
22nd March Errant Grom Exchange in Spain (tbc)
4th - 5th April Longboard Coaching Weekend in Newquay
22nd - 29th April Surf and Yoga in Morocco
10th - 17th May Surf and Pilates in Spain
18th - 25th May Surf and Yoga in Morocco
6th - 7th June Longboard Coaching Weekend in Newquay

Perfect Heat In Hawaii 20/20 Points For Parko

2008-12-11T05:55:00.000-08:00

Joel Parkinson (AUS) surfed a perfect heat to etch his name in the history books at the Billabong Pipeline Masters today. The current World No. 4 scored two perfect 10s to become the only surfer to earn a perfect 20 out of 20 heat total at Pipeline. Parkinson eliminated Vans Triple Crown front-runner Dusty Payne (HAW) in the process.

“I never thought I would get two perfect 10s,” Parkinson said. “It’s not something you hear about every day, so I’d never really thought about doing it. I definitely claimed it like I had won an event for a second, but then I had to settle down and tell myself, ’All you did was make a heat!’ The next heat I paddle out for, I’ll have to remember that."

Nine-time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater (USA) is the only other surfer to score a perfect 20 out of 20. He did so in a 2005 final at Teahupoo, Tahiti to win the contest. "Kelly did it in unreal fashion, mine was a just in a third round heat, but it’s at Pipe and it’s definitely something that when I grow old, I’ll think, ‘I did something in my career my name’s next to Kelly’s on that one,’" Parkinson said.

Parkinson finished fifth in Halewia and Sunset – the first two legs of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing – and with Nos. 1 and 2 Payne and C.J. Hobgood (USA) losing today, has a good chance to take it out. "That was a big heat for the Triple Crown for sure,” Parkinson said. “I have to start thinking more about the Triple Crown now. I have to forget about those 10s and start surfing heats from now on and not get too ahead of myself."

More than just a holiday!

2008-12-10T12:32:00.000-08:00

From the 6th of December 2008, Errant Surf Holidays will be launching two new free services so you can really get the most out of your next surfing holiday. Anyone booked onto a surfing holiday from the 6th December 2008 will receive a free surf lesson voucher to be used at our surf school in Newquay! Our second service to all Errant clients is our new TextMate™ service, which allows you, as one of our guests, to text at anytime for information about the coming surf conditions, weather forecast, flight information or anything else while you travel with us.

Check out our new services here http://www.errantsurfholidays.co.uk/holiday_extras.php

Longest surfboard the world?

2008-11-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

Economic downturn 'will not affect holiday sales'

2008-11-20T13:46:00.000-08:00

Few consumers believe the forecast economic downturn will affect their holiday spending.

Market research company TNS Travel and Tourism found only 7% (3 million) of British adults claim the credit crunch will influence their holiday decisions in 2008.

Overall, the UK market for holidays will hold up despite the increasingly poor economic conditions, according to the study. Thirty million British adults were planning to take a holiday in 2008 – amounting to 68% of the population, the survey found.

Surprisingly, nearly a fifth of people still plan to have more than two holidays this year.

Most people booking their 2008 holidays are opting for a break of seven nights or less in the UK and Ireland, while 27% are booking seven nights in Europe and the Mediterranean. About 17% say they are planning a holiday of more than seven nights in a long-haul destination.

TNS head of travel and tourism Tom Costley said: “This data highlights a number of trends that suggest the UK holiday market appears resilient in the face of the economic downturn.”

Agent consortium Advantage is anticipating some slowdown in the travel market, but said it would try to avoid the worst effects by selling to older people with more disposable income.

Advantage sales and marketing director Colin O’Neill said: “The crunch may hit first in the package market, where customers are younger, with young families and high
mortgage payments. The older market will be less likely to be hit by the slowdown in house prices or increase in interest rates.

“We are not complacent, but we have seen a good start to 2008, with the first quarter almost over.”

British Groms Arrive to Good Waves in Spain

2008-10-27T01:39:00.000-07:00

The British junior squad traded wind swept Cornwall for Spain this week, ready to start a two week surf training programme. Since arriving into Santander with Brittany Ferries the crew have been staying with Errant Surf Holidays in new self-catering bungalows right on the beach at Loredo, and over looking the famous big wave spot "Santa Marina".

Kelly O'Toole from New Zealand is one of the British Surfing Association head surf coaches and for the next two weeks he will be on hand to guide the up and coming young surfers, using the latest surf coaching methods. The youngsters include Max Tucker, Mat Chapman, Gabbie Rowe, Daisy Docking, Miles Hargraves and Errant riders Harry Timson and Tom Good.

Since arriving last Monday the groms have scored epic conditions on the main beach of Loredo, and the point of Santa Marina. The conditions have ranged from fun beach breaks, where the kids were able to work on their contest tactics, to challenging low tide barrels.

With such good, high quality surf these two week long trips are invaluable for the groms, for will be ready for action come the new year. "It is essential that our young surfers get the chance to receive top coaching, and spend a decent amount of time focusing solely on their surfing." summed up Kelly.

Follow the groms trip by logging onto http://www.errantsurf.com

British Squad Arrive in Spain for two weeks

2008-10-23T05:18:00.000-07:00

This morning the British Jnr team arrived safe and well on the ferry from Plymouth to Santander, ready for two weeks of surf coaching as British Squad Members. They will be staying in Loredo, home to Errant Surf Holidays Spain office, and surf lodges.

Kelly O'Toole from New Zealand will be on hand to coach the up and comming stars of tomorrow.

Today they were greated by head high waves, and a nice offshore breeze. This is set to continue well past the weekend.

Keep coming backl for updates on their trip to Spain.

Kelly Slater Wins 9th World Title in Spain

2008-10-03T08:46:00.000-07:00

American surfing sensation Kelly Slater (Florida, USA) has won a record ninth ASP World Title by advancing into round four of the Billabong Pro Mundaka today - the ninth event of 11 on the 2008 ASP World Tour.

Grey skies and massive downpours couldn't dampen the moment for the 36 year-old who has dominated the 2008 tour winning five of the eight events staged so far.

Slater's 2008 crowning comes 16 years after claiming his first ASP World Title at age 20. He is the oldest and youngest surfer in ASP history to win a world title.

Slater showed no signs of pressure in the world title deciding heat, tactical as ever against local Basque surfer Eneko Acero (EUK) winning the round three Billabong Pro Mundaka heat to once again rewrite the sports history books.

Thirty-one year old Acero opened quickly for an early heat lead in the 1.5 metre (4-6ft) river-mouth waves before a relaxed Slater took control midway and claimed his ninth crown with the heat win.

Despite entering his 14th year on tour already the owner of most every accolade in professional surfing, 2008 has been a banner year for Slater. Five wins in the first eight events of the year.

Slater won his first ASP World Tour title in 1992, claimed five titles in a row from 1994 to 1998 and then went into semi-retirement at age 26 citing burnout and lack of motivation. He returned to the tour full-time in 2003, lost a heart-wrenching title race to Andy Irons (HAW) that same year, and wasn't able to reclaim the crown until 2005. Slater cruised to title No. 8 in 2006, finished World No. 3 in 2007 and is once again World No. 1 after winning his ninth ASP World Title today.

A1Surf.com signs up Alex Wade’s ‘Surf Nation’ blog

2008-10-01T08:36:00.000-07:00

A1Surf.com, the surf site for the UK and Ireland, has announced today that they have signed up the renowned author and journalist Alex Wade to write his ‘Surf Nation’ blog exclusively for them.

Surf Nation was up until recently running in conjunction with a national newspaper, but now is partnering up with A1Surf.com, one of the UK’s biggest and most popular surfing websites.

David Somerville from A1Surf says: “We are really excited about signing up Alex and Surf Nation exclusively for A1Surf.

“Alex’s blog has been widely read and hugely popular with surfers across the UK and Ireland for the past two years.

“To have him on the A1Surf team as a blogger is perfect for us as he reflects the views, thoughts and feelings of the thousands of surfers who visit A1Surf.com every day.”

Alex Wade says: "I'm stoked to be writing the surf blog for such an established UK surfing brand as A1surf.com.

“I expect the blog to reach its target audience - surfers - much better than it did previously.

I will continue to cover our vibrant domestic surfing scene as much as possible, with a global glance or two and a fair bit of eccentricity, skating and surfboat rowing thrown in for good measure. Check it out and get in touch with any ideas via alex@alexwade.com."

Surf Nation can be viewed by visiting www.surfnation.co.uk or by clicking the links on www.A1Surf.com.

Alex Wade is also author of the book Surf Nation, which follows his travels across the UK and Ireland discovering the surfing heritage and people that make up this growing community.

Surf and Yoga Holiday in Spain

2008-09-18T03:59:00.000-07:00

This November Errant will be heading to the warm shores of Spain for its second Surf and Yoga holiday at the stunning guesthouse La Hosteria de Latas. There are a few spaces left, check it out here http://www.errantsurf.com/surf_yoga_spain.php

Booked a Surf Holiday With Pure Vacations?

2008-09-14T01:20:00.000-07:00

On the 14th August 2008 activity and surf holiday provider Pure Vacations ceased trading. A statement issued on the companies website confirms "Pure Vacations has ceased immediate trading and is set to be going into administration accordingly" blaming "Suppliers overseas increasing costs and our customers requesting cheaper journeys we simply were be squeezed"

In light of this Errant Surf Holidays understands that many people will have to re-book their surfing holiday for this winter. As such Errant Ltd is happy to offer discounts to anyone found in this unfortunate postion and who are still looking getting away to some sunshine and surf!

To find out how we can help click here

Rider Hits Poster

2008-09-14T01:12:00.000-07:00

Errant's youngest team rider, Harry Timson is set to make a splash at this years X-Press yourself surf contest at Fistral Beach. Harry is seen here on the main contest poster, not bad when you are only 12 years old!

Winner of the Zoo Beach Babes Heads out to Spain with Errant

2008-08-14T04:51:00.000-07:00

Watch The Rip Curls Board Masters Live!

2008-08-06T06:59:00.001-07:00

International Surfing Holidays
www.errantsurf.com

Lucy Simpson Wins Award In Spain

2008-08-05T06:34:00.000-07:00

On a recent surf trip to Loredo, Northern Spain, Amy Simpson won the award for "Most Waves Caught" in the end of week surf contest held in great surf at Loredo beach, Cantabria.

Rip Curl Board Masters Hit Newquay

2008-08-05T06:23:00.000-07:00

Newquay -- The Rip Curl Boardmasters, an Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Qualifying Series (WQS) 5-Star event, will start tomorrow Tuesday, August 5 at Fistral Beach, one of Great Britain's most renowned beaches, launching the Surf and Music Festival where thousands of people are expected.

The world's best qualifying campaigners will attend the event to battle for the prestigious crown during one week of top surfing action and grab the valuable 2000 ratings' points going to the winner. Ben Bourgeois (North Carolina, USA), defending champion now among the ASP Top 45, will not defend his crown and leaves an open door to a new champion this year.

Among those in contention will be current ASP WQS ratings' No. 2 David Wear (ZAF), a former champion at Newquay and former ASP World Tour member, who has been on a good roll this year with a win on his home lands of Durban in the ASP WQS 6-Star Prime event in April and an equal 3rd in Scotland's ASP WQS 6-Star Prime. With two major results already secured, Weare will be confident and going for a second crown in the British waters of Fistral Beach.

The Rip Curl Boardmasters is the first of a series of six major ASP WQS event that will take place across Europe, from England to Portugal including France and Spain, until September 14.

A1Surf.com sponsors ‘Surfer of the Year Award’ from inaugural H3O British Isles Surf Awards

2008-08-01T01:46:00.000-07:00

A1Surf.com, the UK’s website for the surfing community, is sponsoring the ‘Surfer of the Year Award’ category, part of the inaugural ‘H30 British Isles Surf Awards’.
The awards, which are in association with Carve Magazine, are organised by the Surfstock Festival, which takes place in St Agnes on 29-30 August.
They will be presented to the winners during the two-day festival in a huge 42-foot yurt, which has been provided by the Driftwood Gallery.
The ‘A1Surf Surfer of the Year Award’ will be won by the surfer who has done the most for British surfing this year, as decided by votes from the public.
Nominations for this category include Rik ‘Peg Leg’ Bennett, Ben Skinner, Ben Granata, Easkey Britton, Chris Hines and Alex Wade.
The awards celebrate the achievements of surfers across the UK and Ireland, offering prizes in eight categories to be decided by a panel of elite judges and the surfing public.
For more information about the awards, the nominees and to vote visit www.surfstock.co.uk and click on the ‘Surf Awards’ link. You can also get information about Surfstock itself on this website.
A1Surf.com has been serving the UK surf community since 2001, with its surf reports and forecasts, news, forum, classified ads and online surf shop.
The website receives over 1 million hits every month and has over 10,000 registered members.

2008-07-31T08:51:00.000-07:00

Price Match On Any Surfing Holiday or Surf Course!

2008-07-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

Europe's leading surf travel and instruction company Errant has launched a new scheme which will see the Company match and in most cases beat any surfing holiday or surf school deal in 2008. With locations like Newquay, France, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Barbados and Bali, Errant Surf Holidays has a surfing experience to suit everyone. From family getaways in Spain, to advanced surf camps in the depths of Indonesia to surfing stag weekends in Newquay.

Errant can tailor the perfect surfing holiday.

This exciting move comes into effect as of the 28th July 2008, just prior to the assembly of a new board of directors in August.

If you are looking at having a few surf lessons while on holiday in Cornwall, or your planning that big winter getaway log on to http://www.errantsurf.com/Price_Match.php

WQS comes to Portugal

2008-07-24T14:14:00.001-07:00

This August (from 26th to 31st of August), the world's surfing world tour will visit the Ribeira de Ilhas beach, ready for action will be some of the worlds best surfers.

Located around 3.5 kilometres from Ericeira and right by the river mouth that provides its name, Ribeira d’ Ilhas Beach. It is considered to be one of the best in Europe for both surfing and bodyboarding. Since 1985, it has annually hosted one of the World surfing championship events.

Some of the world's finest surfers will be present at the Ribeira de Ilhas beach, in Ericeira. This years event has been awarded six stars the highest for any WQS event.

Come stay with us in west Portugal and watch the WQS!

www.errantsurf.com

41c and too much surfing?

2008-07-24T14:09:00.000-07:00

What happens in Northern Spain when the temperature hits 41c and you are surfed out from the early morning surf session at Somo Beach? Well you lube yourself up with fairy Liquid, run and throw yourself down a strip of black plastic of course!

Errant's Spain team enjoying the slip and slide!

Surfing and Yoga Spain

2008-07-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows Yoga is the perfect way to balance your surfing, and there is no better way to get good at both then to head off to the sunshine and spend a whole week practising both. This October Errant Surf Holidays will be running a week long Surf & Yoga week in Spain. The week long course will including Yoga sessions, in-water surf coaching, beach lessons and short lectures on surf prediction, board design, Improving your "pop up" and many other areas. The course is to be held at Errant's flagship surfers guesthouse La Hosteria de Latas 300m from the long, sweeping bay of Somo. This week holidays costs £489 and includes all surfing lessons, Yoga lessons, evening meals, accommodation, airport transfers and breakfasts. You will also go home with a CD of photos from the week! For more information go to www.errantsurf.com or call 0870 334 17 11

http://www.errantsurf.com/surf_yoga_spain.php

Josh Hughes Team Rider Gets Ready For Pro Juniors

2008-07-22T07:02:00.001-07:00

July 22^nd

"Arrived yesterday to sunny weather and sick 3ft surf. Got to try out my new boards shaped by Daniel Keggie, both of them going like a bat out of hell so pretty happy on the board front. Off to San Sebastian on the coach tomorrow for the Vans Pro Junior so just doing a bit of last minute training and getting my boards ready. Hopefully i can get a good result so I can get into the flow of it for the Island Style Pro Junior in Sopelana and the Oakley Pro Junior in Lacanau in the coming weeks" Josh Hughes

Errant Team Rider Youngest to surf Cribber

2008-07-06T11:32:00.000-07:00

One slip and this surfer could find himself waving his final goodbye.
But, despite the risk, brave 17-year-old Josh Hughes had waited his whole lifetime to tackle this 20ft wall of water known to wave riders as ‘The Widowmaker’.
He is thought to be the youngest person to surf the legendary breaker – Britain’s biggest – known as the Cribbar.
And he did it on hist first attempt.
The monster wave, which can reach above 25ft, usually hits the shore of Newquay, Cornwall, only a handful of times a year.

After tackling the awesome power that sent millions of tons of water crashing over the Cribbar reef at Fistral Beach, thrilled Josh described it as ‘amazing - but scary’.
‘It was just like so much water behind me,’ he explained.
‘It was a lot bigger than normal waves and it’s so fast, so, so, fast and bumpy. It felt amazing. ‘That was my first time surfing at a proper big wave spot.
‘I was the youngest guy out there. I think that I’m the youngest person to surf it.’

Surfers taking on the Cribbar usually get towed onto wave by a jet-ski so that they can go fast enough to ride it.
But Josh, a student from Newquay, is too young to be insured on a jet ski and had to rely on his paddle power to get onto the giant wave himself. ‘I was really scared at first and at first I didn’t want to catch it,' he admitted. ‘But then I saw a few guys take some pretty gnarly wipe-outs but they kept coming back up so I thought, "I could do that."
‘I’ve always wanted to surf it.'

Josh said that he decided that he would try to surf the massive wave on Tuesday night much to the dismay of his mother.

But his father, youth worker Peter Hughes, 46, was willing to come and watch.
Josh, who hopes to become a professional surfer, said that he hopes to take on other big waves around the world in the future.

The Cribbar, which is only surfable a couple of times a year, is considered a challenging feat.
Yesterday saw only a handful of surfers attempting to ride the legendary wave.

Europe’s Best Longboard Waves

2008-06-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

With over nine countries all with year round surf, Europe is as diverse for its surf breaks as it is for its food, culture and languages. During the summer months, when the North Atlantic storms drift away and the surf decreases in size, many surfers dust off their longboard or longer, longboard and go in search of those classic summer sessions. After hours of pondering, debating and a lot of dreaming Errant Surf Holidays has listed 8 waves you must surf on a longboard this summer!

1) Starting in the far North. Skaill Bay on the west coast of Orkney is a classic wide, deep bay with a right hand point break on one side and a left hand point break on the other. During the summer months don’t expect much darkness, it doesn’t get dark till about midnight and then it is light again at 5am!

2) Brandon Bay in Ireland is a real Irish gem for catching those long distant ocean swells. This big crescent shaped bay is a mal riders dream on those late sunset surfs before hitting the pub for a cold Guinness.

3) The quite sister to Fistral Bay in Newquay is Crantock Bay, if you get the chance during the peak of the summer for a dawnie or sunset surf you will not be disappointed. Some of the UK’s top longboarders can be seen in force at high and low tide ripping the long peeling waves.

4) Home to many past World Longboard events, the Grande Plage in Biarritz is the home of European longboarding. Perfect mal waves cruise in, peeling along a number of sand banks up and down the beach. A cool place to take the campervan down and hang out. Don’t expect to surf alone during the summer!

5) At the end of an overnight ferry from the UK and you can find yourself in the warm waters of Spain, and better still head 15 minutes East and you will stumble across Somo Beach. This beach also called Loredo, has three miles of sandbanks ideal for longboarding. If that wasn’t enough at the Eastern end of the beach is the right point break Santa Marina. You will also find Errant Surf Holidays La Hosteria de Latas 300m back from the beach.

6) Ribeira d’IIhas may be a handful to pronounce but the long right hand waves are too enticing to just sit and watch. This classic set up in Ericeira, is likened to Bells Beach in Australia! Pack you bags!

7) Fancy going left? Lagido in the Peniche offers a fun; fast take off over rocks before slowing down and rolling towards the beach. The best thing about Lagido, is the fact that if the wind blows onshore, get out walk 300m across the sand spit and surf a super fun beach break which will be offshore, good stuff!

8) Sure everyone knows about Mundaka in Spain and the long, mind bending lefts it offers. But what about Barbate in Southern Spain? This right hand point break is located just south of Cadiz. A fun summer spot, that gets better and better as the winter draws in!

Head out of the office and into the waves, Errant Surf Holidays have the knowledge, locations and expert ground crews to make sure you score top waves this summer. Log on at

www.errantsurf.com say good bye to the British summer and hello Hang Ten!

Errant in Telegraph 2nd Time This Year

2008-06-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

The Telegraphs Francisca Kellett and Charles Starmer-Smith take a peak at Errant's range of short weekend surf breaks which are suitable for stag and hen groups. Surfing is a fun activity for anyone regardless of age, sex and fitness levels. Stag and Hen surf weekends have increased in popularity since the late 90's.

Read more here

Summer Surf Video

2008-06-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Summer has arrived to mainland Europe, with great waves breaking along Northern Spain and the South West French coast. Take a look at this sandbank in Loredo, Spain. This sandbank has been producing long, leg bending right hand waves every dya for the last two months!

Check out www.errantsurf.com/loredo_overview.php

RESTRICTION ON USE OF THE ATOL LOGO

2008-06-17T09:01:00.000-07:00

The CAA has announced that it's restricting the use of the ‘ATOL protected’ logo to ATOL holders only. If you're acting as an agent for an ATOL holder, you're no longer permitted to display this logo. The restriction means that only ATOL holders will be permitted to use the logo in brochures, online, or in shop windows. The decision follows concerns that unlicensed travel firms using the logo when advertising could potentially mislead consumers into believing that travel arrangements are ATOL protected, when this may not be the case. Travel agents should refer to the CAA Guidance

Rip Curl Board Masters - 6 Spaces Left!

2008-06-16T02:38:00.000-07:00

Here is your chance to learn to surf in Newquay, staying at our surf lodge and you will get the chance to watch one of Europe's biggest surf contests at Fistral Beach! We have six spaces left, so contact us soon!

Fistral Beach, Newquay and Watergate Bay are the venues to make your Summer great. The 5 Star World Qualifying is the highlight of the week with the Worlds best surfers competing for over $100,000. The Vans Summer Sessions is the skate equivalent with a total prize purse of $20,000. Elswhere on the Fistral site you can pick up a bargain in the trade village, have a beer or a burger in the large terraced Foster's Beach Bar and come the evening get yourself a ticket to the Beach Sessions which last year showcased The Pigeon Detectives, Enter Shikari, Seasick Steve, The Cuban Brothers to name a few.

There is always a night to suit your tastes!Moving into town and you can check out the Vans Newquay Park Pro, where the best street skaters in the country will battle it out at Wooden Waves Skatepark. Finally for the ultimate end of week party head over to Watergate Bay for the Rip Curl Boardmasters Unleashed Festival. Wait for the final line ups but we are proud to announce Groove Armada Live Act for Friday 8th August. Relentless will also be delivering a huge second stage to the music site set to be headlined by Relentless band, Gallows.

Errant Sign Jack Hughes

2008-06-16T02:28:00.000-07:00

Errant Surfing Holidays, have been keeping an eye on young brother of Josh Hughes, Jack for some time now. After an impressive performance in Loredo, Spain, young Jack took home a year contract with Errant Surf Holidays.

His plans for this year are to continue competiting in the UK on the BPSA surf tour and to do as many European events as possible.

Grom Exchange 2008!

2008-03-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

As dark clouds and hail rain upon the British Isles, eleven young surfers from Croyde, Newquay and Wales are thankful that they are cruising the waves of Northern Spain this week. This is the second year Errant Surf Holidays has run the Grom Exchange, after last years trip to Lanzarote the groms have been settling into “La Hosteria De Latas” Errant’s latest surf destination.

Since arriving last week, the groms have been put through their paces with beach drills, video coaching, strength training and surfing different surf spots around the Cantabrian coastline. With still a few days left, and the swell set to continue, the groms will be heading out to surf breaks such as Laredo, Sardinero and the home breaks of Loredo.

The idea of the Errant Grom Exchange is to make trips abroad feasible to children under 18, who may not have had the chance to travel overseas. Thanks to funding from local authorities and sponsorship from Errant Ltd, week trips come at a very minimal cost to the children themselves. In turn the children can experience better waves, new landscapes, deal with language barriers and bond with their peers. All essential experiences for them, as they develop into travelling surfers.

Jamie Mather one of the groms from Cornwall comments “We had some great waves on the first day, after being on the ferry from Plymouth overnight we were really pumped to jump straight into the Sea. Chris and Damian drove us back to La Hosteria; from there we got suited up and walked down to the beach to find perfect 2’ waves and no one out! I got to ride my new board, it was nice and warm and all the group was sharing waves” When asked about being in Spain, Jamie continues “The place itself is excellent, we have iPod stations in all the rooms, Playstation, Dreamcast, table football and whole big living space is a cool place to hang out with everyone, we even watched the WCT live streamed on the big projector on the ceiling. There is a big half pipe just down the road that I skated on the second day and meet some local skateboarders. I have been walking around with a piece of paper with Spanish phrases on it, so I was able to practice talking to them. They were really cool and we spent the afternoon skateboarding together.”

Errant team rider and senior grom, Josh Hughes has also been coaching the groms alongside Chris and Damian from Errant. The Welsh under 18 champion is also staying on at La Hosteria to train in warmer waves then back at home. “It is a cool aspect of being sponsored by a travel company, the fact I am able to use the facilities overseas to help me train for European and UK events.

The groms head back to the UK this Thursday, and will be looking forward to surfing on the BPSA tour, and other events.

To register interest in future grom events e-mail here groms@errantsurf.com
For details of La Hosteria in Spain click here http://www.errantsurf.com/loredo_overview.php
To view clips of the 2008 Spring Grom trip go to Errant Surf Holidays YouTube Channel.

Groms Head Off On Green Exchange Scheme

2008-03-05T10:37:00.000-08:00

Team ERRANT hits the coast of The Gambia, West Africa

2007-12-21T16:49:00.000-08:00

The Gambia is Africa's smallest country and also one of the most under developed.
It's main export of peanuts is slipping and the country is turning it's eyes to tourism. Errant UK manager and professional surfer, Chris Thomson was invited along with colleague Ben Ridding from the R.N.L.I. to suss out the potential of The Gambia as a surfing destination. Here is their story.

We had only been in The Gambia for a couple of hours and here we were facing out to sea with our new friends, Mr Fix It, Bob Marley and Mr Happy Boy, three local Gambia fella's about the same age as us, all keen to see us take our first surf in the mouth of the river Gambia.

Mr Happy Boy, even happier now he knows about surfing. Im pretty sure they had a little wager on who was going to be eaten first. Ben and I had researched this little left-hand point break back in England, thanks to Google Earth, quite possibably a surf travelers dream programme. The waves although small were very long. We jumped into the murky waters, paddling with just our hands.
Chris cheater five over the aligators Before long our nerves eased and we were trading waves, desperately trying to hold in any cliche from the Endless Summer movie.

As night fell we packed up our kit and followed our hosts to our accommodation. Mr Fix It, Bob Marley and Mr Happy Boy are reformed "Bumsters", hassling kids to you and I. The president of The Gambia, Yahya Jammeh, had noted the excellent benefits of tourism long before he came to power in 1994. However tourists never seemed to return due to the amount of hassle they received. To straighten this out he gathered up 200 of the worst "Bumsters", educated them and passed them out as Official Tour Guides.

The O.T.G's then went on to give themselves easterly memorable names, making it easier to make friends. With Ben's friendly nature we soon found ourselves with three "friends".
Dodging the sting rays Before long the guy's had cooked up some amazing fish and we were truly glad to see big dishes with our names on them! After dinner, Mr Fix It told us he could take us fishing and we would catch the biggest fish of our lives. This sounded far to good to be true. Little did he know our fishing experience was none.

The next morning broke with the sound of tropical birds, which after a night of trying to catch one mosquito, it was a pleasurable sound. Jumping into the car we headed over to the Denton Bridge and met up with Mr Fix It. After a few failed attempts to start the engine we were off in search of the "Big" fish of the day.

Three hours later and no fish, we were looking pretty desperate. Then out of no where Mr Fix It's line started to pull. At this point you can only imagine the excitement of three grown men all diving for one rod on a very small boat in the middle of The Gambia. The poor fish was cast onto the boat, the Snapper was all but big, but we still claimed it. We all took pictures of us holding the fish, the standard "surf trip on a boat" pose. The sad thing was we didn't catch it and it wasn't worth keeping.

http://www.errantsurf.com/

Surf & Pilates "Amazing Success"

2007-11-26T05:30:00.000-08:00

This week sixteen girls from all over Europe took to the waves of Southern Morocco, during the Girls Only Surf & Pilates week. The trip was run by Europe’s number one surf travel company, Errant. Rising each morning to the Saharan sun, the girls took time out before breakfast to work on their Pilates with top London-based Pilates star, Amy Swanson. “The blend between Pilates and surfing is not to be ignored. To thoroughly warm up the spine, using surfing related movement patterns, and learn about body mechanics has proven to be hugely beneficial when taken to the water.”

After a big healthy breakfast, the girls loaded up the vans in search of surf along this bountiful coastline, with world-class waves such as Killer Point, Anka Point and Devils Rock. Returning late in the day to a three course meal, cooked with the freshest ingredients Morocco has to offer.
Ash Howe from Northamptonshire comments “The Pilates sessions were an ideal way to get warmed up before surfing all day. Although Morocco is only a short flight away, the whole trip has felt like a real adventure, because the culture is so different and the surf so good”

On hand to coach the girls was pro-surfer Celine Gerhart from Gul wetsuits. “Celine was a great surf coach, she had a unique way of picking up on the smallest elements to improve my surfing. She really helped me understand where I should be on an unbroken wave and her enthusiasm for the sport is infectious.” commented CJ from Aberdeen.

Joining Celine was top female surf coach Zoey Cotton and professional long boarder Chris Thomson. Both on hand to provide detailed coaching using the latest video techniques.
The holiday was rounded off with a trip to a local Souk, the girls took to the stalls with great gusto, haggling down the prices of all those rugs, clothes and shoes.

Errant surf holidays have more week long trips booked for 2008. Including two week trips in the new luxury surf guesthouse in Loredo, Northern Spain.

Morocco, Tamraght - April 14th 2008
Northern Spain, Loredo - May 17th 2008
Northern Spain, Loredo - October 12th 2008

For more details on all Girls Only Surf & Pilates weeks and all Errant Surf Holidays log on to www.errantsurf.com or call Zoey on 0870 896 52 52.

Team Riders Take British Titles in 2007

2007-11-17T00:31:00.000-08:00

Another year on the UK Pro Surf Tour (BPSA) and another set of title holders. Errant team riders, Harry Timson and Chris Thomson walked away with the top titles in the Under 12's and Longboard divisions.

Sam Lamiroy, took first place in the Mens open.

This is the second time Sam has won the tour title. He has proved he has not lost any of his skill in an ever increasing competitive field of surfers that compete on the tour from all over the world. Gwen Spurlock from Swansea won the Women's division to add to the U16 Girls Grommet Title that she also won earlier in the day.

Jayce Robinson of St Ives won the Pro Junior Title, Alex Baker of Croyde won the U16 Boys from a very strong field of up and coming surfers. However one of the future stars of surfing Harry Timson (Newquay) retained his Under 12 Open title by winning all 5 of the competitions he entered this year.

2008 Groms Exchange in Northern Spain is ON!

2007-11-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

Following on from the amazing success of the 2007 Errant Grom Exchange Scheme in Lanzarote, Errant Surf Holidays is at it again. Next March a group of talented young surfers from all over the UK will head over to Northern Spain to stay in the brand new Errant luxury surf lodge in Loredo, Northern Spain.Confirmed surfers include Beth Mason, Max Tucker, Zak Lawton and Cavan Donnelley.

Each surfer bringing a unique element of style and surfing to the group.

As with 2007, the budding groms will be coached using the latest video surf coaching techniques, by highly accredited BSA surf coaches. They will also get the chance to surf and train with some of Spain's most elite WQS surfers including Pablo Solar and Dani Garcia. A local contest will be held on the beach of Somo, where other young surfers from local Cantabrian surf clubs will compete against our UK groms. This will be a true insight and fantastic experience in competing overseas.The new "Hosteria" is the latest edition to Errant Surf Holidays vast range of surfing inspired accommodation.

Due to be opened in Spring 2008, managing director, Chris Thomson comments "We are pitching La Hosteria as a new level in surfers accommodation, for instance all rooms have en-suite bathrooms, colour TV, iPod stations and air conditioning. Not only that, but it has its own in-house restaurant, bar, in built surf school and lecture room plus copious amounts of land surrounding this enormous guest house. The beach is a mere 50m, and is one of the best beach breaks around, not to mention Santa Marina, a well-known and much feared big wave spot right out the front.

All this is backdropped by the stunning mountain range "Picos de Europa", what more could anyone ask for!"The 2008 Errant Grom Exchange is due to take place on the 19th March for one week.

There are a few space left, so if you are interested please contact us as soon as possible on groms@errantsurf.com or by calling 0870 896 52 52. Further details about last years Grom Exchange in Lanzarote and the new Hosteria log onto www.errantsurf.com

Girls Only Surf and Pilates week in Morocco

2007-11-08T09:13:00.000-08:00

Celine Gerhart has teamed up with leading UK surf travel company Errant to offer an exclusive Surf and Pilates week in Morocco. Gul Pro team rider and experienced surf instructor Celine Gerhart will be there to coach, lend advice and take your surfing to another level throughout the week alongside BSA surf coach Zoey Cotton and top longboarder Chris Thomson. We're stoked to have Celine on board, she's a great surfer and very experienced having travelled the world with her pro surfer boyfriend Alan Stokes, she also has a great empathy with coaching girls honed over three years of instructing.

This will be a great opportunity to improve or learn to surf in warm waters under the Moroccan sun. The week includes surf coaching everyday and the lessons will be held at fun beach breaks. There will also there will be a sunrise and sunset pilates lessons with a top teacher Amy Swanson from Body Control Pilates in London and top your week off there's a days shopping in the souks of south Morocco to lap up some Moroccan culture.
Your accommodation will be at Tamraght which is perfect for this holiday, the apartments have a massive roof terrace overlooking the surf spots and is very cool. (www.errantsurftravel.co.uk/tamraght_overview.php) This holiday also includes all meals, transport, airport transfers and surf guide.

The first week will be from the 19th November, followed by a week starting the 7th April 2008. One week costs £449 and every girl who signs up will get a Gul and SurfGirl goody bag.
So whether you're looking to improve or learning to surf for the first time, this holiday will be great for learning to surf in warm waters with a great crew of instructors!

For more information call 0870 896 52 52 or visit www.errantsurf.com

2007-10-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

Surfwear label leads industry backlash as British Airways bans travel with surfboards.
Headworx, one of the biggest names in surf apparel has today pledged a company-wide boycott of all British Airways flights in protest at the airline’s ban on carrying surfboards, which starts next week.
Headworx Limited, which owns the global trademark for the 1976-established surf lifestyle brand, sponsors some of the biggest names in British surfing and has pledged full support for the British Surfing Association in its campaign to reverse BA’s decision.
Headworx is now co-operating with the BSA in co-ordinating a range of activities to highlight the issue in the media and to give surfers a platform to air their concerns.
Marketing Manager Ben Byfield said “Headworx, its employees, its sponsored riders and many of our customers have used BA as a favoured airline for domestic and international travel for many years due to their baggage policy. We are very disappointed that surfers have been singled out with this ban and are now fearful for the wider impacts on the surf industry.”
With BA controlling a large share of the Star Alliance airline network, the impact of this decision could be felt more widely than expected, and may soon affect anyone travelling on a non-direct flight with one or more segments operated by BA.
“This is a huge problem,” commented Headworx-sponsored professional surfer Reubin Pearce. “To travel with my boards is essential for me to train and to compete on the ASP world tour. BA are one of the biggest global airlines and all of the UK-based professionals fly regularly with them when travelling within Europe, and further afield. There are few alternative options to many remote UK destinations and we must always arrive with our equipment as it is highly specialised. Surfing is a fast-growing sport, BA should think again before cutting off surfers like this.”
In an official statement released via the brand’s website, the UK-based surfwear company said “Headworx will now actively boycott and advise against all travel with BA whilst urging them to urgently review their decision.”
Headworx is now encouraging all surfers and travellers to sign The British Surfing Association’s online petition at http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/stop-the-ba-surfboard-ban.html and to complain to BA at http://www.britishairways.com/travel/custrelform/public/en_gb

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Caption: “Headworx-sponsored pro surfer Reubin Pearce and his favourite JP surfboard - on tour together in Barbados.”
Image: Kirstin Prisk

About Headworx:
Headworx is the Riders Choice surf brand, founded at Burleigh Heads Australia in 1976 by Murray Bourton and Keith Halford. Now in their 31st year, Headworx are sponsors of the England Surf Team, numerous surf events and a team of UK riders. Headworx produce high quality surf and lifestyle activewear including teeshirts, hoodies, walkshorts, backpacks and our legendary boardshorts. Headworx is available to buy from a network of local surf shops and High Street stores or online. Full stockist information is available at www.headworx.com.
Press enquiries:
Headworx - Ben Byfield, benb@headworx.com, 01637 854233
Cube PR - Katie Curran, Katie@cubecompany.com, 0207 242 5483

Errant Ghana Surf Tour in Cooler

2007-10-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

As ever, Errant is here to inspire those surf dreams. This month a neat feature in Cooler magazine sheds some light on our Ghana surf tours. Uncrowded waves and adventure. Pick up a copy to read more.

BSA Post New Petition - Sign Up Now!

2007-10-25T01:21:00.000-07:00

British Airways has just announced that as of 6th November this year it will no longer be carrying surfboards on any flights. For the sake of all travelling surfers worldwide, the British Surfing Association strongly objects, and asks for your support.

Log on here http://www.gopetition.com/online/14891.html

Errant Surfing Holidays

Errant Pushes Re-Think On British Airways Surfboard Ban

2007-10-23T11:51:00.001-07:00

Managing Director, Chris Thomson, will take time out Wednesday morning for a press conference, which will be aired live on Atlantic FM. Disgusted by the decision to ban surfboards on all British Airways flights, Thomson confirms the need for this ban to be revoked as soon as possible.

Surf tourism is worth millions on a global scale, but more importantly many small towns and villages around the world have grown to support surf tourism, of which they now heavily rely on.

The fact that BA now encourage people to travel (without any extra fee) with Ski, Golf and Tennis equipment, is seen by many as elitist.

Keep up to date with Errant news here

Errant in Fat Face Big Fat Guide

2007-10-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

Leading outdoor brand, Fat Face, has just launched a new in-store and online Big Fat Guide to activity breaks. Errant Surf Holidays is excited to be the ONLY surf holiday company to be recommended by such a respected brand.
Click on the logo to view the Fat Face Big Fat Guide. See www.errantsurf.com for more details on the destinations that have been recommended by Fat Face or visit http://www.fatface.com/page/surfing_holidays to see the guide yourself!!

NEW - Luxury Surf Guesthouse

2007-10-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

Errant are proud to announce the launch of our latest luxury surf lodge in Northern Spain. La Hosteria is quite simply a step above the rest. The guesthouse is mere 300 meters from the consistent warm surf break of Somo, and twenty minutes from the chic city of Santander.
All rooms are en-suite, come with colour TV, iPOD docking station and air conditioning. La Hosteria also has its own private bar and large gardens, in which you can find many peaceful corners to spend those long days in the sunshine.
The surf school is fully equipped with the latest surfing equipment, and all instructors are experienced BSA surf coaches and NARS Beach lifeguards. Advanced coaching including video and private coaching can also be arranged, along with surf guiding to many other top surf breaks. Please visit www.errantsurf.com for more details or call 0870 896 52 52 and speak to an Errant memeber of staff.

New Dates For Beach Lifeguard Courses

2007-10-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

Following Errant's 100% sucess rate in 2007, Errant have launched more dates for NARS Beachlifegaurd courses in 2008. All dates are pulished on www.beachlifeguardcourses.com. These awards are a prerequisite for working with the RNLI on most of the UK beaches. The Beach Lifeguard Award is also needed should you wish to train as a surf instructor. The NARS Beach Lifeguard Award is internationally recognised as one the most comprehensive lifeguard courses in the world. For more details please visit http://www.errantsurf.com/ or call 0870 896 52 52 and speak to a member of Errant staff.