Big wave surfing is a sub-discipline of surfing that involves rising waves higher than at least 20 feet. It requires special equipment such as large and longer surfboards known as “guns” or towboards, which provide stability to catch these huge waves. Players either paddle into these waves or are towed into them using a jet ski.
Big wave surfing is a highly renowned and dangerous sport in the world due to its thrilling nature and the risks involved. It gained global recognition through events like the World Surf League’s Big Wave Surf Awards. Locations like Nazaré in Portugal, Mavericks in California, and Jaws in Hawaii are among some iconic sports for big wave surfing. It’s also a treat to watch for spectators, which results in drawing a larger audience. In this article, we will talk about the four largest waves that have ever been surfed in history.
Sebastian Steudtner – 93.73 feet
Location: Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal
Date: February 24, 2024
Sebastian Steudtner, a German big wave surfer, created history on 24 February 2024 by surfing a wave as big as 93.73 feet, which also broke his own previous record. This wave was surfed at Nazaré in Portugal, which is also a premier destination for big wave surfing. The technology used in this milestone was developed by Porsche Engineering, which provided precise wave height data. Sebastian is also a part of the “Mission Wave Alpha” project which aims at advancing big wave surfing through technology and improvements.
Sebastian Steudtner – 86 feet
Location: Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal
Date: October 29, 2020
Sebastian Steudtner also achieved another milestone in 2020 at the Nazaré in Portugal. He set the Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed by mastering a wave as massive as 86 feet. This record remained unbroken until he broke it himself in 2024. This feat showcased his skill and bravery in tackling some of the world’s most formidable waves.
Rodrigo Koxa – 80 feet
Location: Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal
Date: November 8, 2017
Rodrigo Koxa is a renowned Brazilian big wave surfer who achieved international recognition by setting the Guinness World Record for surfing the largest wave ever recorded in 2017 before Sebastian broke it in 2020. He surfed an enormous wave of 80 feet at Nazaré in Portugal and also won the Quiksilver XXL Biggest Wave Award in 2018. His achievement makes him a celebrated personality in big wave surfing.
Garrett McNamara – 78 feet
Location: Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal
Date: November 1, 2011
McNamara was towed into the wave using a jet ski, and he successfully rode a 78-foot wave at Nazaré. This achievement put his name in the record books and also earned him $15,000 at the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards. He rode on a 6’0 Dick Brewer Tow Board in 2011 and made it to the headlines by surfing one of the biggest waves of that time.
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