Text and photos by Louis Harris of Liquid Destination.

August was another amazing month to be scouring the Maldivian reef passes for perfect empty line ups. We saw countless days of glassy conditions, with the odd blow here and there to keep our senses in check. 

Expectations are always high when planning a surf trip, especially to the Maldives - images of iridescent blue water and perfect friendly waves occupy most surfer's thoughts months even years in advance.

When a season like this unfolds I couldn't be happier as I believe mother nature so far has let everyone have the chance to get their moment. Some people take to it with abandonment whilst others only experience glimmers of it but either way it was there to experience.

Some people fear the life on board a surf charter vessel. What is perceived as a cramped environment riding through rough seas with people that may rub you up the wrong way is an actual fact an experience I liken to having your own floating pub in front of pumping waves that you can pick up and move whenever and wherever you like.

More often than not a day of waves slowly gives way to raucous laughter engulfing the pub as each night unfolds. It's infectious and thoroughly entertaining.

No man (or woman for that matter) is safe from a good sledging, proximity doesn't allow for it. We are Australians after all and our culture embraces a good ribbing without taking things to heart.  

Most of our clients are friends or friends of friends and if they didn't know each other at the start they do by the end - it's very unusual for people not to get along well. Everyone is there for the same reason, to surf and to laugh at or with your mates. 

The Maldivian atolls provide protection from the raw ocean and only the odd crossing from one to other do you ever feel like you are at sea. These crossings can sometimes have a bit of rock n roll but it is very rare for someone to get sea sick and if it does occur it's usually by the last man standing at the bar from the night before. //LOUIS HARRIS

Visit Liquid Destination to find out more about your next Maldives surf trip.