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We had a fantastic trip, my 3rd time with Island Hop Holidays.
Central atolls on board the " Misraab"
Crew were great, food was awesome, caught heaps of fish as well as heaps of really good waves..
Looking forward to the next one

Peter Kaye & Friends -Central Atolls- 5 to 16 August 2026

This was such an incredible trip that exceeded my expectations in every way- from hosts and guides to photographers and food/crew. I will definitely be joining another surf adventure with Islandhop and Claire and Lotta!

Surf ya Brains out with Lotta & Claire-August 2nd-10th, 2026

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October 27th - November 4th, 2026Join Helena from Women Soulful Surf (WSS) on a once-in-a-lifetime Maldives surf adventureCreated exclusively for intermediate women surfers, this late-season Maldives escape delivers playful, user-friendly waves perfect for funboards and longboards. This isn’t your average surf retreat — it’s a nine-day journey through the turquoise atolls of the Maldives, living aboard a private charter boat and moving in rhythm with the ocean as we seek out perfect, uncrowded waves.Sleep under the stars. Wake to the sound of waves. Out here, it’s just us — salt, sea and sky — and a rare stillness that reconnects you with what freedom truly feels like.Set among the postcard-perfect atolls of the Indian Ocean, you’ll experience 8 nights of connection, laughter, learning and unforgettable surf sessions. Our mission is simple: to boost your confidence in the water and increase your wave count in a supportive, empowering environment, with multiple daily surfs at world-class breaks — many only accessible by boat.There’s something magical about stepping straight off the deck into warm, crystal-clear water, surrounded by endless turquoise lagoons and untouched tropical beauty. Expect sunrise sessions that stop you in your tracks, glowing sunsets over glassy horizons, and long, joy-filled days in the ocean.Under Helena’s guidance, and alongside the inspiring Women Soulful Surf community, you’ll refine your technique, deepen your ocean knowledge and reconnect with the spark that first drew you to the sea. You’ll laugh until your cheeks hurt with women who begin this journey as strangers and leave as sisters.Between surfs, we’ll move mindfully, stretch on deck, nourish our bodies with delicious meals and soak in the simple magic of life at sea.Onboard, enjoy 5-star service, chef-prepared cuisine, beautiful air-conditioned cabins and a warm, professional crew devoted to your comfort and safety.This is where surf meets sisterhood, adventure meets ease, and memories are created that stay with you long after you return to land.Spaces are limited. Say yes to the experience of a lifetime.Trip prices are quoted in USD. Payments may be made in your local currency via direct debit (no fees) or by credit card (low fees). IslandHop receives all payments in USD.

Maldives

Flights to/from Maldives, Travel Insurance, Drinks & snacks from Bar, Crew Tips, Spending money

Exclusions

High quality meals and snacks* tea/coffee and unlimited Drinking water (purified) * Reasonable fuel travelling Nth and South Male' atolls for Male atoll trips. Return Airport transfer to/from  Handhu

Retreat Inclusions

Prepaid sidetrip to Vaavu atoll for Nurse Shark & Wreck dive experience. * Use of all onboard equipment, snorkelling gear & basic fishing gear. Yoga & Mobility sessions with WSS female instructor

continued

Use 2 tender boats (1 dingy & 1 speedboat) * Bed tax, green tax & TGST included in price. 

But thats not all

Drone, Water and Landbased customised photo package by our onboard photographer, Humaid.  There will be video analysis also

Digital Photo package

Surf improvement tuition WSS coaches, Please note this is not a learn to surf trip. We will there to to support, encourage and give helpful tips. * see main body for min. surf level.

Surf Improvement advise

Day 1: The girls arriving on different flights from all over the globe will arrive Malè Velana international airport throughout &amp; transferred to Handhu in HulaMale Harbour for overnight sleep. Day 2: Depart harbour at dawn and be at surf within 2 hours. Days 2-8: 7 full surf days all over the Nth &amp; Sth Malè atolls., Including sidetrip to Vaavu atoll to free-dive at the Nurse Shark Sanctuary Day 9: Potential to surf the morning and delivery to Malè’ airport 2 hours prior to flight departure time **NB: If the group members are on different flights then the boat will depart the surf zone approx 5hrs before the earliest flight departure time on the final day. For groups with morning or early afternoon flight departures on the final day, we will overnight on the final night in HuluMale harbour, closer to airport as it is impossible to surf on the final day.<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Book your flights to arrive Male' Velana international to arrive anytime on day 1 or even the day before and overnight in HulaMale' and sleep off jetlag. Day 1 is spent in HulaMale' harbour awaiting all guests arriving on different flights. See <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://booking.com">booking.com</a> for HulaMale' hotel options</li></ul><ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Book your departure flights out of Male' Velana international, no earlier than midday on the final day or you may choose to stay on in the Maldives for longer.</li></ul>

Women Soulful Surf Maldives Surf Improvement Retreat

Example itinerary

This will be the 4th Women Soulful Surf Maldives retreat in 2 years.Helena Richardson — Founder, Women Soulful SurfOriginally from Poland, Helena left in 2015 with a one-way ticket to Bali to become a yoga teacher and follow a simpler, ocean-centred way of life. That’s where she fell in love with surfing.After moving to Australia, stepping back into the water reignited both her passion and her purpose. Surrounded mostly by experienced male surfers, she recognised how intimidating the sport could feel for women — and from that, Women Soulful Surf was born.Helena now empowers women of all ages and backgrounds to build confidence, embrace the ocean, and step out of their comfort zones. Supporting women on their surf journey is her greatest joy.Helena will be assisted by another WSS coach throughout the week.

About your host

<h3>Male’ Atolls Surf Experience – North &amp; South</h3>A week in the Malé Atolls delivers a veritable buffet of waves, from long, down-the-line speed runs to playful walls and hollow tubes that will test even confident barrel riders. With a dozen or so quality reef breaks in close proximity, both shortboarders and longboarders will be equally stoked by the incredible variety and consistency on offer.For Malé Atoll trips, we have 12 breaks to choose from within approximately six hours of cruising, stretching from Riptides in the South to Chickens in the North. The North Malé Atoll (Jails to Chickens – 6 breaks) is generally more consistent as it picks up more southerly swell.The South Malé Atoll (Riptides to Tucky Joes – 6 breaks) can light up with a bit of east in the south swell and is often less crowded. All waves enjoy offshore conditions in west winds, making them some of the most user-friendly, high-performance reef breaks on the planet.North Malé hosts iconic waves such as Cokes, Chickens, Sultans, Jailbreaks, Honkys and Ninjas, offering a balanced mix of rights and lefts — from forgiving point-style waves to punchier, hollower sections — all within around two hours’ cruising.South Malé atoll is approx. 3 hr steam from Himmafushi and works best on larger East swells, generally breaking around 2 feet smaller than the North. As an example, a 1m, 14-second SE swell with west winds could see Sultans at 6ft+ while Quarters runs around 3–4ft.This is not a learn-to-surf trip. Guests should be capable of catching their own waves and riding along the face. You will receive surf guidance and support throughout the journey, including in-water tips and encouragement, plus a digital photo package and some video analysis opportunities to help track your progression.Board recommendation: Bring at least two boards – a mid-length to cover all conditions, and your preferred shortboard, fish or longboard for specific sessions. Board rentals may also be available locally.

The Worlds Most User Friendly Waves

This is not a learn-to-surf tripYou will receive surf guidance and support from Helena, Alyx-Jane and our experienced local guide, Jaate. We’ll be there to encourage you, answer your questions and assist with wave selection and positioning, however this is not a 1:1 coaching program.You should feel confident catching your own waves and riding along their faces. This experience is designed for progressing–intermediate surfers, not beginners. We’ll be seeking out fun, user-friendly waves, while also providing opportunities for those who wish to challenge themselves with larger swell when it presents. There will also be plenty of chances to enjoy smaller, more playful waves throughout the journey.Who is this trip for?Progressing–intermediate surfers who are confident paddling out the back, able to catch unbroken (green) waves and surf across the wave face.Longboards, mid-lengths and funboards are all welcome.Board recommendation: We suggest bringing at least two boards — a versatile mid-length to cover most conditions, plus either a fish or longboard for your preferred style. There is also an option to rent boards locally if needed.

Is this trip for you ?

Women Soulful Surf - Salty Bliss Trip

October 27th - November 4th, 20268 nights - 7 full days in the Maldives from October 27th to November 4th 2026Trip prices are quoted in USD. Payments may be made in your local currency via direct debit (no fees) or by credit card (low fees). IslandHop receives all payments in USD.Includes:<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Share Twin accommodation in Air conditioned twin cabin with lower double bed and upper single and private ensuite bathroom</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7++ full days on the boat; hunting for the best waves &amp; island hopping</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Airport transfers directly to/from Handhu</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Access to the best waves in the Nth &amp; Sth Male’ atolls with our local guides</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">All high-quality meals and snacks, tea/coffee, unlimited drinking water (purified)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Expert local Surf Guide and our WSS Coaches</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Media package - photos &amp; videos from the trip</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Video Analysis</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Yoga &amp; Mobility Sessions with an experienced female instructor</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Trip to Vaavu Atoll for shark and wreck dive experience</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Use Basic snorkelling, fishing gear, onboard equipment and 2 tender boats (1 dingy &amp; 1 speedboat)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Bed tax and green tax</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Fun waves for all boards; bring your favourite quiver!</li></ul>Book your flights to arrive Male' Velana international to arrive anytime on day 1 or even the day before and overnight in HulaMale' and sleep off jetlag. Day 1 is spent in HulaMale' harbour awaiting all guests arriving on different flights. See <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://booking.com">booking.com</a> for HulaMale' hotel optionsBook your departure flights out of Male' Velana international, no earlier than midday on the final day or you may choose to stay on in the Maldives for longer.

Willing to share - Twin cabin package

March 9th - March 17th, 2027Early Season = UncrowdedJoin Helena from Women Soulful Surf (WSS) on a once-in-a-lifetime Maldives surf adventureCreated exclusively for intermediate women surfers, this early-season Maldives escape delivers playful, user-friendly waves perfect for funboards and longboards without crowd factor. This isn’t your average surf retreat — it’s a nine-day journey through the turquoise atolls of the Maldives, living aboard a private charter boat and moving in rhythm with the ocean as we seek out perfect, uncrowded waves.Sleep under the stars. Wake to the sound of waves. Out here, it’s just us — salt, sea and sky — and a rare stillness that reconnects you with what freedom truly feels like.Set among the postcard-perfect atolls of the Indian Ocean, you’ll experience 8 nights of connection, laughter, learning and unforgettable surf sessions. Our mission is simple: to boost your confidence in the water and increase your wave count in a supportive, empowering environment, with multiple daily surfs at world-class breaks — many only accessible by boat.There’s something magical about stepping straight off the deck into warm, crystal-clear water, surrounded by endless turquoise lagoons and untouched tropical beauty. Expect sunrise sessions that stop you in your tracks, glowing sunsets over glassy horizons, and long, joy-filled days in the ocean.Under Helena’s guidance, and alongside the inspiring Women Soulful Surf community, you’ll refine your technique, deepen your ocean knowledge and reconnect with the spark that first drew you to the sea. You’ll laugh until your cheeks hurt with women who begin this journey as strangers and leave as sisters.Between surfs, we’ll move mindfully, stretch on deck, nourish our bodies with delicious meals and soak in the simple magic of life at sea.Onboard, enjoy 5-star service, chef-prepared cuisine, beautiful air-conditioned cabins and a warm, professional crew devoted to your comfort and safety.This is where surf meets sisterhood, adventure meets ease, and memories are created that stay with you long after you return to land.Spaces are limited. Say yes to the experience of a lifetime.Trip prices are quoted in USD. Payments may be made in your local currency via direct debit (no fees) or by credit card (low fees). IslandHop receives all payments in USD.

This will be the 5th Women Soulful Surf Maldives retreat in 3 years.Helena Richardson — Founder, Women Soulful SurfOriginally from Poland, Helena left in 2015 with a one-way ticket to Bali to become a yoga teacher and follow a simpler, ocean-centred way of life. That’s where she fell in love with surfing.After moving to Australia, stepping back into the water reignited both her passion and her purpose. Surrounded mostly by experienced male surfers, she recognised how intimidating the sport could feel for women — and from that, Women Soulful Surf was born.Helena now empowers women of all ages and backgrounds to build confidence, embrace the ocean, and step out of their comfort zones. Supporting women on their surf journey is her greatest joy.Helena will be assisted by another WSS coach throughout the week.

This is not a learn-to-surf tripYou will receive surf guidance and support from Helena and her co coach along with our experienced local guide. We’ll be there to encourage you, answer your questions and assist with wave selection and positioning, however this is not a 1:1 coaching program.You should feel confident catching your own waves and riding along their faces. This experience is designed for progressing–intermediate surfers, not beginners. We’ll be seeking out fun, user-friendly waves, while also providing opportunities for those who wish to challenge themselves with larger swell when it presents. There will also be plenty of chances to enjoy smaller, more playful waves throughout the journey.Who is this trip for?Progressing–intermediate surfers who are confident paddling out the back, able to catch unbroken (green) waves and surf across the wave face.Longboards, mid-lengths and funboards are all welcome.Board recommendation: We suggest bringing at least two boards — a versatile mid-length to cover most conditions, plus either a fish or longboard for your preferred style. There is also an option to rent boards locally if needed.

Women Soulful Surf - Early Season Bliss

March 9th - March 17th, 2027Early Season Bliss8 nights - 7 full days in the Maldives from March 9th to March 17th, 2027Trip prices are quoted in USD. Payments may be made in your local currency via direct debit (no fees) or by credit card (low fees). IslandHop receives all payments in USD.Includes:<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Share Twin accommodation in Air conditioned twin cabin with lower double bed and upper single and private ensuite bathroom</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7++ full days on the boat; hunting for the best waves &amp; island hopping</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Airport transfers directly to/from Handhu</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Access to the best waves in the Nth &amp; Sth Male’ atolls with our local guides</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">All high-quality meals and snacks, tea/coffee, unlimited drinking water (purified)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Expert local Surf Guide and our WSS Coaches</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Media package - photos &amp; videos from the trip</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Video Analysis</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Yoga &amp; Mobility Sessions with an experienced female instructor</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Trip to Vaavu Atoll for shark and wreck dive experience</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Use Basic snorkelling, fishing gear, onboard equipment and 2 tender boats (1 dingy &amp; 1 speedboat)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Bed tax and green tax</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Fun waves for all boards; bring your favourite quiver!</li></ul>Book your flights to arrive Male' Velana international to arrive anytime on day 1 or even the day before and overnight in HulaMale' and sleep off jetlag. Day 1 is spent in HulaMale' harbour awaiting all guests arriving on different flights. See <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://booking.com">booking.com</a> for HulaMale' hotel optionsBook your departure flights out of Male' Velana international, no earlier than midday on the final day or you may choose to stay on in the Maldives for longer.

Australia

Curated experiences by adventure tourism veteran, Shaun Levings.  

IslandHop Holidays

PRIME TIME DATES: AUGUST 2ND TO 10TH, 2026$300 off for last 2 spots Join Lotta &amp; Claire on their annual Maldives adventure. This live-aboard charter onboard the incredible 90' Handhu is 8 nights in duration and you will surf the Male' atolls (a dozen waves within 6 hours cruising). In total there will be 12 onboard with 10 guests plus Lotta &amp; Claire. Space filling fast - Secure your space on this epic adventure today.Trip prices are quoted in USD. Payments may be made in your local currency via direct debit (no fees) or by credit card (low fees). IslandHop receives all payments in USD.

The Maldives

High quality meals and snacks* tea/coffee and unlimited Drinking water (purified) * Reasonable fuel travelling Nth and South Male' atolls for Male atoll trips

Airport meet & Greet & transfer to Handhu * Prepaid sidetrip to Vaavu atoll for Nurse Shark & Wreck dive experience.  * Use of all onboard equipment, snorkelling gear & basic fishing gear 

continued 

Surf Guidance from Claire Vanders and local guide. Please note this is not a coaching trip. We will be there to support, encourage and give helpful tips. * see main body for info.  Yoga & Stretching

Surf Guidance & Yoga

Professional Digital photo package and content creation tips by Lotta @lotta_and_the_waves

Digital Photo Package

Prepaid sidetrip to Vaavu atoll for Nurse Shark & Wreck dive experience.  

Nurse Shark Experience

Day 1: Transfer to Handhu from Malè Velana aiport or HuluMale' jetty by early afternoon on Day 1. If everyone is onboard by early afternoon then we can get you a late afternoon surf. Days 2-8: 7 full surf days all over the Nth &amp; Sth Malè atolls., Including sidetrip to Vaavu atoll to free-dive at the Nurse Shark Sanctuary Day 9: Potential to surf the morning and delivery to Malè’ airport 2 hours prior to flight departure time ** Book flights to depart no earlier than early afternoon on the final day.NB: If the group members are on different flights then the boat will depart the surf zone approx 5hrs before the earliest flight departure time on the final day. For groups with morning flight departures on the final day, we will overnight on the final night in HuluMale harbour, closer to airport as it is impossible to surf on the final day.Book your flights to arrive Male' Velana international to arrive before midday on day 1 or even the day before and overnight in HulaMale' and sleep off jetlag. See <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://booking.com">booking.com</a> for HulaMale' hotel options. This Book your departure flights out of Male' Velana international, no earlier than early afternoon on the final day or you may choose to stay on in the Maldives for longer.

Lotta & Claire Retreat

This is a true IslandHopping experience seeing places that very few visitors to the Maldives will ever visit. From Local villages to deserted sandbank islands. Chasing the best waves and seeking serenity.

Experience the Real Maldives in Style

<h3>Male’ Atolls Surf Experience – North &amp; South</h3>August is when the Maldives truly comes alive for women ready to step into their power in the surf. Far from being intimidating, peak swell season brings consistent, long-period southern swells that create clean, reliable conditions almost every day. This consistency allows surfers to settle into a rhythm, build trust in their abilities and progressively challenge themselves in a supported, confidence-boosting environment. From flowing down long, open faces to testing yourself on slightly steeper, more powerful sections, the waves offer endless opportunities for growth, expression and breakthroughs.With the guidance and encouragement of Claire Vanders, guests are supported every step of the way — learning how to read conditions, refine technique, paddle with purpose and choose the right wave at the right moment. Whether you're pushing for your first confident bottom turn or stepping a little deeper into the pocket, August provides the perfect canvas for personal progression. Combined with the sisterhood on board, expert guidance, and the raw magic of the Maldives, this month becomes not just a surf trip — but a transformative ocean experience.A week in the Malé Atolls delivers a veritable buffet of waves, from long, down-the-line speed runs to playful walls and hollow tubes that will test even confident barrel riders. With a dozen or so quality reef breaks in close proximity, both shortboarders and longboarders will be equally stoked by the incredible variety and consistency on offer.For Malé Atoll trips, we have 12 breaks to choose from within approximately six hours of cruising, stretching from Riptides in the South to Chickens in the North. The North Malé Atoll (Jails to Chickens – 6 breaks) is generally more consistent as it picks up more southerly swell.The South Malé Atoll (Riptides to Tucky Joes – 6 breaks) can light up with a bit of east in the south swell and is often less crowded. All waves enjoy offshore conditions in west winds, making them some of the most user-friendly, high-performance reef breaks on the planet.North Malé hosts iconic waves such as Cokes, Chickens, Sultans, Jailbreaks, Honkys and Ninjas, offering a balanced mix of rights and lefts — from forgiving point-style waves to punchier, hollower sections — all within around two hours’ cruising.South Malé atoll is approx. 3 hr steam from Himmafushi and works best on larger East swells, generally breaking around 2 feet smaller than the North. As an example, a 1m, 14-second SE swell with west winds could see Sultans at 6ft+ while Quarters runs around 3–4ft.This is not a learn-to-surf trip. Guests should be capable of catching their own waves and riding along the face. You will receive surf guidance and support throughout the journey, including in-water tips and encouragement, plus a digital photo package and some video analysis opportunities to help track your progression.Board recommendation: Bring at least two boards – a mid-length to cover all conditions, and your preferred shortboard, fish or longboard for specific sessions. Board rentals may also be available locally.

The World's Most User Friendly Waves

Charlotte Peiper aka Lotta (@lotta_and_the_waves) – Photographer &amp; Co-Host, Waves &amp; Frames RetreatsLotta, known on Instagram as @lotta_and_the_waves, is an accomplished photographer and content creator from Europe, currently spending most of her time on location across Indonesia’s remote surf regions. With a trained eye for light, movement and storytelling, she draws deep inspiration from the ocean and the cultures that exist around it.Her distinctive style blends surf action, travel, lifestyle and raw natural landscapes into a powerful visual narrative — capturing both the energy of the waves and the quiet, intimate moments between sessions. From golden-hour line-ups to candid life on board, Lotta’s work goes far beyond simple documentation; it tells the story of connection, progression and presence.Onboard Handhu with IslandHop Maldives, Lotta plays a dual role as both creative documentarian and co-host of the “Waves &amp; Frames – Surf Improvement Retreats.” She will be responsible for a professional digital photo package, while also offering visual guidance, positioning feedback and video analysis to help guests better understand their surfing and track genuine progression throughout the journey.Claire Vanders – Co-Host &amp; Surf GuideClaire Vanders is an accomplished surfer and ocean woman from Western Australia, shaped by years of living in, on and around the sea. With an intuitive understanding of waves, line-ups and ocean conditions, she carries a calm authority that instantly puts surfers at ease.Now dedicating her time to running exclusive surf retreats across the Indian Ocean, Claire blends deep ocean knowledge with supportive leadership, helping guests refine technique, improve wave reading and build confidence in a variety of conditions.This marks Lotta and Claire’s third retreat together in two years — a partnership built on trust, creativity and a shared vision of empowering surfers through connection, mindful progression and unforgettable time in the water.Together, they create a space where guests feel supported, inspired and encouraged to step into their full potential — both on the wave and beyond.

Your Hosts - Lotta & Claire

This is not a learn-to-surf trip. Guests should be very capable of catching their own waves and riding along the face and not just going straight ahead. You should be able to manage your board when caught in the impact zone (duck dive/eskimo roll etc. without throwing board). You will receive surf guidance and support throughout the journey, including in-water tips and encouragement, plus a digital photo package and some video analysis opportunities to help track your progression.

Is this surf trip for you ?

<h2>Lotta &amp; Claire– Waves &amp; Frames Retreat</h2>8 Nights / 7 Days | Onboard Handhu Dates: August 2nd to 10th, 2026Trip timing<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Commences after lunch on day 1 (try to book flights to arrive morning) **</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Concludes late morning on final day (for flights departing from lunchtime onwards)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7 ++days of adventure in the Malé Atolls</li></ul>Trip prices are quoted in USD. Payments may be made in your local currency via direct debit (no fees) or by credit card (low fees). IslandHop receives all payments in USD.<h3>Package Inclusions</h3><ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">8-night / 7++ days private charter onboard Handhu</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">1 berth in air-conditioned- twin share cabin with bunk bed (lower double/upper single) &amp; ensuite bathroom</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">High-quality meals, snacks &amp; tea/coffee</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Unlimited purified drinking water</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Airport meet &amp; greet + return transfers to Handhu</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Reasonable fuel allowance for surfing North &amp; South Malé Atolls</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Pre-paid side trip to Vaavu Atoll for Nurse Shark &amp; wreck experience</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Use of all onboard facilities and equipment</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Snorkelling &amp; basic fishing gear included</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Two support tenders (1 x dinghy, 1 x speedboat)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Bed tax, Green Tax &amp; TGST included</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Professional digital photo package by Lotta (@lotta_and_the_waves)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Surf tips &amp; guidance with Claire Vanders (@clairevanderss )</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">2 x onboard yoga sessions</li></ul><h3>Flights &amp; Arrival Information</h3><ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Please book flights to arrive before midday into Malé (Velana International Airport) on Day 1 **</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">** Alternatively, and preferably; you may arrive the day before and overnight in Hulhumalé to rest after your journey. For accommodation options, refer to booking.com and search Hulhumalé hotels</li></ul><h3>Departure</h3><ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Please book departure flights no earlier than midday final day (preferably after 1pm, so you can get an early morning surf on final day.</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Guests are welcome to extend their stay in the Maldives independently if desired</li></ul>

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