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MENTAWAI SUP RETREAT

PREMIUM SUP SURF CHARTER EXPEDITION IN INDONESIA

Welcome to the most exclusive Mentawai SUP surf experiences on the planet.

Our Mauka Surfaris Expedition combines world-class surf conditions, a premium surf charter, and expert guidance to deliver the ultimate Paddle Surf Indonesia adventure.

This is not a typical surf trip. This is a curated small-group journey designed for SUP surfers and surfers who want reliability, comfort, and a smooth, well-organized experience in one of the most wave-rich regions on the planet.

NEXT RETREAT DATES

March 12-23, 2027 (Fully Booked)

March 26 – April 6, 2027 (Fully Booked)

April 9 – 20, 2027

12 Days | 11 Nights | Indonesia

RESERVE YOUR EXPERIENCEDOWNLOAD BROCHURE

THE LEGENDARY MENTAWAI ISLANDS

The Mentawai Islands in Indonesia are home to some of the most consistent and beautiful waves on Earth. Expect clear warm water, long peeling reefs, and perfect conditions for both longboard & shortboard SUP surfers.

Expedition designed with SUP Surfers in mind

You can expect:

  • A wide range of waves for intermediate to advanced SUP surfers
  • Long, playful walls perfect for paddle surfing
  • More powerful reefs for progression
  • Expert guides selecting spots based on swell, wind, and tide
  • Safe, controlled access to some of Indonesia’s best SUP surf breaks

Beyond the waves, you’ll enjoy untouched islands, lagoons, snorkeling, and the iconic Mentawai seascapes that make SUP Surf Indo one of the most desirable ocean adventures in the world.

THE WAVES

The Right Season for the Right Kind of Waves

Most people associate the Mentawai Islands with the heavy, powerful swells of peak season. That’s great for big-wave chargers — but not ideal for a premium Mentawai SUP surf retreat focused on progression, flow, safety, and performance.

March and April are what we call the shoulder season, and this is exactly why we choose it for our Paddle Surf Indonesia expeditions. During these months, the Mentawais deliver clean, consistent, user-friendly waves without the intensity and crowds that come later in the year.

This Season Aligns With Our Purpose

Our philosophy at Mauka Surfaris is simple:
Give guests the best possible experience, not the heaviest possible waves.

The shoulder season supports everything we stand for:

  • progression
  • safety
  • fun
  • surf performance mentorship
  • meaningful time in the water
  • a calm, comfortable experience
  • an uncrowded, well-paced surf rhythm

This period allows us to deliver the level of experience we’re proud of — one where you feel challenged, supported, and energized, not overwhelmed or stressed by conditions.

YOUR SURF CHARTER - DESIGNED FOR SUP PERFORMANCE

Our surf yacht is one of the most comfortable and well-equipped vessels operating across the Mentawai, Telos, Nias, and Northern Sumatra region.

Vessel Features

  • 6 air-conditioned ensuite cabins (twin & double options)
  • Hot-water showers & hotel-quality linens
  • Large indoor A/C lounge with Smart TV
  • Multiple open decks for stretching, sunbathing, and relaxing
  • Dedicated stern bar with bartender
  • High-speed Starlink satellite internet
  • Functional board storage for SUPs and surfboards
  • Two fast tenders for quick lineup access

Everything is designed to make your Mentawai SUP surf days smooth, efficient, and comfortable.

WHY CHOOSE OUR MENTAWAI SUP SURF EXPEDITION?

Our Mentawai SUP Surf Retreat blends consistent waves, tropical island scenery, and the comfort of a premium surf yacht to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Crafted for a very limited group of surfers that prioritizes comfort, safety, expert & local guiding and perfect SUP Surf conditions.

Whether you call it SUP Surf Indo, Paddle Surf Indonesia, or Mentawai SUP surf, this retreat offers the perfect balance of challenge, progression, and relaxation.

LIFE ON BOARD - COMFORT & FUEL FOR LONG SURF DAYS

Fresh, Energizing Meals

Our onboard chef prepares a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes—ideal for long Paddle Surf Indonesia sessions where energy is key.

Snacks, juices, smoothies, coffee, tea, and soft drinks are always available.

Spaces to Relax

Choose between sun, shade, social areas, or quiet corners perfect for stretching, reviewing footage, reading or relaxing and of course watching sunsets and connecting with the group.

More Than Surfing

If you prefer fewer sessions some days, we offer also snorkeling, fishing, island hopping and lagoon
exploration.

Your retreat, your rhythm.

TRIP LOGISTICS - FROM PADANG TO THE MENTAWAIS

Your journey begins in Padang, West Sumatra, where our team receives you at the airport or hotel and transfers you directly to the vessel.

What’s Included

  • Transfers to and from the airport or hotel at port of embarkation
  • Accommodation in twin or double ensuite cabins
  • All inclusive meals and non alcoholic beverages
  • SUP Surf performance mentorship
  • Surf guiding by local legends
  • Land excursions and complimentary beach BBQ
  • Rental fishing and spearfishing gear
  • Satellite internet access

Not Included

  • National Marine Park fees for shared bookings
  • Surfboard rentals
  • Alcoholic beverages, mocktails, spirits, smoothies
  • Scuba diving gear, instruction, activities
  • Local surf taxes and fees
  • Onboard merch or souvenirs
  • Crew gratuities
  • Flights
  • Travel and personal insurance

A SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE

We intentionally keep our groups small to cultivate an intimate and relaxed lineup, offering a truly premium experience onboard.

This approach allows us to provide personalized attention, seamless wave rotation, and a refined, comfortable atmosphere that caters to both SUP surfers and traditional surfers, ensuring every guest feels connected, supported, and fully immersed in the adventure.

This trip attracts travelers who value comfort, adventure, and meaningful experiences.

WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?

This Mentawai SUP Retreat is perfect for:

  • Intermediate & advanced SUP surfers
  • Surfers seeking high-quality, consistent waves
  • Travelers who appreciate comfort and curated experiences
  • Small-group adventure seekers
  • Anyone seeking the best SUP Surf Indo experience available

THE MAUKA SURFARIS DIFFERENCE

Mauka Surfaris is built on purpose-driven guiding, warm hospitality, and deep respect for the ocean.

On this expedition, we combine:

  • High-level SUP & surf coaching
  • A premium yacht experience
  • Expert local knowledge
  • A small, curated group
  • The raw beauty of remote Indonesia

Everything is designed so you can immerse yourself fully, surf your best, and experience Mentawai SUP surf in a way very few travelers ever will.

This is a trip for people who want something rare, unhurried, and uncompromising.

NEXT RETREAT DATES

March 12-23, 2027 (Fully Booked)

March 26 – April 6, 2027 (Fully Booked)

April 9 – 20, 2027

12 Days | 11 Nights | Indonesia

RESERVE YOUR EXPERIENCE

FAQ's

Is Mentawai good for surfing?

Yes, the Mentawai Islands are exceptional for surfing, considered a world-class surf mecca known for consistent, perfect waves, stunning scenery, and uncrowded breaks, offering something for various skill levels, especially intermediates and advanced surfers seeking dream waves.

When is the best time to SUP Surf in the Mentawai?

Late February → March (Late Wet / Transition Season)

  • Best for: Intermediate SUP surfers, progression, long sessions
    • Smaller to medium swells (more manageable on a SUP)
    • Lighter crowds compared to peak season
    • Warmer water, humid conditions
    • More forgiving waves = ideal for technique, positioning, and flow

    Why SUP surfers like it:
    Less intimidating, more wave count, easier paddling into waves.


    April → Mid-May (Prime Shoulder Season)

    Best for: Intermediate to advanced SUP surfers

    • Consistent Indian Ocean swell starts to kick in
    • Clean conditions with improving wind patterns
    • Perfect balance between power and control
    • Crowds increase, but still far lighter than peak season
    • Excellent variety of waves across different reef setups

    Why this is a sweet spot:
    You get Mentawai quality without full Mentawai intensity.


    Mid-May → August (Peak Dry Season)

    Best for: Advanced / expert SUP surfers only

    • Strong, consistent SW swells
    • Heavy, fast, hollow reef waves
    • Trade winds = very clean mornings
    • Peak crowds
    • Mistakes are punished quickly on a SUP

    Why it’s challenging on a SUP:
    Wave speed + power + shallow reefs demand excellent control, fitness, and positioning.


    Quick SUP Recommendation

    • Progression & enjoyment: Late Feb – March
    • Best all-around SUP conditions: April – Mid-May
    • High-risk / high-reward: Mid-May – August

Which airport should I fly into?

You should fly into Padang International Airport (PDG), also known as Minangkabau International Airport.

To get to Padang’s Minangkabau International Airport (PDG), you’ll typically fly in from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta or Kuala Lumpu

Should I buy travel insurance/trip insurance?

It’s mandatory, and we strongly recommend getting travel insurance that covers extreme water sports.
Before entering the water, you’ll be required to sign a waiver.

How do my transfers work?

Our team will pick you up from your hotel or the airport.

Option A:
Fly into 
Padang on the day of departure, landing before 12:00 PM. This allows us to set sail by 3–4 PM.

Option B (our favourite):
Arrive 
a day earlier, stay overnight in Padang, and enjoy the local food and relaxed vibes. We recommend Sentika Hotel or Mercure Hotel for a smooth start.

Return:
We arrive back in Padang at 
first light. We suggest booking a midday or afternoon flight out, giving you time to disembark without any stress.

What if the waves are too small or too big?

There’s way more options (breaks) to surf in the Mentawais than you imagine. Apart of the most famous spots, there’s a lot of spots in the Mentawais that don’t even have a name yet… Our local surf guide is very knowledgable of the local conditions and will do his best to try to find the most suitable conditions on any given day. You’re in good hands 😉

Can I book a single room?

Single rooms are not available unless two spots are booked. Room can be prepared as Twin or Double. You’re welcome to join with a friend (surfer or non-surfer), or we’ll comfortably pair you with another guest of the same gender.

Is there a discount for non-surfers?

We don’t offer a separate price for non-surfers. Our expeditions have a single rate based solely on cabin type (upper or lower deck).

Non-surfers are very welcome and often find the experience just as rewarding. In addition to being part of the journey, they can enjoy snorkeling, island hopping, cuisine lessons, hand-line fishing, sunbathing, cruising and simply relaxing in a truly unique environment.

What activities are there for non-surfers?

Non-surfers will have plenty to enjoy throughout the expedition. Activities include snorkeling in crystal-clear reefs, island hopping, hand-line fishing, cuisine lessons with the crew, sunbathing, swimming, and simply relaxing in a remote tropical setting. Many guests join for the adventure, connection, and unique experience—not just the surfing.

Should I bring my own surfboard or rent one locally?

This is a bring-your-own-board expedition. We regularly travel with our own SUPs and understand that proper preparation is key to a smooth journey.

Our team will guide you through the entire logistics process, including recommended airlines, flight routes, board bag requirements, and tips for traveling safely with your SUP. We’re happy to advise on packing, connections, and best practices so you can travel with confidence, arrive stress-free, and focus fully on enjoying the experience.

What should I wear when I’m surfing in the Mentawai?

The Mentawai Islands are warm year-round. In March and April, average air temperatures range between 26–30°C (79–86°F), with daytime highs around 29–30°C (84–86°F) and warm nights around 25–26°C (77–79°F). Sea temperatures are consistently 28–29°C (82–84°F), ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and long days in the water.

Boardshorts and a light rashguard are all you need.

Do you offer vegan or vegetarian options?

Yes, we do! Our kitchen is happy to cater to vegan and vegetarian diets. We offer a variety of fresh, healthy, and flavorful plant-based dishes made with local ingredients.
If you have any specific dietary preferences or restrictions, just let us know in advance and our chef will do their best to accommodate your needs.

Surf the Globe, Live the Dream.

Mauka Surfaris

Nº de Registo 18804/AL

Operador Marítimo Turístico Registo 16/2012

Livro de Reclamações

Connect

T: +351 911 156 270

E: info@maukasurfaris.com

Rua Alto da Cabrita n3, 2640-054, Mafra, Portugal