So far, the 2023/24 winter northern hemisphere surf season has looked a little like this:
The biggest swell in years pummeled New Jersey, Hawaii got too big, the biggest swell in years pummeled California, Mavericks, Mavericks, San Diego, and Mavs.
Yeah, it’s been pretty Pacific heavy so far. But what about the Atlantic, aside from that Jersey swell? What about Europe? Nazaré, anyone?
Not to worry.
Nazaré is still cranking out some of the largest waves seen across the world this season, even if they’re far mushier than those breaking at Mavs.
And just like Mavericks’ historic day to close out 2023 on December 28th, Nazaré lit up with some wild and wooly and absolutely massive waves on December 31st.
The video above doesn’t show many waves ridden; in fact, there’s only one, courtesy of Guinness World Record “Largest Wave” title holder, Sebastian Steudtner.
A rocky start for the Nazaré surf season, but…more to come?
Most likely.
In the meantime, check out Steudtner’s three-year anniversary post regarding his record-breaking wave; here’s how he reflected on that moment:
“Three years ago today we defined what’s possible, biggest wave ever surfed, world record, history made 🌎🏆. Let my story be the proof that you need to get up and move your ass, set your goals high and hunt them down 💯⚔️ I’m from a place with no waves and didn’t start surfing till I was 18 years old. Impossible is nothing if you charge into life, you can do!
“Much love and respect to the humans that shared the day with me @alemaodemaresias on the first horse, @maya on the second horse, @marcoescadote on the third one, @miguel_prata eagle eyes, @joulia_mia @nuno_x21 @dr_axel_haber guardian angles, @bert.burger under my feet, a @spartamedic body to go all out and @polvo32 on the videotape recorder. Everyone of yous is forever in my heart 💯 ❤️”
***
Don’t miss another headline from SURFER! Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on Instagram, and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of surfing. We’re always on the lookout for amusing, interesting and engaging surf-related videos to feature on our channels.
Whether you’re a professional surfer or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on SURFER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality surf videos.