About Us

In 2011, the potential of big wave surfing at Nazaré was recognized with a powerful swell delivering up to 100ft waves. Only a few big wave surfers chased the swell and were documented riding the liquid giants, which attracted a lot of media attention. Soon, the epicenter of big wave surfing shifted to Nazaré. 

As the sport progressed, multiple life-threatening accidents occurred in various competitions, which clarified the necessity of a safety foundation to meet the high aspirations of the athletes for surfing the biggest wave on the planet. 

In 2014, big wave surfer Sebastian Steudtner and German military doctor Axel Haber brought the first specialized safety team and equipment to Praia Do Norte (North Beach), Nazaré. Their objective was to improve emergency response for any injured surfer and develop the best practices for safety and rescue in the sport.

While the safety infrastructure remained underdeveloped, the popularity of big wave surfing at Nazaré grew immensely, resulting in a larger number of accidents. Sebastian and Axel identified the trend and realized a full time, highly trained, and specialized team is required to tackle the problem.

Now in 2020, the Nazaré Surf Rescue Association, founded by local/international surfers, safety experts, and government officials, employs a team of full-time medical doctors and safety specialists.