Chasing Waves on Vancouver Island: The Allure of the Unknown
Table of Contents
By Anya Sharma | VANCOUVER – 2025/09/10 12:05:59
The film Creatures of Habit encapsulates the unpredictable joy of surfing in cold waters, a theme perfectly embodied by the right-hand slab featured at its conclusion. Even for experienced wave hunters like director Nate Laverty and cinematographer Marcus Paladino, discovering this peak off Vancouver Island was a matter of chance.
“This specific wave, we’d only heard whispers about,” Marcus said. “The only clips of photos I’d seen were on iPhones. Maybe you could boogieboard or tow into it, is what I heard.”
Despite the uncertainty, the surfers seized the opportunity.Their experience,captured by Nate and North Of The Border Creative productions,highlights the unique appeal of surfing: the pursuit of challenging,remote waves in demanding conditions. While easier options exist, the draw of the unknown continues to fuel the search.
“Honestly, it’s still probably one of the best days of my life,” Marcus said. “I have a handful of memories in my life I would consider ‘best day ever,’ and that was one of them for me.”
Creatures of Habit showcases both local Canadian surfers like Pete Devries, Reed Platenius, Mathea and Sanoa Olin, and East Coast visitors from the USA, including Cam Richards, Andrew Jacobson, Ryan Huckabee and Dimitri Polous. The full film is available at the link below.
The Thrill of Cold Water Surfing
Cold water surfing presents unique challenges and rewards. The need for specialized gear, combined with the often-remote locations of prime surf spots, creates a distinct experience for those willing to brave the elements.
“Honestly,it’s still probably one of the best days of my life,” Marcus said.
Understanding Cold Water Surfing
Frequently Asked Questions
- What gear is essential for cold water surfing?
- A thick wetsuit (5mm or thicker), gloves, boots, and a hood are crucial for staying warm in cold water. Some surfers also use drysuits for maximum insulation.
- Where are some of the best cold water surfing destinations?
- Popular destinations include Iceland, Norway, Alaska, Canada (Vancouver Island), and Scotland.
- What are the dangers of cold water surfing?
- Hypothermia is the primary risk. Other dangers include strong currents, unpredictable waves, and marine life.
