Step-off Surfing in Puerto Rico

What is a Step-off?

Step-off Surfing or "Step-offs" for short is where a surfer and driver work as a team using the assistance of a jetski to catch a wave and to recover the surfer afterwards.

"Think heli-skiing but for surfing."

This service and tool helps maximizes "wave time" putting the surfer in the right place at the right time which is one of the hardest and most crucial aspects of surfing.

Step-offs make the difficult learning curve of catching and surfing a wave much shorter through repetition and less physical strain.

There are 4 basic commands.

"CLEAR!" - This command lets the driver know that the surfer is secured. Surfer is braced and is either holding on to the handles of the sled or the safety strap handle located on the seat. With this command the driver then can execute maneuvers safely and effectively.

"READY!" - Surfer notifies the driver that they are in position to catch a wave. To do so, the surfer must side saddle on the jetski, whether on the right side or left side depending on the wave set up.

"SLIDE!"- The Driver commands the Surfer to immediately slide off the jetski onto a wave. The surfer will put their board in the proper position to pop up and start surfing the wave.

"OFF!" - The Driver will command the Surfer to leave/ditch the jetski immediately to avoid danger.  This command keeps the driver and surfer safe while undertaking and managing risks.

Both Drivers and Surfers share Risk and Responsibilities during a Step-off session. Local info, Board recovery, wave placement, and maneuvres can by taught by a Professional Risk Technician (Driver) on site during the activity. Feel free to reach out to us to get more information about Step-offs or to book a session with us next Puetro Rican Swell.

Cowabunga,

Alex Kappes