Set off on a captivating journey along Morocco’s West Coast, a region where the pulsating swells of the Atlantic meld with a rich cultural landscape, creating a surfer’s haven. In the second episode of ‘No Contest: Off Tour’ Season Two, viewers are treated to an exploration of this surfing paradise, where every skill level finds its match.
The episode opens with a dive into the history of surfing in Morocco, dating back to the 1960s when American soldiers stationed at the Kenitra military base first took to the waves at Mehdia Beach. This sparked a surfing revolution, and by the 1980s, Morocco’s extensive 3500-kilometer coastline, stretching from Algeria to the Sahara Desert, had become a world-class surfing destination. The country’s strategic location, a mere 14 kilometers from Europe, has made it a magnet for surf enthusiasts, drawing about one million visitors annually.
The spotlight then turns to Taghazout Bay, affectionately dubbed “Morocco’s Gold Coast.” This picturesque fishing village has gained acclaim for its consistent, diverse waves, attracting surfers ranging from beginners to professionals. Local host Othmane Choufani, a big wave surfer himself, introduces viewers to the Moroccan way of life, emphasizing the importance of hospitality and communal dining, a tradition among the Berbers, the indigenous people of the Sahara.
The culinary journey is as rich as it is diverse, reflecting a blend of Berber, Arab, Moorish, Ottoman, and French influences. Traditional cooking methods like clay pot cooking and shared dishes like couscous are central to this gastronomic experience. The narrative then shifts to Casablanca, home to a vibrant surf community and skilled craftsmen like Fahd El Mania, Morocco’s first surfboard shaper, and Youssef Almoda, a boat-builder-turned-shaper. Their stories offer a glimpse into the evolution of surfing in Morocco.
Safi, often called the “Head of the Snake,” another highlight. This fishing port is not only known for its exceptional waves but also for its red clay pottery, an art form dating back 13,000 years to the Phoenicians. The Serghini family, renowned for their mastery in ceramics, represent the fusion of this traditional craft with the surfing world.
The journey concludes in Imsouane, known as “The Magic Bay,” for its variety of waves and the unique atmosphere of love and happiness it fosters. According to local shaper Youssef Almoda, Imsouane’s magic lies in its ability to offer something for every surfer, making it a truly generous place.
This episode of ‘No Contest: Off Tour’ offers a comprehensive look at Morocco’s surfing culture, its deep-rooted traditions, and the unique bond between its people, their crafts, and the sea. Tune into Red Bull TV to witness this extraordinary fusion of waves, culture, and sustainability in Morocco.
Watch the second episode of ‘No Contest: Off Tour’ Season Two, ‘Morocco’, on Red Bull TV.
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media