Tidal Bore Surfing Explained

Tidal bore surfing turns rivers into surf spots, transforming placid waterways into temporary playgrounds for wave riders. It’s a niche within a niche, attracting adventurers who chase fleeting moments of aquatic adrenaline in some of the world’s most unexpected places.

The phenomenon occurs when incoming tides collide with river currents, creating a wave that travels upstream. Only about 60 rivers worldwide host rideable bores, making each spot a rare gem in the surfing world.

Here, we’ve got all you need to know about tidal bore surfing and more. 

Famous Tidal Bores Around the Globe

The Qiantang River in China boasts one of the most famous. Its “Silver Dragon” can reach heights of 30 feet, drawing thousands of spectators during peak bore season. Local lore speaks of ancient bore-watching festivals, suggesting humans have long been captivated by this natural spectacle.

In Europe, France’s Dordogne and Garonne rivers offer more manageable waves. The “mascaret,” as it’s called there, brings surfers to otherwise sleepy rural areas. Picture wetsuit-clad figures carrying boards through vineyards, and you’re not far off. It’s a surreal sight that perfectly captures the sport’s incongruous nature.

England’s River Severn hosts the “Severn Bore,” a wave that can travel nearly 20 miles upstream. Dedicated surfers have been known to ride it for over an hour, making it one of the longest rides in surfing. The bore here has a particular schedule, tied closely to the lunar cycle, and devotees plan their lives around its arrival.

Across the Atlantic, Alaska’s Turnagain Arm sees bore chasers braving frigid waters for the chance to surf amid stunning mountain scenery. The wave here is fickle, sometimes barely a ripple, other times a raging torrent. It’s a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport.

The Allure of Tidal Bore Surfing

But what makes tidal bore a type of surfing that’s so alluring? For many, it’s the rarity. Unlike ocean waves that come in sets, a tidal bore is often a one-shot deal. Miss it, and you’re out of luck until the next tide cycle.

There’s also the ever-changing nature of the wave. As it moves upstream, it interacts with the river’s features—sandbars, bends, obstacles—constantly shifting in size and shape. This demands a different skill set than traditional surfing. Riders must read the river, anticipate changes, and adapt on the fly.

Challenges and Dangers

The sport isn’t without its dangers. Murky water can hide submerged logs or debris. These powerful currents can quickly sweep surfers far from their starting point. And in some locations, like parts of the Amazon, there are additional hazards. Think piranhas and caiman.

Equipment for bore surfing often differs from standard ocean gear. Boards tend to be bigger and more buoyant to handle the choppy river water. Some riders opt for helmets, given the potential for collisions in the often crowded and chaotic waves.

A Tight-Knit Community

The community around tidal bore surfing is tight-knit. With so few locations and specific timing required, the same faces often show up at bores around the world. It’s not uncommon to see surfers from California mingling with locals in rural China, all united by their passion for riding rivers.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental concerns play a big role in the bore surfing world. Many of the best bore spots are threatened by development. Dams, in particular, can drastically alter or even eliminate tidal bores. This has led to some surfers becoming vocal advocates for river conservation.

The Petitcodiac River in Canada offers a cautionary tale. Once home to a world-class bore known as the “Chocolate River Tidal Bore,” a causeway built in the 1960s all but killed the wave. Recent efforts to restore the river flow have brought the bore back, much to the delight of local surfers.

The Art of Timing

Timing is everything in bore surfing. Riders often camp out overnight so they don’t miss the wave. In some spots, they’ll wait in the water for hours, bobbing in the current until the bore arrives. It’s a test of patience as much as skill.

Bore Surfing Lingo

The sport even has its own lingo. “Scrambling” refers to the mad dash to get back upstream after a ride, often running along muddy banks to catch the wave again further up. A “shooter” is a particularly fast and clean section of the bore.

Record-Breaking Rides

Some of the most legendary rides in bore surfing history have lasted for miles. In 2006, Steve King rode the Petitcodiac bore for 29 kilometers, setting a Guinness World Record. It’s a far cry from the brief rides most ocean surfers experience.

But tidal bores don’t just attract surfers. Kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders also get in on the action. Each craft offers a different experience of the wave, from the stability of a kayak to the maneuverability of a surfboard.

Because of this, the sport has spawned its own travel industry, with tour operators offering guided trips to remote bore locations. These excursions often combine surfing with cultural experiences, giving participants a unique way to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Mystical Experiences

In Brazil’s Amazon, bore surfing takes on a mystical quality. Known locally as the “pororoca,” the bore here can reach heights of 12 feet and speeds of 30 mph. Indigenous legends speak of a great roar that heralds its arrival, a sound that still sends chills down surfers’ spines today.

The Future of Tidal Bore Surfing

The future of tidal bore surfing is as unpredictable as the waves themselves. Climate change could alter tidal patterns, potentially creating new bores or destroying existing ones. River management practices will continue to play a crucial role in preserving these natural phenomena.

As awareness of the sport grows, so too does the potential for overcrowding at popular bore spots. This presents a challenge for the community – how to share their passion without overwhelming the delicate ecosystems that make it possible.

Technology is also starting to play a bigger role in bore surfing. Detailed tide prediction apps help surfers plan their trips with greater accuracy. Some riders use GPS trackers to measure their ride distances and speeds, adding a competitive element to the sport.

The Natural Appeal

For many, the appeal of bore surfing lies in its connection to natural cycles. It’s a sport governed by the moon and tides, a reminder of the powerful forces that shape our planet. In a world of artificial wave pools and controlled environments, tidal bores offer a wild, unpredictable alternative.

The diversity of bore surfing spots around the world means that no two experiences are quite the same. From the muddy waters of Southeast Asia to the clear streams of Alaska, each location offers its own unique challenges and rewards.

Looking Ahead

As interest in alternative surf experiences grows, tidal bore surfing is likely to attract more attention. Whether it remains a niche pursuit or grows into something bigger remains to be seen. For now, a small but dedicated group of wave riders continue to chase the thrill of surfing upstream, always in sync with the rhythm of the tides.

^{Photo courtesy of Trevor Gertridge}