What is a surfing reef?

As the name implies, an artificial surfing reef (ASR) is an underwater man-made structure intended to create quality surf where there’s otherwise none. Since they are based in the ocean, ASR’s are different from the more confined artificial surfing waves or pools being developed in inland locations throughout the US.

Do reefs create waves?

Reef breaks are created by a reef under the water, often coral. The surrounding water can be quite deep, but due to the formation of the coral reef the waves will break there, often seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Reef breaks can offer fantastic waves but can also be famous for nasty injuries.

How much did Boscombe surf reef cost?

The original estimate for designing and building the reef was £1.4 million. The eventual cost was £3 million for the reef, and a total of £11 million for the redevelopment of the seafront area and the refurbishment of the pier.

What happened to Boscombe surf reef?

The £3.2m structure in Boscombe, Bournemouth, was shut in 2011 after it was damaged but reopened in April. The council has since rebranded it as a “multi-purpose” reef and said it had “huge potential” including for divers. Surfers have said no-one is using it as a surf venue.

What does the term artificial surfing reef mean?

From Beachapedia. As the name implies, an artificial surfing reef (ASR) is an underwater man-made structure intended to create quality surf where there’s otherwise none.

Where was the first surfing reef in the northern hemisphere?

Boscombe Surf Reef was an artificial reef built to enhance surfing conditions in Boscombe, Dorset, UK. The Boscombe Surf Reef was the first surfing reef to be constructed in the Northern Hemisphere.

Why was the surf reef built in Boscombe?

Boscombe, a district of Bournemouth, opted to build a surfing reef to provide a unique focal point for the town’s multi-million pound waterfront redevelopment effort. “The reef will give Boscombe beach its own identity, raise the profile of Boscombe and attract a large number of visitors on an annual basis.”

What’s the best way to surf Cardiff Reef?

Still doable at some spots if you’re still looking to take advantage of the topped-out SSW swell on tap (blending with minor NW energy), in the waist-chest high zone for better spots, pushing head high to slightly overhead for standouts.