Cape Town Swell Course

What is it?

Founder of Wavescape, surf forecaster Spike, takes you on a journey into the ocean to see how storms form and produce waves. We see the destructive force of waves, video of intense hurricanes, freak wave damage, but also get a simple way to understand wave mechanics and wave period to better interpret weather models for our own forecasting. Get tips on the Internet, as well as big wave case studies of previous storm events. This fascinating, graphical journey brings home the catastrophic power of nature with a unique perspective that appeals to all ocean users or interested parties.

Who is it for?

Ocean sports people (surfers, sailors, kiters, boardsailors, divers, paddlers); marine industry (salvors, lifeguards, fisheries, shipping): recreation (beachgoers, anglers), etc.

Evening format

Part 1 (30 minutes)
We go into the deep ocean to examine the genesis of storms and the enormous energy that drives the winds that generate swell. We watch how this generation comprises three basic phases that results in the presence of swell propagating through the ocean to eventually create waves on the shore.

Part 2 (30 minutes)
We look at wave mechanics and how waves absorb energy and express this energy as they move through the ocean. A key signifier of this energy is peak period. We examine the anatomy of a groundswell and try to understand how sets are formed. Content warning! A mild dose of maths ahead.

- 30 minute break: includes chicken and vegetable curry, salad and drinks (beer, wine etc)

Part 3 (35 minutes)
We watch as swells start to shoal, or feel the sea floor, before they break. We discuss why surf spots break differently due to refraction, bathymetry and other geographical features. We chat about the Internet, weather models, and how to interpret data, with big wave and good wave case studies.

- 20 mins Q&A and open chat, Anecdotes, Case Studies

Details

Venue: 17 Benning Drive, Kommetjie, 7976
Time: 6pm to 8.30pm
Date: Thursday 18 August

Or go direct to Quicket here

Peer reviews

"You've read his twisted humour in the surf reports. Now experience it in person, with 'stories from the deep' - simple explanations of where waves come from, and a generally fascinating delve into weather patterns, storms and swell from around the world. Oh, and you also get a great dinner, a few beers and the chance to skinner with other surfers and kiters. Highly recommended!" -- Ian Henderson (kitesurfer)

"Over the years I have attended dozens of courses on various topics but nothing has the vibe of having a real enthusiast share his passion. Multo obrigado." -- Mike Ohlson, Richards Bay