What is it really like to carve out a career as a professional big wave surfer? How
does one maintain the desire and hunger after life-threatening injuries, endless beat-downs, and the constant risk of not surviving to tell the tale?
Hailing from North Devon in South West England, known for its dramatic cliffs and wild seas, Andrew had always dreamed of building a life around surfing. Drawn by the challenges and inspired by the freedom, it’s the feeling of surfing that keeps him motivated, not just the big waves.
Photos by Leo Francis – Red Bull Content Pool
“Growing up in North Devon, the sea was always part of my world. The freedom, the challenge, the constant humbling nature of the ocean — I think that’s what it is. I can’t really imagine life without surfing. That’s what keeps me coming back.”
Unlike so many pro surfers in the world today, Andrew’s career wasn’t exactly straightforward from the get-go. In the earlier years of adulthood, Andrew split his time between a plumbing apprenticeship and chasing monstrous swells wherever and whenever he could. His dedication and passion soon led to him connecting with renowned big wave surfer Garrett McNamara, who first noticed Andrew’s big wave prowess at Ireland’s famed Mullaghmore slab.
In 2010, Garrett invited Andrew to be a part of his surf team in Nazaré in an endeavour to surf the biggest waves that anyone had attempted. One year later, Andrew was responsible for towing Garrett into the world’s largest wave at the time, measuring 78 feet — a record that stood until 2017.
It was clear that Andrew wasn’t going to be a plumber for much longer. In 2013, he decided to pursue his passion and make a living doing what he loved.
“Big wave surfing’s all about passion and the love of riding those waves. You just find a way to make it work. I gradually steered away from the construction side of things and focused on turning surfing into a career — and I’m grateful it’s worked out the way it has.”
I don’t think even Andrew could have imagined what the next few years had in store for him. His friendship with Garrett McNamara led to his involvement in the hugely successful TV series, 100 Foot Wave.
“Originally, I think Garrett was working on a documentary about his own career, but once the directors saw the footage, it shifted into more of a series format. It just snowballed from there — what started as a 45-minute film turned into a full-blown show about big wave surfing and everything around it.
Photo 1: Jorge Leal – Red Bull Content Pool. Photo 2 & 3: Hugo Silva – Red Bull Content Pool.
“I’ve been lucky to be part of it from the start. It’s been a wild ride, and I think it’s even given Garrett new motivation — he’s still out there, still charging, still getting incredible waves and barrels at Nazaré and beyond.”
From plumbing to surfing the world’s biggest waves, filming multiple seasons, globetrotting, and everything in between, Andrew’s surfing journey hasn’t come without its challenges.
“I’ve had a lot of injuries over the years — three ACL reconstructions, broken backs, shoulders, concussions… the list goes on. As I get older, it’s a constant battle to stay fit and manage the aches and pains.”
Andrew’s broken back at Nazaré in 2017 stands out in particular as one of the worst wipeouts that the Portuguese wave has ever inflicted. After a 50 to 60-foot wave closed down on Andrew, he was catapulted 40 feet into the air, and on impact, he shattered his L2 vertebra.
Fellow big wave surfer, Hugo Vau, rescued Andrew by jet ski before he was rushed to the hospital. After such a scare, anyone would be understood for taking the foot off the gas and renouncing big waves, but not Andrew.
“It was a huge opportunity to learn more about my body and my mindset. Of course, there were low points — moments of doubt and questioning why I do this. But deep down, I knew I wasn’t going to end my career on a wipeout.
“At the end of the day, I had to ask myself, ‘Am I happier surfing big waves, or stopping?’ The answer was clear — I’m happier pushing myself, staying in it, and seeing what I’m capable of.”
Photo 1: Leo Francis – Red Bull Content Pool. Photo 2: Pedro Bala – Red Bull Content Pool. Photo 3: Richie Hopson – Red Bull Content Pool.
Andrew’s mindset started to change, and the way he looked at his career was further influenced by fatherhood. Suddenly, it wasn’t just about the adrenaline fix.
“Becoming a dad definitely shifted things. It made me double down and approach surfing more professionally. It wasn’t just about chasing waves anymore — I started to treat it like a business. I had to earn a living, stay fit, stay safe, and stay focused.
“In a lot of ways, it was a game-changer. That responsibility gave me clarity and actually pushed me to be better, more disciplined, more prepared, and more aware of the risks.”
Outside of surfing, Andrew divides his time between Portugal, the UK, and the French mountains, where his partner Justine is based. When he’s not snowboarding in the Alps, Andrew does corporate speaking. This not only helps fund his surf career, but also allows him to share experiences and connect with people outside the surf industry.
“I talk about risk, reward, teamwork, recovery from setbacks — all the stuff that goes into riding big waves and how it connects to real life and business.”
“There’s a whole side to professional surfing that people don’t see — the hard work, the sacrifices, the behind-the-scenes effort to make it all happen. It’s not as glamorous as it might look on social media. There’s a lot more to it than just dropping into giant waves.”
Photos by Richie Hopson – Red Bull Content Pool
When asked whether he would want his kids to follow in his footsteps, Andrew’s answer reflects perhaps one of his most admirable values: following one’s passion.
“I’d be stoked, to be honest. I’ve always tried to give them the freedom to explore different sports and use their imagination when it comes to what’s possible.
“That said, kids are kids — they don’t always want to do what you love. My dad was mad about football, and I couldn’t stand it. So, I get it.
“For me, it’s more about getting them outside and using nature as a positive influence. Sport has had such a big impact on shaping who I am — if I can pass that on in any form, I’m happy.”
