FAQs
LOCATION
SURF LESSONS
BOOK CHANGING, CANCELLATION POLICY & REFUNDS
EXTRA SERVICES
LOCATION
WHERE EXACTLY ARE YOU?
See Europe? Great! Now, slide your eyes down to the south and the way west until you find Portugal at the very edge. Ericeira is right on the coast, about 35km from Lisbon. It has 8km of beaches, offering the continent’s best surf conditions for all levels. Here's our exact location and instructions for getting here.
WHAT SO SPECIAL ABOUT ERICEIRA?
Everything, really. From the narrow cobbled streets overlooking the Atlantic to the 8km of protected coast on the south-west edge of Europe. This ancient village was made the first World Surf Reserve in Europe in 2011, second in the world. Here you have the most incredible blend of tradition and excitement; the most delicious food and stunning ocean sunsets every day.
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENCY?
Portugal is under the Euro, and that is the only currency we accept at Magikvanilla. (We take hugs too, if you’re a regular :)
WHAT CAN I DO IN ERICEIRA?
Ericeira is full of life, especially during the sunny seasons. People on the street, lovely shops, an excellent variety of cafes, restaurants, bars, and even a Club open until 6 am in the Summer.
ARE THERE PUBLIC TRANSPORTS TO ERICEIRA?
Yes. On average, you can arrive by taxi for 65€/ 75€ or by bus for less than 10€ per person. You’ll need to get on the tube to Campo Grande station and then take the bus to Ericeira. That will take around 90 minutes and cost less than 10€. You can also take a UBER for under 50,00€ (daytime).
WHAT ABOUT NIGHTLIFE?
Ericeira has many cafes, esplanades and bars open until late. We traditionally have late dinners and long nights when it comes to partying. So, if you're not surfing in the morning after, you can go clubbing up to 6 am in the Summer.
SURF LESSONS
AT WHAT TIME ARE THE LESSONS, AND FOR HOW LONG?
The times depend on sea conditions, which vary daily. So, we check the forecasts daily to choose the best time. Throughout the week, you may have early sessions or sunset surf. The experience will take you around 3h30 from pick-up, beach time, wash-off, and drop-off at Magikvanilla.
DO YOU OFFER BEACH TRANSFERS?
We pick you up and drop you off at a designated meeting point. If you fancy exploring other beaches, the local Beach Bus covers the coast and will take you to many different beaches in Ericeira.
DO I NEED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE TO JOIN SURF LESSONS?
Unless you’ve signed up for intermediate or advanced classes, you won’t need any experience. To swim confidently in the ocean, be eager to learn, and keep a positive attitude. We have much experience with beginners, and we’re stoked to share the first wave with you.
Could you just read our Terms & Conditions before your first surf?
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY EQUIPMENT?
Unless you’re dying to get your gear out, you won't need anything. Your lessons include wetsuits, boards, leashes, and wax to personal and public liability insurance. You can request surf boots in advance if you need them (most people don't).
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGES?
All packages include gear, personal and public liability insurance, and transfers. If you've signed up for our Week Surf Course, your pack will include video analysis and photo sessions.
CAN I GET INTERMEDIATE SURF SESSIONS AT MAGIKVANILLA?
Sure! If you’re ready for it, we couldn’t be more excited. You can book lessons during your week or a Green Waves pack with one-on-one coaching, surf theory, technique, and video analysis. But as an intermediate surfer you understand that only if conditions allow we are able to take you out the back;)
HOW EXPERIENCED ARE MAGIKVANILLA’S INSTRUCTORS?
All of them are fully qualified instructors and lifesavers, credited by the International Surf Association (L2) and the Portuguese Surf Federation. In addition to their personal surfing experience worldwide, each one has thousands of sea hours in class, an average of 20 years of surfing, and more than 10 years of teaching experience with all learning levels.
WHAT IS THE GROUP SIZE?
We like to keep a ratio of five or fewer guests per instructor to guarantee an excellent experience for everyone. That means one-on-one time, instant feedback, and higher safety levels. Regardless of your knowledge, they will be in the water with you, pushing you further and keeping you safe. We take, on average, 15 people per lesson with 3 or 4 instructors depending on ocean conditions. With large group bookings, we can extend the number of participants in one lesson and add the number of instructors necessary to give you a fantastic group experience.
WHAT IF I GET HURT?
The chances are pretty narrow, but you have nothing to worry about if it happens. All our instructors are first aid qualified; there is a complete first aid kit on the beach at all times, and plenty of pharmacies and a 24-hour Clinic less than 10 minutes away to assist you, regardless of nationality or insurance.
BOOK CHANGING, CANCELLATION POLICY & REFUNDS
CHANGING MY DATES
We'll try to accommodate any changes you ask for after confirming your booking. However, these changes are subject to course dates and instructors' availability.
We understand if you or anyone in your group unexpectedly cannot participate in a lesson or whole course experience. You may transfer the booking to another person. However, please let us know the new person's name and ensure a completed booking form is signed and returned to us before the lesson or course start date.
If your group size has decreased, we must be notified by e-mail to welcome@makikvanilla.com up to 3 weeks (21 days) in advance (before the starting date). If you don't let us know within this time frame, you will be responsible for paying the value of the original booking.
These measures are particularly important for bookings made with anticipation. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these policies.
IN THE EVENT I CAN'T MAKE IT CAN I PASS MY BOOKING TO ONE OF MY FRIENDS?
You may transfer the booking to another person. However, please let us know the new person's name and birth date. We will also need an email from the original participant consenting to this change. The new participant must ensure a completed booking form is signed and returned to us before the lesson or course start date.
WHAT'S THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
All cancellations must be sent as soon as possible via e-mail to welcome@magikvanilla.com or the WhatsApp number +351927199020. They will be effective on the date Magikvanilla receives the notification.
WHAT'S YOUR REFUND POLICY
For fully paid bookings made at least 30 days in advance:
- More than 21 days before the experience start date = 50% refund
- Less than 21 days before the experience start date = no refund.
For bookings made 30 days in advance, with a 50% deposit payment:
- No refunds.
For bookings made less 21 days before the experience (full payment required)
- No refunds.
This refund policy applies only to direct bookings. If you've booked through a tour operator, please be aware that their refund policies will apply to you.
EXTRA SERVICES
DO YOU OFFER VIDEO ANALYSIS?
Yes, we do! If you book a weekly pack, we’ll have a videographer on-site and a feedback session afterward. Video analysis is not included in single sessions unless you book 4+ lessons. Then, you can include it as an optional extra.
DO YOU OFFER PHOTOGRAPHY?
Yes, we do! If you book a weekly course pack, a photo session is included, and believe us, it is worth it;) A pro photographer will be on-site to capture your best moments (and some others, too:). Photos are not included in single sessions unless you book 4+ lessons. Then, you can include it as an optional extra (extra fee)