What are the typical weather patterns you look for when going to Cape Verde?
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In his relentless pursuit of swell, Kai Katchadourian recently returned to Cabo Verde, chasing wind and waves during prime season. With this trip, he celebrates an incredible milestone — 30 years of riding the magical waves of the Cabo Verde islands.
Over the decades, Kai has built a long list of unforgettable sessions and shared countless special moments on the water with fellow sailors. The islands have become more than just a destination — they are a cornerstone of his wave-riding journey.
We took the opportunity to catch up with Kai to talk about his long-standing connection with Cabo Verde and to reflect on some of his most memorable trips.
Looking back at 30 years of trips to Cape Verde, what keeps drawing you back to these islands season after season?
Kai – Without a doubt, the waves in Cabo Verde offer a chance to utilize a surfing type approach to these mostly Point Break type of waves. Ponta Preta, Ali Baba, Curral Joul, and the other spots, they are unique and offer their own separate challenges based on Wind Direction, Swell Direction, and what approach you choose.
How have the waves and your approach to riding big surf evolved over the decades?
Kai – It is all about being a risk technician, and calculating what level of acceptable risk you are willing to take to achieve. The more familiar you are with certain locations, the more comfortable you get. So after 30 years, the experience allows you to draw lines that you had imagined when you first saw what was possible.
Can you share one or two standout sessions that truly define your Cape Verde experience?
Kai – February 2013 remains the session at Ali Baba that will remain etched in my memory. More recently, the last trip in this year we had a similar look, Ali Baba just going endlessly down the line about 1.4 Kilometers long, rides well over a minute and a half. Very challenging and for sure a lifetime memory.
Cape Verde is known for powerful, long-period swell. What makes sailing big waves there unique compared to other world-class wave spots such as Hookipa?
Kai – The waves in Cabo Verde are typically long period and very refined, breaking over rocky points, and bending into shape, breaking super clean and smooth. You don’t even look at the contour of the water off the bottom turn. You can fully concentrate on your line, and attack with no reservations. You just have to make sure you are going to make the sections, and it is at times quite challenging to do so.
After three decades of charging heavy conditions, what still excites you most when you see a solid swell forecast for Cape Verde?
Kai – It is always a feeling that these sessions will be the highlight of the year for me. Getting to share the stoke with a crew that has been dedicated to the same pursuit. The variables of what direction the incoming swell is will determine the level of anticipation. Ponta Preta and Ali Baba offer their own set of challenges and rewards. It draws a deep sense of connection to the many years I have spent scoring those spots. Lots of memories come up before the trip starts, how this will compare to other missions ? They all have a story to them that is for sure.
What are the typical weather patterns you look for when going to Cape Verde?
Kai – If you ever see the news talk about a blizzard on the East Coast of the USA, then its almost a given that Cabo Verde is about to get big. One wants a long fetch to develop in the North Atlantic, aimed at Cabo Verde, but you also want those to be positioned and moving a certain way to deliver days of swell not just a quick shot.
And when is your next trip?
Kai – The next trip is the best trip !! Cannot wait to head back. The season is not over yet. It has been a good one with two missions already. Will there be a third ? Time will tell.
Read more about Kai’s Cabo Verde trips in Windsurf Magazine: https://www.windsurf.co.uk/kai-katchadourian-triple-strike-mission/
Photo Credits:
@Siam_images
@natcutbak
Archive photos by: Joao Barbosa, Alberto Crivilari, Gabriele Rumbolo, Tozat Photography
