Surf REC, a Portuguese startup using robotics and digital innovation, has begun operating its automated surf video recording system in Ribeira d’Ilhas, north of Ericeira, as part of a broader mission to make high-quality surf footage accessible to every wave rider.
Using robotic cameras positioned along the beach and controlled by a wearable tracking device, Surf REC allows surfers to film their sessions automatically and access their footage online. The system removes the need for personal cameras or external filming.
While the company plans to introduce an online coaching feature in later stages, its current focus is on simplifying the recording process and offering every surfer the chance to review, share, and learn from their rides.
From concept to reality
According to the company, Surf REC’s story began in 2013, when founder and current COO Afonso Maya came up with the idea of making surf videos accessible to all surfers, not just professionals.
The project was put on hold for some time and later revived after the pandemic, when Maya partnered with former World Surf League Top 100 surfer José Maria Ribeiro Ferreira, who now serves as CEO.
Maya and Ferreira began developing the system with the support of Portuguese robotics company IDMind. Co-founder and Chief Product and Marketing Officer Maeva Plasse also joined the founding team to lead product development, along with CTO Paulo Alvito, who contributed to the project’s technical implementation.
After about two years of development and testing, Surf REC’s system is now operating in Ribeira d’Ilhas. The site is part of the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve – a world-class surf zone covering around five kilometres of coastline with a high concentration of quality surf breaks.
How it works
The Surf REC system combines automated, auto-focus cameras installed on the beach with a tracking bracelet worn by surfers. The bracelet communicates with the recording setup to identify and follow each surfer in the water, allowing the cameras to automatically capture their rides without manual operation.
Surfers begin by creating an online account and logging in at the Surf REC kiosk at the beach. After putting on the bracelet, they can head into the water and surf as usual.
Once the session ends, all recorded footage is automatically uploaded to their account under “My Videos,” where it can be viewed, downloaded, or shared. The service runs on a pay-per-minute model (€0.25 per minute) and uses Stripe for secure payments.
Coaching and vision
Surf REC’s next development stage will introduce a coaching feature that connects surfers with certified instructors for one-on-one feedback. It will allow users to use their recorded clips within the same platform to receive tailored analysis, set goals, and track progress over time.
Coaches working with Surf REC are required to hold a minimum of FPS Level II credentials or demonstrate a high standard of surf coaching expertise, have at least five years of experience coaching athletes or intermediate surfers, and complete a free online training course aligned with the company’s standards.
Applications are open for coaches interested in joining the platform.
Looking ahead, Surf REC envisions a world where wave riders of every level can access surf footage and coaching on demand, connect globally, and experience surfing as a shared and collaborative journey.
Featured image: A surfer rides a wave in Ericeira, Portugal (Photo by Jarno Colijn on Unsplash)
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