The Waterman Festival celebrates surfing, wind-surfing and kite-surfing with an exciting series of competitive events. These sports have formed a huge part of Bajan beach culture and official competitions began to be organized for them in 1989.

As the furthest Caribbean island set into the windy Atlantic ocean, Barbados can claim perfect natural conditions for surfing sports of all kinds. World class athletes have trained and competed here, such as windsurfer O’Neal Marshall, an Olympian and past winner of the Waterman Festival, Roger Edgehill, talented at all surfing sports and a sailmaker in his time on land, and Mark Holder and Alan Burke,  recognized international surfers.

Local legend Brian Talma became the promoter for this festival after 15 years touring for the Professional Windsurfing Associations. The incredibly popular "Irie-Man" is the genuine article in the emerging arena of sports tourism in Barbados. Blonde, bronzed and buff, he seems to have been born on the beach, and his enthusiasm has left its mark on the distinctive character of the festival. He has become known for spotting trend-setting moments in beach culture and is well-respected as one of surfing's own.

The Waterman Festival lasts for three weekends surrounding the first two weeks in February. Activities will take place all over the island, but has been centred around the Silver Rock Beach Resort in past years. Most events are composed of invited professionals, but amateurs and touring professionals also have the opportunity to participate. Hot social events are the surfer buffet and the sunset 'deAction Beach Party' at Talma's Irie Man Action Shop in Silver Rock.

Come and join us, man.


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