Riding Giants with Marco Medeiros: The Azores’ Own Big Wave Guardian

When the ocean roars to life on the north coast of São Miguel, few people know its moods and movements better than Marco Medeiros. A third-generation firefighter, deputy fire chief, lifeguard, and ocean rescuer, Marco has spent decades dedicating his life to training — and protecting — those who dare to dance with the sea’s raw power.

Marco Medeiros in his office at the Ribeira Grande Fire Department

From Lifesaver to Legend

Born and raised in the Azores, Marco’s connection to the ocean runs deep. Although his career began in lifesaving and emergency response, Marco’s passion for the waves soon took him far beyond the shoreline. Over the years, Marco has become one of Portugal’s most respected water safety specialists, working alongside world-renowned surfers such as Nic von Rupp and most notably Sebastian Steudtner, as part of the rescue team on the day Steudtner surfed the Guinness World Record-breaking wave at Nazaré — officially recognized as the biggest wave ever ridden.

As a certified member of the Big Wave Risk Assessment Group (BWRAG), Marco blends high-level technical skill with the calm precision of a professional firefighter. Whether piloting a rescue jet ski in 50-foot surf or leading a safety briefing for a group of aspiring wave riders, his approach is grounded in preparation, awareness, and respect for the ocean’s power.

Bringing Nazaré-Level Expertise to the Azores

In February 2026, surfers will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train and tow-in with Marco during the Big Wave Surf Retreat in the Azores. Designed for intermediate to advanced surfers, this immersive experience offers hands-on coaching in jet ski-assisted surfing — all under Marco’s direct guidance.

Participants will learn the foundations of tow-in surfing, from safety protocols and communication to positioning, timing, and the mental preparation required to chase larger swells. Combined with breath-hold and surf survival training, this program offers a rare and safe way to experience the thrill of big wave surfing in one of the Atlantic’s most awe-inspiring locations.

More Than a Rescue Specialist — A Protector of the Sea

Beyond his global surf credentials, Marco embodies the Azorean spirit: humble, grounded, and deeply attuned to nature. When he’s not piloting rescue missions, or towing pro surfers into big waves, you’ll find him exploring São Miguel’s rugged coastline, teaching the next generation of north coast lifeguards, or sharing stories about the ocean’s lessons.

For Marco, big wave surfing isn’t about ego or record-breaking. It’s about connection, trust, and respect — between humans, machines, and the mighty Atlantic itself. Accordingly, the connection, trust, and respect that Marco embodies is contained within the firefighter’ motto “Vida por Vida” (“Life for Life”), which he lives and breathes: “I will give my life to save your life. I will never say no.”

Join Marco in 2026

This February 2026, you can join Marco Medeiros and Surf Team Canada athlete Adam Tory for a transformative week of big wave training, tow-in sessions, and ocean safety mastery. It’s not just about chasing waves — it’s about unlocking courage, skill, and a deeper relationship with the sea.

Spaces for this exclusive program are limited. To learn more about the Big Wave Surf Retreat and reserve your spot, click here.

Photos by Victor Oonk, Lifton Media.