Nazaré Big Waves News

🌊 A GIANT scare with a happy ending

The drama of Carlos Burle at Praia do Norte

🌊 A GIANT scare with a happy ending

Yesterday, on December 3rd, 2025, Praia do Norte in Nazaré once again showed why it is known around the world — not only for its giant waves, but also for the moments that leave our hearts in our hands. Watch here the video by Above Creators with a summary of that day's big-wave surfing sessions.

The Brazilian surfer Carlos Burle, one of the most respected names in big-wave surfing, lived one of those episodes that nobody forgets. He was on one of those classic Nazaré bombs when, suddenly, the wave closed brutally and swallowed him completely.

But the worst was yet to come. As soon as he managed to resurface, the rest of the set came immediately after — a sequence of massive waves that leave no time to breathe, let alone regain control. Each wave that rolled through made the rescue more difficult and the distress of everyone watching even greater.

The support team immediately jumped into action, led by Lucas Chumbo on the jet ski. When he finally managed to grab Carlos Burle, he lost control of the watercraft and both fell into the water. The rescue seemed increasingly out of reach, but the skill of the experienced Lucas Chumbo was decisive, focusing all his efforts on keeping Carlos upright with his head above water. The rescue was completed by Willyam Santana, who, with great courage, managed to grab both surfers and bring them safely to the beach.

Burle was conscious but completely exhausted, trying to catch his breath. He received immediate assistance and, after hospital observation, was released unharmed — and we imagine very grateful that it had only been a major scare.

Once calmer, he sent a message reassuring everyone and thanking them for their support and kindness. And we all breathed a sigh of relief.

 
 
 
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Uma publicação partilhada por Carlos Burle (@carlosburle)

 

🌬️ A reminder of the power of the sea

Moments like this remind us that Nazaré is as majestic as it is unpredictable. Even for experienced surfers like Burle, the sea can always surprise — and not always in the best way. For some reason, the locals of Nazaré have always feared and respected their sea.

We will never forget the Brazilian surfer Márcio Freire, who passed away after surfing a big wave in Nazaré on January 5th, 2023. May his memory always remind us of the danger hidden behind every wave.

Big-wave surfing is a high-risk sport and we cannot romanticise it. Yesterday was a big scare… but one that ended well. And that is what truly matters.

 


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