The Surf
Savu and Rote is a region that cops stronger wind than most places in Indonesia, which often brings cross-chop to line-ups that look like they should be offshore. Like Sumba, there are more breaks to be sniffed out, but wind direction and strength will be critical, as will the direction that the swell arrives through the narrow SSW to W window. West Timor’s far southern coast is SW swell exposed at a couple of obvious reef set-ups, but it soon transforms into long sandy beaches and large rivermouths bringing sediment from the mountainous interior.
Coupled with geographical isolation from the main Indonesian surf hubs, the islands of Savu (also spelt Sawu, Sabu, Hawu, etc) and Rote have remained a bit of a frontier, with most surfers looking to escape the Bali crowds heading to Nusa Tenggara’s more accessible islands of Lombok and Sumbawa. Tucked in above Australia, this region has a narrow swell window with only its SW corner facing the Indian Ocean swells, so can suffer flat spells when the rest of Indo is working on a due S. But in typical Indo fashion, minor islands can hide major surf breaks and Rote, Savu and the surrounding outcrops are no exception, roaring to life in a straight SW swell.
Find more general info about when to go and statistics on the Low Pressure’s Stormrider Guide’s website.
Conditions provided by the Operator
About the island
Rote Island (Indonesia Pulau Rote, also spelled Roti) is an island of Indonesia, part of the East Nusa Tenggara province of the Lesser Sunda Islands. The island is mostly inhabited by friendly Christian. It has an area of 1,200 km2 (463 sq mi).
It lies 500 km (311 mi) northeast of the Australian coast and 170 km (106 mi) northeast of the Ashmore and Cartier Islands. The island is situated to the southwest of the larger island of Timor. To the north is the Savu Sea, and to the south is the Timor Sea.
To the west is Savu and Sumba. The uninhabited Dana Island (also called Ndana), just south of Rote, with an area of 14 km2 (5 sq mi), is the southernmost island of Indonesia.
Along with some other nearby small islands, such as Ndao, it forms the kabupaten (regency) of Roti Ndao, which in 2005 held an estimated population of 108,615.
The main town, called Baa, is located in the north of the island. It has a great surf area in the south around the villages of Nembrala and Boa. There is a daily ferry to the island from Kupang, the provincial capital on West Timor, which brings tourists.
Surfing conditions
Rote has plenty of different waves to offer, all in easy reach of the property. Here is a description of some of the surf spots available in Rote.
Boa
Medium to advance right hand wave
Solid barrel’s, 3 section the will link perfectly
Very esthetic wave, long rides and steep walls,
Works on all swell, the bigger the heavier!!
Works from Sept to April consistently
Works trough the rest of the years less consistent
Nembrala
Beginner to advance wave left hander
Super fun wave, very mellow, has a great shape
Very consistent, will handle very big swell 15ft +
Nicked name the old man G land
Works from March to Sept
Dana Point
Medium to Advance wave left hander
Very hollow, sucks a lot and pretty fast
Shallow reef, work on high tides and right wind.
Not consistent, works from May to Sept
Speedy’s
Good for beginners, right hander
Very fun accessible wave,
Fast a beautiful shape
Surf on medium high tide
Works from Nov to March
Sucky Mama’s
Medium to advance right
Nice easy barrel, needs swell
A bit heavy on the inside
Works from May to Aug
There is many more waves around the little islands. Different types of waves for all kinds of surfer: from the beginner that’s looking to learn in peace to the hard core surfers who want thick gnarly barrels. We have a 7m/23ft twin 60hp top of the line speed/fishing boat for hire named the “Blue Note”, she can take up to 8 people with surf boards to any of the surfs spots that are a little further in minutes. A car is also there to drive you if needed.
Other facts
Rote has many historical relics including fine antique Chinese porcelain, as well as ancient arts and traditions. Many prominent Indonesia nationalist leaders were born here. A popular music instrument the “Sasando”, which is made of palm leaves.
There’s also a traditional horse race this is only done once every 6 months. Rote is also specialized in the delicious palm sugar(made from the lontar palm), traditional coconut oil, and also a beautiful tasting honey!
According to legend, this island got its name accidentally when a lost Portuguese sailor arrived and asked a farmer where he was. The surprised farmer, who could not speak Portuguese, introduced himself, "Rote".
Rote just off the southern tip of Timor Island consists of rolling hills, terraced plantations, and acacia palm, savanna and some forests. The Rotinese depend, like the Savunese, on lontar palm for basic survival, but also as the supplement their income with fishing and jewelry making.
The critically endangered Roti Island Snake-necked Turtle is endemic to Rote Island.
Agriculture is the main form of employment. Fishing is also important, especially in the eastern village of Papela, which has led to disputes with Australia over the water between them.
