Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is pleased to announce Australian teenage surf sensations Will and Luca Martin as the resort's 2025 Surfing Ambassadors. The brothers will visit Kandooma 9 - 17 October 2025, bringing a distinctly Australian energy to one of the world's most iconic surf destinations named Maldives' Best Surf Resort at the Travel Trade Maldives 2025 Awards for the second consecutive year.

The Martin Brothers: Australia's Next Big Thing in Surfing

Australia has consistently been at the forefront of global surfing, and the Martin brothers are carrying that torch.

Luca Martin (14): Currently ranked No. 2 in Australia for U/16s, Luca has amassed a string of junior titles, including the 2025 Queensland State Titles and the prestigious Billabong Occy Grom Comp at Snapper Rocks. Renowned for his speed, power, and flow, Luca is already sponsored by Quiksilver and is poised to become one of Australia's next great surf exports.

Will Martin (17): Ranked No. 6 in Australia for U/18s, Will is a natural all-around waterman. A Mad Huey's team rider, he commenced surfing at the tender age of three and has since established an impressive résumé, including a victory at the 2025 Open Men's Barney Miller Surf Comp. His training sessions at the legendary Billabong Pipe House in Hawaii have further honed his barrel-riding prowess.

Originally from Coffs Harbour and now based on Australia's Gold Coast, the brothers share the aspiration of competing together on the world tour.

For Australian surfers dreaming of the ultimate overseas wave, 'Kandooma Right' delivers. Just steps from the resort's sandy shores, this perfectly peeling right-hander is one of the Maldives' most sought-after breaks. Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, in partnership with Perfect Wave, offers surfers exclusive access to the wave, making it a bucket-list experience for Aussie surf travellers.

During their October visit, Perfect Wave will introduce the Martin brothers to the thrill of surfing in the Maldives, including Kandooma Right.  Will and Luca plan to capture the experience and share it with their social media followers to inspire the next generation of Australian surfing talent to visit the Maldives.

“Together with our partners Perfect Wave, we are excited to announce Will and Luca Martin as our Surfing Ambassadors taking the Kandooma Maldives brand to surfing circles in Australia,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.   “It is very exciting for us to see the Kandooma Maldives brand on their boards alongside their other sponsors including Quiksilver,” he added.

“Australians have always had a deep connection to the Maldives surf scene, and the Martin brothers embody the energy and joy that define surfing in both Australia and the Maldives. We can't wait for them to visit and inspire our guests and the wider Australian surf community.”

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives enjoys a unique partnership with surfing experts Perfect Wave, who manage the resort's surfing holidays, the island's signature wave 'Kandooma Right' and the entire surfing operation.

“It's important to us to ensure a crowd-free, sustainable, and high-quality surfing environment that protects both the waves and the reef ecosystem.  Working with Perfect Wave, ensures we get the balance right and tailor holiday experiences that suit and exceed the expectations of surfers,” said Mark. 

Speaking about the opportunity on behalf of his younger brother Luca and himself, Will Martin shared,

”We are so excited to be heading to Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, it's a surfers dream to be able to access a perfect right-hander, straight out front of where you're staying! So stoked to have this opportunity and to enjoy all that the resort has to offer.”

The surfing adventure extends beyond Kandooma Right.  Just a short boat ride away, surfers will find an exciting selection of reef breaks suited to various skill levels, including:  Tucky Joes/Boatyards - a fickle but legendary left-hander, known for its long, perfect, and intense ride; Riptides - a right-hand reef break running for up to 150m in the middle of a channel.  While strong currents can be present, it's a fantastic wave for longboarders, shortboarders and confident low-intermediate surfers; Quarters - this versatile wave offers something for everyone.  The outside section is mellow and ideal for beginners or longboarders, while the inside delivers a fast, fun right-hander and, on a good day, delivers perfect little barrels.

Guests staying at Kandooma during this special week will have the rare chance to watch two of Australia's brightest young surfers in action from Surf Corner.  For those who have booked their surfing vacation with Perfect Wave, they may even have the chance to paddle out alongside them.

For Australian surfers chasing warm water, flawless waves, and the comforts of a four-star resort,  Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is the perfect escape.  All surfing experiences must be booked as part of a Surfing Holiday with Perfect Wave at  https://www.perfectwavetravel.com/surf-trips/maldives/kandooma/

Located in the South Male atoll 40-45 minutes from the airport by boat, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a beautiful, natural island paradise.  White sand beaches, swaying coconut palms and turquoise waters form the backdrop for leisure pursuits and some of the best scuba diving in the Maldives. Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two-storey Beach Houses and the popular Overwater Villas.  Families are well catered for with a choice of 2- and 3-bedroom villas, as well as the Kandoo Kids' Club with its fun activities programme.  Six food and beverage outlets ensure healthy appetites are satisfied and the flavours of the Maldives are explored.  Guests seeking time out and relaxation will enjoy sun loungers and hammocks dotted around the island.  Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala offers a tranquil escape for body and mind.   https://maldives.holidayinnresorts.com/