Private Lesson or Group Lesson?
Each person has a different motivation to enter the ocean. Some are looking for fun and for new friendships, others want to evolve quickly and improve their technique, and there are those who simply want to overcome fear and gain confidence in the water. Therefore, we have created this article to help you understand the differences between a group surf lesson and a private one, listing the advantages and disadvantages of each format, to help you decide which one’s the best option for you.
Whatever your choice, the most important thing is to have fun, learn and fall in love with this lifestyle that begins – and never ends – at the beach.
Group Surf Lessons: Fun, Energy and Team Spirit
Group lessons are the most common and accessible format for those who want to learn how to surf. In our case these are composed of 5 students, at most per teacher, with similar levels.
Advantages of Group Classes:
– Social and fun environment: Ideal for those who like to share experiences, meet new people and feel the positive energy of the class.
– Collective motivation: Seeing your classmates progress inspires you to try again, even when the previous wave took you down.
– More affordable price: Group classes have a lower cost (40€), which allows you to maintain a more regular practice without major impact on your budget.
– Perfect for beginners: The light and relaxed atmosphere helps break the nervousness of the first waves.
Disadvantages:
– Less individual attention: the instructor divides his/her time between 5 students.
– The pace of the class may not be exactly your own – it may be a little slower or faster.
Recommended for: beginners, groups of friends, families and anyone who wants to learn in a relaxed and social environment.
Private Lessons: Total Focus and Rapid Progression
Private classes are individual (or semi-individual, if they are two or three people), fully customized. The instructor focuses exclusively on you, your doubts, your technique and your goals.
Advantages of Private Lessons:
– 100% personalized attention: the instructor adapts the class to your level, pace and style of learning.
– Faster progression: with constant feedback and immediate correction, you evolve more in less time.
– Lessons tailored to you: whether your goal is to catch the first wave, perfect the take-off or start doing manoeuvres, the lesson is shaped for you.
– Ideal for overcoming specific blockages: fear of waves, balance, reading the sea… everything can be worked with calm and focus.
– Greater flexibility: adjustable schedules and greater freedom to choose the best time and sea conditions.
Disadvantages:
– Higher price compared to group classes.
– Lower social component – total focus on technique, less sharing.
Recommended for: those who want to progress faster, intermediate or advanced surfers, and those who prefer a more personalized experience.
So… Which Should I Choose?
It all depends on what you are looking for. If your goal is to have fun, meet people and learn in a light and collective environment, group classes are perfect for you.
If you want to evolve quickly or correct technical details or if you have a specific goal, private classes could be a better investment.
At Carcavelos Surf School, we help you choose the ideal option – and in both cases, we promise the same thing: waves, progress and great energy!