As a year-round resident of Nantucket, it’s safe to say we look for the best in every situation, even when inclement weather impacts our daily island lives. This was proven last weekend when the bomb cyclone caused damage to the roads, sewer system and the island as a whole. The boats stopped running as the harbor flooded and froze over. Yet, with all the craziness, we received a beautiful gift that we all embraced. The island was brought together on the beach and witnessed a natural phenomenon that may only happen a few times in our lifetime.
The “slurpee waves” that were captured by Jonathan Nimerfroh last winter returned and went viral for a second time. Search #slurpeewaves to see all the different images captured by local photographers. On Saturday morning I drove out to check the waves and saw something truly amazing. The slushy waves were breaking on the shore with a silky-sounding buzz that was incredible. My first instinct was to grab my 5mm wetsuit, gloves and booties. Without hesitation I jumped in at Nobadeer Beach despite the fact that the water temperature was in the 40s! I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to surf in water that hasn’t been seen by many people before.
Slurpee Waves from January 6th, 2018
The consistency of the slurpee wave was amazing. It felt like I was swimming in a giant Slush Puppy machine. Tiny ice marbles stacked up and formed a three foot thick layer with intricate detail. I imagined this is what quicksand might feel like. I tried to paddle beyond the slush but I could barely stay on my board due to the tiny chunks of ice. Amazingly, my wet suit kept me quite warm. It wasn’t until I got out of the water and felt the wind chill that I got cold.
It was such a cool (pun intended) experience and I am so happy this island gave me an opportunity to experience something like that. The hot cocao and shower helped a great deal post-swim and, given the opportunity to do it again, I wouldn’t hesitate to jump back in!
Interested in learning how to surf on Nantucket? Read my blog Nantucket Surfing 101
