Ayad Al-Tuhafi on the Seychelles Exotic Boogie
It all started with a spontaneous decision. A friend from the skydiving community mentioned an event in the Seychelles, and once I saw the photographs of the landing zones on pristine beaches and tiny islands surrounded by turquoise water, I knew I had to go. The idea of exiting an aircraft and touching down on white sand framed by the ocean felt extraordinary. It promised something unlike any other drop zone I had experienced.
Although I have been involved in the sport for 40 years, this was going to be my first tropical boogie and my first beach landings, an experience that added a whole new layer of excitement.
Upon arrival, I met the organizers, Herman and Dario, two legends of the sport. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. Skydivers from around the world had gathered, united by a shared passion that needed no words. Everyone was eager to jump, learn, and have fun. The jumps themselves were nothing short of spectacular. From altitude, the islands appeared like scattered emeralds floating on a sheet of glass. Landing softly on warm sand with the ocean just meters away felt like a dream, one of those jumps that stays with you forever.
Bird Island
On the first jumping day, the decision was made to head for Bird Island. The view from the plane was breathtaking, an endless expanse of ocean with coral reefs glowing beneath the surface. With predictable winds, setting a clear and safe landing pattern was effortless. Touching down on the soft, powdery sand felt surreal, but the real magic began after landing. Thousands of birds surrounded us, their calls echoing in celebration as if welcoming us to their island. They escorted us toward the open truck waiting to take us to the island’s restaurant and bar. And as if the birds were not enough, our short drive was graced by the sight of giant tortoises that have lived on the island for centuries. To experience three jumps in a single day in such a paradise felt almost unreal, and I cannot describe how lucky we were.
Grand Anse
The days that followed took us to the equally stunning beach of Grand Anse. Its long stretch of sand and shifting tides added a new challenge, making every approach a little more technical and every landing even more rewarding. We managed seven more jumps there, each one as beautiful as the last, framed by crystal water, swaying palms, and the distant hum of the island coming to life. It was pure joy from takeoff to touchdown.
The Spirit of the Skydiving Event
What made this event truly special was its spirit. It was not about competition or chasing records. It was about celebrating the pure essence of skydiving in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The organizers created a seamless, relaxed, and safe experience where everything seemed to flow effortlessly.
Herman and Dario were surrounded by an incredible team of professional camera flyers who captured memories for a lifetime. Family members joined in, adding warmth to the atmosphere. The event was supported by skilled pilots and the thrill of jumping from military planes alongside local skydivers who blended perfectly into the team.
The overall mood was that of a tropical holiday: welcoming dinners, beachside barbecues, days spent on the sand, shared meals, endless laughter, and new friendships that will last forever.
Looking Ahead
Skydiving in the Seychelles reminded me why I love this sport. It is about more than the freefall or the perfect landing. It is about the community, the spirit, the care we show for one another, and the extraordinary places skydiving takes us.
As a result of this trip, I am determined to join this group whenever possible. It did not take much convincing for me to book another boogie next week in Egypt, and there is already talk of more tropical adventures to come. The best news is that the Seychelles boogie will return next April, and we cannot wait to be part of it again and bring more friends along.
Herman and Dario, you are the best ambassadors our sport could ask for. It was an absolute honour to share the sky with you.
Acknowledgments
PS: Special thanks to:
Col. Michael Hollanda, Chief of Staff, Seychelles Defence Forces
Commander Rodney Zarine, Seychelles Air Force
Capt. Don Du Preez, Seychelles Air Force
Alex Savy and Lucas Savy, Owner and Manager Bird Island
Matthew Botha and Bernard Lammerding, PAC-750XL Pilots
Billy Sharman, PAC-750XL Owner and guest camera flyer
Nicu Pulfer and Sebo Jotti, camera flyers
Rene Sta van Uiter, Tandem Instructor
