Garrett McNamara surfed what is considered to be the biggest wave ever. The Hawaiian big wave rider caught the huge monster in Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal, during the ZON North Canyon Project 2011.
The wave caught by McNamara is estimated to be about 90 feet (30 meters).
On November 1, 2011, Garrett was tow-in surfing with Andrew Cotton and Al Mennie when he suddenly spotted this giant wave.
"Everything was perfect, the weather, the waves," said Al Mennie.
"Cotty and I surfed two big waves of about 60 feet, and then, when Garrett was ready, came a canyon wave of over 90 feet."
"The jet ski was the best place to see him riding the biggest wave I've ever seen."
"It was amazing. Most people would be scared, but Garrett was controlling everything in the critical part of the wave. It was an inspiring ride by an inspiring surfer", he adds.
The Nazaré Canyon
This was not the first time that Garrett McNamara rode giant waves at Praia do Norte.
The spot is under the influence of a phenomenon known as "Nazaré Canyon," which creates unusual monster waves.
The swell and wind direction conditions observed on McNamara's big day were quite special.
The local maritime authorities registered a wave of about 8 meters off the Nazaré coast in one of the buoys. With a WNW swell direction and a favorable wind, the canyon does the rest.
"I feel so blessed and honored to have been invited to explore this canyon and its special town. The waves here are such a mystery," added Garrett.
Watch the complete video of Garrett McNamara's big wave ride.