News24 | Riaan Manser | I took my boys on a surf safari and the lessons were unexpected

Outdoors Editor Riaan Manser gets behind the wheel of a new family car and takes his boys on a surf lesson with some unexpected results.

Welcome to News24 Outdoors, driven by Ford. This week, Outdoors Editor Riaan Manser gets behind a new family car and takes his boys on a surf lesson with some unexpected results.

“Can’t beat the feeling,” was the slogan a popular global brand used in the nineties.

You certainly can’t.

Everything we do, we do for the feelings it gives us. From closing a big deal that will earn you a decent pay cheque, to kissing the belle of the ball, it’s all about the feeling.

So too was the surf lesson with my boys on Sunday morning: waking up early to see the groans and slow stretches turn into enthusiastic action, and the humbling feeling of packing the Ford Tourneo bus for the first time.

“It will never all fit!” the boys groaned.

“Thanks, Mr Negative!!” The response: “Let us show you!”

Four surfboards, three bags, towels and two solidly built youngsters later, and we weren’t even cramped for space. We had even planned to use the very unique and easy-to-use roof racks for the boards to save space inside, but there was no need for that.

And off we were, myself in the ultra-luxurious captain’s seat, sipping the coffee Mom had made for me before she was off to cycle. Commandeering our spaceship along the winding coastal road was special. The route is the most underrated in the country. Every day, no matter the weather, it delivers the views.

Ford, as a partner of the Outdoors segment at News24, has asked me to be as honest in every review. And so I shall be.

That coconut smell of surf wax that we had lingering in the air should be a standard option for air fresheners in every Tourneo! That feeling of combined smiles, excitement and trepidation (we had never surfed at Koeël Bay on famous Clarence Drive) covered in a waft of surf wax in the air. Ah! What a start to our Sunday!

The biggest concern so many people have asked me about is the size of the vehicle and the problems parking it. Well, firstly, we’re living in the second quarter of the 21st century, people – 360-degree cameras show you everything. Even when the baboons are not budging an inch, you’re still able to ease into a parking space.

The other surprise is the obvious one. With the front wheels so forward, your turning circle becomes a breeze.

READ | Getting Outdoors: Old Mac Daddy’s caravans, kayaks and ‘beach’ is this week’s pick

Talking of breezes, none to be had on this isolated beach of False Bay. We explored a bit first. Kids doing kids’ things and dads moaning at kids for doing dangerous kids’ things. You know, just making some family memories.

One surf lesson recap and we were at it. Samuel was uninterested today, while James gave it everything he could. Unexpected.

For me, the morning played out as a permanent coaching role with no chance of my board even getting wet. Again, unexpected.

James got up on a few waves, we all cheered, and Mom brought some snacks and more coffee.

Things were perfect, and we captured it all on video.

Like I said: “You can’t beat the feeling.”

We as a family need and deserve more days like this.

The Outdoors is screaming for you - time to listen.

- Riaan Manser is a pioneering international explorer with multiple world-firsts and brings a team as the new outdoors editor of News24 Outdoors, driven by Ford.