surfing camps. are they any good?

[DreamSurf]

i am considering to join some camps. 7 days spain 7 days morocco 7 days portugal. i have an impression because of advertisements. but hey advertising always shows it the ideal way. are they any good. do you learn a great deal?
its a broad question i know

[BoMan]

Think of hiring a surf camp in the same way you might hire a new employee for your company.

Make a job description
* Make a list of realistic skills that you are ready to learn
* The skills should be specific and measurable. (popup in one quick motion or carve a front side bottom turn)
* Include deal breakers (maximum cost, do you want individual or group attention)
* Prioritize the list.

Using the job description, write interview questions for the owner, manager or instructor. Don't accept info from a "clerk."

Check references - Are the teachers certified? Look for ratings. Contact folks who have been to the school.

This is an investment in YOU and worth the time to make it a good one!

[oldmansurfer]

Boman's response is great. I have never used any surf instruction or institutionalized surfing in any form but have heard great things about some of the surf camps here. I am sure the experience will change with the instructor and the institution.

[icetime]

There is a surf camp in Rabat Morocco if you ever consider going there go to Medina Surfing it's owned by a pro surfer that was in the 2011 pipe masters and he's trained a bunch of upcoming pro surfers here and it costs pretty low.

[jaffa1949]

I really agree with Bo Man on how to get the best from a surf camp, aqualifies instructor who can handle a genuinely developing surfer rather than a raw beginner in a mass class.
One who can give you what you need rather than having half an eye on the girls in Bikinis.
When you find one suitable, do a few things : if they have a selection boards try an occasional surf on another board , but if as I guess you would , hit the sessions on your personal board as much as possible.
Some schools video their students ( for a fee) but it is a great way to really find out where you are in your progress and sort the useless and ugly bits of your surfing out. This is when your self critique is really valuable.
Have a great trip back to Morocco, sweet waves and especially after North Sea cold and sloppy.