Surf: From Libreville, the Mandji Express catamaran ferry crosses the Equator to Port-Gentil, Gabon’s economic capital, which trades in oil and timber. Off the tip of the peninsula, Mandji Island rises out of deep water, unlike anywhere else in West Africa. This undoubtedly makes it the most consistent area to surf, plus it is home to a classy left, Palplanche, which breaks about 25-30 days a year. Opposite the rusty steel jetties of an old erosion prevention program, the wave wraps around the NW of the island for up to 200m (650ft) with some tube sections. Offshore even in SW winds. Environment: Very inconsistent as it is tucked right around the corner and the swell has to wrap a long way.