When most families are hunkered down indoors during a hurricane, Whitner Slagsvol, a star of “Southern Charm,” and his uncle, the legendary Jimmy Buffett, are hitting the waves with surfboards in hand. The unlikely duo doesn’t let the threat of a hurricane stop them from enjoying some quality surf time together, even when an evacuation order looms.
Whenever Buffett is in Charleston, Whit shares that they always make time to catch up with family and hit the waves for a surf session. One memorable visit coincided with Hurricane Florence in September 2018, as the storm threatened the South Carolina coast. Despite the potential danger, the duo found themselves blessed with sunny skies, empty beaches, and perfect waves – a true treat for any surf enthusiast.
Despite the risky decision to surf during a hurricane, Whit recalls the spontaneous adventure with humor. A line from one of Buffett’s songs jokingly references surfing in a hurricane, which led to the pair unintentionally becoming the focus of worldwide attention. Within days, a photo of Whit and Buffett surfing had made its way to publications around the globe, with headlines declaring “Jimmy Buffett Surfing in a Hurricane” alongside a mention of Whit as well.
Buffett, known for his laid-back persona and love for the water, captured the moment on his Instagram account, acknowledging the daring act with a nod to his lyrics and a reminder to respect Mother Nature and listen to local authorities in such situations. The unexpected surf session turned into a memorable experience that became a talking point among fans and media outlets worldwide.
For Whit, surfing alongside his uncle and other influential figures in his life has always been a special experience. Whether catching waves with Buffett in Charleston or paddling out in Costa Rica with his active 72-year-old dad, the bond formed through these shared moments in the water is invaluable. Whit cherishes the opportunity to connect with these iconic figures and create lasting memories through their shared love of surfing.
During a trip to Mexico with fellow “Southern Charm” star Shep Rose, Whit had a chance to surf some unforgettable waves. The day was filled with great surf breaks and moments of pure joy as they navigated the ocean together. Despite the lack of footage to capture their epic rides, the memories of that day remain etched in Whit’s mind as a testament to the thrill and camaraderie that surfing brings.
“Southern Charm” airs on Bravo on Wednesday nights, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives of Whit and his friends as they navigate relationships, careers, and, of course, memorable surf sessions. From hurricane adventures with Jimmy Buffett to international surf trips with Shep, Whit’s passion for riding waves shines through, reminding us all of the joy that comes from embracing life’s unexpected adventures.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.