As many of the other reviews attest, Rick is a great instructor.He spent 30 minutes with me talking about surfing and waves and beach dynamics before we even went in the water.Unlike the other surf establishments I saw on Bangtao Bay that appear to just rent out boards to travelers and send them on their way into the waves, Rick takes the time to teach you to surf.I was up and surfing on the board with 10-15 minutes, thanks to his attentiveness.I will plan to spend another day (or two) on the water with him during our next visit to Bangtao Bay.