Surfer and travel influencer Giulia Manfrini passed away after being stabbed by a swordfish in Indonesia. She was 36. The Italian national was stabbed in the chest by what is assumed to be a swordfish. She was surfing off Masokut Island, known as a popular surf destination, earlier this month.
Manfrini had a wound about 2 inches deep and was transported to a local medical facility; but, did not survive. Manfrini was a professional snowboarder before she discovered her passion for surfing. She also worked as an instructor and co-founded AWAVE Travel. Her co-founder of AWAVE travel posted a tribute to Manfrini.
“It is with the deepest sadness that I have to announce the passing of Giulia Manfrini, one of AWAVE Travels co-founders. Giulia was surfing in remote Indonesia and suffered a freak accident. Unfortunately, even with the brave efforts of her partner, local resort staff and doctors, Giulia couldn’t be saved. We believe she died doing what she loved, in a place that she loved. Giulia was the lifeblood of this company and her infectious enthusiasm for surf, snow and life will be remembered by all that came in contact with her.
Giulia couldn’t travel without people falling in love with her smile, laugh and endless Stoke. Anyone was lucky to have her onboard a charter or surf trip! AWAVE Travel will still be operating and our team will be available to handle all ongoing trips. We value your kind words, memories of Giulia and all that she leaves behind. We love you Giulia. I am so sorry to say goodbye.” James Co-Founder AWAVE Travel
According to TMZ, she described herself as a “surf frother”—someone deeply enthusiastic about surfing—and a snow sports addict, Manfrini embraced both the waves and the mountains with equal passion.
Though she studied law at university, her life took an unexpected turn when she became a surfing instructor. Documenting her journey through photos and videos both on and off the waves, Manfrini built a loyal following of 24,000 fans on Instagram.
The Mayor of her town outside of Turin, Italy, posted to Facebook about his sorrow over Manfrini’s death. He wrote (translated by Facebook):
“The entire Venarian community is gathering around Giulia Manfrini’s family.
The news of her death has left us shocked and makes us feel powerless in front of the tragedy that took her life so prematurely.
Giulia, from Venaria, only 36 years old, had long had her double dream of surfing, her favorite sport, and of opening a travel agency for sports holidays. And so, in the middle of life, he misses his loved ones in such a tragic way in the Indian Ocean.
To mum Chiara, dad Giorgio and all the people who loved her, a touched hug from me and the whole City.”
Rest In Peace.
