Channel Islands Big Happy - Al Merrick - PU - FCS II - 3 Fin
Model: Big Happy
Construction: PU
Fin box setup: 3 Fin
Fin box system: FCS II
Fin(s) included: No
The Big Happy is our solution for older or bigger surfers that value
performance. Easiest way to think about it, Britt designed this board
for himself being 6’6 and 51 years old and realizing his strength and
mobility are not what they used to be…but he still thinks he can rip.
- Lower entry rocker
- Generous thickness forward
- Tapered rails
- Gentle single concave
Surf better. Be Happy.
Fins included: None
Construction - PU by Olatu Surf
For the Channel Islands shortboards of 6'4 and shorter in PU we have them with 2 full layers of 4 oz. on the deck and 1 full layer of 4 oz. on the bottom. All in a high performance stock glass job. High quality Polyurethane (PU) Foam and Polyester Resin.
For the Channel Islands shortboards of 6'5 and over we have them with 1 full layer of 6 oz. on the deck + 1 full layer of 4 oz. on the deck and 1 full layer of 4 oz. on the bottom. All in a more durable, medium weight glass job. High quality Polyurethane (PU) Foam and Polyester Resin.
About Channel Islands Surfboards and Al Merrick
Since 1969, Channel Islands Surfboards has been dedicated to performance and quality through hard work, innovation, and originality. Over the last 50 years, Channel Islands has grown from a local grass-roots operation to a cutting edge organisation, catering to the best surfers in the world. It started with hard-core surfing and quality in mind and these guidelines have brought us through four decades of constant change in the surf industry. Channel Islands will shape the new millennium with innovative design and quality as our main focus.
“The driving force behind Channel Islands Surfboards is the demand on design created by the world’s greatest surfers, allowing for the highest performance surfing possible. To provide the most dedicated surfers with the most advanced, performance designs is my passion” - Al Merrick, Designer/Shaper
CI is a privately held organisation focused on rider-driven product and manufacturing the best possible equipment available. Located in a state-of-the-art facility just blocks from Rincon Del Mar, the CI HQ represents a foundation for developing, testing, and building boards while providing jobs in Santa Barbara for many years to come.
Channel Islands Surfboards was created by Al and Terry Merrick in 1969. From his birth, Britt spent his days in the factory by the beach in Santa Barbara, from toddling around blanks to sweeping out shaping rooms. Eventually he started shaping alongside his father Al in 1990. He is now the lead shaper and designer for CI and carries on the family tradition of developing high performance board designs collaborating with the world’s greatest surfers. From Tom Curren, to Dane Reynolds, Channel Islands continues to evolve with the highest standard of surfing.
A quick note about our photos!
We use a mix of official brand images and real-life shots from our warehouse to help you make an informed decision.
That said, what you see might differ slightly from what you receive — simply because we can't photograph every possible variation.
For example, a photo might show a 6'2 board with Futures fin boxes, while you've selected a 5'10 with FCS II. Don’t worry — you’ll get exactly what you ordered.
Sometimes, small details like the logo, its placement or overall colour tones can vary slightly depending on the production batch, camera, lighting, or even your screen settings.
These are always only minor differences, and in most cases, the photos are spot on - but we totally get that buying online can feel tricky. If you ever want more details, just drop us a message — we're happy to help!
| Dimensions | Volume |
| 6'4 x 20 1/4” x 2 3/4" | 36.9 ltr |
| 6'6 x 20 1/2” x 2 7/8” | 40.0 ltr |