1. JET SKIING
Jet Skiing is one of the most adrenaline rushing adventurous water sports activity. jet skiing gives a sense of freedom to the riders to enjoy speed and thrill. Jet skiing requires a jet powered water scooter which is accelerated by a powerful engine. It is simple to operate however for a while the high speed may be a bit difficult to control. Once it is mastered, one can have a great experience skiing around. A refreshing and thrilling experience it is one of the most enjoyable water sports allowing one to speed away into the sea. Apart from being something that people do for fun, regular jet skiing also has many health benefits. It helps to improve blood circulation, muscle strengthening, balancing the body and burns calorie. So when it comes to riding a jet ski for the first time, there’s a few things you should keep in mind
TIPS:
1) First time jet skiers often have difficulty keeping the jet ski straight. It can easily be corrected. Riders often stare at the handlebars or the water just off the front of the ski. Instead, lift your head up and look off in the distance. This will allow you to drive straight and enjoy your trip.
2) Don’t take your finger off the throttle in any circumstances.
3) If you fall from jet ski always reboard the ski from the back side.
4) While riding lean forward slightly and relax your grip. Keep your elbows
slightly bent. This will allow you to ride without fatigue
Where in India:
Goa (Colva, Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Miramar),
Andaman and Nicobar Island (Havelock Islands)
Best time: October to April
2. SCUBA DIVING
Scuba diving is a mode of underwater diving where the diver uses a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba), which is completely independent of surface supply, to breathe underwater. The unexplored underwater world fascinates all for those who explores deep sea and its underwater life. Scuba diving or underwater diving is considered to be one of the most unique water sport activities. Tourists from all over the world and India head to various Indian coastal regions to look at the varieties of coral, butterfly fish, parrot fish, eels and shrimps. The beautiful underwater world of islands has a wide range of exotic marine life like Humpback Parrotfish, Lionfish, soft corals, the rare dugongs and schools of colourful fishes. There is an abundance of canyons, ridges and channels undersea which makes the place really different and adds to its unique beauty.
TIPS:
- Before you go underwater, always check your dive equipment.
- If you have open wounds, avoid diving or make sure that you the wounds covered – especially around coral reefs, where skin is more prone to infection. Wear a wetsuit, or protect the wound with gauze and waterproof tape.
- Never be afraid to ask your guide or instructor questions, no matter how silly they might seem. it’s better to dive with confidence instead of confusion.
- The most important thing to remember is, always keep breathing. Never, ever hold your breath.
- Never poke or chase sea life. Not only is this better for the environment, but many sea creatures can be aggressive or poisonous. The look-but-don’t-touch policy is in the best interest of everyone underwater.
Where in India:
Andaman and Nicobar Island (Havelock Islands, Neil Island, Port Blair, Cinque Island, Corruption Rock),
Goa (Grande Islands, St. George Island, Pigeon Island),
Karnataka (Devbagh and Netrani Islands).
Kerala (Kovalam Beach).
Lakshadweep (Bangaram Beach, Kadmat Islands).
Puducherry (Coral Sharks Reef. Aravind Wall and
Maharashtra (Tarkarli Beach)
Best time: October to April
3. KNEE BOARDING
Knee boarding is a water sports activity in which an individual is towed, most often behind a motorboat, on his or her knees on a buoyant board at planning speed. Kneeboards are wider than surfboards with a rounded nose and rubber padding for the knees. Normally knee boating done in shallow water so that the riders risk of life is very little. Done with the help of a knee-board, that has slots for holding the knees. it reduces the necessity to focus on balancing the board and is all the fun nonetheless.
TIPS:
1) In the beginning it is not advisable to put on the knee strap, so that you are not stuck to your board in case of falling in the water. If you are more experienced put on the strap.
2) Starting position: Place your kneeboard on the start ramp and just easily kneel on it so that your knees and shins are on the board and you sit on your heels. You have to hold the handle with both hands and grab it from the top. Make sure your thumbs are underneath the handle so that you will have the most efficient grip.
3) Always try to lean forward on your board just like the shape of a turtle trying to put elbows touch your board to get a good balance in the board. The lower your center of gravity is, the easier it is to start. But always make sure you can see where you are going and see when you will start to adjust your mind and body.
4) When you are on your Kneeboard always make sure that there are no obstacles in your way, always look out for other people, swimmers and maybe other obstacles. If you don’t feel like you can ride around the obstacles just let go of the handle. It helps you from any collisional injuries.
5) In case of falling in the water always make sure to look around so that no other rider will hit you then stay calm and first of all open the knee strap so that you can swim.
Where in India: Goa (Candolim Beach, Mobor Beach, Rajbaga Beach)
Best time: October to June
4. PARA SAILING
One of the most enjoyable water activities to indulge in, parasailing is a unique experience for all the sports lovers. A person is towed behind a boat with specially designed parachute known as parasail and a speedboat tugs you along. The boat then drives off, carrying the parasailer into the air and you get a spectacular view from up above. The parascender has no control over the parachute. The joyride is breathtaking and thoroughly enjoyable. Parasailing gives anyone a feeling of euphoria being a one-of-a-kind experience that the gutsy and not the faint of heart.
TIPS:
1) It isn’t advisable to send children below the age of 16 to go parasailing, and those who are extremely overweight.
2) The weather should ideally be sunny with a good gust of wind that is consistent all day, without cloudy skies or the possibility of an oncoming storm.
3) Clear your doubt before the show. Ask them to brief you on the rules, since it is important to have, all this told to you before you take off. That way both you and the crew are at one with the information given, with no room for a misunderstanding.
4) Those having altitude sickness, please don’t try it. It may lead to faintness during the season.
5) Advice the crew the dropping point before the takeoff. Sometimes for fun they will drop you in water for fun.
Where in India:
Goa (Dona Paula, Majorda, Anjuna, Bogmalo. Calangute,Candolim, Vagator, Colva,)
Karnataka (Malpe, Gokarna, Murudeshwara),
Kerala (Alappuzha, Varkala, Kovalam, Payyambalam),
Maharashtra: (Tarkarli, Murud, Devbagh).
Best time: October to March
5. FLY BOARDING
Basically, it is a platform attached to boots that are connected to the turbine of a jet ski which rises in the air allowing you to perform different freestyle tricks. Fly boarding is a combination of jet-ski and jetpack where a flyboard is attached to a jet ski which sends it as high as 15 metres in the air, enabling riders to make dolphin-like maneuvers and dive under water from a great height. It might look scary but is one of the most adrenaline pumping water sport in the country. Brief training sessions are given before you plunge into the water.
TIPS:
1) Wearing protective gears is a must rather than an option.
2) Don’t do it when there is high tide and strong .
3) Maintain a safe distance from the waverunner to avoid any possible harm. Although the probability of crashing into the waverunner is low, it is always better to be safe
4) Balance is extremely important for flyboarding. Listen to your guide as he tells you the right posture you need to sustain your balance. Slightly bend your knees forward but not at the same time. This technique will help you keep your balance and at the same time, prepare you for learning how to turn. You also need to be in an upright position before coming out of the water.
Where in India:
Goa (Baina Beach)
Best time: October to May
6.WAKE BOARDING
Wake boarding is a water sport in which the rider, standing on a wake board, is towed behind a motorboat across its wake and especially up off the crest in order to perform aerial maneuvers. It is a combination of water skiing, snowboarding and surfing. Wake boarding is a surface water sport which Involves riding a wake board over the surface of a water body, lt is a great fun activity that requires a small training before you plunge . you can just glide on the water drifting to the waves and winds. One can experience this activity mainly on the beaches in Goa and a few beaches in the south Indian region as well.
TIPS:
1) In beginner wakeboarding it is always better to choose a shorter rope to clinch upon. This is because, the shorter the rope, the narrow the space, so that you can clearly hear the advice given by the trainer or driver.
2) Keep your arms straight and the knees bent and let the boat pulls you up. This is not about you pulling yourself instead you have to maintain the balance and enjoy the tricks.
3) For performing certain tricks like spins, wait patiently until the board comes to the peak of the jump. Never forget to keep your hands at waist level and let the board be completely out of the water.
4) Inform your driver the comfortable speed you can balance with.
5) It is important to keep the handle low, closer to your hips in wake boarding. Not hold it perpendicular.
6) Crossing the wake is a cardinal part in wakeboarding. It’s a hard nut to crack if the speed is really fast. Approach it slowly at first with knees bent slightly and maintaining balance
7) One of the basic wakeboarding tip for all in common, especially beginners is to decide which foot you want to face forward. You must wisely choose your foot before going out to water. It is cardinal because the foot you keep forward act as your savior while losing the balance.
Where in India:
Goa (Candolim, Mabor, Rajbaga).
Karnataka (Mulki)
Best time: October to May
7.WIND SURFING
An extremely thrilling and exciting sport, windsurfing is a surface water sport that combines surfing and sailing. Speed of the wind is the key player for this activity. Those willing to try this sport need to learn the basic skills of sailing, steering and turning. Wind surfing in India is mostly restricted to the Army and Navy sailing clubs but Is slowly gaining popularity among water sports enthusiasts. Since the Indian coastal region receives stable and strong winds windsurfing is a remarkable experience
TIPS
1) Understand the very basics of wind direction and remember – you don’t need to look for a strong wind, but rather for a steady wind.
2) Use your body weight and gravity more than the strength of your arms. Keep your arms extended but not flexed, and lean back to counterbalance the larger sail.
Where in India:
Goa (Dona Paula, Bogmalo, Vagator.Calangute. Colva. Palolem, Baga),
Lakshadweep – (Bangaram island). Mumbai (Mandwa Beach),
Kerala (Kovalam Beach)
Best Time: October to April
8. BANANA BOAT
Banana boat rides are one of the most enjoyable rides for all age groups. An inflatable boat resembling the shape of a banana is used for this amazing ride, hence the name. One can enjoy the thrilling ride with friends on this giant banana shaped boat as you move ahead against the ocean waves avoiding being flipped over. This one is nothing if not fun and is amongst the easiest water sports.
TIPS:
1) Never exceed the capacity of the boat.
2) Always wear safety gear and equipment when riding a banana boat.
3) The towing speed should not exceed 15mph The speed limit should be duly followed to avoid any kind of collision.
4) Avoid placing your hands or feet through the handles or the towing harness It is of utmost importance to prevent any of your body parts from touching the rope or handles. If your hands or any other part gets stuck in the harness while riding the boat, it can come to a halt and can cause serious troubles.
Where in India:
Goa (Calangute, Agonda, Candolim, Palolem, Miramar, Baga, Vagator, Anjuna),
Karnataka (Om Beach)
West Bengal (Mandarmani Beach),
Thiruvananthapuram (Varkala)
Lakshadweep islands.
Best time: October to March
9. WATER SKIING
Water Ski is one of the thrilling water sport activity played on the surface of the water. It demands physical power, endurance, and careful attention of the skier. Rigorous practice and training is required before you get a grip on the game. This sport requires a high level of physical fitness where the rider on the surf boat will be towed by a long rope that is tied on to a speed boat.. The objective here is to ski on a water surface with the help of water skis. The skier holds the handle of the rope that is fixed on the backside of a boat. The driver of the motorboat accelerates the boat into water while the skier has to hold balance on the water surface by standing on the skis. The observer sitting as a co-driver keeps watch on potential dangers and progress of the game. This sport is played in coordination of the skier, the boat driver, and the observer.
TIPS
Unlike other water sports activities, rigorous practice and training required before you start the game. Keep your knees bent right to your chest, arms straight, skis together and the tips of the skis up and out of the water. Let the boat do all the work for you, the boat will lift you up and out of the water on it’s own. When on top of the water, stay sitting down with knees really bent until you feel comfortable and then stand up slowly
Where in India:
Goa (Baga, Candolim, Calangute, Arossim, Mobor, Utorda)
Best time: : October to February
10. PADDLE BOARDING
Paddle boarding participants are propelled by a swimming motion using their arms while lying, kneeling, or standing on a paddleboard or surfboard in the ocean. In this sport the boarders maintain an upright stance on an oversized surfboard and use a paddle to propel themselves through the open water Recently this sports has gained a lot of popularity and is considered to be the most peaceful environment friendly water sport as there is no motor or no noise with just a simple board and a paddle.
TIPS:
1) Learn the basics and practice your stability without being bothered by waves and strong winds. In the event that the wind speed and direction becomes a bit too much for you to handle, get low and lie on your and paddle with your arms, as you would with a normal surfboard.
2) Stand up straight and grip the non-blade end of the paddle
3) Hold the paddle horizontally over your head with both hands, then rest the shaft on the top of your head.
4) Make sure that the shaft is parallel to your shoulders and that the arm that’s holding the grip creates a perfect 90-degree angle.
Where in India:
Goa (Candolim. Mobor)
Thiruvananthapuram (Varkala)
Best time: October to May
11. SNORKELING
Snorkeling is the practice of swimming on or through a body of water while equipped with a diving mask, a shaped breathing tube called a snorkel, and usually swim fins. A great way to see wonders of the underwater world, snorkeling is done in shallow water depths with half of your body above water. This water sport activity can enchant one with the teeming marine life, like the beautiful fish like batfish, angelfish, barracudas, snappers, lionfish, the coral reefs and World War If wrecks. It is amongst the easiest and highly sought after water sport in India that gives travellers once in a life time experience.
TIPS:
1) Find the perfect fit for your face.
2) Optimum visibility is the key – so defog your mask with baby shampoo or defogging gel
3) Take deep focused breaths to help yourself relax
4) Don’t poke any living object in the water
5) Use bio-degradable sunscreen lotion
Where in India:
Andaman & Nicobar Islands (Havelack Island).
Karnataka (Necrani Island).
Lakshadweep (Bangaram and Kadmat)
Goa (Suzy’s Wreck, Grande Island, Monkey Island. Palolem Beach),
Maharashtra (Tarkarli),
Puducherry: (Aravind’s Wall).
Best time: October to March
12. SAILING
Even though sailing is not really considered an adventure water sport, it is definitely recommended for those who want to witness the magic of water as their yacht glides along the waves. Yachting is a luxurious activity where one can spend their time sun bathing, fishing, partying and have a fabulous time. If yachts are beyond your budget, you could go cruising in the waters too.
There are five types of sailing that you can choose from.
1) Inland Sailing – best for beginners
2) Estuary Sailing – rivers that lead to sea
3) Coastal Sailing- in sight of land
4) Off Shore – out of sight of land
5) Ocean Sailing- blue water or intercontinental
The easiest sailing is on inland waters ie in lakes rivers etc. Saltwater generally offers more difficult conditions like stronger winds and higher waves. You need larger and more expensive equipment, and the salt is harder on your gear and boat, so you need to do a lot more maintenance.
Where in India: Goa (Miramar, Candolim, Palolem)
Best time: October to May
