Josh Brendon
Sir Bani Yas Islands offer the perfect water sports venue with clear and temperate waters all around complete with abundant aquatic life. Here are some of the water sports you could try out here.
Indulge yourself in the incredible chance to observe the diverse marine life around Sir Bani Yas Island with an adventurous scuba diving and snorkeling tour. The infamous Arabic fish called the hammour can generally be seen around the waters of the Sir Bani Yas Bay along with numerous other colourful fish and sea urchins. The tour for snorkeling is best taken on from the eastern side of the island. You will be taken on a speedboat to the Gasha Island where an enchanting shipwreck is sure to make your snorkeling even more memorable. The time duration for both diving and snorkeling tours are up to 1.5 hours subject to weather and other external conditions generally. Try and bring along with you some common supplies such as a swimsuit, towel, appropriate footwear and sun protection cream.
Mangrove and Sea Kayaking opens you up to the beautiful world of aquatic creatures, flying fish, turtles and flamingoes amidst the lush mangroves that thrive in the clear waters off the islands. Whether you choose to go kayaking in the open sea or mangroves, the experience is equally fulfilling. The activity will always depend on the tide and other weather conditions as well as your ability to swim; at least a basic level swimming ability is required. Kids above eight years of age can take part in this family activity that will keep you enthralled and entertained. Several resorts in Abu Dhabi offer this activity as part of their recreational package.
If you love fishing, this Troll Fishing inspired Deep Sea Fishing activity will offer you a fun filled day with the advantage of you being able to better your fishing skills. The boats used are usually of the Al Mahara variety which means that both novice and veteran anglers can be accommodated comfortably. The activity is suitable for everybody irrespective of age, so you and your loved ones can look forward to spending an eventful day catching barracuda, queen fish, mackerel and kingfish. The fish that are caught are immediately released as per sustainable fishing policies. However, you get to keep one fish depending upon what size it is and the type of fish that is caught.
The biggest advantage of Paddle Boarding is that you do not necessarily have to be a swimmer to enjoy this water sport. Besides letting you observe the oceanic environment and enjoy the water, it is also considered a great way to stay fit, if done regularly. The sport also helps you develop confidence when it comes to getting into water, which is a bit fear-inducing for some.
The Pearl Diving session will give you an insight into one of the main livelihoods of the Emirati culture and heritage. You will be guided through their lifestyles and various traditional diving masks and gear used. If you do happen to find a pearl you get to keep it in addition to being entertained by many folk stories narrated by the crew members. Several hotels and resorts in the area such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort and many others, provide Pearl Diving as a recreational activity that has become increasingly popular with tourists.
