Joanna James
Being an island nation, water sports take the forefront in all coastal activities in Sri Lanka. Bentota, a popular tourist destination located in the south of Sri Lanka is no different.
Of all the activities available in Sri Lanka, recreation entertainment through water skiing is one of the more popular activities. It requires a good sense of balance and a bit of daring, the perfect combination for a vacation to remember. The rider holds onto a special bar attached to a speedboat and attempts to stand on the water making use of the water skis. It takes practice, of course, but the feel of skiing through the water with the wind in your hair and the water spraying all over is a truly exhilarating experience.
Jet skis are best suited for those who are reluctant to directly engage with water but have a good sense of control. It is about sitting atop a bike-like vehicle that runs on water and manoeuvring your way around the sea. You can either sit at the back and allow one of the expert riders to take the wheel, or learn how to drive a jet ski yourself. Both can be done at Bentota.
The aquatic life at Bentota is both beautiful and diverse. Some hotels like Mermaid Hotel & Club arrange snorkelling and diving tours for their guests, as this is one activity that everyone wants to do. If you have had prior experience in snorkelling and diving, you can merely rent the equipment and take to the sea. If you are without experience, though, there are places that conduct courses and one-day lessons. Neither snorkelling nor diving are activities that are difficult to learn. You will be able to master these in a matter of few hours.
Windsurfing is among the "cooler" activities to do in Bentota. It is similar to water skiing, except that there is no speedboat to guide your way. Instead, there is a plank with a sail, and the wind will guide you on your way. The winds in down south Sri Lanka is highly conducive to windsurfing, especially during the season. Unlike other activities, though, windsurfing requires a bit of practice and time to master. It needs a bit of upper body strength as well, to master the sail and a good sense of balance. However, it is a fun way to enjoy the best of the Indian Ocean.
All the above activities are for the solo adventurer, or at the most two people. If you want to do something as a family or a group, banana rides are the ideal solution. About 6 to 8 people can ride on one banana boat, depending on the size. A speedboat will drag the floating banana with the group on it through the water, while the riders hold on for dear life. It is a risk-free, extremely fun way to enjoy some quality time with the entire family.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
