Joanna James
Blessed with sunny skies and the perfect conditions to engage in nearly every water-based activity imaginable, the Maldives is a dream destination for water sports fans. Here are the island nation's top 10 water-bound activities.
Tipped to be one of the best water sports activities for adrenaline junkies, kite surfing offers one the chance to fly above the ocean for a few minutes at a time. Those who wish to go kitesurfing in the Maldives should ideally visit in the months between April and October as the wind conditions are suitable for the activity during this time of the year.
While kayaking around the virgin islands of the Maldives is a relaxing experience, it can serve as the perfect means of travel to uncover the shorelines of the pristine isles that make up the paradise archipelago. Although swimming skills are not necessary, kayakers should at least be able to wade in the water and don life jackets during the excursion in case of emergencies.
Often described as one of the most invigorating water-bound activities available to tourists based in the Maldives, going on an island hopping tour on a catamaran is a one of a kind experience. The months from November to April are deemed ideal for catamaran sailing tours.
Whether one is based at the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives or any other resort base indicated on the Emboodhoo Lagoon area guide, the chances of being within a stone's throw of a surfing hotspot is pretty high. As one of the world's most popular destinations for surfing activities, wave riders of all experience levels will find swells that are perfect for their skill level in the Maldives.
With its sea beds lined with breathtaking coral species and countless marine animals, one could hardly conceive of a more suitable scuba diving hub than the Maldives. Travel to the islands between January and April to witness the wrecks and marine species that lie just beneath the surface of the ocean.
Nearly every resort island in the Maldives offers travellers the chance to go snorkelling in the house reef that surrounds its perimeter. Teeming with tropical fish species, no swimming skills or prior training is required to enjoy this water sport.
Compared to riding a motorcycle on the ocean, jet-skiing around the islands of the Maldives is a thrill seeker's dream come true. One can ride alone or as a couple while those who are not adept at driving a jet ski can hop on the back for an experienced driver to take one on the ride of a lifetime.
Those who do not possess scuba diving skills can explore the submerged coral gardens and marine inhabitants of the Maldives via an underwater walk that employs a unique mask.
Stay dry while discovering the many fish species and corals littering the Maldivian seafloor on a glass-bottom boat ride.
Ride around the waves on an inflated banana-shaped boat that offers tourists the chance to bounce along at a speedy rate with a host of friends or family members.
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