Listly by Joanna James
The turquoise salty depths and sunny climes of Maldives make it a watersport heaven for travellers. The archipelago’s resorts offer plenty of luxury and adrenaline-fuelled water adventures to guests. Starting from beginner-friendly water sports to daring adventures, you can find any thrill you fancy in the Maldives. Let’s take a look at some of the best water sports in the sunny islands.
Kayaking is one of the most leisurely Maldives water sports out there. Get to know the soul of Maldives with a slow paddle along the blue open skies and sensual sea waters. Gaze at the fish, look up to seagulls and listen to the breeze whisper secrets. If you’re travelling with a group, select a goal post and race along the waters. Most resorts like the OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo rent kayaks to guests.
Banana boat rides are more exhilarating than kayaking, but less demanding than more extreme watersports. This is something you can do as a group. Hop on to the inflatable boat, and let the boat pull you along the waves. Have fun as you bob up and down to the rhythm of the sea. Hold on tight to the strap for safety. They’ll topple you into the shallow waters at the end of the ride to enjoy a cool dip.
Fun tubing is similar to banana boat rides but sans the falling into the waters. Enjoy a laid-back ride across the sea waters as a boat pulls you along. You can ask the instructor to speed up when you’re ready for the wind in your hair.
The good thing about snorkelling is that anyone can enjoy it. You don’t even need to be a swimmer to try snorkelling. Put on a mask and find and float along the reef waters keeping an eye out for sea creatures. Maldives is blessed with hundreds of sea species, teeming along the reef waters. You’ll feel mesmerized by the effervescent world of sea life.
Snorkeling is for exploring the surface waters. Rent an underwater scooter or try underwater walking to explore the deeper seas. Both sports are safe, and many resorts have experienced guides. You’ll wear an oxygen mask to breathe underwater and discover the world beneath at leisure.
You’ll be on a jet ski strapped to a water jetpack. You’ll stand on a board, all booted up in jet nozzle footwear. The water pressure from beneath will propel you up into the air in a fantastic gush. For a few minutes, you’ll be enthralled between water and air.
Another daring watersport, wakeboarding has you holding onto a rope as a speedboat pulls you across the water. You’ll glide along the ocean. You’ll need to work on your balancing skills. Let nature do its work, trust your body and sink into the thrill of the ride.
How would you like to fly up in the air? Pair up, and balance on the swing seat of your parachute-like contraption. The boat will pull you along with the canopy, letting you savour the delights of being airborne. Skim along the frothy waves and look down to gaze at turtles and dolphins.
You can get your scuba diving license in the Maldives. Nothing beats the extreme fun of diving deep into the sea waters. You’ll get to swim alongside magnificent sea life. Listen to the instructions carefully, recheck your diving suit before taking the plunge and never stray far from your partner. And, say hello to the manta rays.
Catamaran sailing is peaceful and luxurious. Sail along with your loved ones, and find a tranquil spot to moor. Then drink in the gorgeous views of the vast blueness tinged with white, pink and orange.
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.