Joanna James
Blessed with excellent wind, water and visibility conditions for an array of water-based adventures, the Maldives is a water sports lover's dream destination. Here are 7 of the most engaging water-bound activities tourists can sign up for during a stay in the paradise isles.
While wave riding may not be for the faint of heart, it's difficult to imagine an environment more conducive to this daring water sports activity than the seascapes of the Maldives. Although the period between May and October is considered the official surfing season in the Maldives, newbies will find decent surfing conditions to match their burgeoning skills during most months of the year. The consistency and the frequency of big waves and breaks make surfing in the archipelago an unforgettable experience.
Ranked among the best destinations to learn how to dive and secure a PADI certification, the shallow waters and crystal clear visibility of the country's off-shore areas also make the island nation a diver's paradise. With its underwater coral gardens teeming with fish species large and small, the Maldives offers divers the chance to come face to face with sharks, manta rays, sea turtles and barracudas. Ideal for wreck diving, the diversity of its submerged environments is what makes underwater exploration a joy in this region of the Indian Ocean.
As a water sport that does not require strong swimming skills, kayaking is a great way to work up a sweat and enjoy stunning coastal views all at the same time. Setting out in the wee hours of the morning or the late afternoon, sea kayaking tours allow visitors to roam the shores of their resort isle at their own pace while marvelling at the beauty of its coastal regions or lagoons. The best time to enjoy a kayaking excursion in the Maldives is between November and April.
Often described as an exhilarating water sport that's strictly for thrill seekers, windsurfing is best experienced during the off-season from May to October. While swimming skills are essential for windsurfers, those interested in learning the basics can enlist the help of an instructor to glide across the waves in their own time.
Whether you're based at the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives or any other Maldives 5-star resort, catamaran sailing is one of the few water sports that holidaymakers can enjoy as a group. Ideal for couples and families with a passion for sailing, the sunset hours are when most local tour operators set out on these enchanting expeditions.
While wakeboarding has often been compared to surfing, diehard wakeboarders understand that the speeds achieved during a wakeboarding session are difficult to duplicate inside a swell. The months from April to October are considered the perfect time for wakeboarding in the Maldives although most resorts also offer this activity option during the peak season from November to April.
Taking flight while travelling across the waves at breakneck speeds may not be for everyone but those with a desire to test their limits must sign up for a kitesurfing session in the Maldives. Although the bird's eye views are spectacular, the joy of being propelled above the water's surface is what makes kitesurfing a truly invigorating activity
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.
