Eight Ways to Enjoy Yourself
on the Water
by Janette Vince
Throughout the centuries, human beings have
loved the water. Water has fed us, cleaned us, quenched our thirst, and
given us a convenient highway since long before there were real
highways--indeed, for as long as our species has been alive. We've built
most of our major cities near rivers, oceans, or lakes. We compose poetry
and songs about the ocean, write stories about adventuring on mighty
rivers while floating on nothing but tiny rafts, and build expensive
waterfront properties so we can live next to water year-round. We've
devised thousands of ways to travel, play, and live off-land. Following
are just a few ways we've come up with for experiencing the thrill and joy
of being out on the open water.
Yachts. Nothing compares to the elegance of a
yacht. Powered by wind--the ancient engine that Polynesian wayfarers used
to populate the far-flung islands of the Pacific, Viking explorers used to
discover Greenland, and Magellan used to circumnavigate the globe--a yacht
will take you where you're going, and make you feel like a king or queen
while you're en route. Lots of yachting companies offer trips that involve
fine wine, gourmet food, and a luxury experience.
Powerboats. Couple the thrill of being out on
the water with the excitement of high speeds, and you've pretty much
summed up a trip on a powerboat. We love skimming across the glassy
surface of a lake or riding the waves, the wind scraping the hair back
from our faces, the sun shining down on the surface of the water. The best
powerboats are like convertible sports cars on water--an unbeatably
thrilling experience.
Windsurfing. For centuries humans have been
harnessing the power of wind to navigate on the water. But windsurfing is
a relatively new invention that involves balance, strength, and timing.
Windsurfing gives you more range than a surfboard--you can traverse wide
lakes with no waves or perform daredevil stunts in the surf, depending on
your style and that of your board. It takes practice, but it's a sport
that's growing in popularity worldwide.
Kitesurfing. Similar to windsurfing, except
the "sail" is really a kite--located at the end of a rope instead of
attached to your board. Kitesurfing is a fun and challenging sport that
requires some coordination to do well--you need to be able to guide both
the kite in your hands and the board that's strapped to your feet. The
sport has become far safer and more accessible to beginners due to recent
advances in kitesurfing technology.
Zapcats. Never heard of these? You've been
missing out. Zapcats are small, motor-powered catamarans that can move at
thrilling speeds and turn on a dime. They've got the speed of a powerboat
and the flexibility of a jet ski--an undeniably exciting combination. Most
rentals will usually send an instructor out with you, like they will with
a powerboat. A zapcat ride is much more hands-on than the typical
powerboat ride, however, because both parties are needed to steer the
craft. They're a blast to race in aquatic obstacle courses.
White water rafting. Even if strong currents
and big waves make you nervous, white-water rafting is a fun and amazing
experience that will give you confidence on the water. Most white-water
rafting companies will send you out with an experienced guide and in a
durable craft specially designed to handle the rigors of the rapids--so
you're perfectly safe. It's a fun and thrilling way to experience the
power of nature firsthand. Because of the size of the crafts and its
accessibility to all levels of ability, it's also an ideal way to bring a
group together. White-water rafting is an ideal activity for an office
outing or family trip.
Rapid running. You'd think this sport would be
better for people who are more experienced in white-water rafting--but
actually, it's popular with all ability-levels. With rapid-running, you
get your own inflatable two-person craft, and are sent without a guide
down a rapids course. You're prepared beforehand, of course--most
companies that offer rapid-running activities will include a course on how
to navigate the rapids safely. It's a lesser-known but no-less-fun variety
of white-water rafting, perfect for those who like a little more autonomy
in their boats or who just want to try something a little different than
the typical white-water rafting trip.
Jet skiing. It's been described as a
motorcycle on water. Jet skis are one-person watercraft that accelerates
with a throttle in the handle. They're very flexible, with the ability to
accelerate quickly and make sharp turns. Jet ski tours of bays, rivers,
and otherwise-inaccessible islands are becoming popular tourist activities
in locations near water.
Whether you prefer relaxing yacht cruises,
heart-pounding motorboat rides, the hands-on excitement of white water, or
the balance and skill of wind or kite surfing, there's sure to be a water
activity you'll love. Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and
try something new--you may find more than one activity you'll enjoy for
years to come.
About the Author
J Vince is managing director of the online
experience days and unique gifts website
http://www.thanksdarling.com
For more information on a range of days out learning water sports visit
http://www.thanksdarling.com/categories/water.htm
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