Everybody likes playing in the water, no matter how old or young they are! The buoyant tendencies of water, especially saltwater, give a sense of weightlessness that we humans crave. Water Sports are right there on top, next to Extreme Sports, on some of the most thrilling experiences to ever have. And where else would you find the utopia of water sports, except on a beautiful tropical island surrounded by clear turquoise water – in other words, Sri Lanka?
Surrounded by the sea, and having a number of large lakes and rivers, Sri Lanka is the most ideal place to engage in Water Sports. Indeed, there are several different types of water sports that you can enjoy here. Below are the top 15, starting from the less thrilling but still fun ones and going on to the most thrilling rides of your lifetime.
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River Boating
Sri Lanka has many rivers flowing down to the sea from its Central Highlands. The flow of the rivers creates various ecosystems, marshlands, islets, and lakes. Madu River, in particular, is famous for its swampy marshal region with a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna. With a number of explorable islands and many interesting sights, it’s perfect to sightsee. The Madu River Safaris also allow you to try your hands at the tiller on clear stretches, giving them a river boating experience as well.
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Canoeing and Outrigger Canoeing
Sri Lanka has a number of outrigger canoes that are still in use in traditional villages. You can try outrigger canoeing, or enjoy a little trip out on a river on an outrigger canoe. You can enjoy the challenge of keeping your canoe balanced and moving properly. On the other hand, you can also try modern canoeing. It is a popular sport that you can engage in on the rivers and lagoons of Sri Lanka.
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Paddle Boating
A number of rivers, lakes and lagoons in Sri Lanka that receive tourist visits, often have duck and swan-necked paddle boats docked along their shores. These are hired out by the hour or half-hour and can be taken for a spin on the rivers or other water bodies. You can get a chance to see many waterbirds and other fauna, and visit some small islands depending on where you are paddle boating. It’s especially popular on Beira Lake, where the Sima Malaka Shrine can be visited on an island in the center.
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Banana Boat Rides and Tube Rides
Banana Boats are large banana shaped inflatables that can seat between three to ten people depending on the size. The tube on the other hand can only be used by one person and is a tyre shaped rubber inflatable that you can sit on in the water. You may see it being used in amusement park rides on the water slides. The banana boat and tube are not internally powered and are simply towed behind motor boats. They are child-friendly rides that give you a decent thrill while being safe. These rides are available in Bentota and Negombo.
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Snorkeling
Snorkeling in the shallow coastal waters of Sri Lanka is an unforgettable experience. Snorkeling gear can be easily rented or bought in many coastal towns of Sri Lanka such as Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa. Snorkel at the Bar Reef which has many colorful sea life living within its shadows. Hikkaduwaa, Weligama and Kirinda are the places for snorkeling in Sri Lanka.
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Deep Sea Fishing
Deep sea fishing is a great water sport with a challenge. You get to see the exotic marine life of the region while trying your skills at catching large deep sea fish. It’s not just a sport, it’s a battle between life and death. The Southwestern Coast and the Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka are excellent for deep sea fishing. The fishing is seasonal, depending on the monsoons. You can catch a number of large prize fish such as Jack Trevally, Spanish Mackerel, Skipjack Tuna, Yellow Fin Tuna, Sail Fish, Marlins, and Frigate Tuna.
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Scuba Diving
Scuba Diving gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the underwater world off the coast of Sri Lanka. Swim alongside colorful fishes. Watch little crabs peek out of their underwater homes. Enjoy seeing the hidden and secretive sea life that do not leave the sea floor. Diving gear can be hired in many coastal towns in Sri Lanka, with PADI certified diving instructors who can guide you for your safety.
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Jet Skiing
Jet Skis are the ultimate water thrill ride. You can feel the adrenaline high from speed and from the jet ski’s glide over the strong ocean currents. Sri Lanka, surrounded by the sea is one of the best places in the world to experience jet skiing. The beautiful coastal views add to the experience. Bentota, one of Sri Lanka’s centers for water sports, and Negombo are popular for this sport.
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Water Skiing
Sri Lanka offers a best in class waterskiing experience complete with sandy beaches, colorful coral reefs, clear blue water, and a backdrop of sunny warm tropical climates. The sport allows you to glide over the water using the skis on your feet while being towed by a motorboat. The sport can be done on any sizable body of water, but the best rush that you get is when you do it over the rolling waves of the ocean.
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Wakeboarding
Wakeboarding is similar to riding a skateboard, except that it’s on the water. The board is towed by a speedboat. While you need impeccable balance to ride it without falling, with skills and practice you can even stunt on it, just like on a skateboard. And the experience is totally thrilling!
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Surfing
Surfing is possibly the most popular water sport in the world. Being able to keep your balance and ride a giant curling wave on your surfboard is a thrill of its own. Arugam Bay on the Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka is one of the most famous surf destinations in the World. With the most amazing and steady waves during surfing season (May – November), its visited by top surfers from around the world. It is also a regular venue for international surfing competitions.
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Canyoning
Canyoning in general may be any mix of hiking, abseiling, cliff jumping, swimming, white water rafting, etc. However, in Sri Lanka, canyoning is done as a water sport in the ancient gorges carved by the natural force of the Kelani River. Kithulgala, where canyoning is often done, is surrounded by deep jungle and the walls of the gorge, with the river at the bottom forming small rapids and white water. It involves sliding down rapids with the proper safety gear and can be quite thrilling. There are several companies in the area that provide qualified and experienced guides for the sport.
Credit Goes TO : https://lanka.com