Watersports

Watersports

What is it? 

Watersports can include a big variety of activities, all taking place in or on a body of water. Some examples are waterskiing, surfing, paddleboarding, synchronized diving/swimming and sailing; the basis of any watersport is how to best interact with the water to achieve a goal.

What does it involve?

There are a lot of different things involved in watersports as it's a very varied area! It can include aspects such as completing a course in the fastest time, scoring the highest amount of points, but the basis of all watersport comes from having a good time in the water. 

Why do it and what are the benefits?

Having a go at watersports can be a lot of fun, a great learning experience and is excellent for exercising while having a good time - also, students being taught a new skill all together will make for good bonding amongst the group. 

What equipment do we need?

You will always need to ensure that students taking part in watersports have appropriate attire - sometimes normal swimwear will be enough, but you may need more specialist equipment such as wetsuits for some sports!

Who is it suitable for?

Some watersports require a lot of skill and overall bodily strength, so certain activities may not be suitable for younger students - make sure to be aware of the needs of your group. 

Costs?

Because of the immense variety of watersports of available, the costs of taking students on trips to try them out will vary greatly! For example, access to a swimming pool with some diving boards will cost a lot less than going sailing. 

Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)

Young children should always be supervised around bodies of water, but each activity provider should supply trained staff - just make sure to be aware of the individual dangers of each type of watersports!

How do we include?

Inclusion of those with disabilities will entirely depend on the type of watersport - some activities such as waterskiing or surfing require a lot of independent thought and movement and may not be as suitable. Choose your pursuit carefully to cater to the specific requirements of your students. 

Doing it abroad?

Watersports are popular all over the world, but there is obviously going to be less demand for it in land-locked countries with less natural bodies of water to practice it on! Coastal regions are the most likely to have watersport activities based there, but always research your destination before setting off to see whats available.

Main website:

Because of the variety of watersports available, it is best to look at individual websites for each kind of sport. Also, see our own listings for more specific water-related activities, such as Canoeing/Kayaking, Diving, Raft Building, Sailing, Swimming, Water Parks, and Windsurfing.

See the list below for venues and providers: