Extreme Watersports You Can Do In The UK

Many people think that watersports are something you do on holidays in the Caribbean. But when you think about it, the UK is an island that’s well known for its windy weather – that sounds like a pretty perfect setup for fantastic watersports. Here are six extreme watersports you may not have realised you can do in the UK.

Jetsurfing

You probably already know that surfing in the UK is no problem – Cornwall is famous for its range of fantastic surfing beaches and there are plenty of other options too. But if you want to experience something that starts off like surfing but takes it a little further, how about giving jetsurfing a try? As you might have guessed from the name, this is a jet-powering surfing where you can enjoy the thrill of surfing without the need for waves. It can be a little tricky at first, but once you’ve mastered standing on the board and applying the throttle, this can be a truly unforgettable time out on the water.

White water rafting

You might associate the snarling rapids of white water rafting with adventurous holidays in South America or Africa, but there are fantastic spots for this fun watersport all across the UK. If you’ve never tried it before, the adrenaline rush can be intense. In an inflatable raft, you and a team of friends and family will attempt to navigate the rushing waters and choppy currents. You’ll have an instructor with you, so there’s no need to have any experience before you do it for the first time. But remember that this is a team sport and you’ll need to pull your weight if you’re going to conquer the white water.

Flyboards

2015 came and went, and despite the promises made by Back to the Future Part II, no hoverboards became commercially available. That’s a shame, but if you’re looking for a thrilling activity that combines the concept of hoverboarding with a watersport, how about trying flyboarding? Also known as water walking, this is a unique adrenaline-fuelled activity where you are propelled into the air using jet powered water. These powerful streams keep you floating above the water for as long as you can hold yourself in positon. They can also be used to perform fun tricks or to propel yourself into huge dives. Flyboarding really is something every thrillseeker needs to experience and there are plenty of locations across the UK where you can do it.

Jet skis

The majority of the times when people say ‘jet ski’, they are actually referring to the less excitingly-named personal water craft (Jet Ski is actually brand name). But regardless of what you call them, there’s no doubt that this is one of the most popular watersports around the world. Whether you’re out on a lake or a reservoir or in the open sea, jet-skiing is undoubtedly a very fun way to spend an hour or so. Whether you’re looking for the fun of family jet-skiing or you would like to try something a little different than the usual with the stand-up jet-skiing it’s all possible on waters around the UK.

Powerboats

When you think of powerboats, you might associate them with the rich and famous or perhaps James Bond chasing after the bad guys. But now it’s possible to experience powerboating for yourself. Powerboats are made for racing and this can be a very intense way to travel – perfect for thrillseekers. Whether you’re looking to learn how to pilot a powerboat for yourself or you’re just interested in being a passenger on the ultimate thrill ride there are loads of spots around the UK where you can get your adrenaline fix.

Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding in the UK might not be as glamorous as it might be in the Indian Ocean or just off Miami Beach, but it’s still an incredibly fun experience that you’ll never forget. You’ll be towed by a boat or cable just like with water-skiing, but with wakeboarding, both of your feet are planted on one board. This means that wakeboarding is a little trickier but also a lot more fun.

Dakota Murphey: BA (hons) Marketing graduate, social media consultant and wannabe hardcore adrenaline junkie! Probably in a coffee shop, looking at cool videos, writing articles or planning the next trip. Thanks to Into the Blue for providing parts of the information in this post.