The Maldives is an amazing collection of islands that is on the bucket list of many travellers. This breath taking nation, with over 1000 islands, is a paradise filled with turquoise blue waters, powdery white sandy shores and green forests to match. The hospitable populace and the iconic landmarks make this destination highly desirable. One aspect that many travellers and enthusiasts focus on is the sheer number of water activities and sports that one can do in the Maldives. While snorkelling and scuba diving are the more popular sports, there also exists a plethora of lesser-known yet equally exhilarating water sports. For thrill-seekers eager to explore beyond
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Snorkelling Beyond the Basics
Snorkelling in the Maldives is truly a bucket-list experience and is quite a lot of fun. But beyond the conventional shallow reefs lies an opportunity to explore more daring areas and have better snorkelling adventures. If you are new to snorkelling, being safe is best. Maldives resorts for snorkelling can help you practice thoroughly before setting foot in deeper waters. Witness bioluminescent plankton illuminating the waters or get up close with nocturnal sea creatures that are rarely seen during the day. For a more fun adventure, try drift snorkelling, where ocean currents carry you effortlessly over colourful coral gardens teeming with marine life. Resorts by Heritance Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives can organize snorkelling for you.
Subwing – Glide Like a Manta Ray
For those looking for an underwater thrill, subwing is an underrated yet amazing water sport. The idea is for the rider to hold onto a hydrodynamic wing, and then they are towed behind a speedboat at top speed. The towing will allow the rider to glide effortlessly through the water, similar to how a manta ray glides. This activity offers an unmatched sense of freedom, enabling the riders to perform graceful underwater rolls and even dives while observing marine life up close. With clear visibility in the Maldivian waters, subwing should be tried by everyone, especially adrenaline junkies and marine enthusiasts.
Underwater Scooters – A High-Tech Dive Experience
An extremely underrated and yet fun way of exploring the ocean deep is using an underwater scooter, also called a sea bob. Imagine exploring the ocean floor without the constraints of scuba diving gear, and this is what you get with the underwater scooter. These electric-powered devices allow users to dive up to a few metres and speed through the water while enjoying uninterrupted interactions with the surrounding marine life. The underwater scooter is ideal for those who want a taste of scuba diving without undergoing extensive training.
Flyboarding – Soar Above the Indian Ocean
For those who prefer high-adrenaline experiences, flyboarding is the ultimate aquatic adventure. Using water propulsion technology, flyboarders can rise several metres above the water, performing aerial flips and dives before plunging back into the sea. With expert instructors available at select Maldives resorts, even beginners can experience the sensation of flying above the ocean. This sport offers a mix of exhilaration and scenic beauty, making it a standout activity in an already adventurous destination.
Parasailing – A Bird’s-Eye View of Paradise
Parasailing is an underrated yet mesmerising way to experience the vast beauty of the Maldives. Unlike other water sports that focus on the underwater world, parasailing provides a bird's-eye perspective of the atolls, sandbanks, and coral formations. Suspended from a parachute and towed by a boat, adventurers can enjoy a serene yet thrilling ride, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both excitement and breathtaking views.
Transparent Kayaking – Paddle Through Crystal Waters
Kayaking may not be the most adrenaline-pumping sport, but when done in a transparent kayak, it becomes a unique and fun experience. The Maldives’ crystal-clear waters make this activity particularly rewarding, allowing paddlers to witness the marine life beneath them as they glide through peaceful lagoons. Perfect for those who want a relaxed yet intimate connection with nature, transparent kayaking is a must-try for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike