5 Super Fun Watersports that You Need to Try

sailing

Watersports are activities that can be enjoyed all year round and are a great way to fit in a workout without feeling like you're actually exercising. Here at Anglian Waterparks, we believe we are the perfect destination for water lovers to get involved in all kinds of water based activities. With lots on offer, here are five super fun watersports that you need to try.

1. Canoeing

Canoeing is becoming an increasingly popular watersport, and is a great activity to partake in individually or as a group.

This watersport can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities and is something that the whole family can get involved in. The sport can be as gentle or intense as you like - you really do get to decide as canoeing can be done competitively or recreationally. Paddle along an adrenaline-filled white water course or opt for a leisurely paddle along a calm and peaceful canal.

Canoes are lightweight, open-top boats that can seat multiple people on the benches inside the boat. Canoe paddles are quite short and have one paddle blade - to paddle, you simply alternate strokes on each side of the boat. It is simple yet so much fun!

canoeing

If you've always wanted to give it go, head down to Rutland Canoe Club at Rutland Water Park where we offer an inclusive and welcoming community that encourages people to get involved and enjoy their time on the water. You don't have to own your own equipment or experience to take part, we have a whole range of equipment that is available to hire and a team of watersport experts on hand for fun training courses.

So, if you are looking to improve your fitness, learn new skills or you just want to start a new hobby with your family, look no further than Rutland Water.

2. Windsurfing

There's no greater thrill than skimming across the water with your friends and family and feeling the wind in your hair.

Windsurfing is a watersport that combines elements of both surfing and sailing. Unlike surfing, windsurfing uses the wind to drive forwards. Stand on a board while holding a sail that is being powered across the water by the wind, and steer by adjusting the position of the sail and moving your feet.

windsurfing

Although it may look scary, it isn't actually as difficult as it looks and you can pick it up relatively quickly. Once you have mastered it, you will have endless hours of fun on the water taking in the scenic views of the surrounding area.

The Watersports Centre at Alton Water offers a range of different sessions for people of all ages and abilities. Pop down to improve your windsurfing skills or take our course and become an expert.

3. Sailing

With qualified RYA instructors on hand to help you develop your sailing skills, Pitsford Water, Alton Water and Grafham Water are the perfect places to start a new hobby.

There are many different types of sailing, so there is sure to be something for everyone. Sailing allows you to have endless hours of fun whilst taking in the fresh air and wonderful views that surround you.

sailing

A great watersport as it can be enjoyed individually or with friends and family, sailing is accessible for people of all ages and abilities. It doesn't matter if you are a watersport novice or expert.

You can hire all of the equipment you need, from buoyancy aids to sailing dinghies. Take your time and take in the atmosphere, or get really involved and start racing.

Fancy taking to the water? Head to our designated training centres to become a master in all things sailing.

4. Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding is a fantastic watersport and can be done while lying down, kneeling or standing up. It can be enjoyed all year round, not just on holiday and what better way to take in the local surroundings, nature and wildlife?

Anybody can learn to paddleboard, no matter your age or ability and it is a great way to improve your fitness and get healthy.

paddleboarding

Two of our locations offer paddleboarding sessions, Alton Water and Rutland Water. Both and paddleboarding and stand up paddleboarding are low impact activities, but still burn those calories.

Similarly to windsurfing, it isn't all too difficult. Once you have picked up the basic steps, you will be a pro in no time! So, what are you waiting for? Grab a stand up paddle, take to the open waters and get paddling.

5. Kayaking

Although the two may look rather alike, Kayaking and Canoeing are two very different watersports.

There are many different levels to kayaking so there is something on offer for everyone. Kayaking is the perfect watersport for those looking for a bit more excitement.

You can kayak at your own pace - as peaceful or as fast as you like. Simply sit inside of the closed-top boat with your legs stretched out in front of you, using a double-ended paddle to alternate stokes in the water.

kayaking

Spend fun-filled afternoons in a kayak and race against your friends. Kayaking is a great way to unwind and have some fun. Learn how to do a forward roll and exit from a capsized kayak, or for adrenaline junkies, get the ultimate thrill and go whitewater kayaking!

Make your way to Rutland Water Park where you will have access to a range of qualified instructors and top of the range equipment.

Those are just five of the best watersports you need to try.

Find out more about them and all of the other watersports we have on offer here, or sign up and join our training teams.

Fishing, walking, cycling, water sports

Our water parks not only bring vital water resources for the region, but they also provide a fantastic day out for all the family.

Whether you're looking for an action-packed day on the water, a spot of fishing to escape the stresses and strains of everyday life, or simply want to enjoy a relaxing walk in beautiful surroundings, look no further than our fabulous water parks.