Factually, around 71% of the Earth’s surface is water-covered, leaving the other 29% for islands and continents. That’s a lot of water—so much water that the image of our planet from space has a mysterious likeness to a swanky blue marble. Earth’s waters from space may appear minuscule, but their grandness to scale is anything but.
As Bones from Star Trek once iconically said, “Space is disease and danger wrapped in darkness and silence,” the same could be said of the numerous waters on our planet. For all of us on the surface, we know that the majority of the oceans remain unexplored. Nevertheless, humans can be adventurers of the water via various sports, activities, and attractions. Here’s a list of the most adventurous water sports you need to try.
Cliff Jumping and Diving
The island state of Hawaii is the birthplace of cliff diving. Legend states that King Kahekili “flew” hundreds of feet from a cliff down into the sea below. As he survived these perilous attempts unscathed, the sport turned into a test as he commanded his warriors to follow to assess their own loyalty and courage. Over time, the activity became refined into a modern competitive sport.
As one of the most dangerous water sports in the world, participants have to be aware of the critical risks and cautions associated with this activity. Not only does it take athletic ability but also great bravery to plummet down such death-defying heights. Proper training is required for the utmost safety, but beginners can tone it down to cliffs around 10 feet if they so desire to test their courage.
Snuba Diving
If you did a double-take, we promise that snuba is not misspelled. Snuba diving is a unique water activity that is distinct from traditional scuba diving, as it combines features of scuba diving, sea walking, and snorkeling. Participants are able to swim deeper to explore than one could do when snorkeling without the added burden of scuba certification and heavy equipment. Air is provided through long hoses attached to rafts at the surface.
Kitesurfing or Kiteboarding
Out of all the experimental waterboarding variations out there, kite surfing is definitely one of the most adventurous water sports you need to try. Compared to mainstream surfing, which is extremely difficult to control heavy waves, kitesurfing instead utilizes the power of the wind to set riders in motion. Since wave “surfing” can be better controlled via the kite, this sport is a major attraction in locations with onshore winds.
Whitewater Rafting
Commercial whitewater rafting has been particularly popular for a myriad of decades now. Contrary to the other mentioned water sports that take place on oceans and lakes, this river sport uses an inflatable raft to navigate rough bodies of water. Participants must also be good swimmers.
Due to the magnitude of uncontrollable danger associated with this activity, it’s critical to be aware of the rated levels of the river rapids class system. Trained guides generally supervise this adrenaline-pumping experience of a lifetime. For those who love to live on the edge, this activity can truly dazzle people of all ages and physical abilities. But remember—safety always comes first!
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