Canoeing is a favorite sport
among the tourists of Kerala and among the local inhabitants
of the state.
A canoe is a small 2-3 seater boat which is rowed by the
sailors. Canoeing expeditions are undertaken in Kerala
by groups of tourists and such sashays are often arranged
by tourist operators on request.
catamaran
A catamaran is small often
wooden vessel with twin hulls joined together. Catamarans
are usually set sail across the backwaters of Kerala nowadays
motorized catamarans are in vogue along with traditional
oar propelled ones giving the tourists of the state more
variety to indulge in.
Kayaking
Kayaking requires high levels
of physical fitness. A Kayak is a small one or two man
boat which the rowers actuate with twin paddled oars.
Kayaking can be undertaken on rocky rapids (similar to
white water rafting) or on calm sea waters. The backwaters
of Kerala are extremely conducive to such sea kayaking.
Parasailing
Parasailing is a water sport
commonly indulged in beaches and sea side resorts. The
sailor is strapped to a parachute which in turn is attached
by a harness to a motor boat or some such small vessel.
As the boat speeds, the sailor takes off into the air.
This highly recreational sport is one of the primary adventure
sports in Kerala's many beaches.
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is deep sea diving
with an oxygen pack fitted to the diving suit so that
the diver does not need to depend on any surface supplied
equipment. The deep Arabian Sea off Kerala shores makes
scuba diving a veritable pleasure sport. The rich underwater
flora and fauna attracts the diver over the risks involved
in the sport.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a major tourist
recreation at the beaches of Alappuzha, Kovalam and Varkala.
It involved swimming at the surface of the deep sea equipped
with a snorkel or a breathing tube and mask. It allows
the diver to view the natural underwater bounties and
the diversity of marine life.
Wind surfing
Wind surfing is skimming the
water face on a surfboard with a revolving sail. The skill
of the surfer is tested in maneuvering the craft amidst
the high waves and tearing winds. Windsurfing is a sport
that rouses much interest in the numerous beaches that
fringe coastal Kerala.
