On the Water Activities in the UK

Things to do on the water

Getting out on the water is a fantastic way to have fun and spend quality time with friends and family. We take a look at the best activities and experiences to be enjoyed on the water.

Perhaps being Brits knowing that we live on a collection of relatively small islands brings out the inner sailor in us? Or maybe the sight of boats and yachts sailing off the coast during a bucket and spade beach holiday has inspired you to sail those high seas?

Punting on the water in Cambridge 

Let’s start at an altogether more gentle pace. Who needs gondolas in Venice Italy, when you’ve got punts in Cambridge? Both are traditionally-built, wooden, flat-bottom boats, that are powered and steered using a long wooden pole. 

The best way to go punting on the rivers of Cambridge is to book an exclusive one-hour private punt hire. It’s suitable for two to twelve people and includes the person using the pole to push you along! 

The waterways give you a beautiful view of the stunning colleges and surrounding landscape known as ‘The Backs’, which you simply cannot see from the street. What’s more, you are welcome to bring a picnic and drinks to celebrate your punt ride in true style. 

On the water punting on the River Cam
The genteel activity of punting on the River Cam! Pic@BogdanTodoran_Unsplash

A paddle out on the inland waterways

If you’re happy to provide the paddle power yourself, then maybe a canoeing or kayaking activity could be just for you? Into The Blue offers a choice of solo or two-person canoes and kayaks at water sports centres on inland waterways or even around the UK coast. 

Whether you are a beginner looking for lessons or already experienced, there are options to suit all levels. Choose from quiet rivers and canals in towns and cities, or enjoy beautiful countryside in places like the Lake District, explore the Scottish coast. Or even paddle across an aqueduct in Wales. Just make sure to wear lots of layers and bring spare clothes in case you get wet!

On the water paddle sports kayaks & canoes
Paddle out on the sea, lakes & rivers of the UK

The wind in your sales

Whether you want to get ‘hands on’ learning to sail on a RYA approved course, or just want to enjoy a charter ride while letting others do all the hard work, sailing is a great on the water activity. 

Perhaps someone you know is itching to take the helm of a boat? Or maybe they already ‘know the ropes’ and want to learn more by getting involved as part of the crew? Check our Sailing & Yachting section for everything from a single sailing lesson and certified multi-day crew courses, to just sailing off into the sunset with a drink in your hand… 

Laze dinghy sailing lesson on the open waters
Learn to sail Lazer dinghies on open waters pic@MichaelHenry_Unsplash

Crazy adrenaline watersports

If all of that is not enough to satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie, then Into The Blue also offers a range of high-energy watersport action. Guaranteed to get you wet and put a smile on your face, Into The Blue offers a chance to test your skills wakeboarding or water skiing behind a powerboat, as well as jetskiing at sea.

And our personal favourite – a high speed ride on board a fast RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) along the River Thames. You’ll get views of London you will never forget!

For more information and to book your On the Water experiences visit the Into The Blue website here: https://www.intotheblue.co.uk/water-sports/

Water spray on the cable tow wakeboarding
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Things to do in the water