There are countless fun and exciting water activities to choose from, but one, in particular, will allow you to defy gravity and experience a sense of freedom firsthand. Water skiing is one of the best ways to cool down and stay active during the summer. Have you tried it before? Portugal is the ideal location to try this amazing activity. It is a sport in which balance is crucial. If this is your first time, we recommend keeping your knees bent and in the shape of a chair to acquire confidence and then glide over the water like a pro. Are you up for the challenge?
1. Where are the best water skiing spots in Portugal?
Water Skiing is synonymous with The Algarve Coast, one of Portugal's most popular destinations. However, the bays of Praia da Luz, which are protected from the wind, are ideal for water skiing in Portugal. Its tranquil seas are perfect for hopping on your skis and allowing yourself to be pulled along by the boat's cable propulsion. But it is not the only idyllic destination to enjoy this kind of activity, as it can be done anywhere where the waters are somewhat calm and the wind is not a nuisance. As a result, the entire Albufeira area in Portugal is ideal for practising this enjoyable sport. If you're a pro and want to go all out, remember that Nazaré boasts the best water conditions for a fun, adrenaline-pumping water-skiing session.
2. What are the different styles of water skiing available in Portugal?
True, we all know water skiing as stepping on two skis and sailing at full speed thanks to the propulsion of a boat, but other modalities are just as enjoyable or even more fun. Slalom is a unique skiing variety where you put your dominant foot in front and your other foot behind. This is ideal for folks with some prior experience who wish to master new skills. You can then progress to water skiing, where you can do figures, jumps, and variations. You can find a variety of ski centres where experienced instructors can teach you new methods and help you improve your skills. If you're more of a solo adventurer, you can go wakeboarding, wakeskating or wake surfing. It is the same as skiing, but instead of going straight, you go sideways.
3. Do you require any special equipment for this activity?
We recommend wearing a life jacket when on the water. For the activity to be successful, a few more items are necessary for the water skiing. To start off, a special line is attached to the water skier. You will be drawn by the boat by its resistance and therefore be able to move on the boat's tail. We also suggest doing this practice using water-specific boards, as they must be made of foam and resin with a layer of fibreglass to endure the pressure of the water against the athlete's body. It will depend on the type of water skiing you are doing for one board or another.
4. What are the prerequisites for practising it?
Although you'll need some level of physical fitness to participate in this activity, as you'll need endurance and balance, it doesn't mean you have to have any prior expertise. You will learn to develop your balance and challenge the best seas of Portugal on your skis with patience and desire. You also do not need to be of a certain age to rent a water ski in Portugal and enjoy the experience.
5. What is the duration of the sessions?
Water skiing sessions can vary in length and type depending on your preferences. However, they usually last between 15 and 1 hour. The shorter ones are for getting a quick taste of the sport, while the longer ones are for improving techniques and learning more about it. Furthermore, you have the option of taking a professional instructor-led session or renting equipment and skiing on your own.
When is the best time to go water skiing in Portugal?
Summer is the best time to enjoy water skiing like any other water sport in Portugal. However, those who have experience and are passionate about it will have no issue donning a wetsuit and water skiing in spring or autumn. The south coast of Portugal seldom gets below 16 degrees Celsius, so it's always good to enjoy such a delightful activity outside of the summer months.
