A day on the water with family and friends is the ultimate way to have fun in the sun, but water sports are the pinnacle of adrenaline-fueled enjoyment. Let’s make sure you’re fully prepared, so you leave with fond memories and no complaints!
#1: Learn to Swim
While this one is rather obvious, it’s crucial enough to mention. It’s not uncommon to fall from a wakeboard or jet ski, and you need to be as prepared as possible to get back on. Even with a life jacket, the ability to swim can be the difference be tween a quick slip and laugh or a complete disaster. If someone in your party doesn’t know how, be sure to keep an extra careful eye on them. Your ability to swim can make a huge difference.
#2: Check the Forecast
On a hot sunny day, you’ll want to be su re you have sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from UV rays. You also need to take a warm change of clothes in case the water and wind bring an unexpected chill. Keep in mind that salt spray can be particularly damaging when combined with glar ing sunlight, so long sleeves on the water aren’t uncommon. Carefully reapply the sunscreen at the recommended intervals.
#3: Bring a Friend
If at all possible, be sure you have a water sports buddy. In an emergency, two people are always better than one . Plus, it’s just more fun when you have friends or family with you. Going out solo is okay, but you’re always better off when you know at least one other person on the water!
#4: Stay Hydrated
Water sports are exhilarating and exhausting. Drink lots of water before you leave and while you’re out. Being dehydrated on a jet ski can make for poor reaction times and less enthusiasm. While you won’t be guzzling water midwave, take water breaks often, especially if it’s a sunny day.
#5: Follow All Safety Pr ecautions
If you’re using your own jet ski or wakeboard, be sure you know what you’re doing. If you’re renting, ask for a list of safety tips from the rental place and read the entire agreement. If you’re a first-timer, stay away from water tricks. You hav e plenty of time to learn. It may look cool, but many of those tricks take serious practice.
#6: Protect Your Electronics
Gone are the days when you must leave your phone at the shore, but you still need to take precautions to ensure it’s waterproof and thoroughly nestled in a pocket or pack. Losing your phone to the waves can make even the best day a bust. Similarly, be sure your watch is water-resistant. If not, leave it behind. As for headphones, you can purchase waterproof ones.
So long as you prepa re, you’ll be good to go! Don’t forget to take pictures, so you always have a reminder of your awesome day out on the water!
