10 Must-Try Water Sport Thrills for the New Year

As we cruise into another New Year, we look back at the thrills, laughs and impromptu family get-togethers that made 2018 so special—and we think of ways we can enjoy even more of them in the year ahead.

For those who can’t get enough high-octane action on the water, we’re sharing ten ideas we think every thrill-seeker ought to try in 2019. Take a look and pick out a few of your favorites in anticipation of the boating season to come!

Catch some air

Skimming the surface of the water as water sprays all around you is a true thrill all its own—so if you haven’t tried any aerial tricks yet, we don’t blame you! But once you nail down the basics of boarding or skiing, these tricks can be a great way to amp up the thrills and take your fun to another level, literally. Boarders should start with an ollie, which serves as the foundation for many great moves to follow. Simple rock gently onto your back foot’s heel, and then lift your front foot ever-so-slightly. This will shift your weight toward the back of the board, allowing you to begin the first half of your jump. Next, bring the two feet together to carry out the second or two in the air. Congratulations—you’re flying!

Double up

Have you ever tried riding the wake with a friend? Whether you’re ambitious enough to share the same board, or simply spread out to each enjoy a bit of the action, this is a fun way to make your favorite water sport even more social.

SUP-surf

In 2019, combine your love of stand-up paddleboarding with your penchant for wake sports. “SUP-surfing” is a fun way to mix up your on-the-water routine! Instruct your captain to ease into a gentle wake as you paddle your way along, since even the smallest wake will prove exciting for the stand-up paddle boarder.

Create a new sport

All of your favorite water sports (from wakeboarding to water skiing to straight-up surfing the ocean waves) began simply, without much fanfare, by people who simply loved to enjoy the water in all-new ways. Who says you can’t be the next person to create a water sport sensation? Try out new games or styles of riding with friends and see where the day takes you.

Go back to school

We never run out of things to learn—not even the pros! Wherever you are on your water sports journey, make 2019 a time of learning new ways to improve your craft. That might mean watching how-to videos online, signing up for lessons or even teaching someone else how to ride (they do say that teaching a skill is a great way to master it yourself, after all).

Seek out new destinations

There is certainly something to love about our familiar destinations—the places we cling to for comfort, familiar faces and, of course, great, glassy waters. But in 2019, be bold and branch out, too! The most unsuspecting of places can sometimes house the most beautiful, board-ready waters, and traveling, in general, allows us to expand our horizons and get a new outlook on life.

Switch it up

If you’re constantly at the cockpit, switch things up and get behind the boat for yourself! You’ll have a blast, and can gain a better understanding of how different boat maneuvers affect the rider’s experience.

Bring your pup along for the fun

You’ve seen four-legged wakeboarders online—now, help your own furry friend discover the spotlight by bringing him out for a round of surfing! For a safe, smooth ride, feel free to take it slow and let Fido gain his sea legs. In no time, you might just discover that he’s got a penchant for the water. Who knew?

Share water sports fun with family

The entire family can enjoy water sports! Even those who don’t want to get up on a pair of skis can enjoy a leisurely experience in a tube. The bottom line is, when it comes to water sport fun, the more truly is the merrier.

Enjoy the ride

Of course, even as you pursue fast-paced thrills on the water, be sure to slow down and enjoy the ride every once in a while, too! Don’t miss out on the beautiful backdrops, the laughs and other familiar sounds of a day-well spent on the water… they’re what makes the journey truly worth taking.

Which of these ideas are you most excited to try in the year ahead? Be sure to share with us your own must-do “resolutions” as well.