In terms of summer outdoor activities, maybe you're one of those individuals who can't get enough time in, or or around water. One can hardly blame you. After all, during these months when the temperatures start to climb and you feel perpetually "sticky," there's hardly anything that can compare to diving into the ocean or a pool or firing up the boat for a trip around the lake. However as refreshing as the breeze that comes from ripping around the water on a boat, jet ski or other motorized mode of transportation, they may not be the most friendly options for the earth.
If you're looking for some ways to reduce your environmental impact while still embracing your aquatic-loving side, the good news is there are several alternatives to motorized boats. They run the gamut from relaxing to thrill-inducing, and as an added bonus, some also double as exercise meaning you're doing as much good for yourself as you are for the earth.
Canoeing
You'll develop some good arm muscles if you participate in this activity which was once used by North American natives as a primary means of getting around. Today most individuals use it for recreational purposes. It's no wonder: there are so many different classifications and types, you can customize the activity to your liking. Traditional canoes use single- or double-bladed paddles and involve sitting or kneeling on a seat. Most of this type of canoeing does not require any formal training.
If you're looking for a more relaxing journey, take your fishing equipment along for a leisurely day on the lake. Want an interactive family adventure? Many parks have canoe routes with varying levels of difficulty, however you'll need to familiarize yourself with the route and the currents in the water. If your family members aren't experienced paddlers, consider taking a guide with you and make sure everyone is well-versed in safety guidelines. Life jackets are not optional, no matter experienced a swimmer you are. Canoes should never be stood in or rocked and extra clothing in waterproof containers should be brought along so if you do end up in the water, you won't spend the rest of the day miserable and shivering.
Kayaking
A variation of canoeing, traditional kayaks feature an enclosed "cockpit" and require paddlers to sit with their legs extended in front of them rather than bent at the knees. Kayaks use a double-bladed paddle and typically have less storage room than a canoe. There are also several classifications of kayaking including white-water kayaking, touring or recreational.
Some kayaks are designed to roll upright again if they are tipped without filling the boat with water or ejecting the paddlers. Many of the safety tips are the same as those for canoeing. Life jackets are to be worn at all times and boaters should always travel in groups.
If you're a committed kayaker and want to be really green when buying your own, check out one of the boats designed by Walden Kayaks, which use recycled and recyclable materials.
White Water Rafting
This one is definitely not for the faint of heart, but then again, its title indicates as much since calm, peaceful lakes aren't really an option here. Thrill-seekers who love the excitement of water skiing and paragliding should find rafting an adequate way to get the adrenaline moving.
Rafting typically occurs on a river with varying levels of rapids. Rubberized inflatable boats with multiple layers typically hold four to 12 people and are guided using ordinary paddles. There are six classes of whitewater rafters can expect to encounter, with the first being a beginner level with no experience required and level six being a death trap of which even the most experienced rafter rarely makes it out of alive from.
If you're brand-new to the activity and venturing out on an expedition, be honest with your guide about your swimming ability and physical fitness. Both will determine the type of trip you go on. For example, if you're a nervous swimmer, make sure you make that clear ahead of time you so you don't end up on in rapids that are too far advanced beyond your comfort level. Also make sure if you're taking the family along, that you take into account the age of any children and choose an appropriate trip everyone can enjoy. Many guides have an age or weight criteria, so be sure to inquire about those beforehand. Check out expert Kevin McMillan's additional tips meant to keep you as safe as possible.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving may not be as extreme as rushing down a fast river while paddling like mad, however it can certainly help develop an appreciation for the beauty and the life that exists underwater that can only come for seeing it up-close. The activity typically utilizes tanks of compressed air to help you "breathe" underwater, as well as rubber fins on the feet to propel divers along smoothly.
Basic training should be completed at the very minimum before you head into the water. If you're at a resort, familiarize yourself with the rules of diving, but more importantly, follow them. Some resorts can be slack on the rules, but it's within your best interests, as well as those of your fellow divers, to be as safe as possible. Somebody far more experienced than you (and let's face it, probably the hotel front desk attendant as well) developed guidelines for a reason and it probably wasn't because they were bored. Other basic rules include proper breathing, ascension and equipment examination prior to diving.
You can make this activity more environmentally-conscious by paying attention to more than the beautiful underwater wildlife. If you see any trash that could be hazardous to marine life and the reef and that is not a danger to you, pick it up and stow it on your boat for proper disposal. It goes without saying that you should never litter or disturb living creatures. Also consider taking an underwater camera with you to help remove the temptation of picking up and taking anything with you that actually should remain in the water.
As with any type of outdoor activity, be aware of the wildlife and any rules or regulations pertaining to that aspect in any area you will be visiting. Above all else, we can't emphasize safety enough. Never participate in any of the aforementioned activities without proper training or adequate experience and knowledge.
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