Water Sports in Tuscany: Scuba Diving, Surfing, Windsurfing, Kitesurfing, Wingfoiling, Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand Up Paddling
Surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and Wing Foil: the power of wind and waves
Surfing is a sport that consists of “riding” while standing on a special board, the waves of the sea. By exploiting their propulsion alone, even very complex acrobatics can be performed, but obviously great balance and physical strength are necessary.
Windsurfing is also practiced on the sea above a board, but a sail is mounted on it through a mast, which the surfer uses to be pushed by the wind’s power. In this case too, however, the wave’s propulsion is often exploited to do jumps and tricks of various kinds.
Kitesurfing, on the other hand, is always practised with the use of a board that glides on the water, but by being pulled by a kite that uses the wind’s force for propulsion.
Wingfoiling, finally, is a relatively new discipline that combines elements of windsurfing and kitesurfing. It is practised with a board equipped with a hydrofoil and a portable sail, called a wing, which the rider holds with their hands.
Canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddling: for a more relaxed holiday
Canoeing and kayaking are two very similar sports, where the boats are propelled by the use of paddles. They are sports activities that require a great effort for the arm muscles and burn a lot of calories and unlike rowing, the paddles are held with the limbs raised and not fixed to the hull.
Although they are very similar sports, canoeing and kayaking are boats with many differences: the first, born in North America from indigenous peoples, originally could only be used on one’s knees (although today you can find canoes that allow you to stand with your legs stretched out), exploiting the propulsion of a single paddle, while the second, created by Arctic peoples, allow a more comfortable seating and the kayaker uses a double-bladed paddle, making it a much more widespread sport.
Stand up paddling (SUP) is a younger sport, perfect for those who love movement and want to stay in shape, it is a variant of surfing, where you need to balance on a board, usually standing, maneuvering with a paddle. To practice this water sport on holiday, you need a SUP board (even inflatable ones can be found), a paddle and strong arms and legs (or a desire to strengthen them!)
Scuba Diving: Explore the Tuscan Seabeds
Tuscany is not only famous for its rolling hills and historic villages but also for its rich coastal and marine life. The Tuscan islands such as Elba, Giglio, and Capraia are among the most renowned diving destinations, offering dive sites where you can see shipwrecks and underwater caves, perfect for divers of all levels. The Costa degli Etruschi, from Livorno to Piombino, and the Val di Cornia offer equally great opportunities with seabeds featuring shoals and cliffs rich in marine fauna.
The beaches of Castiglioncello, Rosignano and Baratti are other ideal spots for scuba diving in Tuscany. Each dive site has its own unique features, making this region a must-visit for those who love to explore the depths of the sea and discover the biodiversity of its seabeds.
Why should you come to Tuscany to practice your favourite water sport?
When it comes to waves, wind, and sea, the connection to a wonderful holiday on the Tuscan coast is immediate!
Whether you have been practicing one of the water sports mentioned above for some time or you want to find the right moment and opportunity to start, coming to Tuscany will surely meet your needs.
At any time of the year, there are many places and beaches along the coast where you can launch your board or kayak. If you need to rely on a school or a beginner’s centre for these water sports, you will easily find skilled teams of professionals who will be happy to assist you and your family.
Don’t keep them waiting; an unforgettable holiday by the sea in Tuscany awaits you!
