The lift of Coronavirus rules in the UK on the 19^th July gave us an even bigger opportunity to get back to the outdoor activities we know and love – be it the open water or a coastal path.

In our latest blog, we have picked out 10 activities that will get you active on the water this summer post-lockdown. Take a look and see what takes your fancy.

1 – Sailing

They say start as you mean to go on, and we’ve started this list with the activity that we built our legacy around. If you have always wanted to turn your hand to sailing on large boats such as yachts and catamarans, then this summer presents a great chance to do so.

If you’re just starting out, then check out the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) website which has a wealth of information on how to get involved with sailing and yachting. Not matter your ages or ability, use their club finder to find out how you can get involved locally.

If you’re looking for more, you can take an RYA credited course or qualification, volunteer as well as getting into racing.

Looking for some Summer holiday sailing inspiration? The UK’s shores have endless opportunities to get out on the water, check our Sailing destinations with Click&Boat for your ultimate staycation.

2 – Dinghy Sailing

Looking for something a bit smaller to begin your on the water experience? Try Dinghy Sailing! It’s the perfect opportunity to learn basic sailing skills in a forgiving and fun environment.

Check out the RYA to find your local club and learn the basics from a qualified instructor, it’s a great way to meet new people too!

If you’re just starting out and unsure what to wear, check out our what to wear while sailing blog to help you get your kit bag together.

3 – Stand up Paddleboarding

Stand up paddleboarding is a superb way to explore a beach, creek or river, providing a peaceful, almost meditative way of taking in the world around you. Often shortened to SUP, stand up paddleboarding has boomed in popularity over the past few years.

This fun and relaxing activity is suitable for all ages and abilities so you don’t need a background in water sports to give this a try! There are plenty of clubs and venues facilitating this around the UK, check out our partner Go Paddling , the home of recreational paddling and a digital resource developed by British Canoeing. Here you can find ‘how to’ guides, paddle locations as well as top tips on how to stay safe on the water.

Make sure you always check your route before you set off – you may need to buy a waterways license.

4 – Kayaking and Canoeing

An easy paddle down a river or across a lake is a fantastic way to feel at one with the world around you, and enjoy the tranquility that water brings. Not only that, but you get a fantastic core and arms workout too!

Whether you want to take on some rapids or simply unwind in a kayak or canoe, this summer presents a great opportunity to do so. Check out the Go Paddling website which can provide you with all the info you need to find opportunities to kayak or canoe in your area – you can even find your local club too.

5 – Wakeboarding

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For you skaters and surfers out there, wakeboarding might be right up your street! Being pulled along by a boat while surfing in its wake, and even taking on a few jumps is definitely nothing less than a challenge.

Learning with friends is always fun, so check out the British Water Ski & Wakeboard site where you can find your nearest club and facilities, and get your lessons booked in!

6 – Windsurfing

Another activity for those more au fait with the world of watersports, windsurfing. It can be a challenging activity but hugely rewarding and an excellent way of engaging with the conditions, windsurfing is a brilliant off-coast activity.

You can find a host of information on the RYA website to find your nearest Windsurfing facilities.

7 – Coastal Walking

Stepping back onto dry land for a minute, a fantastic way to engage with the UK’s phenomenal coastline is by walking it.

We love a coastal walk, and we recently wrote about some of the best locations for coastal walking and what to wear when visiting.

A walking holiday or simply a trip to your local coast to perambulate is a fine activity to engage in on a beautiful summer’s day.

8 – Rowing

Rowing is a classic watersport with a rich history here in the UK. Anybody with a particular penchant for staying fit and in shape that hasn’t given rowing a go before may well be keen to take on the test.

You might well have been inspired to give rowing a go by the Ocean Revival Team. Thisgroup of Royal Marines are challenging themselves to row across the Atlantic from New York to London. This is all to raise awareness of the levels of plastic in the ocean, and Gill is proud to be sponsoring the Ocean Revival team’s efforts. These guys will be rowing for approximately 60 days – no mean feat!

Check out the British Rowing website to see how you can get started.

9 – Surfing

Surfing is more than just a watersport but something of a way of life for many people. There are a number of surfing hotspots around the UK, with Cornwall something of a mecca in this part of the world for surfing fanatics.

Wherever your headed, check for local surfing schools so you can get taught the basics. Make sure you choose an adequate surfing spot where lifeguards are present to give you that extra piece of mind. Surfs up!

10 – Jet Skiing

Finally on our list is jet skiing – something that really gets the heart racing. Jet skiing is an exciting way to be out on the water, with great speeds achievable and plenty of fun to be had, although they should be handled with care!

Before you get started, make sure you match your jet ski to your abilities and have all the safety gear required. If you’re looking to get into racing then make sure you apply for membership at the JSRA.

Get kitted out with Gill

Regardless of the activity that speaks to you most, it is important to have the right apparel and equipment to help keep you safe and protected.

This is where Gill comes into its own. We have a fantastic array of watersports apparel that is perfect for your summer watersports activities.

Our sailing and dinghy sailing ranges contain a host of top-quality sailing items, with everything from sailing jackets and trousers to caps, t-shirts and other sailing apparel products.

We also have a number of paddlesports items available for you to buy this summer. These include excellent rash vests, as well as neoprene jackets, gloves and waterproof beanies that can help you stay protected and comfortable during your activity of choice.

Gill also has plenty of clothing options for activities like coastal walks, or for wearing around the water in general. Take a look too at our accessories, and find all the watersports clothing you need within our range.

We hope you get out on the water this summer and have a season to remember! Be sure to check our delivery options too. And if you have any questions about the Gill range, it’s simply a case of getting in touch. Our team will be happy to help.