Wakeboarding and Water Skiing Explained

Wakeboarding and water skiing both involve being pulled across the water by a rope, yet they feel very different. Water skiers stand on two skis and face forward, while wakeboarders ride a single board sideways, much like a snowboarder. Did you know that wakeboarding only became popular in the 1980s, decades after water skiing was invented on a lake in Minnesota in 1922?

How the Two Sports Differ

• Equipment: water skiing uses two skis or one slalom ski; wakeboarding uses one short, wide board.
• Stance: skiers face forward; wakeboarders stand sideways with both feet bound to the board.
• Tricks: wakeboarders use the boat's wake as a ramp for jumps and spins.
• Speed: wakeboarding is usually done at lower boat speeds than slalom skiing.

Boat or Cable?

Traditionally, a motorboat tows the rider. Cable parks offer an alternative: an overhead cable system pulls riders around a lake, so no boat is needed. Cable parks are popular for learning because the pull is steady and several people can ride at once.

Standing up for the first time

Beginners start in the water, knees bent towards the chest and the board or skis in front. The key is to let the boat pull you up slowly instead of trying to stand quickly. Keep your arms straight, your weight slightly back and look towards the horizon, not at your feet.

Safety Tips

Always wear a life jacket, even if you are a strong swimmer. Agree on simple hand signals with the driver before you start. If you fall, let go of the handle immediately and raise a hand so the boat crew can see you.

Trying It Near Antalya

Many beach water sports centres along the coast of Kemer, Side and Alanya offer water skiing and wakeboarding behind a boat during the summer season, alongside parasailing and banana rides. Calm morning water gives beginners the best chance of success.