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Goa boasts of a long coastline that offers myriad opportunities to indulge in water sports. Dinghy sailing a quaint form of cruising], snorkeling, windsurfing, and cooking fresh trout over a campfire top the list of aquatic attractions. The resort weary, meanwhile, can head out to sea, where they can fish, scuba, and kayak-provided they can break from the shoreside revelry!
A number of government and private outfits, including the National Institute of Water Sports, conduct training courses at inexpensive rates.
Angling
Betul, where expert scuba divers are likely to catch the largest mussels, is home to the state's best-known fishing trips. Myriad varieties of rockfish are stalked and caught at Agonda; Soormai, salmon and mullet are frequent catches.
Dinghy sailing
Owing to the gentle winds, dinghy sailing is referred to as 'beer and sandwich' sailing. These 15-feet long boats hold four people. The sea lacks the things that can turn dinghy trips into a nightmare, particularly insects and hypothermic weather. But it proffers the unrefined elements-icy waters and guides who stand up in the boat while navigating the waters. Visitors can either charter a crewed boat or skipper their own dinghy. Dinghies are available at the Cidade de Goa and the Taj Holiday Village.
Snorkeling
The emerald waters fringing the mainland harbor unrivaled snorkeling spots. Masks and flippers are available to view the myriad varieties of fish darting beneath the waters. Surfboards can also be hired. The whole experience costs less than US$5.
Water-skiing and water scooters
Water scooters and speedboats that can carry between six to eight people are available at the Cidade de Goa, Oberoi, and Taj Hotels. A few privately run outfits teach tourists how to turn their water scooters around 180 degrees in a couple of seconds and launch forwards again as the water spins around them!
Windsurfing
Dona Paula bay is the ideal spot for windsurfing. The morning breeze is placid, which is conducive for learners while the stronger winds that set in during the afternoons offer a challenge for the more experienced surfers.
Scuba diving
The near-perfect visibility at sea makes Goa a popular diving destination. The clear calm waters, diverse marine life, and brilliant ridges make the sea diving enthusiasts' paradise-but India's flagship snorkeling destination overshadows the copious dive sites.
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