If your family itinerary has involved a bit too much sightseeing and you have teenagers who are starting to glaze over, you need an injection of pure adrenaline. Diyakawa Water Sports Centre, situated on the banks of the Bentota River estuary, is widely considered the safest and most professional water sports outfitter in Sri Lanka.
Because they operate on the wide, sprawling river estuary rather than the open ocean, the water is glassy and flat. This makes high-speed water sports significantly less intimidating for beginners.
What Kids Love Most
- The Sofa Ride / Banana Boat: The classic family activity. You all straddle a giant inflatable tube while a speedboat drags you across the river. It ends with everyone inevitably being playfully flipped into the warm water.
- River Tubing: Older kids can rent giant inner tubes and be towed at high speeds, bouncing over the wake of the boat.
- Jet Ski Safaris: If you have teenagers (or adventurous 10-year-olds), you can rent a Jet Ski. For safety, an instructor will ride on the back, but the kids are allowed to control the steering and throttle as you venture deep into the mangrove channels.
Parent Tips
This is a high-octane physical activity. You must ensure your children are wearing proper UV-protection rash guards, as the sun reflecting off the river is brutal. The center provides life jackets, but always double-check the straps before the boat takes off. Bring a waterproof phone pouch if you want to capture the memories!
