So forget your rubber ring and get ready to tackle a coastline bursting with water sports and activities!

Whether you want sporting events or family fun, the Christchurch, Bournemouth and Poole coastline offers a magical seafaring alternative to the daily hustle and bustle. Surfing, crabbing, kayaking, cruises and fishing are just some of the pursuits to try out.

Windsurfing: If you want to try to "carve" and "jibe" head to Poole - either to Rockley Park or to the harbour - and book a windsurfing lesson.

Wakeboarding: Wakeboarding is one of the fastest grwoing extreme water sports. While you are here, try your skill in Poole Harbour or neighbouring Hamworthy or one of the lakes in the New Forest.

Canoeing and Kayaking: For something completely different explore the New Forest and travel the Beaulieu River by canoe and kayak. You can even 'Paddle to the Pub'. There's canoeing or kayaking in Christchurch Quay or try a one-day kayaking qualification in Poole. Kayaks are available to hire on Bournemouth Beach in the summer.

Kite surfing: Kite suring is another extreme sport not for the faint hearted! Have a go in Poole Harbour's water sports area.