A Journey into the Ocean: My SUP Adventure

I was first introduced to Bay of Life in 2014, an experience that would change my relationship with the water forever. The ocean, unpredictable and mesmerizing, greeted me with choppy waves on my first encounter. I watched in awe as people effortlessly surfed, carving their way through the waves with a grace that seemed almost unnatural. It was a sight both intimidating and inspiring.

Determined to be part of this world, I took my first steps into surfing. Safety, above all, was the first lesson. I had assumed that my initial training session would be purely practical, but I was in for a surprise. What unfolded was a deeply insightful theoretical session, introducing me to the science of the ocean. I learned about ocean safety, offshore and onshore currents, the intricate mechanics of wave formation, and the factors that contribute to fetches and swells. Among the most crucial lessons was the knowledge of rip currents—hidden dangers that pose serious risks to those unaware of their presence. This understanding gave me a newfound confidence and respect for the ocean. I was no longer just a visitor; I was becoming a student of the water.

As my knowledge grew, so did my fascination. I learned not just about the ocean’s physical properties but also about the incredible science behind its movements. My first real encounter with the waves, however, was a humbling experience. I attempted to tackle them, but it was far tougher than I had imagined. The energy and endurance required were immense. I developed a profound respect for surfers and paddlers who made this seemingly impossible task look effortless.

Determined to keep pushing my limits, I moved on to paddling. The concept was simple — lying on a 7 to 8-foot board, paddling with my arms, and catching waves, but the execution was another challenge altogether. The sensation of gliding on water was exhilarating, but the choppy sea added another layer of difficulty. Eventually, I was introduced to a quarry where the water was flat, a stark contrast to the ocean’s relentless movement. Here, I was introduced to stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on a 14-foot-long board. This was a game-changer.

Unlike surfing, which demanded perfect timing and physical prowess, SUP was about balance, endurance, and connection with the water. I was instantly drawn to it. The transition from flat water to the ocean was not easy, but I was determined to learn. The ocean was different every day, sometimes calm, sometimes chaotic. I started understanding its patterns, realizing how deeply connected its changes were to the phases of the moon. Each day on the water was a new lesson in ocean dynamics, a lesson in patience and adaptability.

My mornings began early, often before sunrise. I started going out fishing with local fishermen, learning their ways, hearing their stories. Their knowledge of the sea was unparalleled, passed down through generations. Soon, I was paddling deeper into the ocean, venturing 2 to 3 kilometers offshore. These journeys were meditative, each stroke through the water bringing a sense of tranquility and focus.

Then came a defining moment in my paddling journey. One fine day, we set out on what was meant to be a long paddle session. Time became irrelevant as I focused on my strokes, the horizon my only guide. When we finally stopped, we realized that we had covered 9 kilometers in 90 minutes. This turned out to be the longest SUP boarding record in India at the time. The recognition and appreciation I received for this achievement were overwhelming, but more than that, it fueled my passion further.

With this newfound confidence, I began taking my paddleboard to new locations. My expeditions took me beyond the Indian shores to the breathtaking landscapes of Malaysia’s Langkawi Island and the serene waters of Dal Lake in Kashmir. Each location presented a unique challenge, from navigating the vast open ocean to gliding through glacial lakes. Paddling through these different ecosystems gave me an even deeper appreciation for the sport and the environments I was exploring.

Week after week, my love for SUP grew stronger. I sought out new waters, challenging myself in different conditions—be it the vast expanse of the ocean, the stillness of a lake, or the rushing waters of a river. Each experience taught me something new, reinforcing the idea that paddling is not just a sport but a way of life.

Looking back, what started as a curiosity in 2014 has turned into an unbreakable bond with the water. From struggling with choppy waves to setting records, from surfing to stand-up paddleboarding, this journey has been one of resilience, discovery, and respect for nature. The ocean, once intimidating, has now become my home, my teacher, and my sanctuary. And as I continue to paddle through new waters, I know that the learning never truly ends.

Every adventure in the water carries a different story, an untold lesson waiting to be learned. The rhythmic rise and fall of the ocean, the ever-changing currents, and the quietude of a sunrise over an endless horizon never cease to amaze me. The journey has been long, and with each passing year, my bond with the ocean strengthens. The transitions between different environments have only deepened my love for the sport, reinforcing the fact that water, in all its forms, has a language of its own.

Beyond the personal joy, I have come to realize that paddling is also a gateway to environmental awareness. Every journey into the ocean reminds me of the importance of preserving our waters. The more time I spend on my paddleboard, the more I witness the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. Pollution, plastic waste, and disturbed habitats serve as stark reminders of our responsibility toward nature. My experiences on the water have inspired me to take small yet significant steps to advocate for ocean conservation, educating others about the importance of keeping our water bodies clean.

One of the most profound realizations I have had during my time paddling is the connection between mind, body, and nature. The ocean demands respect and patience, teaching me valuable lessons about resilience and humility. In moments of stillness, when all that surrounds me is water and sky, I find a deep sense of peace. It is a form of meditation in motion, where each stroke of the paddle synchronizes with the rhythm of my breath.

The sport of SUP has not just been a physical journey but an emotional and spiritual one as well. Every paddle stroke takes me further into self-discovery, testing my limits while offering unparalleled moments of serenity. The vastness of the ocean has taught me to embrace uncertainty, to be comfortable with the unknown. This is a lesson that extends far beyond the water, influencing how I navigate through life itself. As I continue exploring different landscapes, I remain eager to discover new waters, meet fellow paddlers, and share the magic of SUP with others. The journey that began with a simple introduction to Bay of Life has now evolved into an unending pursuit of adventure, knowledge, and appreciation for the world around me.

The water has become my sanctuary, my guide, and my greatest teacher. And with each new horizon, the journey continues.