welcome to snorkeling
So, you decided you want to get your feet wet (figuratively and literally) by trying out snorkeling. You are going to be so thrilled that you did. The ocean makes up to 71% of the earth’s surface and there is so much to explore. From beautiful fish, plant life, geological formations and wrecks that go back in time, underwater experiences will never cease to amaze you.
Once you get the hang of snorkeling, you will never go back but the first time you go out might be a little daunting. There are some things that may make a first experience unpleasant and sway you away from it so here are some tips to help prevent them.
proper fitting mask/fog prevention
Almost every tour company will have masks and snorkels provided and they are all not the same. Make sure to get one that you feel comfortable adjusting and fits your face well. Make sure the mask is clean. You can use anti-fog solution on the inside of the mask to prevent it from fogging up. You can do a mixture of baby shampoo and water or if you have nothing handy spit works great to get rid of the fog.
Knowing how to use the snorkel
Nothing is worse than breathing and getting a mouth full of water instead. If you have a tube that is leaning forward instead of straight up when your head is down this very well can happen. Also, if it doesn’t have a splash valve on top a big wave or someone nearby may cause water to go over the top. If water gets into the tube, you can expel it by breathing out forcefully. Some tubes have a great no back flow, so if you blow out the water it will go up and out the tube and not come back in. When given the opportunity always pick a snorkel with a valve if available.
Get proper fitting fins
Make sure to select fins that are appropriate size. Many tours will say if you lose a fin the cost is on you. Too tight fins can rub you. Snug is good because in the cooler water your feet will naturally shrink minorly. As someone with small feet- I request the children’s size in advance. I find that if no fins fit it is better to go without, but fins help tremendously especially if you want to cover some ground.
Avoid Rough waters
For your first time snorkeling you may want to pick a tour that you know will be in calmer waters so you can adjust to the equipment and feel of snorkeling. If you are fighting the equipment, fearful of swimming it might be overwhelming. Another option is to snorkel from the shore as many places offer that. Often waters are calmer in the morning. Fighting the ocean is never a fun way to experience the world below it.
Avoid Large groups/tours
Of course, you’ll want to check out some of the most iconic snorkel spots but sometimes if you are in a large group of people it can feel less like a peaceful event exploring the sea and more like a sea of people chasing fish away. You may get hit in a swimming frenzy. If you can do a smaller group, you may have a better first-time experience and not get lost in the crowd. Remember to never go out alone.
Relax and Enjoy
When using a snorkel, you will notice immediately that breathing takes a little more effort. Remember snorkeling is a peaceful activity where you get to explore the world of the ocean. Take it all in and swim at a comfortable pace to not tire yourself out. Once you relax with your breathing, you will start to truly enjoy the scenes of the world below.
