What is snorkeling?

Snorkeling is swimming with a mask, fins, and snorkel that allows you to have your face down in the water and still breathe.

What is the difference between
snorkeling and scuba diving?

Snorkeling doesn't require tanks and other equipment like regulators and BCs. Scuba diving allows you to breathe underwater, while snorkeling allows you to breathe while you are face down on the surface.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?

It is recommended that you do have some comfort and experience when you are in water. A few things to consider is that your fins help you a great deal in terms of movement, and when wearing a wetsuit you will float.  If you still don't feel comfortable, all you need do is ask and our staff will be happy to accommodate and help you.

What equipment do you need to snorkel?

Well, there are 4 main things that our snorkelers use;
A) Mask
This is what helps us see clearly underwater.  It's important that the mask is a good fit when renting or buying a mask. If the mask doesn't fit well, you will experience some leakage of water in the mask.

B) Snorkel
A snorkel is a curved tube that is placed in the mouth that allows you to breathe while you are face down in the water. While you looking down into the water, the snorkel is sticking out of the water on one end while the other end is in your mouth.

C) Fins
Fins allow you to swim without having to use your hands and arms.  Splashing on the surface will scare the marine life away below.  Fins also make it easier to propel yourself through the water, allowing you to be more comfortable and relaxed.  Make sure that the fins are a good fit, you may cut off circulation to your feet (if too small), or the fins could easily come off (if too large). Make sure that they are a snug fit, but you should be able to wiggle your toes.

D) Wetsuit
A wetsuit is a snug fitting neoprene exposure suit that allows a small amount of water inside the suit. This provides thermal insulation and keeps the snorkeler from getting cold.

 

What conditions are good for snorkeling?

The best times to go are when the waves are minimal, and it's sunny outside.  Sunlight increases visibility, and brings out the 'wow' factor when observing local wildlife and the overall experience. But the sun also brings out the 'sun burn' factor. Make sure that you don’t forget sun block.