Tips And Techniques For Snorkeling

Snorkeling is an excellent way to view tropical fish in shallow water or explore a coral reef. All you need is a mask, a snorkel or breathing tube, and fins, all of which many outfitters and charter companies rent. Both beginners and more experienced swimmers can learn to snorkel, as it doesn't require much swimming. Relax, float face-down on your stomach and gaze down into an enchanting underwater realm.

Masks

Make sure your mask fits by wetting it, holding it up to your face and breathing in through your nose. This should seal the mask to your face without you having to hold it in place. Men with mustaches can apply Vaseline or ChapStick below the nose to create a seal, or shave the interfering hair.

Fog

Masks tend to fog up during use. Use a commercially available anti-fog gel product or try one of the natural versions: spit, dog drool or a small drop of baby shampoo rinsed with ocean water also get the job done. Leave a bit of saltwater inside the mask to act as a fog-deterrent.

Flooding

If your mask fills with water, raise your head and pull the lower edge of the mask away from your mouth to drain it. When water gets inside your snorkel, shoot a blast of air upward to clear it out, or lift your head up and take out the snorkel to drain it. Practice flooding and emptying your mask and snorkel so you know how to solve the problems when they arise.

Fins

Avoid fins that hurt your toes but make sure you choose a pair that fits snugly on your feet. Keep your knees and ankles relaxed while kicking from the hip to prevent cramps. Always keep your fins below the water line. It's difficult to walk wearing fins, so put them on only when you're close to or in the water.

Other Advice

Look around every few minutes to check your position, as it is easy to drift off course. Keep your equipment clean of seaweed to prevent the spread of invasive species. Stay relaxed and avoid moving in a way that would bring the top of the snorkel below the surface of the water. Relax and move using gentle strokes to avoid scaring off wildlife.