Snorkeling is named for the apparatus a person uses while performing this recreational activity: the snorkel. A snorkel is a specialized diving mask that has a tube used for breathing. Snorkeling can be performed in both warm and cold water and allows a person to view fish and fauna underneath the water without needing an air tank for scuba diving.
Function
The basic equipment used during snorkeling includes fins and a mask, which covers a person's nose and is equipped with a tube known as a snorkel. The snorkel itself is shaped like a J or L and extends above the water when a person is snorkeling in order to allow him to breathe without lifting his head above the water. A snorkel typically is no longer than roughly 16 inches or 40 centimeters. Snorkeling is considered a recreational or leisure activity and requires very little skill to be able to perform. For this reason, most who are able to swim are able to snorkel.
Geography
Snorkeling can be performed in a number of locations around the world, but is perhaps most common in warm-water areas where snorkelers can enjoy a leisurely view of the water below. The best areas to snorkel include those that have very little waves, which allows for a more clear view for the water beneath and a safer experience for the snorkeler. Common areas might include near a coral reef or shipwreck.
Considerations
Several safety precautions should be taken when snorkeling in order to maintain the safety of the snorkeler and to preserve the natural beauty of the areas where a person is snorkeling. These include refraining from touching the animals and coral below. A person also should take care to cover the back with sunscreen as it is more exposed to the sun while snorkeling. If snorkeling in cold water, a protective diving suit should be worn. While snorkeling is safe for the most part, avoiding organisms such as jellyfish, sea urchins, moray eels and fire coral can keep a snorkeler from getting stung.
Expert Insight
Most popular snorkeling areas will feature shops that have snorkeling equipment for rental or purchase. While snorkeling is a fairly easy to learn activity, it may be a good idea to seek snorkeling lessons or advice from a snorkeling professional prior to snorkeling for the first time. Some snorkeling areas may only be accessible via boat, which will often require rental.
Popular Areas
Many tropical and subtropical national parks offer snorkeling opportunities, including the Virgin Islands National Park; Buck Island Reef in St. Croix; Dry Tortugas National Park and Biscayne National Park, both located in the Florida Keys. If you will be visiting a tropical area, inquire with your hotel or travel agent as to snorkeling opportunities.
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