Snorkeling can be an amazing activity for you on your family vacation or even close to home. While it does not provide the freedom of scuba diving, it does still allow you to explore underwater worlds and ecosystems that you may never have had a chance to see. You will be able to view sea creatures in a way that normal swimming would not allow you to do. And, even though it doesn’t afford you the same freedom, it is a great deal safer than scuba diving. You do not need extensive training to snorkel and stay safe, you just need the right equipment.
Most people think that the only necessary equipment for a snorkeler is your mask and some fins. This is not necessarily true. While a vest is not mandatory, it should be considered very seriously when you head out into the water. If you are going to be in the water for an extended time, a vest will help you float in the water. Most vests come with a small tube attached to the side of the vest.
This allows the snorkeler to inflate the vest while they are in the water, offering them more buoyancy, or deflate the vest so they can get closer to an item. There are a lot of hazardous items below the surface (such as coral), having the ability to float away from them quickly will help keep you safe. Besides, if you are wearing something such as a best, covering some of your body, if you do get knocked into some coral or run up against it, it will protect your skin.
In addition to snorkeling vests, diving gloves are often ignored but can come in handy (no pun intended). Once again, items like coral or other sharp objects below the water can be extremely painful if you knock into them or have to touch them. There may also be other things that you don’t necessarily want to touch with your hands, but do want to explore. Diving gloves are the perfect way to keep your hands safe but still give you full access to see and do everything you want. Whether the situation is unpleasant or detrimental, diving gloves are an asset. They will allow you to clear obstacles and avoid dangerous situations.
The last item, a thermal wrap can keep you warm if you decide to go to a lower depth where it may be cooler than on the surface. Remember, being prepared is the best way to ensure a safe and fun snorkeling experience.
