Snorkeling Tips for Beginners

There is a common misconception that snorkeling is a simple activity that doesn’t require any special skill. Okay granted, snorkeling is not the hardest thing in the world and is indeed a fun activity, but only if you do it right.

If you are a first-time snorkeler, your initial experience will determine whether you will end up liking or loathing the activity. Let’s look at a few tips that you can use to ensure you enjoy snorkeling for the very first time.

1. Get proper equipment

The right equipment can be the difference between having fun or hating your day out in the ocean. Let’s start with the face mask. Getting the wrong mask can cause water to flood in your face or breathing tube which can be potentially dangerous. The wrong mask can also result in fogging. Get high quality equipment that fit right and has a valve at the top of the tube to prevent water from getting in when you submerge.

Also consider how the fins fit. These are important as they help you propel yourself in the water. Fins that are too tight could end up causing your feet to feel sore and uncomfortable when under water. Try them out and ensure they fit snugly but not too tight.

2. Test out the equipment

Getting the right equipment is one thing, learning how to use it a completely different thing. Don’t head out to the ocean to snorkel without figuring out how the equipment works.

Wear the mask and tighten it around your head. Make sure it’s not too tight to cause discomfort. Learn how to adjust the snorkel to find the right height and angle according to your facial structure.

3. Pick a good spot for practicing

Now it’s time to wear your equipment and head out to the water. But not any water will do. Pick a shallow spot and use a floater if you are not a strong swimmer. Learn how to blow water out of the tube and get used to breathing through the snorkel.

Swimming can drain a lot of your energy reserves so practicing first will teach you how to swim gently without exerting yourself too much.

The right spot should also have some beautiful marine life. This will help you enjoy your time. Picking a dull spot with nothing to see can make the whole experience boring and one which you do not look forward to doing a second time.

4. Bring a partner with you

Snorkeling for the first time alone can drain your confidence. Having someone with you will help you snorkel with ease knowing that in case something went wrong, you can easily ask for help.

5. Do what you love

Sometimes people do things simply because they heard their buddies doing it only to realize that they don’t actually enjoy it. If you love marine life, then you will definitely enjoy snorkeling. The same cannot be said for someone who has no interest in underwater adventures.