4 tips to enjoy snorkeling
Snorkeling is an important component of scuba diving. It's a low-maintenance way to enjoy the beauty of underwater life. It's relatively inexpensive (when compared to other activities like long scuba diving excursions) and available to nearly anyone who wants to see what lies beneath the ocean's surface. But, as simple as snorkeling may seem, there are many things you can do to improve your experience underwater. Below, you'll learn 4 quick tips that you should consider when planning a snorkeling adventure.
Tips
Tip #1: Fit the mask properly
The first key to ensuring that you have a great experience snorkeling is to use a mask that fits your face properly. Everyone's face has slightly different curves. So, you'll naturally find that some masks fit better than others. The last thing you want is to be underwater viewing incredible scenes of beauty and having air and water leaking into your mask, obscuring your vision. Try on several masks and test them (if you have the opportunity) before you go snorkeling.
Tip #2: Plan to prevent fogging
Chances are, the temperature of the water will be lower than that of your body. When that's the case, your mask can fog up quickly. But, you can take a moment before diving to prevent fogging. Most experienced snorkelers suggest using your own spit in the mask. You can also use toothpaste if you have some handy. You can even use a small amount of baby shampoo across the inside surface of the mask. Your snorkeling experience will be much more memorable if you can view the environment through a clear mask.
Tip #3: Learn to use fins efficiently
Many beginning snorkelers have never used a pair of fins. If used improperly, your legs may cramp while the fins fail to propel your body forward. Make sure that your legs and knees are relaxed while underwater. Keep your legs together while fluidly working the fins. If your legs are moving, in the same manner, as you ride a bicycle, you're not using the fins efficiently. You'll find that if you make sure your fins are completely submerged while smoothly moving them up and down, they'll almost catapult your body forward.
Tip #4: Limit your body's movements
You may be surprised by how much your body moves while snorkeling if you're not proactively controlling your movements. The problem is that you increase the likelihood of bumping into a variety of objects (including reefs, coral, buoys and even other snorkelers) when you move around excessively. When you've become comfortable with being underwater, learn to control your body's movements.
Having fun while snorkeling
If you take a few moments to plan your snorkeling adventure before going into the water, you can ensure that your experience is rewarding. Make certain you find a mask that fits properly. Wipe the inside of your mask with spit, toothpaste, or baby shampoo to prevent the mask from fogging. Learn to use your fins efficiently so they can help propel your body effortlessly while snorkeling. Finally, try to control the amount your body moves underwater. Snorkeling is one of the best ways to find out what lies beneath the surface of the ocean. With a little planning, you're practically guaranteed an enjoyable adventure.