Snorkeling With the Whole Family
There are many vacation spots where snorkeling is a big draw, and many of the places you snorkel, you do so in shallow water. When I say shallow water, I mean water shallow enough for the kids to stand in, bend over, put their masked face in the water and watch fish swim by. Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean all have excellent shallow water snorkeling. This makes it pretty darn safe even for the youngest of your family. Good snorkel areas tend to have very calm water, but you still should maintain a watch on the little ones and practice water safety. Overall, shallow water snorkeling is very safe.
To start the day off right, eat a light breakfast and hit the beach early in the morning, before the big crowds arrive. Stake out a nice sunny spot, so when you came out of the water you can warm up. Keep the beach umbrella close by for later in the day. Always check with the life guard about conditions in the water, including any currents commonly found near the snorkel area before you enter the water. Make sure all rental snorkel equipment is in good condition before you use it. Always give the kids a refresher course on snorkel use before you enter the water, even if they have snorkeled before.
Many snorkel parks have rest rooms, restaurants, gift shops and anything else a vacationing family can want or need. You can usually purchase a nice water proof identification card for the local fish species at the gift shop. This can make your day of snorkeling even more fun. You can mark the species as you see them, or see who spots the most species of sea animals. Notice how this turns into fun and educational?
You can also usually purchase underwater disposable or one-use cameras. This is a really fun thing to give the kids. They will spend hours swimming around trying to get a photo of that one special fish or turtle. The results can be very nice and provide interesting additions to your scrap book. Get a camera for yourself as well, you are going to see something you just wish you had a photo of!
Have one member of the family be the time keeper and alert everyone when it's lunch time. Snorkeling can be so entertaining that the time will fly by. Plan on a siesta after lunch, with time on dry land before you continue your family water adventure!
http://www.articlesbase.com/aerobics-articles/snorkeling-with-the-whole-family-526315.html
Showing posts with label Snorkel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Snorkel. Show all posts
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Snorkelling - Scuba Without the Fuss
Snorkelling - Scuba Without the Fuss
I hate scuba diving. That's not to say I've ever tried it, but frankly it seems like a lot of hassle to me. First there's the need to be certified, and that requires both training and effort - two things low down on my priority list when I'm on holiday.
Then there's the dread: the fear of my mask filling up, the terror of running out of air, the horror of what my wobbly bits look like in a wetsuit. Generally, it's just not my cup of tea.
And while I'm reliably informed that the vast majority of sea animals found around these parts can't harm me at all, that does leave room for a vast minority that can hurt me very much indeed.
So all in, I feel quite sure that the key to tropical bliss is snorkelling. It may not reflect the pioneering spirit of Jacques Cousteau but bobbing around on the surface enjoying the sights without disturbing either the wildlife or the underwater fauna seems to be the perfect middle road for people who want to see and be unseen.
And what a lot there is to see here - Malaysia's coral reefs are home to one of the most prolific congregations of underwater life on the planet, forming an ecosystem some say is rivalled only by the rainforests of the Amazon and the Congo.
Before jumping straight in though, there are some basics that you need to know. Obviously, your selection of mask and snorkel are important. Fit and comfort are vital ingredients if you want to spend your time looking around rather than having to lift your head out of the water every few minutes to drain away accumulating liquid.
Get this done properly. Half an hour in a scuba shop will see you equipped with a mask perfectly suited to your phizog. To try on the mask, move the strap out of the way, brush your hair to one side, and just push the mask firmly onto your face. If it will remain there unsupported, then it is making a good seal.
Once you have determined which masks will fit properly, other considerations are comfort, field of vision (some masks permit more view to the sides than others) and, of course, the cost.
Don't forget to get a snorkel also, and maybe a spare strap to hold it to your mask. The snorkel mouthpiece should be soft with flexible edges to be comfortable in your mouth.
"There's nothing worse than having ill-fitting equipment," says Bob Brunswick, a professional diver with more than 25 years of experience in both scuba and snorkelling. "If you get a mouthpiece that's too big it just rubs against your gums, making them sore.
"It's much better to take the time to get the right kit. It may feel like a bit of a pain when you know the hotel you're staying at has masks to rent, but I guarantee that you'll be the one reaping the rewards when everyone else is struggling under the water."
If you really feel like waddling into the sea looking like a pro, you might want to consider some fins. "In all honesty, fins aren't really a necessity for snorkelling," says Bob. "But they do help you to get down more quickly so that you can see more of the underwater world on that breath of air."
With kit on, and back thoroughly sun-screened, it's time to take to the water. But there's one last thing to do. Inform someone where you're going? You definitely should, but that's not what I was alluding to. It's the bit that kids especially love: the well-known diver's trick of spitting inside the face of the mask to stop it fogging up.
"Spit keeps the air on the inside of the mask from condensing on the glass," explains Bob. "Masks fog up because the inside is often dirty or dusty. Spit cleans off the dirt, making it much harder for condensation and fog to form. It may not be sanitary, but for most divers it works just fine."
The technique couldn't be more simple: offer up a reasonable mouthful of your finest saliva, wipe it around the inside of the mask with your finger and rinse out with seawater just before placing it on your face.
To keep the snorkel upright while you are swimming face down on the surface, the snorkel fastening will need to be adjusted properly on the mask strap. Since the snorkeller cannot see the snorkel while it's in use, it may be helpful to have someone watch you to help find the proper adjustment.
Now you can swim along the surface, breathing through the snorkel and observing the world below. When you see something interesting you can hold your breath and dive down to have a closer look.
"In order to stretch your time below, it is important to be relaxed and not expending a lot of energy," says Bob. "To dive down under the surface, rotate your body so that you can put your head straight down and stick your legs straight up and out of the water.
"Then let gravity do its thing and you should be on your way down without moving a muscle. When your downward speed has deteriorated you can start kicking to continue. For the return to the surface, tilt your head back and watch where you are going. You wouldn't want to bang your head on the bottom of a boat."
Key to doing this without ending up coughing and spluttering with a mouth full of water is to keep enough air in your lungs so that after you break the surface you can send a quick burst of air through the snorkel to help expel any remaining water. Make sure you also keep your head still back so that the open end of the snorkel will be pointing down as you bob up.
Generally, scuba divers are taught to return to the surface with one hand stretched upward to prevent them from banging their head and also to be more visible to boat traffic. It's not a bad idea for snorkellers to do the same.
Plus, it gives your friends on the shore a chance to see you having a great time in the water and look on enviously. All that fun - so little effort. Perfect.
http://www.articlesbase.com/scuba-diving-articles/snorkelling-scuba-without-the-fuss-676178.html
I hate scuba diving. That's not to say I've ever tried it, but frankly it seems like a lot of hassle to me. First there's the need to be certified, and that requires both training and effort - two things low down on my priority list when I'm on holiday.
Then there's the dread: the fear of my mask filling up, the terror of running out of air, the horror of what my wobbly bits look like in a wetsuit. Generally, it's just not my cup of tea.
And while I'm reliably informed that the vast majority of sea animals found around these parts can't harm me at all, that does leave room for a vast minority that can hurt me very much indeed.
So all in, I feel quite sure that the key to tropical bliss is snorkelling. It may not reflect the pioneering spirit of Jacques Cousteau but bobbing around on the surface enjoying the sights without disturbing either the wildlife or the underwater fauna seems to be the perfect middle road for people who want to see and be unseen.
And what a lot there is to see here - Malaysia's coral reefs are home to one of the most prolific congregations of underwater life on the planet, forming an ecosystem some say is rivalled only by the rainforests of the Amazon and the Congo.
Before jumping straight in though, there are some basics that you need to know. Obviously, your selection of mask and snorkel are important. Fit and comfort are vital ingredients if you want to spend your time looking around rather than having to lift your head out of the water every few minutes to drain away accumulating liquid.
Get this done properly. Half an hour in a scuba shop will see you equipped with a mask perfectly suited to your phizog. To try on the mask, move the strap out of the way, brush your hair to one side, and just push the mask firmly onto your face. If it will remain there unsupported, then it is making a good seal.
Once you have determined which masks will fit properly, other considerations are comfort, field of vision (some masks permit more view to the sides than others) and, of course, the cost.
Don't forget to get a snorkel also, and maybe a spare strap to hold it to your mask. The snorkel mouthpiece should be soft with flexible edges to be comfortable in your mouth.
"There's nothing worse than having ill-fitting equipment," says Bob Brunswick, a professional diver with more than 25 years of experience in both scuba and snorkelling. "If you get a mouthpiece that's too big it just rubs against your gums, making them sore.
"It's much better to take the time to get the right kit. It may feel like a bit of a pain when you know the hotel you're staying at has masks to rent, but I guarantee that you'll be the one reaping the rewards when everyone else is struggling under the water."
If you really feel like waddling into the sea looking like a pro, you might want to consider some fins. "In all honesty, fins aren't really a necessity for snorkelling," says Bob. "But they do help you to get down more quickly so that you can see more of the underwater world on that breath of air."
With kit on, and back thoroughly sun-screened, it's time to take to the water. But there's one last thing to do. Inform someone where you're going? You definitely should, but that's not what I was alluding to. It's the bit that kids especially love: the well-known diver's trick of spitting inside the face of the mask to stop it fogging up.
"Spit keeps the air on the inside of the mask from condensing on the glass," explains Bob. "Masks fog up because the inside is often dirty or dusty. Spit cleans off the dirt, making it much harder for condensation and fog to form. It may not be sanitary, but for most divers it works just fine."
The technique couldn't be more simple: offer up a reasonable mouthful of your finest saliva, wipe it around the inside of the mask with your finger and rinse out with seawater just before placing it on your face.
To keep the snorkel upright while you are swimming face down on the surface, the snorkel fastening will need to be adjusted properly on the mask strap. Since the snorkeller cannot see the snorkel while it's in use, it may be helpful to have someone watch you to help find the proper adjustment.
Now you can swim along the surface, breathing through the snorkel and observing the world below. When you see something interesting you can hold your breath and dive down to have a closer look.
"In order to stretch your time below, it is important to be relaxed and not expending a lot of energy," says Bob. "To dive down under the surface, rotate your body so that you can put your head straight down and stick your legs straight up and out of the water.
"Then let gravity do its thing and you should be on your way down without moving a muscle. When your downward speed has deteriorated you can start kicking to continue. For the return to the surface, tilt your head back and watch where you are going. You wouldn't want to bang your head on the bottom of a boat."
Key to doing this without ending up coughing and spluttering with a mouth full of water is to keep enough air in your lungs so that after you break the surface you can send a quick burst of air through the snorkel to help expel any remaining water. Make sure you also keep your head still back so that the open end of the snorkel will be pointing down as you bob up.
Generally, scuba divers are taught to return to the surface with one hand stretched upward to prevent them from banging their head and also to be more visible to boat traffic. It's not a bad idea for snorkellers to do the same.
Plus, it gives your friends on the shore a chance to see you having a great time in the water and look on enviously. All that fun - so little effort. Perfect.
http://www.articlesbase.com/scuba-diving-articles/snorkelling-scuba-without-the-fuss-676178.html
Snorkeling in the Caribbean
Snorkeling in the Caribbean
Caribbean, Hawaii, and Galapagos islands are all ideal places for snorkeling because of their calm waters and diverse sea life. Clear waters are another requirement for good snorkeling because some marine life can be viewed only at night. Night snorkeling is typically conducted with the aid of a chemical light that is tied around the waist of the diver to warn approaching boats of divers while an underwater torch is used to spot the marine life. Caribbean snorkeling is nothing new but the underwater seeing trend is catching fire all over the world and so there is a renewed interest in this activity.
Caribbean snorkeling needs gear that is quite similar to scuba diving gear and includes mask, finds, and a short tube known as snorkel (from which comes the name snorkeling). Caribbean snorkeling takes place in still water and just below the surface. These areas are typically lagoons so that moving water does not enter the snorkel to inconvenience the diver.
The renewed interest in Caribbean snorkeling is a result of the clear waters in the Caribbean that offer many good opportunities for underwater sightseeing. This is also helped by the varied marine life in the Caribbean that includes fish, mollusk, kelps, jellyfish, ray, seaweed and algae, all of which may be experienced at close range. The marine life in the Caribbean is far varied and denser than the land life, making it a good sightseeing location for nature lovers.
Unlike rafting or bungee jumping, Caribbean snorkeling is not exactly an adventure sport because there is hardly any risk involved in the activity. However, the lack of risk should not be taken to mean a lack of thrills. Since Caribbean snorkeling is done in relatively shallow and still waters, the equipment is minimal and very light, thereby making the whole experience very comfortable. Due to all these reasons, even young children can enjoy snorkeling as long as they know how to swim.
Though the amount of risk involved in Caribbean snorkeling is quite negligible, there are still some dangers that you ought to be mindful of. The most common problem faced is mask flooding, when water enters the mask that is worn underwater, diving too deep can cause high pressure build-up in the ears, and water visibility is not always reliable. Due to the varied water life in the Caribbean, corals are quite a common feature. Some of these underwater formations are quite sharp and people tend to cut themselves on their limbs, so avoid direct contact with corals. Some species of sea urchins are also poisonous and certain eels tend to bite. On the positive side, with a little prudence these dangers are easily avoided.
There are many shops that sell diving gear along with snorkeling equipment. They also provide guides for Caribbean snorkeling.
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/snorkeling-in-the-caribbean-72609.html
Caribbean, Hawaii, and Galapagos islands are all ideal places for snorkeling because of their calm waters and diverse sea life. Clear waters are another requirement for good snorkeling because some marine life can be viewed only at night. Night snorkeling is typically conducted with the aid of a chemical light that is tied around the waist of the diver to warn approaching boats of divers while an underwater torch is used to spot the marine life. Caribbean snorkeling is nothing new but the underwater seeing trend is catching fire all over the world and so there is a renewed interest in this activity.
Caribbean snorkeling needs gear that is quite similar to scuba diving gear and includes mask, finds, and a short tube known as snorkel (from which comes the name snorkeling). Caribbean snorkeling takes place in still water and just below the surface. These areas are typically lagoons so that moving water does not enter the snorkel to inconvenience the diver.
The renewed interest in Caribbean snorkeling is a result of the clear waters in the Caribbean that offer many good opportunities for underwater sightseeing. This is also helped by the varied marine life in the Caribbean that includes fish, mollusk, kelps, jellyfish, ray, seaweed and algae, all of which may be experienced at close range. The marine life in the Caribbean is far varied and denser than the land life, making it a good sightseeing location for nature lovers.
Unlike rafting or bungee jumping, Caribbean snorkeling is not exactly an adventure sport because there is hardly any risk involved in the activity. However, the lack of risk should not be taken to mean a lack of thrills. Since Caribbean snorkeling is done in relatively shallow and still waters, the equipment is minimal and very light, thereby making the whole experience very comfortable. Due to all these reasons, even young children can enjoy snorkeling as long as they know how to swim.
Though the amount of risk involved in Caribbean snorkeling is quite negligible, there are still some dangers that you ought to be mindful of. The most common problem faced is mask flooding, when water enters the mask that is worn underwater, diving too deep can cause high pressure build-up in the ears, and water visibility is not always reliable. Due to the varied water life in the Caribbean, corals are quite a common feature. Some of these underwater formations are quite sharp and people tend to cut themselves on their limbs, so avoid direct contact with corals. Some species of sea urchins are also poisonous and certain eels tend to bite. On the positive side, with a little prudence these dangers are easily avoided.
There are many shops that sell diving gear along with snorkeling equipment. They also provide guides for Caribbean snorkeling.
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/snorkeling-in-the-caribbean-72609.html
The Dangers of Snorkeling
The Dangers of Snorkeling
Planning a vacation in the Caribbean or another beautiful, tropical location? Along with flight plans, hotels, and work arrangements it will be beneficial to plan for recreation, particularly snorkeling. Although you can arrive and receive some information and equipment that will allow you to experience the captivating undersea adventure, your experience will be much more positive and fulfilling if you prepare ahead of time. Problems vacationers have experienced range from leaking masks to unnecessary injuries. Many of the dangers of snorkeling manifest themselves because the participants have a lack or preparation or training and can be avoided.
Most areas have resources to learn snorkeling. Lessons will prepare you to be comfortable with using equipment and also allow you practice with techniques of keeping water out of your snorkel and how to dive underwater. Keeping water out of your snorkel is very important. Breathing in water can cause choking and other problems. Drowning is a danger when snorkeling. Taking time to learn snorkeling before you go on vacation will also allow you to test equipment. There are snorkels with "dry tops" on them which is a one way valve that will close off the top of the snorkel when you go underwater or have a wave splash over you. It is also important to be comfortable with equipment so when you enter the open waters if get separated from your group you do not panic.
When you find something you like it is nice to buy your own and bring it with you. One thing people don't like is the thought of a hundred people using the mask and snorkel before them. Another concern with a resorts equipment is that equipment fits different on everyone and the mask they provide may not be comfortable, fit your face well and therefore leak, or be the style you like for seeing the underwater life.
Follow directions on where to snorkel and stay in bounds. The equipment that you wear if very important, particularly your life preserver. Unlike a pool, an ocean has currants. Even if it looks calm, there can be dangers. If something should happen you will be able to stay afloat while you wait for rescue. Having a guide can be helpful especially if it is your first time. Never go alone. If you do not have a guide practice have along at least one other individual. The snorkeling area should be marked off with buoys. Some snorkeling areas may not be marked off. If this is the case you should use a dive flag and also extreme caution. If boats can come into the open water they propose a danger as they can hit divers and cause injuries.
While snorkeling in shallow waters the sun is constantly beating down on you and will cause sunburn. Apply your sunscreen often. Waterproof sunscreen can still come off in the water over time. Reapply every one to two hours for maximum protection. Severe burns can occur if this precaution is not taken. Along with the physical ramifications, the enjoyment of your vacation will be cut short.
There are animals that propose some threats, although not severe. Coral is beautiful and prevalent in the ocean, but also dangerous. Coral is sharp and can cause cuts and abrasions on the skin. These cuts are slow to heal. Also if coral is damaged it takes a long time to regrow and snorkelers should be cautious to avoid injuring this animal. Another animal that can cause injury are sea urchines. They have spikes that can break off and get trapped in your skin if you brush against them. These pieces, if trapped in your skin can be painful and can get infected. Be aware of your surroundings and where you are going. You want to avoid touching dangerous animals and colliding with other participants.
Snorkeling can be enjoyed by the entire family. Preparing before hand can make it a positive experience for everyone and very safe. Being aware of the potential dangers and learning how to prevent them is the key to a successful trip.
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/the-dangers-of-snorkeling-212589.html
Planning a vacation in the Caribbean or another beautiful, tropical location? Along with flight plans, hotels, and work arrangements it will be beneficial to plan for recreation, particularly snorkeling. Although you can arrive and receive some information and equipment that will allow you to experience the captivating undersea adventure, your experience will be much more positive and fulfilling if you prepare ahead of time. Problems vacationers have experienced range from leaking masks to unnecessary injuries. Many of the dangers of snorkeling manifest themselves because the participants have a lack or preparation or training and can be avoided.
Most areas have resources to learn snorkeling. Lessons will prepare you to be comfortable with using equipment and also allow you practice with techniques of keeping water out of your snorkel and how to dive underwater. Keeping water out of your snorkel is very important. Breathing in water can cause choking and other problems. Drowning is a danger when snorkeling. Taking time to learn snorkeling before you go on vacation will also allow you to test equipment. There are snorkels with "dry tops" on them which is a one way valve that will close off the top of the snorkel when you go underwater or have a wave splash over you. It is also important to be comfortable with equipment so when you enter the open waters if get separated from your group you do not panic.
When you find something you like it is nice to buy your own and bring it with you. One thing people don't like is the thought of a hundred people using the mask and snorkel before them. Another concern with a resorts equipment is that equipment fits different on everyone and the mask they provide may not be comfortable, fit your face well and therefore leak, or be the style you like for seeing the underwater life.
Follow directions on where to snorkel and stay in bounds. The equipment that you wear if very important, particularly your life preserver. Unlike a pool, an ocean has currants. Even if it looks calm, there can be dangers. If something should happen you will be able to stay afloat while you wait for rescue. Having a guide can be helpful especially if it is your first time. Never go alone. If you do not have a guide practice have along at least one other individual. The snorkeling area should be marked off with buoys. Some snorkeling areas may not be marked off. If this is the case you should use a dive flag and also extreme caution. If boats can come into the open water they propose a danger as they can hit divers and cause injuries.
While snorkeling in shallow waters the sun is constantly beating down on you and will cause sunburn. Apply your sunscreen often. Waterproof sunscreen can still come off in the water over time. Reapply every one to two hours for maximum protection. Severe burns can occur if this precaution is not taken. Along with the physical ramifications, the enjoyment of your vacation will be cut short.
There are animals that propose some threats, although not severe. Coral is beautiful and prevalent in the ocean, but also dangerous. Coral is sharp and can cause cuts and abrasions on the skin. These cuts are slow to heal. Also if coral is damaged it takes a long time to regrow and snorkelers should be cautious to avoid injuring this animal. Another animal that can cause injury are sea urchines. They have spikes that can break off and get trapped in your skin if you brush against them. These pieces, if trapped in your skin can be painful and can get infected. Be aware of your surroundings and where you are going. You want to avoid touching dangerous animals and colliding with other participants.
Snorkeling can be enjoyed by the entire family. Preparing before hand can make it a positive experience for everyone and very safe. Being aware of the potential dangers and learning how to prevent them is the key to a successful trip.
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/the-dangers-of-snorkeling-212589.html
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