Snorkeling is one of the easiest water sports to practice. However, a pleasurable snorkeling experience requires proper planning, quality gear and good judgment.

Considering our snorkeling experience, we share general tips that may enhance your chances for a great snorkeling adventure.

General Snorkeling Tips:

1) Wear a Quality Snorkeling Mask along with Corresponding Snorkel

Use a high-quality snorkeling mask, preferably one that has: (a) lenses made of tempered glass and that enable peripheral vision, (b) individual lenses for each eye and a nose pocket, and (c) skirt and frame made of superior silicone. Tempered glass tends to be more scratch resistant than plastic or acrylic. If tempered glass cracks, it should not break into sharp fragments. Separate lenses and a nose pocket along with high-grade silicone frame and skirt induce better mask‘s watertight seal. Also, superior silicone is more durable. Peripheral vision improves your panoramic view of marine life and surroundings.

If you plan to snorkel recurrently, you may consider purchasing a scuba mask. Even though diving masks are manufactured considering the conditions and hazards of scuba diving, their safety-precaution features may benefit you while snorkeling. You may find scuba masks with the characteristics suggested in the previous paragraph.

Selecting a snorkel for your mask is very personal. You may choose between dry, semi-dry and traditional snorkels.

2) Use Snorkeling Fins

While using snorkeling fins, you use less amount of energy when kicking while snorkeling.

3) Wear a Rash Guard

A rash guard prevents sunburn on your back and protects your upper body from rashes caused by abrasion. A rash guard is a shirt made from spandex and nylon or polyester.

4) Snorkel along with a Buddy

As a safety precaution, plan to snorkel along with a buddy so that each of you can look out for the other while snorkeling.

5) Do your Research and Be Cautious

Even if you have read about a particular snorkeling spot, ask locals about the amenities and hazards that may be present at such place (e.g.: strong water currents). Check the surroundings, including the location of big rocks. You do not want to hit rocks while snorkeling. Use your best judgment when selecting a location for snorkeling and engaging in such water sport.

6) Do Not Fight with Water Currents

When possible, try not to swim against water current flow. Otherwise, you may get tired faster. However, be wise when deciding your snorkeling course, considering water conditions.

7) Search for Coral Reefs and Admire the Scenery

Snorkel nearby coral reefs since fish and crustaceans tend to swim or reside nearby these. Take precautions so that you do not hit coral reefs while snorkeling, and do not touch these. Appreciate the beauty and colors of coral reefs.

Prepare accordingly and you may have a rewarding snorkeling trip.

Note: For safety reasons, those who snorkel should know how to swim whether snorkeling in shallow or deep waters. People snorkel at their own risk and are exclusively responsible for choosing the snorkeling location and path. Snorkeling and swimming at the beach or open waters may be risky and may result in serious injury or be fatal. The information included in this article is based on the writer’s perspective, among other factors. Do not depend on the information provided herein for your safety. Make your own assessment based on your own experience, perspective and skills.