Snorkeling - Meet the big blue

Diving

Publicerad: 2009-10-21

Diving and snorkeling are just two different ways of enjoying the vast world beneath the surface of the ocean. The advantage of diving is that it takes you deeper and closer, while the snorkeling is easy accesible, simple and basically free.

I adore doing both myself, and honestly can't say I prefer any, just slightly different feels to it. Besides, it's a huge piont in favour of snorkeling that you are ready to go in no time. From a sizzling sunbed to the reef drop off in 5 minutes. Perfect. Not every sinhle island has a hose reef, do cehck before you choose resort. Snorkeling is a great wy to start the acquaintance with the fantastic sealife. You might be inspired and go for a diver's certificate next?

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It is very safe to snorkle. At the dive ceneter you can get information if there is some area to avoid, due to strong currents for example. Usually there is some kind of marking, showing you where to go. There is nothing to fear as long as you don't put your hand down a dark crevice in the coral or step on something sharp. Never touch coral, you actually kill them by doing that, or - God forbid! - stand on them. Corals are extremely sensitive with a protective layer that is removed if you touch it.

You might need a t-shirt to avoid burning to a crisp. Remeber spf on your bum girls. Burnt ham can be rather unromantic and really painful to boot. snorkla eagle ray

Eagle Ray

Snorkeling should be calm, quiet and meditative in the midst of all the excitement. Keep your arms close to your body, breath calmly and move carefully and you'll have superb chances of seeing the cool stuff. Always snokel in company, partly for safety reasons, but mostly to have a witness should you encounter a turtle or a shark. That way you'll have back up if the poor things still on the beach don't believe you.

There is always equipment for rent at the dive center. Most have high quality gear, but it is rather costly and might feel more hygienic and be cheaper to buy your own. Worth checking on the internet. Try the things on before you buy though. Specially the mask should fit snugly as not to let water in. If you feel insecure in deep water there are special vests for hire. Snorkeling is great fun to do with yur partner, friend or family. The experience itself of course, but also communicating and looking out for each other in the deep makes for trust. Pure water therapy!

snorkla väst

Clever vest for insecure swimmers

Missing the under water world while in the Maldives is like going to Paris and not visiting the Eiffel tower. Hmm..no, come to think of it, it's much worse.

Läs mer: www.snorkeling.info

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