Fans of outdoor activities are provided with many ways to try their hand at a particular sport. For those who love the expanse of water, there is the opportunity to master snorkeling. "What it is?" - you ask. Just watching the underwater world and exploring its beauties. This type of scuba diving is becoming more and more popular. Those who descend into the depths of the sea are called snorkelers.
All about snorkeling. Equipment
- You will need a mask for snorkeling. This is the essential thing. Choose one where there is solid glass that will allow you to see more deep beauty. The mark “T” indicates that it is hardened and equipped with a flexible part that adjoins closer to the face. When trying on, pay attention to the convenience of the mask. It should fit as tight as possible and provide a good overview. Do not try to save on quality. It is better to buy not on the Internet or in the market, but in a specialized store for tourists.
- A special wetsuit is needed if you will be in the water for a long time. It is known that the water temperature in the ocean is low, which means that without such equipment you cannot enjoy the beauty of the underwater inhabitants for a long time.
- Mandatory attribute - flippers for snorkeling. You can use ordinary ones. They are easy to swim. Also with flippers the ability to maneuver increases. With them you can quickly and easily plunge and float.
- The breathing tube allows you to breathe comfortably. If the depth exceeds 40 cm, then this is more difficult due to the strong pressure of the water. The snorkler holds the tube in his mouth with a special mouthpiece made of silicone. When choosing a tube, you should pay attention to comfort when using it. Even if it is short, the main thing is the absence of inconvenience. Often a breathing tube is sold complete with a mask.
Swimming technique
In principle, if you are trained in swimming, then it will not be difficult for you to master snorkeling, because the technique is absolutely simple. It is much more important to prepare the necessary equipment. You should do the mask first. Its inner part is rinsed with plain water so that the glass does not fog up, otherwise you will not get any pleasure from swimming. Moreover, the best snorkeling means high-quality equipment.
If you are using a wetsuit, wear it first. When the mask is worn, a silicone tube is attached to it. After that you can put on flippers. To easily enter the water with them, you should go backwards.
So you plunged into the depths. What to do next? First, we completely relax the body (achieve slow and deep breathing). Then we lay down on the water, that is, we take a horizontal position. Make sure that your feet do not float to the surface, but are deep in the water. Movements should be slow and smooth, they go from the hip. It also happens that breathing goes astray. In this case, stop your actions and start breathing deeply and slowly.
Experienced snorkelers know that in water the visibility is slightly different than on land. The difference can reach up to 20%. Do not be alarmed if your vision deceives you very much, this is all a matter of habit. When snorkeling with a friend (which is even more fun), agree on the symbols so that you can easily report your condition.
Medical advice
Many people ask: "Snorkeling - what is it? Is such pastime dangerous or safe?" Doing this sport will improve your health if you have diseases of the joints, nervous system, back and spine problems, if you have frequent colds. Without fear, it is recommended for rehabilitation after a long illness or operation.
Snorkeling is contraindicated if you have frequent and prolonged shortness of breath, problems with pressure, cardiovascular disease. Diving under water makes the heart beat faster and stronger. Do not take risks if you have breathing problems, sinusitis, chronic diseases. Harmful in snorkeling and with a strong cough.
What a great snorkeling in the Philippines
In a paradise such as the Philippines, there are many places to engage in this type of swimming. Coral reefs are spread near 7100 islands in the tropics! You don’t even need a wetsuit. After all, water is here at a comfortable temperature year-round. Thanks to this, there are many amazing algae, interesting fish and corals. Complete exotic!
And here there is shallow water and water of amazing azure color, all beaches are gentle and without abrupt descents.
Dive Site - Egypt
The Red Sea is an ideal place for sports such as snorkeling. What does it give? Here, the opportunities are open to everyone - from children to the elderly. Many hotel beaches have corners with beautiful coral reefs, which is safe and convenient. You can stock up on supplies for fish, such as bread, and buy a disposable camera, with which you will make unforgettable pictures under water.
There are no dangerous inhabitants in the Red Sea. An exception are moray eels, which are not advised to touch, as well as the rest of the marine inhabitants.
We leave for Phuket and Pattaya
According to surveys by diving enthusiasts, these are the best places for snorkeling. What is interesting in Phuket? Islands in the Andaman Sea are an indescribable sight. The most interesting thing is that the underwater world is beautiful here and near the coastline, so it’s not necessary to sail somewhere far away and dive deep. An ideal spot for snorkelers is the southern part of Kata Beach. Nearby are coral reefs of amazing beauty and colors, there is a fancy bottom of the sea, as well as unusual inhabitants of the abyss.
However, in the rainy season snorkelers have no place here. High waves, muddy water due to sand and sharp rocks are fraught with great danger.
In Pattaya, Koh Rin and Koh Larn Islands are suitable for diving travelers of all ages. On the coast of Pattaya itself, snorkeling is not worth it. You can get to Koh Larn by ferry or a rented boat. It is best to choose a tour that includes transfer to the island's pier and scuba diving.
Dominican Republic
Here snorkeling can be combined with fishing underwater. Fortunately, there are a lot of different fish here. Octopuses and various crustaceans are also found. You can rent a boat and other necessary equipment. It is noteworthy that in the Dominican Republic underwater guns and disposable cameras for shooting under water are sold.
Maldives - the dream of travelers
Are you still looking for a place to snorkel? Come to the Maldives! This is a good place for timid beginners. Already eight meters from the beach are coral reefs, so swim away is not necessary. Maldives is surrounded by waters filled with bizarre beauty and attractive marine life. The sea temperature is warm and comfortable.
Snorkeling - what
is it? Contemplation of the deep sea, which is not only considered, admire them. They can also be captured on special cameras and camcorders. The most favorite places for snorkelers are the waters of the Indian and Pacific Ocean, as well as the Mediterranean and Red Seas. If you are a beginner in this business, it doesn’t matter. An experienced specialist will dive with you, adjust all actions, and, if necessary, he insures.