Roland Lefevre
Snorkeling is one of the best ways to explore the plethora on underwater marine wonders. As fun as it is there a few pivotal items that must be taken with you during a snorkeling adventure;
You cannot snorkel underwater without a mask and hence it is critical that you take your time and look for a mask that fits your face well. You can keep the mask put by suctioning it onto your face and even without a strap it should stay in place without a problem. The snorkeling mask can be purchased at any sports or diving store; however, if you are in a Maldives Resort like Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa Maldives you can hire yourself the perfect mask from the hotel itself.
This is the equipment that prevents your mask from fogging up and disturbing your view while underwater. The Goggle defogger is also readily available but qualities vary from place to place. To maintain environmental friendliness always choose the one that is biodegradable and non toxic to ensure that the reef and its inhabitants are well protected.
The mouthpiece is again one of the most important equipments to decide on before indulging in the snorkeling adventure. Make sure that this gadget feels comfortable and has a "purge valve" that allows water to be blown out but prevents water from entering.
While swimming underwater you do not want strands of hair floating and disturbing your snorkeling experience. A Swim cap or Bandana will prevent such issues by keeping your hair neatly tucked and away from the snorkel. In addition to this benefit, it will also prevent your scalp from burning on a sunny day. Although readily available at dive stores, you could even just pick a surgical cap from any medical supply company because this serves the purpose perfectly and is even very cheap.
If you are not the most confident swimmer, it is best to rent or purchase a float vest so that you can remain buoyant and relieve any nervousness while going underwater. This is also ideal equipment for beginners in snorkeling.
It is important that you get into a wet suit while snorkeling since it will keep you warm in colder waters. In addition to this benefit, the wetsuit helps prevent sunburns, it offer protection from stingy particles in the ocean and it also provides buoyancy. If you do not want to get into the full length wetsuit there are options of shorty wetsuits, these are shorter in length and are relatively easy to get into and take off.
If the water is too warm for a wetsuit you can get into it with the normal bathing suit. You do however have to use the rash guard so that you are adequately protected from the heat of the sun and ocean stinging bits.
In countries like the Maldives, sunscreen is an absolute must. Choose a brand that has a high SPF and that biodegrades in water.
You will need fins to maneuver your way underwater. Shorter fins are the better option for snorkeling since it helps change direction easily and is also not as heavy in weight making it easier to kick with.
