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What You Need to Know About Snorkeling in Stuart, Fl

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Hate 2 Lose Sport Fishing Charters
What You Need to Know About Snorkeling in Stuart, Fl

Snorkeling is a fun activity and one of the easiest ways to peek into the underwater world. Unlike scuba diving, it requires no formal training, minimum equipment and is something almost anyone can try.

Snorkeling is often promoted as the simpler of the two, and for that reason, it is the go-to activity for most beach vacationers.

Here’s a list of the equipment and terminologies you’ll need to get familiar with before setting out:

Diving mask/goggles – These are essential, and they’re going to take a bit of getting used to. Snorkeling/diving masks keep the water out of your eyes and ensure you can see the wonderful wildlife under the waves.

Swim Fins – Fins are useful as they help you conserve energy and swim fast. Fins will also come in handy if you find yourself swimming against a current. For these reasons, they’re worth investing in or renting out.

Wet suit/dive skin – Ideal for warmth or protection, especially in cooler waters. These come in various sizes (shortie or full length).

Booties – These are great for protecting your feet during underwater expeditions like scuba diving and snorkeling.

Flotation device – A flotation device like an inflatable snorkeling vest is recommended for added safety. Ensure you have one that inflates or deflates easily.

Snorkel Keeper – The snorkel keep fastens the diving mask to the snorkel and keeps the two safely connected.

Snorkel – Shaped breathing tube to ensure you can stay underwater long enough to take in the sights!

Dry Snorkel – Specialized breathing tube that prevents water from getting in. The sole purpose of a dry snorkel is to prevent water from getting into the snorkel itself. It is not intended to allow you to breathe underwater like a scuba tank.

Purge valve – The purge valve contained within a snorkel makes it easier for water that enters the snorkel to drain back out.
 
Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers
 
1. Do not step or walk on the coral reefs. This will prevent any nasty cuts and protect the reefs, which is the most endangered ecosystem in the world.

2. Breathe through the snorkel before entering the water so that your body will better adjust.

3. Check out all of your equipment beforehand.

4. Marine species, including sharks. Risks of attacks are low, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid provoking the wild
 
 Safety Precautions for Snorkeling
  • Don't go in the water if you are tired or following any strenuous activities as it requires energy and stamina and could actually be considered a form of exercise in and of itself.
  • Proper gear at a minimum includes a mask, fins, and snorkel. The mask should fit comfortably and enclose the nose. Fins should have some flexibility to the blade portion and follow manufacturer recommendations whether additional foot gear such as boots are needed when using them. 
  • Don't use any equipment that is damaged. Mask and fin straps, belts, keepers, buckles, etc. should be inspected for any wear and tear prior to use and replaced if needed. 
  • It is not advisable to go in the water alone and much more enjoyable and safer with a snorkeling buddy.
  • Children using snorkel gear should be supervised by adults at all times.
  • Learn about your intended snorkeling site. If you are at a resort, check with the front desk or concierge on where to obtain information on local sites.  history about the sites themselves. 
  • Exposure protection is always advisable both in and out of the water. T-shirts, sunglasses with polarised lenses, and hats are good for out of the water. 
  • If you are incorporating hunting, harvesting, or collecting any marine life, please obtain any necessary permits and be mindful of the laws and seasons for such activity.
 
  1. The key to a successful snorkeling trip is to stay calm and relaxed. Swim slowly, take deep steady breaths, try not to overanalyze, and simply enjoy the experience.
  2. Swimming may take a good bit of energy, especially if you move too rapidly or are not used to wearing fins. Many new snorkelers have a tendency to swim along using their arms as they’d do in a pool. 
  3. Our legs, in particular with fins on, outperform our arms many times over. So, a good way to conserve energy and avoid exhaustion is to keep your arms relaxed at your sides and focus on slowly kicking with your fins instead. 
  4. Kicking too hard and flailing with your arms creates a lot of splashing that will scare away the marine wildlife. Only swim rapidly if necessary for safety.
  5.  Breathe slowly and easily through your snorkel. Firstly, taking steady relaxed breaths will ensure you do not accidentally take in water that might have splashed into the tube, as you will notice it coming in and have a chance to clear your snorkel before inhaling the water. 
  6. By being completely relaxed you will also learn how your breathing affects your buoyancy. With deep, even breathing, you're almost certain to just float in the water with very little effort.
  7. If you are not a strong swimmer, and that makes you anxious, use a flotation device such as a snorkeling vest or a water noodle.
  8.  Don't worry about what you look like. Being comfortable and safe is most important.

Know your limits 

Once you get out into the ocean, remember; it’s important not to overextend yourself. It’s a new experience; take it one step at a time. Some first-timers have reported not finishing the snorkeling course as a result of being too overwhelmed. If you are too tired to finish, or just don’t feel comfortable, indicate that to your tour guide. If you’re on a private trip with a snorkeling buddy and feel tired, let them know and make your way back to the boat together.

Contact Sport Fishing Charters in Stuart, Florida

Snorkeling in itself is a lot more fun than it is dangerous, and experiencing an undersea perspective different from your own is humbling, to say the least! Check out Hate 2 Lose Fishing Charters. With more than 30 years of experience fishing the Atlantic coast, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas, our captain has extensive knowledge and expertise.  Enjoy the Stuart, Florida Charter experience today.

Book Your Hate 2 Lose Sport Fishing Charter Today!

  • 4307 SE Bayview St Slip N4
    Stuart, FL 34997
Call us at 561-818-6856 or 231-670-9873 or book online!
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