How to Snorkle

Snorkeling is a fantastic leisure activity for those interested in seeing ocean fauna and flora. Snorkeling requires very little physical effort and is extremely safe if common sense safety precautions are followed. Equipment is simple to use and cheap to buy, and snorkeling can be as simple as walking into the ocean from the beach or as special as taking cruises to exotic dive locations. It is a sport for all ages and skills.

Things You'll Need

  • Mask
  • Snorkel
  • Fins
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure the mask to your face. Push the mask until it stays on your face unsupported, which indicates a good seal. Attach the snorkel with its strap to the mask to keep it upright. Put fins on your feet and adjust until comfortable.

    • 2

      Swim at a leisurely pace in the water. Your body is naturally buoyant and will keep you afloat without paddling. Keep in mind the length of your snorkel while floating; moving your head too much can get water into the tube and cause a coughing fit.

    • 3

      Dive for a closer look at sea life by angling your head downward and pointing your legs straight up in the air, and allowing gravity to pull you down. Use your legs once your momentum has dissipated. Look upward when going back to the surface to prevent collisions, and clear your snorkel by blowing once you break the surface so you do not choke.

    • 4

      Clear pressure in your ears by holding your nose and trying to blow through it. When diving or swimming even a couple of feet below the surface this will equalize all the pressure. Equalize beforehand on the surface if you have trouble doing it underwater.

    • 5

      Watch for underwater hazards such as coral or netting, and never under any circumstances try to touch the sea life. Fish, sea urchins, sharks, and eels rarely attack unprovoked; the majority of accidents occur when snorkelers actively try to interact with them.