How to Snorkel Under Water

More than 70 percent of the Earth's surface is covered with water, so if you're the adventurous type, there's no reason you can't get wet and explore. There's a number of ways to go about this. For those inclined to venture underneath the waves, the choices amount to skin diving, snorkeling, or scuba diving. Skin diving is just jumping in the water, while scuba diving requires professional instruction and some degree of expense. Snorkeling, on the other hand, costs little and is easy to do with some pointers.

Things You'll Need

  • Fins
  • A friend
  • Snorkel
  • Mask
  • Anti-fogging spray (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Whether in a pool, lake or the ocean, stand so that the water is at least knee high. Wet both fins in the water, as this ensures a tighter seal between fin and foot. Using your friend for balance, pull a fin over each foot then wiggle till comfortable.

    • 2

      Remove one end of the snorkel's attachment clip, wrap it underneath and over the left side of the mask's adjustable band, and reattach. Spray the inside of the mask lens with two or three squirts of the anti-fog spray and then use your fingers to smear the liquid, coating the entire lens.

    • 3

      Rinse the mask in the water and shake off any excess water droplets. Slide the mask on your head and take one breath through your nostrils, sealing the mask skirt to your face. Tug lightly on the mask. You want some degree of looseness, as overly tight masks leak as much as loose ones. Remove the mask and adjust the side tabs if needed, then replace the mask. Insert the snorkel's mouthpiece into your mouth and gently bite down. Breath.

    • 4

      The snorkel top should sit at a slight backwards angle. If not, slide the snorkel up or down until the angle is achieved. Breathing shouldn't be hampered and should be natural. Both you and your friend should turn backwards and walk into the water slowly, constantly looking over your right shoulder for safety's sake. Once you're at waist height, turn forwards and dive just below the surface. With a slight bend in your knees, propel yourself forward by kicking using your thigh muscles.