Snorkeling
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Image:Reef snorkeler.jpg Snorkeling is the practice of swimming at the surface of a body of water while equipped with a diving mask, a shaped tube called a snorkel, and usually swimfins. Combining these tools allows the snorkeler to observe underwater attractions for extended periods of time with relatively little effort.
Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity, particularly at tropical resort destinations and many places recreational scuba divers venture (see: snorkeling locations). Snorkeling is also used by scuba divers when near the surface, and it is used in some water-based search and rescue missions.
The primary attraction of snorkeling is the opportunity to observe underwater life in a natural setting. This may include coral reefs and their denizens, such as fish, octopuses, starfish, sea urchins, and mollusks. Snorkeling in sandy areas may allow sighting of rays and various flatfish. Other organisms that can be seen while snorkeling include various forms of seaweed, jellyfish, sea turtles, and occasionally anything else which may be found in the ocean. Many of the organisms found in reef locations are extremely colorful and very abundant, making for an engrossing experience for people who appreciate such things.
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Getting started
Image:Snorkeler.jpg Snorkeling requires no special training, only the ability to swim and to breathe through the snorkel. However, it is recommended that one get some instruction from a tour guide, dive shop, or equipment rental shop, any of which often can be found around popular snorkeling locations. Instruction will cover equipment usage, basic safety, what to look for, and what to look out for, including how not to damage fragile organisms such as coral. As with diving, it is always recommended to not snorkel alone, but rather with at "buddy" or a tour group.
The mask and snorkel are similar to those used in scuba diving, but since they are not subjected to the pressures of deep water, they can be more lightweight and comfortable. Swimfins used in snorkeling are usually longer than those used in diving.
Experienced snorkelers often start to investigate amateur free-diving, which should be preceded by at least some training from a dive instructor or experienced free-diver.
Image:Snorkeler with blacktip reef shark.jpg
Variants and related activities
- Snuba - A blend of snorkeling and scuba diving
- Free-diving - Any form of diving without breathing apparatus, but often referring to competitive apnea
- Bog snorkelling - A sporting event, popular in Great Britain
- Spearfishing - Fishing with a spear, often done with snorkeling equipment
Popular snorkeling locations
Image:Snorkelers watching fish.jpg Template:Main
Sources
- Snorkelling for All, BSAC, ISBN 0091883040
External links
- Beachfront snorkeling
- alt.sport.snorkeling - Newsgroup dedicated to snorkeling
- British Sub-Aqua Club site on snorkeling
- National Parks Conservation Association page on snorkelingde:Schnorcheln