There is historic evidence that as far back as 3000 B.C., sponge divers practiced a form of snorkeling by using hollow reeds to help them breath when underwater.
Snorkeling is an inexpensive hobby requiring only a good quality eye mask, a snorkeling tube and swim fins to help navigate more quickly through the water.
Buying A Snorkeling Mask
The mask is one of the most important pieces of snorkeling equipment. It should fit snugly and comfortably on the face without leakage. It’s worthwhile to spend a little more money by going to a scuba or diving equipment store and having the mask professionally fitted.
The Snorkel, A Diver’s Breathing Tube
The snorkel provides the lifeline that allows divers to float face down in the water for extended periods of time. It consists of a flexible tube, usually made of plastic or rubber. The length of the snorkel tube varies between 12 and 18 inches. The length and bore, or diameter, of the tube depends on the size of the snorkeler. Larger people require more air and a longer tube with a wider bore will allow more air in and out of the tube.
The mouthpiece of the snorkel consists of two parts, a large, oval lip flange which fits inside the divers lips and the bite piece which is gripped between the teeth. The bite piece is to hold the snorkel in the mouth and should not be bitten too hard. The divers lips covering the flange provide the seal for the mouthpiece.
The top end of the snorkel should have some features to prevent water from coming in when waves splash over the top. Two of the most common are a simple ping-pong ball held in a tiny cage or diagonal plates, which allow water to flow in and out.
Finally, the snorkel should have an adjustable clip, about half way down the straight part of the tube, to attach the mask strap. The clip will hold the snorkel upright in the water and free up the diver’s hands for swimming.
Swim fins are an optional piece of snorkeling equipment, however, they do help to propel and manoeuvre the diver through the water more quickly. This is important when snorkeling in the Carribean and following that one elusive, multi-coloured fish dodging in and out of the coral reef. Most fins are adjustable, but make sure they are the right fit, not too loose or too tight.
Using the Snorkeling Equipment
For first time snorkelers, it’s a good idea to become comfortable wearing the mask and snorkel tube. Start in calm, shallow water by relaxing and breathing normally through the tube. Concentrate on watching the fish and viewing objects on the sea floor.
If the mask fogs up, use a little spit or mask defogger to clear the moisture and swish it around in the water before putting the mask back on.
Snorkeling can be a relaxing and exciting hobby, but some caution is advised:
- Do not snorkel, if you can’t swim
- Never snorkel alone, always have a swimming companion
- Stay away from areas with high boat, Jet Ski, surfing or water skiing traffic
- Raise a hand up out of the water before surfacing to make sure the area above is clear
- Do not step on or otherwise damage delicate coral reefs or underwater marine life
- Coral reefs have razor sharp edges, do not get to close
- If light-headedness or breathlessness occurs surface immediately and head for shore
- Wear a tee shirt or use a sun block with a high SPF on exposed areas of the body.
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