Snorkeling in the Bahamas Wisely

Snorkeling in the Bahamas Wisely With These Easy Snorkeling Tips

Learning to snorkel is a lot like riding a bike. It requires just a little practice to get used to all the equipment and the watery environment, but it's knowledge that's not easily forgotten. Even if you're comfortable with snorkeling gear such as fins, a snorkel, and a mask, there are a variety of essential rules to remember to have a safe and pleasurable Nassau snorkeling adventure. Snorkeling in the Bahamas does come with some risks, but remembering the following vital guidelines will ensure everyone has fun.

Always Bring a Buddy

Snorkeling should never be a solo-adventure. Heading out to a beautiful coral reef or diving among schools of reef fish is always more fun when someone is close by to share in the magic of the ocean. Expert snorkelers consider the buddy system the most essential part of safe snorkeling adventures. A snorkeling partner might be the only person who can signal for help or provide assistance if something goes wrong in the water. Friends and family make great snorkeling partners, but at the very least join a snorkeling group if you're vacationing alone.

Avoid Touching Sea Life

That amazingly vivid red and yellow tropical fish might be a tempting target to catch and touch, but it's best to leave everything under the water undisturbed. This means everything from Bahamas coral reefs (which might be sharp and harmful to human touch) to fish and creatures like dolphins. Many marine animals will use defense mechanisms, which might be harmful to humans if they feel threatened. Examining a coral reef from several feet away is the best way to experience the natural and dynamic beauty under the surface of the ocean.

Take Note of the Sea Floor

The ocean floor isn't always a soft, sandy place, and rocky sea life and sharp edges abound under the waves. Although it's not necessary to remain in deep water during a snorkeling dive, it's a good idea to remain aware of the water's depth. Coming upon an unexpected reef poses some danger as reefs may have razor-sharp edges that will slice right through a wetsuit and will easily cut through skin. Even a seemingly clear, sandy floor may hide sharp rocks.

Be Alert and Aware

The ocean is a vibrant, rollicking place and the water doesn't appreciate being ignored. Remaining aware during Freeport snorkeling means keeping an eye on the shoreline, looking for marine life, and making sure that your snorkeling buddy is okay. Failing to pay attention might result in a snorkeler being swept out to sea or getting lost in the ocean. Snorkeling far away from shore may bring a swimmer into contact with strong ocean currents against which even the strongest swimmers can't fight.

Don't Act like an Olympic Swimmer

Snorkeling and swimming are intense activities that can wear a body out. Many snorkelers on vacation in the Bahamas aren't expert swimmers and may have little experience with swimming in the ocean. Swimming burns a lot of calories and it's essential to conserve energy during the experience, even if you consider yourself in tip-top athletic condition. It may help to put on a pair of swimming fins before heading out into the ocean, to practice swimming in a pool or other safe environment.

Don't Head Out too Deep

The vast, open ocean may look inviting and blue, but wandering out too far from the shore may result in a few different problems. For example, it's not just the trip out to deeper water that a snorkeler must consider, but the swimming back to shore that's also required. As mentioned previously, snorkeling requires endurance and very few swimmers can cope with a miles-long ocean swim. The shifting Atlantic currents create some amazing waves, but that beauty is also dangerous if no one's paying attention to it.

Take a First Aid Class and Learn CPR

Basic first aid techniques are a must for any type of vacation activity that requires getting up off a beach towel and engaging in an active pursuit like snorkeling. Taking a first aid class that includes CPR is a great way to spend a few afternoons before vacation departure. Ask whether the CPR class includes instruction for resuscitation in water.

The rules of safe Bahamas snorkeling aren't difficult to learn, and even novice snorkelers can follow these simple safety options for a terrific underwater experience. Always have a pre-snorkeling discussion on snorkeling in the Bahamas safety so that everyone on the trip knows how to remain safe.