Grupo Mayan Safety Tips for Snorkelling
October 20th, 2009
Snorkelling is a fun alternative to scuba diving because you are not forced to put on a bunch of heavy gear just to explore the ocean. Additionally, say the Grupo Mayan experts, it is much cheaper to go snorkelling than it is to scuba dive. When snorkelling, all you need is a mask and a snorkel, and sometimes flippers if it makes it easier for you to navigate through the water that way, as well as swim further distances.
This article is going to concentrate on the safest way to go snorkelling so that you will be sure to have a good time.
The first thing you should always do, according to the Grupo Mayan experts, is make sure people know where you are going and approximately what time you might be back. This way, they know where to go to check on you if need be and can get a sense of timing for when you might be back in case you arenít, they will know to go looking for you.
You should never swim deeper than you are comfortable with. Sometimes, say the Grupo Mayan pros, using a snorkelling guide is much better because they will never put you in harmís way.
Be mindful of the weather especially when you are in the ocean because the sea is very volatile and storms can seemingly come out of nowhere with no notice. You could go out on the brightest of days and then in a matter of minutes it changes. If a storm does approach you, you should get out of the water and head for dry land or back to where you were staying under shelter.
Even though you are just snorkelling, a wetsuit might be appropriate because believe it or not, some coral is very sharp and can cut or scrape your skin very easily, so it is best to be protected, say the Grupo Mayan experts. There are also some sharks that like to swim in reefs, most specifically the reef shark. They can be quite dangerous but if you do not panic, you should be fine, however, take a knife with you just in case. Puncturing the shark in the eye will get the shark away from the point of attack and allow you to get to safety.
To keep yourself as safe as possible, say the Grupo Mayan experts, try to stay within 150 of the shoreline and not much further. You will see plenty of sea life and creatures in a reef, there is no need to go out any further unless you want to see marine mammals, and in that case, it is recommended scuba and boating for that type of adventure. You can snorkel off of a boat as well.
Just make sure you have your proper safety gear with you and above all, have a great time!