Snorkeling in the Caribbean
Caribbean, Hawaii, and Galapagos islands are all ideal places for snorkeling because of their calm waters and diverse sea life. Clear waters are another requirement for good snorkeling because some marine life can be viewed only at night. Night snorkeling is typically conducted with the aid of a chemical light that is tied around the waist of the diver to warn approaching boats of divers while an underwater torch is used to spot the marine life. Caribbean snorkeling is nothing new but the underwater seeing trend is catching fire all over the world and so there is a renewed interest in this activity.
Caribbean snorkeling needs gear that is quite similar to scuba diving gear and includes mask, finds, and a short tube known as snorkel (from which comes the name snorkeling). Caribbean snorkeling takes place in still water and just below the surface. These areas are typically lagoons so that moving water does not enter the snorkel to inconvenience the diver.
The renewed interest in Caribbean snorkeling is a result of the clear waters in the Caribbean that offer many good opportunities for underwater sightseeing. This is also helped by the varied marine life in the Caribbean that includes fish, mollusk, kelps, jellyfish, ray, seaweed and algae, all of which may be experienced at close range. The marine life in the Caribbean is far varied and denser than the land life, making it a good sightseeing location for nature lovers.
Unlike rafting or bungee jumping, Caribbean snorkeling is not exactly an adventure sport because there is hardly any risk involved in the activity. However, the lack of risk should not be taken to mean a lack of thrills. Since Caribbean snorkeling is done in relatively shallow and still waters, the equipment is minimal and very light, thereby making the whole experience very comfortable. Due to all these reasons, even young children can enjoy snorkeling as long as they know how to swim.
Though the amount of risk involved in Caribbean snorkeling is quite negligible, there are still some dangers that you ought to be mindful of. The most common problem faced is mask flooding, when water enters the mask that is worn underwater, diving too deep can cause high pressure build-up in the ears, and water visibility is not always reliable. Due to the varied water life in the Caribbean, corals are quite a common feature. Some of these underwater formations are quite sharp and people tend to cut themselves on their limbs, so avoid direct contact with corals. Some species of sea urchins are also poisonous and certain eels tend to bite. On the positive side, with a little prudence these dangers are easily avoided.
There are many shops that sell diving gear along with snorkeling equipment. They also provide guides for Caribbean snorkeling.
By : http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/snorkeling-in-the-caribbean-72609.html
Thursday, April 1, 2010
The Dangers of Snorkeling
The Dangers of Snorkeling
Planning a vacation in the Caribbean or another beautiful, tropical location? Along with flight plans, hotels, and work arrangements it will be beneficial to plan for recreation, particularly snorkeling. Although you can arrive and receive some information and equipment that will allow you to experience the captivating undersea adventure, your experience will be much more positive and fulfilling if you prepare ahead of time. Problems vacationers have experienced range from leaking masks to unnecessary injuries. Many of the dangers of snorkeling manifest themselves because the participants have a lack or preparation or training and can be avoided.
Most areas have resources to learn snorkeling. Lessons will prepare you to be comfortable with using equipment and also allow you practice with techniques of keeping water out of your snorkel and how to dive underwater. Keeping water out of your snorkel is very important. Breathing in water can cause choking and other problems. Drowning is a danger when snorkeling. Taking time to learn snorkeling before you go on vacation will also allow you to test equipment. There are snorkels with "dry tops" on them which is a one way valve that will close off the top of the snorkel when you go underwater or have a wave splash over you. It is also important to be comfortable with equipment so when you enter the open waters if get separated from your group you do not panic.
When you find something you like it is nice to buy your own and bring it with you. One thing people don't like is the thought of a hundred people using the mask and snorkel before them. Another concern with a resorts equipment is that equipment fits different on everyone and the mask they provide may not be comfortable, fit your face well and therefore leak, or be the style you like for seeing the underwater life.
Follow directions on where to snorkel and stay in bounds. The equipment that you wear if very important, particularly your life preserver. Unlike a pool, an ocean has currants. Even if it looks calm, there can be dangers. If something should happen you will be able to stay afloat while you wait for rescue. Having a guide can be helpful especially if it is your first time. Never go alone. If you do not have a guide practice have along at least one other individual. The snorkeling area should be marked off with buoys. Some snorkeling areas may not be marked off. If this is the case you should use a dive flag and also extreme caution. If boats can come into the open water they propose a danger as they can hit divers and cause injuries.
While snorkeling in shallow waters the sun is constantly beating down on you and will cause sunburn. Apply your sunscreen often. Waterproof sunscreen can still come off in the water over time. Reapply every one to two hours for maximum protection. Severe burns can occur if this precaution is not taken. Along with the physical ramifications, the enjoyment of your vacation will be cut short.
There are animals that propose some threats, although not severe. Coral is beautiful and prevalent in the ocean, but also dangerous. Coral is sharp and can cause cuts and abrasions on the skin. These cuts are slow to heal. Also if coral is damaged it takes a long time to regrow and snorkelers should be cautious to avoid injuring this animal. Another animal that can cause injury are sea urchines. They have spikes that can break off and get trapped in your skin if you brush against them. These pieces, if trapped in your skin can be painful and can get infected. Be aware of your surroundings and where you are going. You want to avoid touching dangerous animals and colliding with other participants.
Snorkeling can be enjoyed by the entire family. Preparing before hand can make it a positive experience for everyone and very safe. Being aware of the potential dangers and learning how to prevent them is the key to a successful trip.
By : http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/the-dangers-of-snorkeling-212589.html
Planning a vacation in the Caribbean or another beautiful, tropical location? Along with flight plans, hotels, and work arrangements it will be beneficial to plan for recreation, particularly snorkeling. Although you can arrive and receive some information and equipment that will allow you to experience the captivating undersea adventure, your experience will be much more positive and fulfilling if you prepare ahead of time. Problems vacationers have experienced range from leaking masks to unnecessary injuries. Many of the dangers of snorkeling manifest themselves because the participants have a lack or preparation or training and can be avoided.
Most areas have resources to learn snorkeling. Lessons will prepare you to be comfortable with using equipment and also allow you practice with techniques of keeping water out of your snorkel and how to dive underwater. Keeping water out of your snorkel is very important. Breathing in water can cause choking and other problems. Drowning is a danger when snorkeling. Taking time to learn snorkeling before you go on vacation will also allow you to test equipment. There are snorkels with "dry tops" on them which is a one way valve that will close off the top of the snorkel when you go underwater or have a wave splash over you. It is also important to be comfortable with equipment so when you enter the open waters if get separated from your group you do not panic.
When you find something you like it is nice to buy your own and bring it with you. One thing people don't like is the thought of a hundred people using the mask and snorkel before them. Another concern with a resorts equipment is that equipment fits different on everyone and the mask they provide may not be comfortable, fit your face well and therefore leak, or be the style you like for seeing the underwater life.
Follow directions on where to snorkel and stay in bounds. The equipment that you wear if very important, particularly your life preserver. Unlike a pool, an ocean has currants. Even if it looks calm, there can be dangers. If something should happen you will be able to stay afloat while you wait for rescue. Having a guide can be helpful especially if it is your first time. Never go alone. If you do not have a guide practice have along at least one other individual. The snorkeling area should be marked off with buoys. Some snorkeling areas may not be marked off. If this is the case you should use a dive flag and also extreme caution. If boats can come into the open water they propose a danger as they can hit divers and cause injuries.
While snorkeling in shallow waters the sun is constantly beating down on you and will cause sunburn. Apply your sunscreen often. Waterproof sunscreen can still come off in the water over time. Reapply every one to two hours for maximum protection. Severe burns can occur if this precaution is not taken. Along with the physical ramifications, the enjoyment of your vacation will be cut short.
There are animals that propose some threats, although not severe. Coral is beautiful and prevalent in the ocean, but also dangerous. Coral is sharp and can cause cuts and abrasions on the skin. These cuts are slow to heal. Also if coral is damaged it takes a long time to regrow and snorkelers should be cautious to avoid injuring this animal. Another animal that can cause injury are sea urchines. They have spikes that can break off and get trapped in your skin if you brush against them. These pieces, if trapped in your skin can be painful and can get infected. Be aware of your surroundings and where you are going. You want to avoid touching dangerous animals and colliding with other participants.
Snorkeling can be enjoyed by the entire family. Preparing before hand can make it a positive experience for everyone and very safe. Being aware of the potential dangers and learning how to prevent them is the key to a successful trip.
By : http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/the-dangers-of-snorkeling-212589.html
Why Snorkeling Vests Might Be More Needed Than Most People Think
Why Snorkeling Vests Might Be More Needed Than Most People Think
A snorkeling vest is another piece of the snorkeling gear package but unlike the fins and goggles/mask, which are usually required, the vest is usually optional. However in the defense of the vest it is a common dispute nowadays among snorkelers and fans that a snorkeling vest use in the water can help someone to stay afloat in the water while snorkeling, though however as the case might be it is usually dependent on the person themselves to stay close to surface in the first place considered that most people when snorkeling like to dive down deeper for better view of the ocean floor. The thing is however is that most seasoned snorkelers in the sport find the a snorkeling vest to be an unneeded piece of clothing that they can do without, but for does who plan to stay for longer periods it could prove a benefit by allowing them to rest and stay afloat for periods of time.
The majority of vests now come with a small tube that is attached to the side of the vest to grant the person the ability to inflate the snorkeling vest at will when a little buoyancy is needed in the water and also to release some the air when they to sometime they want a closer look at and they need to descend below the water. Particularly to mention is that most vest do need a large quantity of air inside to it to allow a person to stay afloat and be away from any hazardous situations that are present below the water. A perfect example is Coral, yes Coral, it might seem just a harmless feature, a beautiful embodiment of the aqua world but however as the say roses have thorns will coral has sharp edges so if you are the type of person who as they say sinks a rock, then a vest in that situation might turn out to be your best friend and keep afloat above the danger zone.
Something that is worth mentioning also that is along the line of snorkeling vest which are thought to obsolete are diving gloves, but you may want to think twice about your assumption if diving between the coral and run or swim into something that you really should not touching with you, you can use them in this case to clear the obstacle and avoid a dangerous or unwanted situation.
A thermal wrap
Yes a thermal wrap, it will be all well if you go out snorkeling and you remain near the surface all day where the water is cool and warm but if you decide to head deeper into the water below the surface you might be alarmed to find out the difference in temperature can be vast. So basically while up on the surface is warm and cool, diving below you experience a cold chill like no other. This is where the snorkeling vest comes in, in that it can provide the snorkeler with some extra heat that the person without will be more than glad to use.
Also to something to mention is that in the case of those professional or expert snorkelers who believe that they are so strong as swimmers that they don't need a vest, must always remember that they are also human and like all humans they get tired. A vest can help to stay afloat for longer periods without much effort from themselves so they can have more time in the water. To add to that if you come across something that catches your eye you can stay afloat in one place just enjoying the sites with just the aid of the vest.
It is also a common argument that you float better in salt water than in fresh water and basically refuse the notion of actually using a vest at all in the water but imagine this you come just a bit too close to some corals, so close that the your skin makes contact, what do you think would happen. In this case a snorkeling vest can protect your skin from the event of that accidental contact. When you read this you might end up back with the same notion you started that a snorkeling vest is not needed but when you think of it would you rather the coral have their way with you than you with it, be victim to the rapid changes in temperature in the water or if you are a sinker, do I need to mention.
By : http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/why-snorkeling-vests-might-be-more-needed-than-most-people-think-434005.html
A snorkeling vest is another piece of the snorkeling gear package but unlike the fins and goggles/mask, which are usually required, the vest is usually optional. However in the defense of the vest it is a common dispute nowadays among snorkelers and fans that a snorkeling vest use in the water can help someone to stay afloat in the water while snorkeling, though however as the case might be it is usually dependent on the person themselves to stay close to surface in the first place considered that most people when snorkeling like to dive down deeper for better view of the ocean floor. The thing is however is that most seasoned snorkelers in the sport find the a snorkeling vest to be an unneeded piece of clothing that they can do without, but for does who plan to stay for longer periods it could prove a benefit by allowing them to rest and stay afloat for periods of time.
The majority of vests now come with a small tube that is attached to the side of the vest to grant the person the ability to inflate the snorkeling vest at will when a little buoyancy is needed in the water and also to release some the air when they to sometime they want a closer look at and they need to descend below the water. Particularly to mention is that most vest do need a large quantity of air inside to it to allow a person to stay afloat and be away from any hazardous situations that are present below the water. A perfect example is Coral, yes Coral, it might seem just a harmless feature, a beautiful embodiment of the aqua world but however as the say roses have thorns will coral has sharp edges so if you are the type of person who as they say sinks a rock, then a vest in that situation might turn out to be your best friend and keep afloat above the danger zone.
Something that is worth mentioning also that is along the line of snorkeling vest which are thought to obsolete are diving gloves, but you may want to think twice about your assumption if diving between the coral and run or swim into something that you really should not touching with you, you can use them in this case to clear the obstacle and avoid a dangerous or unwanted situation.
A thermal wrap
Yes a thermal wrap, it will be all well if you go out snorkeling and you remain near the surface all day where the water is cool and warm but if you decide to head deeper into the water below the surface you might be alarmed to find out the difference in temperature can be vast. So basically while up on the surface is warm and cool, diving below you experience a cold chill like no other. This is where the snorkeling vest comes in, in that it can provide the snorkeler with some extra heat that the person without will be more than glad to use.
Also to something to mention is that in the case of those professional or expert snorkelers who believe that they are so strong as swimmers that they don't need a vest, must always remember that they are also human and like all humans they get tired. A vest can help to stay afloat for longer periods without much effort from themselves so they can have more time in the water. To add to that if you come across something that catches your eye you can stay afloat in one place just enjoying the sites with just the aid of the vest.
It is also a common argument that you float better in salt water than in fresh water and basically refuse the notion of actually using a vest at all in the water but imagine this you come just a bit too close to some corals, so close that the your skin makes contact, what do you think would happen. In this case a snorkeling vest can protect your skin from the event of that accidental contact. When you read this you might end up back with the same notion you started that a snorkeling vest is not needed but when you think of it would you rather the coral have their way with you than you with it, be victim to the rapid changes in temperature in the water or if you are a sinker, do I need to mention.
By : http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/why-snorkeling-vests-might-be-more-needed-than-most-people-think-434005.html
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