by Suzanne Johnson Add a new dimension to your tropical vacation Picture the ideal tropical vacation. Are you lounging on a beach, reading a book? Or are you seeking just a little more adventure? If adventure and connecting with nature is on your vacation agenda, add this to your mental picture…The soft crackle of parrot fish dining on coral; the gentle rocking of the current; the sharp taste of salt; the vibrant dashes of color set against the shimmery turquoise water. Welcome to the magical underwater world of snorkeling. In contrast to scuba diving, which requires intensive training and expensive gear (not to mention a boat and driver!), snorkeling offers wonderful underwater adventures with minimal risk and investment. Armed with a few inexpensive pieces of gear and a little know-how, even average swimmers can experience nature in a new dimension.

Choosing your Equipment Essential gear includes a mask and breathing tube (AKA the snorkel) and fins. Be sure the mask fits well by strapping it on, right on dry land, as silly as that looks, and breathing in through your nose. If the whole mask sucks in to your face, you are set for the water. Choose a snorkel with a one-way valve to prevent water from entering, and be sure it can clip upright to the mask strap. As for the fins, there are two basic styles; strap-on and heeled. Many find the strap-on style to work better, because it allows an adjustable fit and can be worn with water shoes. Speaking of water shoes, here is the short list of non-essential but really nice-to-have gear to make the snorkeling experience a little smoother: In addition to comfortable water shoes (choose ankle-high ones prevent the fin strap from rubbing) you may also want to wear a long-sleeve rash-guard shirt. Originally designed to protect surfers from scrapes on sand and rocks, they also work well to prevent sunburn on backs and arms as you float above the coral. They’re also quick drying and comfortable! Third item: a water-proof neck wallet. It’s no fun to come back out of the water, ready for a cold marguerita, only to find your money and ID missing. Keep them safely with you instead. And finally, a gear bag to keep it all together. Many snorkel sets include a back-pack style bag; the key part to look for is a mesh bottom for draining that extra salt-water. Bring the Whole Family Snorkeling is a family friendly activity, as well. Because the focus is on the sea life and not on swimming speed, it’s easy for swimmers of different ability levels to snorkel together. Whether traveling with family or with friends, it’s a good idea for new snorkelers to get comfortable with the gear in a shallow pool. Practice clearing your mask and snorkel, taking them on and off in the water, and moving around with the fins. This helps avoid any technical difficulties that can take away from enjoying the sea-scape once you are out in the bay! Best Areas for Snorkeling Vacation You’ve got the desire and you’ve got the gear, so where should you go? Just about any tropical destination offers snorkeling tours, but a few key points define the truly spectacular snorkeling areas. Is the area known for surfing? Do large boats move through the area? Waves may attract the surfing and boogie board crowd, but create poor visibility for snorkeling. Protected, calm bays away from cruise boat ports allow coral to grow with less disruption, and attract a variety of fish. Beginning snorkelers may prefer to start out with a guided tour, where gear and lunch are supplied and guides can assist with any problems. These can be expensive, and often go to deeper water where waves are stronger. Consider choosing a destination with great snorkeling right off the beach, where the snorkeling schedule is up to you, and the water is often more protected. A few prime spots to consider: Kaanipali Beach on the island of Maui, where the white sand contrasts with the lava rock peninsula known as Black Rock. The underwater walls of Black Rock provide habitat for dozens of varieties of fish, including the Humuhumunukunukuapuaa (known for both it’s unusual beauty and tongue-twister moniker; loosely translated it means pig-snouted triangle fish, which is not nearly as fun to say.) Akumal Bay on the Mayan Riviera in Mexico, where sea turtles abound through swaying prairies of seagrass. Around the point, find the reefs of Half-Moon Bay, where the coral is rebounding from the impact of Hurricane Wilma. Mix up the snorkeling with a visit to Yal-Kul, where the inlets wind through a lovely sculpture garden. St. John (US Virgin Island) is considered by many to be the ultimate snorkeling destination, with its phenomenal water clarity, tucked away beaches and protected reefs. Rent a jeep to get around the island helps to access the more remote beaches, and plan your snorkel day in Trunk Bay when the cruise boats are NOT in port!