Key West Snorkeling Tips
Key West Snorkeling Tips
A Key West snorkel is regarded as some of the best snorkeling in the world, so you'll want to do all that you can to make the most of it. One sure-fire way to do so is to learn about proper snorkeling technique and incorporate some simple snorkeling tips that will help you stay underwater longer to appreciate the view. Whether you're new to Key West snorkeling or have enjoyed experiencing the beauty of the depths many times, you can always benefit from learning something new.
Be a Mouth-Breather!:
Although it may be an adjustment from how you operate in everyday life, it's crucial that you breathe through your mouth when snorkeling. You may be surprised to learn that this is one of the biggest adjustments for those engaging in Key West snorkeling. It may feel odd to breathe through your mouth since it is outside of your mask and thus feels more exposed to the water. However, breathing through your nose leaves you with a very limited source of oxygen -- that which is in your mask, and nothing else. And once you exhale, you'll find your view interrupted by a fogged-up mask. Thus, it's much better to overcome any hesitation you may have and breathe through your mouth at all times while snorkeling.
Look, But Don't Touch:
Unfortunately, the aquatic environment is not a petting zoo. While you may be tempted to reach out and touch some of the sea life -- whether it is a reef fish or a coral reef -- doing so puts you at risk of harming yourself and is a threat to the coral reef Even an inadvertent impact to fragile parts of the aquatic ecosystem, such as a coral reef, can cause significant damage or result in a serious cut to your body. To make sure you don't leave an unintended mark on the environment around you, try to keep your distance from reefs and fish as much as you can.
Be Aware of Your Fins:
When you're in the water, your fins are like an extension of your body and one of the most important pieces of snorkeling gear you'll use. It may take some time to adjust to being spatially aware of the bigger imprint you have on the world, but it's important to learn for a variety of reasons. First, you may accidentally kick one of your fellow snorkelers, which isn't a pleasant situation for anyone involved. Also, you might strike a coral reef or animal, which interferes with the habitat you're trying to observe. And finally, if you kick too close to the bottom, you may kick up sand and dirt from the bottom of the ocean that will disturb sea life and make it difficult for anyone to observe anything. This may also startle and scare off some fish.
Don't Go Alone:
No matter how experienced you are, you should resist the urge to snorkel by yourself. Having a snorkel buddy by your side can help you avoid serious danger if you become injured and will help you pick up on any hidden harms that you may not have spotted. A partner can also help give you guidance and confidence as you navigate the waters, as well as be there to take a picture of you when you spot an angelfish, lobster, or the goliath grouper!