The underwater world is not out of reach to everyone. Just
because you can’t scuba dive doesn't mean that you can’t see a coral reef.
Quite the contrary there is many other options for non-divers.
One such option is snorkeling, this close cousin to scuba
diving. There is little to snorkeling other than the fact that you should be
able to swim. The only things you need to be able to do are being able to float
on the surface and occasionally dive down.
Virtually no gear is required for this sport. As long as you
have a pair of goggles, fins and a snorkel you are set to go. While some
companies offer courses in snorkeling I've found no need to pay someone for
such rudimentary knowledge. Anyone that has been through a scuba diving course
could just as easily teach a person how to snorkel. So as for the training I
would recommend avoiding it altogether. However it may be smart to go with
others that can lead the way and explain if a question were to arise.
Other opportunities might include visiting a local aquarium
or taking a trip on a glass bottom boat, either way you can still experience a
coral reef even if you’re not getting your feet wet.
I hope I can go snorkeling this summer. I have sinus issues, so I can't do scuba (-: Bummer. But, snorkeling looks like fun, and I can do that.
ReplyDeleteI have been snorkeling in Mexico many years ago in the Gulf of California. It was an awesome time. I would love to do it again someday. Great post.
ReplyDeleteSnuba is also a great alternative for those not able to get certified in scuba. On the plus side...you get to dive down and spend some time looking around, not worrying about your air or a single breathe which the snorkel mask allows. On the minus side...you can't move very far away from the central air tank floating on the surface so you miss out on exploring great little caves or chasing after a school of fish.
ReplyDelete