Tips for Snorkeling Safely

There’s a general perception that snorkeling isn’t as “serious” an endeavor as full-blown scuba diving, which is true to an extent. After all, the hobby doesn’t require nearly as much equipment, and the necessary breathing apparatus is much more rudimentary. But the amount of equipment you take on your snorkeling trip should be determined by the location of the dive.
If you’re simply doing a little impromptu snorkeling close to shore, you won’t need much beyond a dive mask and fins. However, venturing further into the unknown requires some excess gear – for added safety if for no other reason. Coral and rock outcroppings pose a significant hazard to snorkelers who don’t wear the necessary equipment. This includes a protective vest and some reliable diving gloves.