For centuries, the oceans have been mysterious and attractive. However, it is only in recent times that humans can explore this great marvel of nature through various means such as diving and snorkeling. This article discusses both underwater practices and their equipment.
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Snorkeling is a type of underwater diving where the participant uses a mask connected to a tube on top of the water surface for breathing. Snorkelers sit or float at the surface while looking for interesting marine life forms like corals, tropical fish, starfish, etc. The term ‘snorkeling’ came about because participants usually use a swimming motion to move forward while keeping the face above water, thus making a noise similar to that produced by snorkel while breathing in.
Diving is a practice where the participant enters the water to explore the marine life without an air tank. Divers have enhanced vision because of face masks which provide clear vision underwater. Underwater diving can be done through scuba equipment or free-dive, depending on the distance one wants to cover and the depth of the seafloor. Scuba diving involves the use of tanks for breathing while free-diving does not have any equipment for breathing, thus limiting the time duration spent underwater.
There are many types of snorkeling gears being used by both professionals and amateurs who love exploring the underwater world especially coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, etc. Types of snorkels include a simple tube with a mouthpiece at one end and a face mask at the other end. Other popular types are full-face masks which provide clear vision underwater while also covering the diver’s face, thus preventing water from entering in mouth, nose, or eyes.
Snorkeling gears usually include fins, a mesh bag for carrying small snorkeling gears, and inflatable tubes that help in holding flotation equipment together while moving on the surface of the sea. There are many instruments used while exploring the underwater world through diving, such as diving knives to cut through entanglement, slates so that messages can be passed among divers underwater, weights to adjust body weight while swimming, etc.
“Looking at the summer approaching, all I can think of is the ocean! The feeling of being refreshed by its salty water, taking in its fresh scent, and tasting it with my skin – this is definitely something that’s on my list now. To be able to see marine life up close and personal is one great experience.”
“If you’re as enthusiastic as I am about experiencing the ocean firsthand, then here are activities for your consideration: diving and snorkeling!”
Diving For those who have experienced scuba diving or for those who would like to learn how to dive, we recommend that you put this activity on your list. This gives you a chance to explore different underwater worlds and allows you to encounter different types of marine life. Just make sure that the place you choose is capable of offering this activity.
Snorkeling Anyone can do snorkeling, even if you’ve never tried it before! All you need to do is get a mask and snorkel, plus safety gear like vest or flotation devices because swimming in the open sea can be risky. This is not only for your protection but also for enjoyment’s sake – it’s more fun when everyone stays safe!
