Snorkeling is one of the most enjoyable water sports that will open the wonders of the ocean to you. But before starting it is important to know how to choose the right equipment and the safety rules to have an exciting time.

Tips on purchasing or renting your mask and fins.

Choosing your mask

Be sure your mask fits your face.  While holding your mask up to your face, breath in through your nose, being sure that the strap and your hair are not in the way. Your mask should seal perfectly and stay on, without you holding it, for as long as you hold your breath. If there are any air leaks you will likely have water leaks when you’re snorkeling so take your time choosing your mask and be sure that you are comfortable with its fit.

Your mask strap should fit snugly on the upper part of the back of your head. If it's at the base of your skull, water will seep in. If water starts seeping in while you’re snorkeling, reach back and check to determine if the strap has slipped down. Don't tighten the strap beyond "snug," since it will cause you to be uncomfortable.

Defogging your mask

Your mask can have a tendency to fog up and you may not be able to see once your face is in the water.  There are many ways to solve this problem but the easiest is to just spit in the mask, rub it around and rinse it in the ocean before you start snorkeling.  I know it sounds terrible but you will learn that many times it is the only solution when you have been snorkeling and are in the water and your mask happens to fog up.  There are companies that sell products made for defogging but it’s your choice if you want to buy them.

Choosing your fins

When choosing your fins be sure that they are snug but not too tight. They shouldn’t hurt or cause your toes to curl.  It is better to start with fins that are shorter in length and do not slip off your heels easily.  Remember that they will be easier to put on when your feet are wet.  It is a good idea to purchase booties to wear with your fins and be sure to wear them when you try on your fins.  They will help to protect you feet and keep them warm. 

Starting with the basics

Once you have chosen your equipment it is important to test your mask and snorkel together to determine they’re fit and comfortable.

Begin by positioning your snorkel and mask so that the snorkel passes just above your left ear.  Then practice breathing through the snorkel with your head out of water. This will help you get use to having the mask on and the snorkel in your mouth.

  Put the mask on with the strap high on the back of your head being sure it’s not too tight.  Place the snorkel’s mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips around it.  This will probably feel strange at first.  Once you feel comfortable practice your breathing calmly in a pool or the ocean by floating face down and horizontal. 

Your mask should remain reasonably dry on the inside, but it can accidentally fill with water and if this happens check to see if the strap has slipped down on your head. Raising your head out of the water, pulling the lower edge away from your mouth, and simply letting the water drain out will easily clear a flooded mask.

Breathing

When you are face down in the water exhale quickly once to clear any water that may be in the snorkel. This is called purging.  Always inhale gently at first in case there is any water still in the snorkel. Purge a second time if needed, and continue to do so whenever water enters the snorkel.  If you're out of air, surface, or raise your head out of the water, remove the snorkel from your mouth, take a breath of air and then clear your snorkel. It is helpful to practice deliberately flooding and clearing both your mask and snorkel to calmly learn these techniques.

Remember that it is normal for snorkels to flood with water periodically because of wave action as you move about on the surface. By practicing clearing your mask and purging your snorkel will provide a much more enjoyable experience when you are snorkeling.

Using your fins

Relax and keep your knees and legs straight in order to use a flutter kick, keeping your fins below the water line. You will find that a gentle pattern will work well and help prevent your legs from cramping.  Be sure to place your arms and hands at your sides or over your lower back to improve your movement through the water.

Once you are comfortable with your equipment, practice controlling your movements in the water.  Remember that it is easy to lose track of your location with your face in the water, so don't forget to look around every couple of minutes.

Once you become comfortable inhale a breath of air and hold your breath as you dive to explore the underwater world around you.

As you ascend, make sure the snorkel end is above the surface before you purge your snorkel.

Once it is purged breath slowly to be sure your snorkel has been cleared. If you don't have enough air left to purge your snorkel, lift your head above the surface and take the snorkel out of your mouth and take a breath.

See Snorkeling Part 2 for safety tips, marine life, being respectful of the ocean, and professional training courses for snorkeling.