Snorkeling Etiquette: Protect Yourself and Marine Wildlife

Snorkeling is one of the best ways to view fascinating, vibrant marine life. However, to enjoy snorkeling and to get the best out of the underwater world while also respecting and preserving its beauty, you should practice snorkeling etiquette. These are simple rules that you have to follow to protect yourself and sea life while snorkeling. Here are a few tips that will help you become an environment-friendly snorkel pro.

Look, but Don’t Touch

Don’t touch, hold, or ride corals or marine life. Fish and marine animals have a slimy mucous cover meant to deter predators. By holding or touching them, you will destroy their natural defense mechanism.

Also, avoid standing or sitting on corals. Although they may seem durable, they’re very delicate, and touching them can affect their health, especially if you interfere with the protective mucous layer. What’s more, some species are toxic; direct contact with them can cause allergic reactions.

Use Biodegradable Sunscreen

Scientists have confirmed that some sunscreen products contain oxybenzone which is toxic tocoral reefs. This chemical kills baby corals and causes coral deformity. Keep in mind that some parks won’t allow you to go snorkeling if you use such sunscreen products. Instead, you may want to consider natural sunscreen that is water resistant.

Don’t Feed Marine Animals

You may be tempted to bring your own food to lure fish, but feeding fish and other marine animals can cause harm. When you provide food to fish, they stop performing some important ecosystem processes like cleaning algae from the coral reefs. Additionally, fish may also get sick.

Don’t Carry Souvenirs

Whether alive or dead, you should not collect marine creatures as souvenirs. Removing some organisms from the reef may deprive other marine animals of their source of food. Even dead animals are important to organisms that rely on decomposition processes.

Purchase Quality Snorkeling Gear

When it comes to purchasing your snorkel kit, you should only buy from trusted manufacturers. Quality snorkel gear will go a long way in protecting marine life. Poor quality items can break easily and ruin your snorkel trip.

By following these simple snorkeling etiquette commandments, you will enjoy your tour and at the same time protect the marine life and ecosystem. Enhance your underwater experience by investing in the best snorkeling gear from Snorkel-Mart. If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to contact us.