Island Girl
Snorkeling Tips & T’ings
It’s a sunny afternoon on St. Thomas. You’ve decided that today is the day to get a closer look at the fishies and pretty coral that inhabit our underworld. You’ve found the perfect beach (Coki Beach is good for snorkeling), or you’ve had your boat captain bring you to a quiet bay – either way it’s time to snorkel. Let’s go over some helpful tips:
A) If you’re snorkeling correctly you’re going to be facedown in the water. (if you’re confused already then today may not be your day to snorkel. everyone else can keep reading). As a result the sun will be hitting your bare back the whole time, so remember to lube up with suntan lotion, or wear a t-shirt.
B) Remove your bling. Rings may slide off your fingers in the water, and if losing your jewels doesn’t bother you than think about the scary fishies that may want to check out that shiny flashy thing you’re wearing. Yeah…you don’t want a barracuda slipping up to lick your bracelet.
C) Gearing up. If you are snorkeling on a tour there’s a good chance you’ll be asked to wear a lifejacket. Although it’s near impossible to drown in this Caribbean water a lifejacket is convenient and you won’t get tired from swimming. Plus it will keep the sun off your back. Next are the flippers. We’ve watched people flipper-up on the beach and then suffer through some staggering sand-tossing walk down to the water. It’s much easier to put your flippers on in the water, and less people will laugh at you. You’ll also have an easier time balancing than this guy (everyone, meet my uncle):
Now for the hard part, the mask and snorkel. I’ve tangled my hair so many times while sliding that mask on it almost brings tears to my eyes just writing about it. I figured out a secret last time, I wore a ballcap (backwards) and boom! Mask on, no problem. Once it’s on you can adjust the straps to make sure you have a watertight seal. As for defogging your mask a lot of people still use saliva, although many scuba shops and snorkel tours on the island can supply you with an anti-fog drop. Here’s Scott and our buddy Jeff masking up:
D) It’s time to duck your head under the water and get the breathing sorted out. I usually gasp and panic through my first few breaths, but that’s from the Jaws soundtrack that starts playing in my mind. Obviously that’s my own personal issue to work through, once I get my breathing down and I take in the underwater peace the big scary shark fades from my thoughts. My mother had a breathing issue when she snorkeled with us, but we quickly figured out the reason she kept surfacing while sputtering salt water; she wasn’t biting down on her mouthpiece correctly. If you slip the whole thing in your mouth your teeth will find a groove to bite on. Once you find that bite take a couple of shallow breaths and blow forcefully through the snorkel to clear it out.
E) It’s snorkel time! Float in the water on your stomach, gently kick your fins and let’s check out the sights! Here is a shot of Scott and my mom executing a perfect snorkel float:
There’s one big rule when snorkeling: Do Not Touch! That goes for coral, fishies, rocks, the people next to you…hands off! Coral is alive, and extremely fragile. Touching it could damage it forever. You may also come away with a nasty rash or a puncture wound if you come across fire coral or sharp marine life. It’s best to keep your hands to yourself. The same goes for your feet…as you float use your flippers gently, and be careful that you’re not about to kick anything (or anyone!). Try not to walk on the sea floor as you may disturb a sting ray, or some other creature buried in the sand. Lastly, fight the temptation to reach into any holes or crevices you may see. Who knows what could be living in there, waiting for some fingers to nibble on!
F) If you’re not snorkeling with a group it’s good to always have a buddy. We had a couple of friends who would take their Jeep to some quiet waters and jump on in. No buoys, no signs, no people, just them. And the sea. That’s all fine and dandy as long as you know your limits. A buddy can keep an eye out for boats or big ‘ol sharks while you check out the sea life. Make sure you don’t swim out farther than you’re going to be able to swim back in.
G) Bring an underwater camera. The ocean blues are beautiful with the sun shining through, and the pretty colors of coral are hard to resist. Besides, people always look their best with a mask suctioned to their face and a mouthpiece stuffed between their lips…
Happy Snorkeling!
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April 8, 2008 @ 5:48 am
Steven Said,
Awesome blog. My fiancee and I are coming to St Thomas in June for our honeymoon. I love your blog, keep up the good work.
April 8, 2008 @ 7:54 am
Nicci White Said,
Thanks for the comment Steve, glad you like the blog – congratulations on your wedding!
April 8, 2008 @ 3:35 pm
Scott White Said,
Steven, if you need any recommendations feel free to pick our brains. We’ll give you the real skinny!
May 12, 2008 @ 2:04 pm
St Thomas Scuba Diving - Dah Dum - Dah Dum Said,
[...] Nicci and I get lots of questions about St Thomas snorkeling and St Thomas scuba diving. The waters of St. Thomas are crystal clear and warm. Home to all kinds of great fishes and creatures. Here’s a picture of Nicci and I scuba diving in Magens Bay (always nominated for the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world). Before you view our latest dive make sure to check out our snorkeling tips here. [...]
July 1, 2008 @ 10:18 pm
Alex Said,
Hi Guys….
We are heading to St. Thomas for a week and I was wondering if we are better off bringing snorkel gear or renting it on the island? If renting is the way to go, where do you recommend?
Thanks!
Alex
July 2, 2008 @ 3:47 pm
BIG Kahuna Said,
If you are going to snorkel more than twice I would bring your own. Renting is inexpensive at $10-$15 each time per person. Is it worth carrying it? That’s up to you.
Where you going to snorkel? Coki Beach is best in St Thomas but if you can get to St. John go over to Trunk Bay!
July 3, 2008 @ 9:57 pm
Alex Said,
I thought about the “carrying” aspect as well. I’m not sure which way will go. We intend to snorkel for a few days, with one day being on St. John (maybe 2). I knew about Cinnamon Bay, but not Trunk Bay. Thanks for the tip : )
July 4, 2008 @ 9:50 am
BIG Kahuna Said,
Trunk Bay has a cool underwater trail. You can rent fins/mask right there.