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Fall 2017

Snorkeling Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts

Credit: Ed RalphWho doesn’t love snorkeling? Swimming among some of nature’s most beautiful and fascinating creatures is an opportunity you’d be crazy to pass up. However, snorkeling irresponsibly can cause serious damage to the wildlife you are observing. Here are a few tips on how to snorkel like an environment-friendly pro.

  • DO wear biodegradable sunscreen. Regular sunscreen washes off into the water and can kill coral polyps and other sea life.
  • DON’T stand on the coral. This damages the reef more than you may realize. Try floating on your back if you need a break from swimming.
  • DO keep your distance from the wildlife. Not only can you be fined heavily for touching the fish, turtles, or other animals, you can both harm them and yourself. Some sea creatures can be deadly to humans, so it’s best not to disturb them.
  • DON’T feed the fish. Attracting more fish to you may seem like fun, but feeding them messes with their natural diet, which is never a good thing.
  • DO pick up any trash you find floating around, especially plastic items. You could save some sea creatures’ lives!

Now that you’ve passed snorkeling etiquette, put on your goggles and flippers and go for it!

By Emily Strong