The History of Snorkeling to Tips for Beginner Snorkelers
Vacationing in coastal areas in Indonesia, such as Bali, Yogyakarta, Karimunjawa, Pandanaran, and Bangka Belitung certainly has facilities for snorkeling and diving for tourists. These areas have such clear sea water that when diving, one can see beautiful marine life, and snorkeling is the most suitable activity for tourists who are not very skilled in diving techniques to enjoy the tourist destination in the form of the sea.
Snorkeling is an activity of swimming with the body still at the surface of the sea. However, snorkelers must still wear a diving mask, a small oxygen tank, and fins because their heads will go into the sea to see the underwater scenery.
Here are some things that you can know about snorkeling. When you are doing snorkeling for the first time, the following tips can also be followed.
History of Snorkeling
Did you know, that snorkeling has been discussed by Aristotle, a philosopher from Greece, in his book titled Parts of Animals? In it, the philosopher refers to snorkeling to describe divers who use breathing aids.
So, indeed snorkeling has been a swimming and diving activity since ancient times. This activity always requires the use of aids, ranging from swimming goggles, oxygen tanks, fins, to special suits. These are used to help keep the snorkeler safe because snorkeling is usually done for a considerable amount of time in the water.
Oh yes, according to evidence found, snorkeling has even been an activity performed by humans for 5,000 years in Crete. Wow, it is indeed a very ancient activity.
Snorkeling Equipment
There are three pieces of equipment that must be worn by snorkelers to stay safe. These pieces of equipment must be used correctly to avoid any unwanted incidents during snorkeling.
1. Mask
A diving mask is a device that covers part of the face and is waterproof. This device protects the eyes and nose with safety glass on the lens and silicone lining the mask frame so that the user does not feel pain when wearing it.
Since the breathing part is covered by the diving mask, snorkelers are required to learn to breathe using their mouths. Breathing through the nose is prohibited as it can cause the diving mask to fog up or even allow water to enter the mask and disrupt the snorkeling activity.
Diving masks come in various sizes, and snorkelers should choose the mask that fits them best for safety. To choose the right size diving mask, it is not necessary to put it fully on the face. Snorkelers just need to place the mask on their face and then breathe in slowly. If the mask does not fall off, it means the diving mask is the right size for their face.
2. Snorkel
A snorkel is a breathing aid for snorkelers. This device consists of two parts, an air tube and a mouthpiece. The snorkel can be attached to the diving mask for safety during use.
The snorkel tube usually has a length of about 30 centimeters with a diameter of only 2 centimeters. This is because a snorkel tube that is too long can make it difficult for the snorkeler to breathe as the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide has a longer path, making it troublesome for the snorkeler.
The mouthpiece on the snorkel is made of silicone with a curved shape and has a part to bite. This mouthpiece must fit the size of the mouth so that when inhaling air, it does not leak and seawater does not enter.
However, for snorkelers who will be snorkeling for hours and diving deeper, it is advisable to also use a small gas tank for more freedom in breathing.
3. Fins
Fins are used by snorkelers to assist in swimming. Their wide tips make it easier to push against the surface of the sea, allowing for more freedom of movement.
This snorkeling equipment is made of rubber. It comes in two types: open-heel and closed-foot, with shorter fins. The size is similar to regular shoe types for closed feet. For the open-heel type, snorkelers wear boots that serve to protect their feet from injury and prevent blisters.
When snorkeling in areas with cold water, it is advisable for snorkelers to also wear a wetsuit to maintain body warmth. Since snorkeling is an activity under direct sunlight, snorkelers should also wear extra sun protection clothing to prevent skin burns.
The clothing worn should also preferably be bright-colored, such as yellow or orange, to be clearly visible from a distance. Other activities such as jet skiing or boat rides may also pass by, and wearing bright-colored clothing can prevent unwanted collision incidents.
To Keep Snorkeling Safe
In addition to being required to use special equipment during snorkeling, snorkelers must also pay attention to several things to ensure that the snorkeling activity remains safe. Although it does not require special skills, it is important to be a good swimmer and to get used to breathing using the snorkel. A snorkeler must follow the instructions from much more experienced snorkelers regarding how to use the equipment and conservation guidelines for fragile plants in the sea.
A mandatory rule for snorkelers is that they must not snorkel alone; it should be done in groups, at least accompanied by a professional snorkeler. Some tourist spots even require snorkelers to wear inflatable vests for added safety while snorkeling. These vests are usually bright yellow or orange to be easily seen from a distance.
If snorkeling is done in cold water, snorkelers are required to wear special clothing to maintain their body warmth. Wearing shorts or a rash guard over the special clothing is also recommended as it can protect against sunburn.
Snorkelers can snorkel for hours, especially when the purpose of snorkeling is to study marine life. Therefore, snorkelers may experience body cramps or dehydration. Dehydration can affect body functions and lead to cramps. So, it is advisable for snorkelers to drink enough water before snorkeling.
Snorkelers are prohibited from approaching marine life that can be dangerous, such as jellyfish, sea lions, or turtles. Never touch coral directly as it can be damaged in an instant. Moreover, inserting fingers into coral holes can be dangerous as there may be electric eels inside.
Things to Consider for Beginner Snorkelers
Actually, someone who is not a good swimmer can also participate in snorkeling activities. The important thing is that they do it with a guide who understands the ins and outs of snorkeling.
It is indeed fun and thrilling, but beginner snorkelers should not be too nervous when about to go snorkeling. Overcoming nervousness can be done by continuously asking the guide about the proper and correct way to snorkel. Don't forget to wear the life jacket properly to avoid danger once in the water. Also, learn how to breathe through the snorkel to avoid incidents of choking on seawater.
Author: Nisa Maulan Shofa
