How To Snorkel

LeisurePro Tip: Snorkeling is a great way to appreciate underwater marine life without having to learn to scuba dive. Snorkeling equipment consists of a mask and a mouthpiece from which a hollow tube extends above the surface of the water. The tube allows the swimmer to breathe through her mouth while keeping her face in the water. The snorkeler also wears swim fins to propel her through the water.

When learning how to snorkel, the swimmer will be instructed to practice expelling water from her tube. To do this, the snorkeler will submerge herself (thereby putting the hose under water) and then swim back to the surface. When she reaches the surface, she will exhale sharply, consequently removing all water from the tube. After expelling the water, she should be able to commence breathing normally with her face still in the water.

Snorkeling is a great way to explore coral reefs and sunken ships and experience some of the wondrous beauty the ocean has to offer.

Scuba Regulators: Try Before You Buy

LeisurePro Tip: When you're learning to scuba dive, you probably will train with rented equipment. It may be wise to vary the equipment you rent, including the type of scuba regulators you use, so when you are ready to purchase your own scuba regulator you can buy with confidence.

The two stage single hose regulator is the most commonly used regulator in scuba diving. It is light and allows a diver to "breathe easy." As the name implies, a scuba diver only has to check the fit of one hose before his dive.

The double hose regulator works well in icy water. It also is great for underwater photographers, as exhalation bubbles are released behind the head, so as not to block your view.

A comfortable mouthpiece that fits your regulator is essential to a great dive experience. No matter which type of scuba regulator you choose, try both plastic and metal mouthpieces, determine your preference, and then get it custom fitted to your mouth.

Scuba Gear Basics

LeisurePro Tip: If you're a strong swimmer and eager to explore the ocean, scuba diving is the perfect sport for you. Here's a quick introduction to the sport.

• Training: Every scuba diver has to attend training classes before he will be allowed to dive in the ocean. Because it's such a popular sport, there's bound to be a training facility near you. You'll learn basic scuba diving safety, how to breathe underwater, how to read scuba instruments and how to repair your equipment. After you pass a writing test and a swimming test, you'll get your scuba certification.
• Gear: You can rent scuba diving equipment from a dive shop, or you can choose to purchase your own scuba gear. Since you're just starting out, you may want to purchase discount scuba gear to see what different types of masks, flippers and dive suits work best with your body and swim style.
• Diving: As soon as you get your certification, you may want to plan a special scuba diving vacation. You can dive coral reefs, deep caves, sunken ships and more. When you're a certified scuba diver, the world - or the ocean - is your oyster.

Live-Aboard Cruise Advantages

LeisurePro Tip: When going on a Caribbean vacation, there are many things to plan, including accommodations, food, scuba reservations, travel itinerary and entertainment. It can get pretty stressful, especially if you have to perform a lot of research about the destination. However, there is an alternative to traditional dive vacation planning; live-aboard dive cruises.

Live-aboard vessels are comparable to conventional cruise ships in that they offer overnight accommodations/quarters, follow a planned itinerary and the cost of meals are included in the price. But the advantages of a live aboard vessel to the scuba diving enthusiast are so much more! In addition to the benefit of visiting the major ports and shopping at the popular stores, like most conventional cruise lines offer, you also gain the access to secluded areas. You can take advantage of diving beautiful reefs, sunken ships and hidden caves with the required scuba diving equipment, where only a live-aboard dive boat can take you.