How to Choose a Good Snorkeling Buddy

Your buddy is more than a snorkeling companion. He or she is the one who will help you get out of a tricky situation, and if you're lucky, buy you lunch.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• 1 Dive Masks
• 1 Pair Swimming Fins
• 1 Snorkels

1. Evaluate the snorkeling environment, your mood and ability, and the skill level of those with you.
2. Decide why you want to snorkel that day ' to swim fast, to dive deep, to watch wildlife, to explore kelp forests, to learn how to relax underwater.
3. Tell your potential buddies your reasons for wanting to snorkel and your goals for that day.
4. Ask them what they hope to get out of their snorkeling experience.
5. Select the person who understands your goals and is willing to help you achieve them.
6. Reaffirm your snorkeling plans just prior to entering the water with your chosen buddy.

Tips & Warnings

• Choosing a buddy of greater skill and experience level can be helpful, but make sure that he or she is willing to stick to your plan.
• Talk often with other potential buddies about your snorkeling experiences and what you wish to accomplish in the future.
• Know the personality of your buddy. If your buddy is a die-hard individualist who enjoys hair-raising encounters with avalanches, that behavior trait is likely to transfer right into the water.
• Never snorkel without a buddy. Regardless of your skill and experience level, you never know when circumstances beyond your control might put you in harm's way.
• Snorkeling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.