Snorkeling Tips for Family’s First Ocean Trip!

Once the location is figured out, the next question is whether to go solo, with friends, in a group, or with family! Now, at some point, we all have traveled with our families, and if it's been a long time, this article is a sign that you plan your next trip soon with them!

To the ocean, you go!

Did you know that the Cayman Islands is one of the most preferred locations for snorkeling and is a kid-friendly destination? And to swim and snorkel with the stingrays is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your family, especially your kids!

Once you come to the Islands, you will find numerous reliable tour operators to help you plan your itinerary.

Before you pull your credit card to book tickets, here are some important tips if your family and children are snorkeling for the first time.

Snorkel-proofing Your Family Trip

• Age limit for snorkeling for children

To begin with, there is no age limit for snorkeling. As long as your kids are comfortable in the water and have good physical development, they are all set. However, if your kids are four and above, they can have a seamless experience snorkeling!

• Snorkeling Gear

Selecting the right gear for your children is very important for them to be safe and comfortable in the water.

Here is what you need to keep in check -

• Mask

There are two types of snorkel masks: full-face and standard ones. The standard ones are safer and easy to use.

Indeed, classical snorkel goggles require the snorkeler to clear the water out of the mask more often, but kids learn the technique quickly.

• Snorkel

The snorkel for kids is designed to fit their mouth - short length with a small mouthpiece.

There are two types -

Semi-Dry model- only a small amount of water enters the snorkel once underwater.

Dry snorkels are equipped with a top-closing mechanism. With the help of a guide, your kid can learn to clear the snorkel if water enters the tube.

• Fins

These, too, are of two types -

Full-foot is easy to wear, with one drawback being that these fit between specific shoe sizes.

Open heels are a better option for children as the arse is adjustable, and your children won't outgrow them.

• Introduce the right technique

With proper training and ensuring your safety, snorkeling with kids is indeed rewarding and a wholesome experience.

There will be instructors who can help train your kids during your Stingray City Tour in Grand Cayman. Be it by putting on the equipment or teaching them to breathe through their mouth and nose.

VERY IMPORTANT - Your children must know how to swim before heading out for snorkeling.

• Using a vest or flotation device

Ensure your kids have put on inflatable vests to add an extra layer of security. This adds to their confidence in the water and helps them if they get tired.

VERY IMPORTANT - The snorkeling vest should have appropriate lifting capacity and fit comfortably, neither too tight nor too loose.

• Kid-friendly vacation destination

Cayman is one of the safest travel destinations for your family. On average, the Cayman Islands have a record of hosting over two million tourists annually. There are tons of activities for your kids to indulge in, and they will be entertained for their entire stay.

• Reef etiquette

Teaching your kids to snorkel responsibly and in an eco-friendly way is very important. They should know what to and what not to touch as the underwater ecosystem is fragile. Ask them not to chase marine animals and leave any garbage.

• Snorkeling with Supervision

To avoid the panic of any sort, make sure your children are accompanied by you, your partner, or elder siblings. They should never snorkel alone.

• Sun and thermal protection

Using sunscreen that is ree-safe and biodegradable should be used to protect your family and environment. Besides, tightly woven, high-density synthetic fibers like lycra, nylon, and polyester offer great protection and are considered the best fabrics for sun protection. You can also invest in a wetsuit.

Last but not least,

Eat nutritious meals to feel energized during your snorkeling adventures. You will get to enjoy fresh seafood in abundance. That being said, take care of the pointers mentioned above so that your family and little ones can enjoy an excellent snorkeling trip!