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How to Snorkel on Runaway Bay, Jamaica

How to Snorkel on Runaway Bay, Jamaica
Runaway Bay in Jamaica has amazing underwater sites for snorkelers to explore--shipwrecks, coral, sponges and, of course, schools of local fish. Snorkeling is an enjoyable sport and easy to do in the beautiful crystal-blue oceans of Jamaica.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:
  • Snorkel Mask Flippers Sunblock Underwater camera Waterproof watch
  • Snorkel
  • Mask
  • Flippers
  • Sunblock
  • Underwater camera
  • Waterproof watch
Step 1
Get outfitted with a snorkel, mask and flippers. If you have not brought them with you, many local outfitters can supply your gear. If you have equipment, test it out at home before your trip to ensure everything fits and works properly. Make sure to use sunblock, especially on your back and the back of your neck.
Step 2
Choose whether you're going to walk out or sail out in Runaway Bay. To walk out, simply wade about 6 feet into the water and tilt your body down into the waves. Let yourself float horizontally, making sure your snorkel tube is above the water. To sail out, contact one of the area's daily snorkel charters, which take you to an offshore area. Climb out of the boat and begin floating, tilting your head down and into the water.
Step 3
Photograph the undersea life with a waterproof camera. Although it may be tempting, do not touch the fish or disturb the schools swimming by. Do not break off pieces of coral or disturb any kind of plant life. When finished snorkeling, raise your hand and wave to the charter boat, which will sail to pick you up or simply wade out of the water back to the shore.

Tips & Warnings

 
Wear a waterproof watch so you do not lose track of time underwater. Early morning is the best time for the clearest snorkeling, as beachgoers have not invaded the water and stirred up the silt.
 
Wear a waterproof watch so you do not lose track of time underwater.
 
Early morning is the best time for the clearest snorkeling, as beachgoers have not invaded the water and stirred up the silt.
 
Be mindful of how far you have floated from your boat, as the currents in Runaway Bay may be strong. Make sure you have enough energy and strength to be able to swim back to your boat. Do not wear jewelry or anything flashing, as predatory fish such as Caribbean barracuda are attracted to the light sparks.
 
Be mindful of how far you have floated from your boat, as the currents in Runaway Bay may be strong. Make sure you have enough energy and strength to be able to swim back to your boat.
 
Do not wear jewelry or anything flashing, as predatory fish such as Caribbean barracuda are attracted to the light sparks.

Article Written By Filonia LeChat

Fionia LeChat is a technical writer whose major skill sets include the MS Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Publisher), Photoshop, Paint, desktop publishing, design and graphics. LeChat has a Master of Science in technical writing, a Master of Arts in public relations and communications and a Bachelor of Arts in writing/English.

Write for Trails.com

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