Did that get anyone's attention? LOL

DH and I want to buy snorkeling gear. I was just wondering if anyone has any advice or recommendations, what to look for and what NOT to get, regarding masks, fins, etc.

Snorkeling is something we both enjoy a lot. We are going on an 11 night cruise in late November, and we go to FL as often as we can, so it makes sense to own our own stuff.

By Yjja123 on Friday, January 23, 2004 - 08:21 pm:

Ours is made by Body Glove and we are pleased with it. We paid $100 for each set. I bought everyone a set 2 years ago (kids too) because we love to snorkle on vacations and when we get to the beach. I would never rent--it grosses me out to think someone elses mouth has been on it.
My main advice to make sure the mask fits. An ill fitting mask means water gets in. Make sure it has a mask that covers your nose--not just goggles.
Good luck! Enjoy your cruise! We went on a 8 day in October (Royal Carribean Explorer). It was great! We have used our snorkle equipment in St. Thomas, Bahamas, Grand Cayman and Mexico. We take a cruise every year. If you need tour recommendations let me know.
Yvonne

By Karen~moderator on Saturday, January 24, 2004 - 09:09 am:

Thanks Yvonne.........anyone else have any input?

We read that silicon masks would last longer than rubber......anyone?????

By Jennln on Saturday, January 24, 2004 - 04:51 pm:

Hmm...well I guess I could help a bit lol...I'm an avid scuba diver, but I use a lot of the equipment you would use for snorkeling (mask, snorkel, boots, fins)...actually thinking on the boots you could probably get away with just the neoprene socks for snorkeling ;) My mask is a silicone mask and I've had/used it for a few years now - it's time to replace but from normal wear and tear if you kwim...no problems with the mask itself. When you go to find a mask you do want to be sure that the person you are buying the mask for is present and can try it on - all masks are not alike lol and a good and comfortable fit is a priority. The snorkel that I use is a dryflex snorkel which means that it has a flexible section of the tube (where it curves). I like this version better because then it "fits" right coming from the side to my mouth than one with a hard tube where you kind of have to deal with the curve it gives you if you kwim Also it has a self draining valve so clearing the water from the snorkel is simple (you don't have to "blow" it back out when you resurface lol) I could go up the attic and dig out the actual "names" of the equipment I have...I know the majority of my stuff is dacor brand which is a brand I've been using since I started diving and I've never had any problems with any of their stuff and do recommend them as a good brand to go with. The snorkel I have I don't think is dacor though - although their snorkels are great too ;) - but I could easily find out the exact name/model of the one i have for you if you need that info.