Where is the best snorkeling in Europe? How is snorkeling different from other dives? Best time for snorkeling

The concept of snorkeling came to us from the English "snorkeling". It translates as "to swim with a mask and snorkel under water" and fully explains this action. Snorkeling takes place at a shallow depth, because for breathing it is necessary that the tube be on the surface.

Snorkeling has become an incredibly popular pastime in resorts on the coast and islands, especially those located in tropical latitudes. During such a voyage, there is a chance to get to know and even touch the inhabitants of the seas and oceans with your own hands (various exotic fish, sea turtles and stars, mollusks, corrals, etc.).

The main advantage of snorkeling is the fact that a person observes underwater inhabitants in their natural environment habitats where they are free and their actions are not limited to aquarium walls.

Many people confuse the concepts of snorkeling and. Indeed, both classes are similar in nature, but have one important difference:

• Diving uses oxygen tanks for breathing, so the diver can descend on great depths and stay under water for a certain amount of time.
• When snorkeling, only a breathing tube is used, which allows you to swim near the surface of the water.

Snorkeling in Thailand

For those who are ardent fans of diving with a mask, or those who just want to join this exciting activity, Thailand will reveal its vibrant colors of marine life. Part of the Kingdom, which is located between the Adaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand, rich in various marine flora and fauna.

Judging by the reviews of experienced divers, suitable places for snorkeling thailand away from densely populated areas and tourist routes. From Phuket and other popular resort towns excursions depart picturesque places for snorkelling. One excursion may include visiting from 4 to 9 islands along the way.

Popular snorkeling spots in Thailand

The sea coast of the resort of Phuket and the nearest islands is perfect for snorkeling. A huge variety of tropical fish and unusual corals live here, and the water is very blue and clear. However, if the tourist wants to get acquainted with untouched nature and get to know marine life, should go to the outlying islands.

IN south side from Phuket, at a distance of five kilometers there are several islands where snorkeling will bring a lot of vivid impressions for a lifetime. Coral island is considered the most famous among them and is famous for its snow-white sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes.

These places are almost untouched by people, so they have retained their original beauty and uniqueness.

Also popular with divers are the islands of Surin and Tachai, and, of course,. They are located a hundred kilometers from the resort of Phuket, and it will take at least three and a half hours to get to them. These places are considered to be the most beautiful in Southeast Asia. Coral reefs are at a depth of 1-2 meters, so it will take the skill of a diver to take a closer look, because best snorkeling in Thailand, you should look for it on these islands.

One more thing no less popular destination in snorkeling - Phi Phi and Bamboo Island. Here you can watch unique and rare tropical fish and contemplate the majesty and power of the rocks, whose height reaches 200 meters. Bamboo Island is surrounded by a shallow reef, which during the February low tide is at a depth of only half a meter. This area is home to gorgonians, a unique type of sea coral.

Every day, regular ships depart from the city's Rassada Pier, which run along the route from Phuket to the farthest island of Langkawi with stops along the way. Any of these places are also suitable for independent snorkeling.

One way trip will cost:

• 350 baht per person per nearest island Phi Phi
• 700 baht - to the island of Ravey,
• 2000-2500 baht - to the farthest Langkawi.

Best time for snorkeling

From mid-autumn (October-November) to mid-spring (April-May), Thailand has a dry and warm season. The sea calms down, there are practically no waves, so the water becomes as clean and transparent as possible, which is important for snorkeling in Thailand.

At other times, diving is pointless and even unsafe. It's all because of the rainy season when they rise high waves. At such a time, it is extremely dangerous to be under water, especially near coastal cliffs.

Beaches for snorkeling in Phuket

If vacationers do not have time or opportunity to visit remote places, for snorkeling Phuket there are suitable beaches with ideal conditions for this activity:

1. Paradise. Paid beach, the entrance fee is 100 baht per person. It is recommended to visit it at a time when there are a minimum of tourists on the beach. There are various tropical fish, corals, sea urchins and other mollusks;
2. Kata- most popular beach vacationers. On north side there is a secluded place with rocks where snorkeling in Phuket is one of the best;
3. Banana- one of the most picturesque beaches which tourists do not yet know about. It is rarely visited, therefore, at any time of the day, the water here is calm and clear, which is an ideal condition for scuba diving;
4. Freedom- inaccessible, but quite suitable beach for diving with fins and a mask. During the dry season there are practically no waves;
5. Knighton also suitable for snorkeling only during the dry season. At other times, big waves rise here;
6. Lem Sing- a secluded and small beach of stunning beauty. A rich underwater world lives here, and few tourists rest;
7. Ao San- Ideal for snorkelling. In addition, on the beach you can always rent equipment and do full-fledged diving;
8. I am Nui rich in its diverse underwater world. Comfortable spot for scuba diving near rocks.

Snorkeling equipment

One of the main advantages of this entertainment is that it requires almost no equipment. It is enough to have a snorkeling mask, snorkel and fins on hand. The mask should be chosen in advance, trying on so that it is in size. Otherwise, it will let water through and all the entertainment will not bring the expected emotions. In order to check if the mask will leak, you need to put it on, put your head down and take a deep breath.

A mask that doesn't let air through won't let water through. The tube should have a soft mouthpiece that fits comfortably in the mouth. Before descending into the water, you need to practice breathing through it in order to get used to it a little. Fins are not a mandatory attribute, but swimming in them is much faster and more convenient.

How much does snorkeling cost?

You can rent everything on almost any beach necessary equipment For snorkeling in Phuket . It will cost 100-300 baht. However, in this case, the tourist may not pick up the mask in size.

Buying new equipment will cost about 600-3000 baht, depending on the quality of the goods. Experienced snorkelers recommend not skimping on equipment and buying a good quality mask and snorkel.

So you can protect yourself from the leakage of the mask, and in the future the equipment will last more than one year.

When ordering a snorkel excursion, all equipment is included in the price. As a rule, prices for such tours range from 1000 to 2500 baht.

If tourists go snorkeling with an excursion that has its own instructor, he will protect them from problems and tell them how to behave while swimming.

If this is an unauthorized occupation, then before that you should read some useful tips:

1. Before you go to explore the underwater world, you should think about the safety of the skin. During swimming, the sun's rays constantly hit the back, so it is recommended to wear a T-shirt with a tight-fitting sleeve or purchase a special wetsuit. It will also protect the skin from jellyfish and plankton, which can sting;
2. When buying a tube, choose a bright color. Also, when choosing clothes, do not wear a plain T-shirt so that you can be seen from a boat or jet ski;
3. Be sure to make sure that the mask is clean and intact, fits snugly to the face and is the right size;
4. When snorkeling, you should not touch tropical fish, corals and shellfish with your hands. The brighter the marine life, the more poisonous it can be. It is better to protect yourself from possible problems.

We bet you've already thought about dropping everything and having a leisurely, relaxed vacation somewhere closer to the sea. A great idea, but we know that your restless nature will prevail over fatigue and after a day of "seal" rest, the soul will ask for some activity. The best option in such a situation: buy or rent a mask, snorkel, fins and go to explore the underwater life. In the latest issue of the column, we figure out where and how to go snorkeling, and also come to the conclusion that snorkeling can become your personal discovery in 2016. Please note: the creation of the rubric became possible thanks to friendly support - a profitable payment card, which was created specifically for active travelers.

Why is snorkeling a must?

Snorkelling is extremely exciting. A minute to fit the tube and find a comfortable position in the water - and you forget about everything and plunge into another world. The main thing is not to get carried away and do not forget that for your own safety you can’t touch anything with your hands.

No preparation needed. There are no contraindications for health or physical endurance for this activity.

You don't need to know how to swim for this. To swim with a mask, you do not even need to be able to properly float on the water - a life jacket does not in the least interfere with monitoring underwater life.

Snorkeling costs next to nothing. Mask and snorkel entry level will cost you € 15-20, lay the same amount on simple fins. An organized swim with equipment included will rarely cost more than €30.

7 places for successful snorkeling

L'Ile de Riou, Marseille, France

This secluded beach was recognized as the best for snorkeling and diving not only by the editors of 34travel, but also by the main organization in France that trains divers (Fédération Française d "Etude et de Sport Sous-Marin). small beach in the center of the national park can only be reached by boat or boat from Marseille, and therefore here you will feel really alone. Needless to say, on the spot you can observe the rich and untouched underwater life. Now the location is used as the starting point for diving expeditions in the archipelago. Interestingly, in 1950, a huge number of ancient Roman amphoras and jugs were found at the bottom - if you go with a group, they even promise to show some of them.

The study of the bottom of the sea must be combined with the study of the main port and the heart of Provence - Marseille. Narrow streets leading to a huge port, the most delicious bouillabaisse (of course, because it was invented here), basilicas and cultural centers We are the perfect plan for you. Traveling in France: in addition to receiving a 1.5% refund on your balance from each purchase with PayOkay, the card allows you not to think about whether you have changed enough currency to take with you. The fact is that the exchange rate for payments in foreign currency by card is the most profitable - you can pay PayOkay for everything with a clear conscience.

Equipment. Usually included in tours. Order or check with the Tourist Center of Marseille - they will help with the finished trip and with ways to get to national park on one's own.

How to get there? You can fly to Marseille from Vilnius on Ryanair - with a transfer in Brussels or Rome. The cost of one-way tickets in summer will be about €100.

Isola Rossa, Sardinia, Italy

The beaches around this pretty small town are famous for their picturesque red rocks - in fact, this is where the name of the place came from. And although there are plenty of sandy beaches, the water remains perfectly clear, and the number of people with masks is not annoying. Moray eels are easy to spot in the area, and the fish and corals are as colorful as those in the Caribbean. The former fishing village itself is just a few streets, two pleasant beaches in the town itself (Longa and La Marinedda) and another half an hour walk. Isola Rossa has two main diving centers where you can rent a mask and snorkel.

Equipment. Rent professional equipment from one of the diving centers (especially if you want to make a day trip to the Maddalena archipelago) or buy basic version right on the spot - you will keep within € 25-30.

How to get there? The plan is this: from Warsaw you fly to Milan on Wizz Air, and then change to Ryanair to the main city of Sardinia - Cagliari. From there, an unforgettable 6-hour journey awaits you (first by train to the Sassari station, and then only the bus is available).

Illes Medes, Costa Brava, Spain

Medes Islands - marine reserve in Catalonia (since 1983), on the very border with France. Precisely because of the conservation status and the fact that there are many rocks here, lovers water skiing neither fish nor snorkellers are disturbed. The fish here are small, but in all possible colors. Of the larger ones you will see guppies and even barracudas. Most importantly, don't touch anyone! You can get to the islands only in an organized way. In the northern part of the beach of the town of L "Estartit, there are many companies that offer snorkeling and diving tours. You can also get a ticket for a boat with a transparent bottom - if you don't feel like getting into the water yourself.

Equipment. Issued on the spot. You can bring your own, of course, but this will not affect the price. A tour with delivery and one hour of pure sailing will cost € 27. For example,.

ZAO MTBank, UNN 100394906, OKPO 14619370

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Snorkeling is the best pastime on vacation in tropical seas. You don’t need expensive equipment, you don’t need to master diving and ascent classes, you don’t have to stress too much about safety. You can lie relaxed on the water in an underwater mask, with a breathing tube and slowly swim, lazily pushing off with your feet in fins, watching what is happening below. With a good picture, hours pass for this activity. We have selected places with pictures that you should definitely see.

Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic occupies eastern part island of Haiti, located between by the caribbean And Atlantic Ocean. The sea temperature here is +28 all year round ° C. Water is one of the most transparent on the planet. The average visibility is 35 m. Sometimes more.

Underwater life is abundant in the manifestation of colors and forms. Therefore, snorkeling in the Dominican Republic is an ideal pastime.

Punta Cana

The tourist center of the republic is the city of Punta Cana, located in the east of the island. Here is the largest coral reef in the Dominican Republic. But for snorkeling this is not the best place.

Sosua

Beginners should pay attention to north coast islands, in particular, the city of Sosua, located near Puerto Plata. It is interesting and convenient to go snorkeling here: near the shore or anywhere on the coastal reef, sailing on a boat for 10 minutes.

Bayahibe

For serious snorkelers, the Bayahibe resort is recommended, located on caribbean coast, near the city of La Romana. You can dive right next to the shore. Not far from Bayahibe is the National Natural Park - Parque del Este. Mangrove forests, caves, unique species of trees and birds, sea turtles make it possible to combine a Caribbean eco-tour with exciting snorkeling.

Underwater world included national park the islands of Catalina and Saona are so rich and landscapeally diverse that, according to the most amazing places special swims for snorkelers are arranged.

Egypt

For Europeans, the Red Sea is a classic place beach holiday. Warm weather all year round, short flight, relatively inexpensive accommodation, Coral reefs and a rich underwater world - all this makes snorkeling in Egypt a worthy alternative to the Caribbean and Pacific islands.

Dahab

You can swim and see the underwater world in any resort town. In Dahab, for example, famous for its diving destination, there will be something for snorkers to see. If you don't mind the prospect of being the little brother of big divers (and they make up the vast majority here), then Dahab is a good place to be.

Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam has its advantages:

• significantly fewer tourists;
• calm and quiet;
• you can find islands of underwater life untouched by civilization.

If there is no wind from the sea strong wind, then Marsa Alam is a good place for snorkeling. Those who prefer a noisy and mobile holiday will be bored here: civilization is far away, including its benefits such as shops and markets.

Sharm El Sheikh

Good resort with developed tourism infrastructure. But for snorkeling, perhaps not the best choice. Active tourist activity has led to the fact that on most hotel beaches (there are simply no others here) there is nothing interesting left for snorkeling.

Hurghada

The best Egyptian resort for snorkeling is Hurghada, as well as nearby El Gouna. Makadi and Soma bays are the most attractive in this sense: warm clear water and colorful coral reefs. Located south of Hurghada famous resort with black sand beaches - Safaga. However, the best place for snorkeling in the entire Red Sea is the National Natural Park, which extends over an area of ​​​​more than 3000 m²; and including the islands of Mahmeya and Gifton.

It is located 45 min. boat ride from Hurghada. Divers will be able to see the vibrant and unique underwater life: corals in more than 100 different forms and thousands of colorful tropical fish. Prohibited in the National Park economic activity and erection of capital buildings. This allows you to save the biological diversity of underwater life. In addition, Hurghada is not boring: clubs, restaurants, shops, souvenir shops and markets. From here it is convenient to go on excursions in Egypt.

Seychelles

The Seychelles are located in the western part indian ocean, near the African continent. Includes over 100 islands. Some of the Seychelles are tens and hundreds of kilometers apart. Choose any for snorkeling: everyone is surrounded beautiful reefs. For example, consider the most large island Mahe and the small atoll of Alfons, 400 km away from it.

Mahe Island

Mahe is the central island in the Seychelles system. The capital of the state is located here, there are hotels, banks, restaurants. From the point of view of snorkeling, the National marine park– a protected area with abundant marine life. Here you can see green sea turtles, colorful butterfly fish and hundreds of other tropical fish species. In October, the whale shark migrates through this area of ​​the Seychelles.

Alphonse Atoll

Despite the fact that Alphonse Atoll is located at a considerable distance from the main island of the Seychelles, it will not be difficult to get to it: there is an airport with a small runway capable of receiving local aircraft.

There is one (!) hotel on Alphonse Atoll and there are practically no people. For this reason, the surrounding coral reefs, which are 3 atolls in size, have been preserved in their original form. The reefs go to a depth of no more than 10 m. The perfectly clean and transparent water surrounding this Seychelles atoll allows you to observe life on the reef, swimming in a relaxed mask and snorkel.

Sri Lanka

The Indian island of Sri Lanka, better known to many as Ceylon, is known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean. But climatic conditions regions impose a seasonal restriction on scuba diving. During the monsoon period, the sea is stormy and it rains. Snorkeling in Sri Lanka is possible from May to November.

Kalpitiya

The area in the west of the island of Sri Lanka - Kalpitiya - is known for wind and kite surfers. There are practically no tourists in this area. You can snorkel in Puttalam Bay or go on a one-hour boat trip to the giant coral reef. It extends to the west of Sri Lanka for more than 5.5 km in length and about 2 km in width. The reef is home to hundreds of species of fish. If you are lucky, you can see an octopus, a reef shark and a turtle. Water temperature - about 25 ° C.

Kirinda and Weligama

A small village in the south of Sri Lanka - Kirinda - is known for its endless beaches. To the southeast of the coast lies another, less massive reef. There are also millions of fish swimming in it and even shipwrecks that, in good weather, can be seen without diving deep. "Sand Village" Weligama - has long been a city on south coast islands - is of the same interest for snorkelers as Kirinda.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee, despite the presence of a large seaport, is considered the center of Sri Lankan ecotourism. The city is located in the northeast of the island and is known for its long sandy beaches Uppuveli and Nilaveli. Not far from Nilaveli is Pigeon Island National Nature Reserve.

Snorkeling in Sri Lanka is impossible to imagine without visiting it: for divers and underwater travelers, this place is a “must see” place.

Thailand

Snorkeling in Thailand overtakes all other areas in popularity South-East Asia. It's nice to relax here. The water in the dry season is clear and warm. Plus - Thailand is closer than the Indonesian, Polynesian and other oceanic islands.

Surin Islands

The Surin Archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea. It has the status of a national nature reserve. Accommodation for tourists is not provided. But snorkeling and diving expeditions leave here daily from Phuket (2 hours) and the mainland province of Phang Nga (1.5 hours).

In addition to snorkeling, the Surin Islands are of ethnographic interest. The Moken gypsy community lives here. As part of this eco-tourism, those who wish can visit their village and look at the traditional life of the islanders.

Hundreds of people come to the islands because there is the best coral reef and the most worthy snorkeling in Thailand. In addition to countless varieties of fish, including parrot fish, surgeon fish and Moorish idol, you can see the black reef shark and, if you're lucky, the turtle.

Phuket and neighboring islands

Phuket is known for its pleasant sea and beaches. Snorkeling in Phuket is one of the most popular pastimes. Kata Beach is the best for this purpose. Coral colonies are especially good in the northern part of the bay. The islands near Phuket - Khai and Racha - are also ideal for snorkeling in this region. On the latter, corals are located in small cozy bays, which is convenient and safe for beginner snorkelers. There are eels, moray eels, puffer fish, parrot fish and many others.

Do not forget about the islands of Phi Phi (particularly interesting are Don, Lei and Bamboo). In these parts you can meet tiger and whale sharks. Phi Phi is also a variety of excursions, such as a visit to the monkey beach (Monkey Beach) and Maya Bay. In general, both in Phuket and around it, you can find many suitable places for snorkeling.

Not all tourists associate the word "travel" exclusively with beaches or masterpieces of architecture and art. For some, a trip to an unfamiliar place is, first of all, new, interesting experiences. In pursuit of unforgettable emotions, they are ready to climb the tops of mountains or plunge into the sea, in the depths of which a completely different world is hidden.

To fully convey all the beauty of the underwater kingdom is beyond the power of any travel program. To appreciate the world of amazing colors, incredible shapes and unique life, you can only tear yourself away from the TV and plunge yourself under water. We found 10 places with extremely rich underwater kingdom and so crystal clean water that to get to know him you only need a mask with a snorkel and fins.

• Cayo de Agua, Los Roques, Venezuela

  The Los Roques archipelago consists of 350 islands, reefs and small islets. It has an atoll structure, which is not quite typical for Caribbean. The atoll, protected by an outer coral barrier, is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters at 27°C. Due to the low level of nutrients and remoteness from the mainland, the waters of the archipelago are absolutely transparent: life underwater world visible to the naked eye even from land. Those who decide to put on flippers and a mask can see 61 species of corals, 200 species of crustaceans and about 280 species of fish.




Temae Beach, Moorea, French Polynesia

The island has become popular with tourists due to its heart-like shape. white sand beaches and pristine lagoons. Discover the rich underwater world of Moorea by choosing an overwater bungalow with a glass floor or by arranging sea ​​cruise on a boat with a transparent bottom. But the best way for this remains snorkeling. Diving into one of the richest "aquariums on earth", you can see countless small fish, corals, and if you're lucky - rays and sea turtles.




Mnemba Island, Tanzania

This small island located 2 km. northeast of Zanzibar. Around the island to a depth of 800 meters, nature has built a natural barrier - coral atoll, which has become home to more than 430 representatives of the tropical underwater world. In the local waters, green turtles listed in the Red Book lay their eggs, not far from the coast of the island there is a whale migration route and three species of dolphins frolic.




Carlos Rosario Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rico

The main beaches of the island, discovered by Christopher Columbus himself, are Flamenco and Carlos Rosario. If the former is a favorite beach holiday destination, then Carlos Rosario is a mecca for divers and snorkelers. Its crystal clear waters in Puerto Rico are considered one of the the best places to meet tropical fish, sea ​​urchins and turtles.




Lady Elliot Island, Australia

Big barrier reef has no shortage of spots that provide an opportunity to enjoy the beauties of the underwater world. Lady Elliot Island differs from other places in that the visibility under water here reaches up to 50 meters. This perfect place observing tropical fish of all colors and sizes and manta rays.




Smith Reef, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is a British overseas territory north of Haiti, consisting of 30 islands. The archipelago is famous for its white sandy beaches and one of the longest reef chains in the world. Along the center of tourism and resort life - the island of Providenciales - stretches the famous Smith's Reef. This is a unique natural ecosystem inhabited by a wide variety of marine life. In summer, flocks of stingrays occupy the reef, and in winter and spring, you can watch the migration of humpback whales here.




Matira Beach, Bora Bora, French Polynesia

All the main attractions of Bora Bora are located under water. The island's lagoon is home to the most various representatives marine Pacific fauna. There are more than 1000 species of tropical fish here alone. The visibility of the water is from 30 to 50 meters, which creates ideal conditions for snorkeling.




Rakidu, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives

This tiny island Vaavu Atoll is considered one of the best dive sites on Maldives. In the local waters, you can observe the life of such underwater inhabitants as, for example, hammerhead fish, rays, tuna and turtles.




Jellyfish lake, Palau

A lake in the east of Eil Malk is truly unique place on the planet. On the one hand, it is connected to the ocean through cracks, on the other hand, the lake is quite isolated. Two species of scyphoid jellyfish, which were "locked" in the reservoir, eventually lost their stinging cells and multiplied up to 2 million individuals. You can swim with jellyfish, touch them, and at the same time not be afraid that they will sting.




Honda Bay, Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is home to many exotic species flora and fauna. Some of them cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Coral reefs hide under the water with total area 11,000 sq. km. In coastal waters, you can meet the rarest mammal in the world - a sea cow, as well as in the natural environment to observe schools of more than 800 species of fish, seahorses and rare sea ​​turtles that are on the verge of extinction.