If you have the opportunity to go on a snorkel tour, be prepared to explore a gorgeous ecosystem teeming with life. While you’re there, it’s important that you respect and appreciate nature as an observer. This etiquette guide explains what you should and shouldn’t do to avoid causing harm to the environment and yourself.

Do:

Listen to your guide.

Every snorkel tour is led by an experienced guide. Not only will they lead you to the best spots to sightsee and view wildlife, but they’ll also offer expert safety tips and precautions. Listening closely to your guide and following their instructions will help you prevent accidents and avoid causing harm.

Use the right sunscreen.

Standard over-the-counter sunscreen will seep into the water as you snorkel, damaging the ecosystem. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are two chemicals commonly found in sunscreen, and they’re toxic to coral reefs. A recent bill in Hawaii banned the sale and distribution of sunscreens containing these chemicals, which will go into effect Jan. 21, 2021. Make sure you wear reef-safe sunscreen whenever you go into the water.

Don’t:

Touch marine life.

Avoid touching or interfering with marine life, as some species may become aggressive in self-defense. Play it safe and observe from afar. If you see a sea turtle or a school of fish, approach them slowly, but keep a respectful distance. Additionally, touching coral with your bare skin will disrupt its microbiome, potentially damaging the health of the entire reef.

Remove anything.

It may be tempting to pick up an aquatic souvenir to take home, but everything must be left as is. Even if a starfish appears dead or a shell seems unoccupied, never remove anything from its place. You may accidentally take a living creature from its home or disrupt the home of another. Let your souvenirs be the beautiful photos and memories you capture.

 

If you want to plan an underwater adventure for your next trip to Oahu, book a snorkel tour with Banzai Divers in Hawaii. Their team offers breathtaking experiences for adventurers of all skill levels from ages 10 and up. If you want to see more of the ocean after your snorkel tour, go on a scuba adventure with them to explore lava tubes and shipwrecks. Visit their website to book online, or call (808) 462-8290 to create a custom experience.