Snorkeling tours allow you to see all of the beautiful creatures and terrain in the sea up close and personal. However, before you head out on a tour, keep these etiquette rules in mind to keep you and the environment safe.

Do:

Use reef-safe sunscreen.

With the sun overhead, you should protect your skin during snorkeling tours. However, the ingredients found in traditional sunscreens can harm the reefs. Avoid sunscreens that list oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, or nanoparticles as their active ingredients.

Listen to your tour guide’s instructions.

Before you depart on a snorkeling adventure, your tour guide will give you instructions. Your tour guide has extensive knowledge and experience with snorkeling, so heed their rules to stay safe and have a fun time.

Don’t:

Touch anything.

When you’re swimming around all these beautiful creatures, it can be tempting to reach out and touch them. However, some creatures, like sea cucumbers and starfish, are so fragile that touching them can damage their structures. Others may become frightened and try to defend themselves. Jellyfish, urchins, and lion fish, for example, can bite or sting if you come too close. Additionally, it’s illegal to harass the marine life.

Take anything home with you.

After snorkeling tours, you should come out empty-handed. Never try to take souvenirs, including coral, sand dollars, and shells. You could be taking a vital piece of a living coral’s body or stealing shelter from crabs.

Now that you know snorkeling etiquette, head out on an adventure with EŌ Wai'anae Tours. The family-owned and -operated business offers breathtaking snorkeling tours and dolphin excursions. They’re also happy to provide snorkeling gear, diving equipment, and plenty of snacks and beverages on the trips. For more information about their services, visit their website, and call (808) 699-5910 to reserve your spot today.