Bringing your kids on a snorkeling tour can be a fantastic experience for the whole family. It will allow them to get up close and personal with the amazing sea life in the area and help them enhance their swimming skills. Ensure you and your kids will enjoy the experience by preparing for it with the tips below.

How to Enjoy Snorkeling Tours With Your Kids

1. Practice Makes Perfect

Using a snorkeling mask for the first time can be a strange experience. When preparing your kids for a snorkeling tour, have them practice wearing the item beforehand. They can use it in a bathtub or pool to get the hang of using the tube and goggles. 

Help them put everything on or model how to do it so they can learn for themselves. When beginning the practice, your child should look under the water with only a mask. Once they get a feel for the equipment, attach the snorkel and instruct them how to use it for breathing while keeping the opening above water. 

2. Always Use Sunscreen

Before heading out on a snorkeling tour, everyone should layer up with sunscreen. Even though your bodies are in the water, the sun's ultraviolet rays can burn the exposed areas. 

When looking for a product to protect your skin, check the ingredients to ensure that it's reef-safe. Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate, as these chemicals are toxic to marine life. Wearing rash guards will also help prevent sunburns.

3. Bring Backup Goggles

Some children can struggle to find the right size mask, and water can leak through if it doesn't fit properly. When this happens, having a spare set of swimming goggles will ensure your little one can still see underwater, even if they can't use a snorkel.

To find a mask that fits your child, make sure the skirting around the item doesn't overlap their hairline. This measure will ensure that the water in their hair doesn't get into the lenses. Put the mask on their face, then have them breathe in a little to garner suction. If the equipment stays on without the strap, you can rest assured that it's a good fit.

If you're thinking of taking your family on an exciting island adventure, visit the Maui Activities Store in Lahaina, HI. For over 40 years, they have helped Maui visitors find what they need to enjoy their vacation. They offer various land and sea activities, including ziplining, luaus, and snorkeling tours. Learn more about their ocean adventures online, and call (808) 638-3230 to discuss your needs with a team member.