7 year old swimmer

[goofyfamily41]

My seven year old is a beginning (red cross level 4) swimmer. He needs some type of floatation device to keep him on top of the water as he tries to snorkel. (Yes, I will be close by ) What is the best device to use, should I bring or rent it and where?

Thanks for the help.

 

[AnnMorin]

Most places you plan on snorkling provide snorkel vests which work quite well - they have a regulator that you blow in to inflate them to your desired level. At castaway cay Disney will provide one to you free of charge if you have your own fins and mask but no vest- they insist infact that all snorklers wear one.

 

[Cdolan]

I bought one of those snorkeling vests for my then 5 year old, and they are much easier to deal with than a life vest, because they deflate and inflate as much or as little as you need. Remember, the salt water is very bouyant (sp?). And they are actually comfortable. All the snorkeling excursions I have ever been on have them. It's just easier to have one that has been fitted ahead of time for the little ones. I think I got it at Diver's Direct via the Internet, but a little surfing via Goggle or another should land you in the correct place. Also, you may want to invest in a good pair of goggles, as opposed to the full face mask. Less cumbersome, and if the child is not a good swimmer, they are not going to breathe thru the snorkel anyway. And you won't have to fit it every time. Have fun.