We were there in July and there were about 8 or 9 gray noodles near the lifeguard stand in the freshwater lagoon/tropical river area. I am a swimmer, but asked if I could use one down the tropl. river in search of my boys. I was just tired after after snokeling around all day and wanted something to lean on. There wasn't a problem with that, and they didn't cost anything to use. I also remember seeing DC issued real life vests on people. We found the wetsuit vests we wore to be a little buoyant. I don't recall putting in a lot of "swimming" effort while snorkeling....in fact, when I tried to dive under at one point I couldn't because of the wetsuit vest. The only problem my 14 yr had with the wetvest was in the dolphin swim....he kept sinking. They tell you to make sure your wetvest fits snuggly because it will expand a little in the water, helping to keep you warm and also a little buoyant. He opted for the "looser look" and I ended up holding him up with one arm while we treaded water waiting for our dolphin swim at the end of that program. NOTE: you can ask for a dolphin "roundtrip" ride from the shore, out, and back to shore again. Most fo the other dolphin interaction takes place from about 3' deep water that they have you kneel in. I imagine in January you might opt for the whole wetsuit? I would think that would make you more buoyant. The life jackets are always an option and they don't charge for them either. Have a great time!
