Question about the snorkeling trip

[pamickey]

We leave on Dec. 5th for our first ever cruise. We're planning to do the Catamaran Sail and Reef Snorkeling in Nassau. It is recommended for children 6 and up. Our 6-year old has had one summer of swimming lessons, but we're a little nervous about how she'll do in the open water. She uses a snorkel and mask in a pool, but never in the open ocean.

Has anyone else taken a child that young with little swimming experience snorkeling on the reef? Are they allowed to wear a lifevest? Or will one of us end up sitting on the boat with her while everyone else enjoys the snorkeling?

Any help with this question would certainly be appreciated.

 

[musicgirl]

Not to freak you out or anything,but we had problems with ds at 11. He has been swimming for years and had previously used a mask, snorkel and fins. Something really spooked him and we never did find out why. He was very hesitant and only went out for a little while with dh holding his hand. One thing I know really bothered him was the salt water. You just never know what will happen with a child no matter how old. I wouldn't worry about it too much though since there's no seeing into the future. We're all going to be snorkeling in June at Blue Lagoon again.

 

[DIANNE62]

Just a thought...I do believe that ALL must where life jackets when snorkeling. That's what we encountered on our last cruise (Celebrity to Bermuda). Our daughter then was 7 years old and did the open water snorkel. We were with her for the first 30 minutes and then she felt very comfortable. They also had mat floats to give anyone that wanted to use it as a little extra security. She did have swimming lessons for at least 3 summers and had swam in salt water before.

 

[mcnuss]

I wouldn't worry about it in advance since you won't know how your DD will do until you get there. One thing I am almost 100% certain of is that Dianne62 is right - we have always had to wear a vest while snorkeling in open water, and we have also been offered noodles and mats.

I am sure you'll have a great time.

 

[kplatt]

We just returned from the Eastern itinerary and did the 5-Star Snorkel Tour to St. John. Although it was a beautiful day, the water was slightly choppy and several children were quite uncomfortable in the water. My 10-year old ended up playing on the beach.

One of our snorkel tricks (which we did not use for the kids this trip) is to pack a small foam kickboard. You can put it under your stomach for extra buoyancy (sp?). It gives the little ones a little more confidence.

Karen
Wonder 11/01
Magic 3/02
Magic 11/02