Snorkel tips
| * |
When anchoring, the anchor, anchor chain or line should
not be in contact with coral. Use mooring buoys that are provided.
If one is not available, ask to tie off another stern. If neither
option is available, carefully anchor in the sand. |
| * |
The red and white divers down flag must be flown while
SCUBA diving or snorkeling. Boats should slow to a no-wake speed
within 100 yards of a dive flag. Divers should stay within 100 feet
of their flag. |
| * |
Always consult and carry the local nautical chart to
determine safe courses of navigation. Use channels, don't take shortcuts. |
| * |
Avoid areas which appear brown in color. Shallow reef
areas and seagrass beds will appear brown (remember, brown, brown
run aground). |
| * |
When in a dive area, slow down to an idle speed. Make
sure your bow is down and the motor or stem is not digging down deep
into the water. |
| * |
Hand feeding fish is discouraged . Such activity changes
the natural behavior and diet of the fish |
UNDERWATER BEAUTY
Some six thousand different species of plants, fish and other sea life
exist and thrive in the Keys as well as America’s only living coral
reef. Pictured below are just some of the many different corals you may
come across as you snorkel. You must be very careful never to touch,
stand or disturb coral in any way as they are a very endangered species.
Snorkel
Locations
Here are just some of the many examples of the places you can visit
on charter with us.
MOLASSES REEF Has a depth range of 25-45 feet. Molasses has some of
the most beautiful coral and visibility is great to allow you to see
the varied marine life that is abundant on this beautiful reef.
SOMBRERO LIGHT Has a depth range of 2-25
feet and is close by to the historic seven mile bridge. It is home to
a large lighthouse of over 140 feet
that is almost 150 years old. Elkhorn, staghorn, star, and brain are
just a few of the corals that reside here. You are also very likely to
see very large Jew fish to very small goby as well as hogfish and grouper.
Another phenomenon that is seen quite frequently at this reef is the
cleaning stations. Since the smaller fish are parasite feeders and the
larger fish are parasite carriers, Sombrero Reef becomes a bonanza for
cleaning stations. It is fascinating to watch this relationship in action.
LOOE KEY NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY is located approximately five nautical
miles south of Big Pine Key. Popular for skin diving, snorkeling, fishing
and boating, the sanctuary is considered by many to be the most spectacular
reef in the Lower Keys. The remains of the H.M.S. Looe which sank in
1744, and for which the sanctuary is named, still remains on the ocean
floor within the sanctuary boundaries.
|
