If you’re planning to trip to the Gulf cost this summer, and you’ve got your heart set on some snorkelling, you may be a little disappointed. Sure, the clean up is under way, and there are still many coastal areas that have not been affected by the spill, but you could find that your chosen spot isn’t snorkelling safe. So before you strap on your snorkel and fins make sure you’re not putting yourself in danger. Read on to find out more about the oil spill and how it could affect your snorkelling summer holiday this year…

You’ve probably already seen the pictures on the news of the damage caused by the oil spill. Not only has the spill endangered marine life, caused beaches to close and reduced tourism numbers, it’s also having an affect on snorkelling too.

But before you pack away your snorkel and fins there is some good news. Yes, there are many sights that have been deemed unsafe for swimming and snorkelling, there are plenty or areas that are open for business as usually and offering snorkelling and dives all summer long.  

If you’re thinking about snorkelling on your own – don’t. You may end up swimming through a patch of oil, or find yourself in a patch of sea that has not yet been cleaned. But, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to strap on your snorkel and fins and splash around. Instead, make sure you go with a snorkelling group or a dive school. These folks will know the area, and they’ll also know which areas are safe for you to snorkel, and which places you need to avoid.

If you do head out with your snorkelling equipment and you find yourself in an area that has been affected, return to the shore as soon as possible. You then need to wash yourself off with warm water and soap or baby oil, as well as cleaning your swimwear, snorkel and fins. It’s unlikely that you’ll get ill from your contact, as most illness related to the spill have affect the oil workers. It’s the fumes from the oil that have caused most of the problems with many complaining of headaches, nauseas and skin irritation.

So, if you do manage to strap on those fins and snorkel, make sure you’re safe, you head out with a group who know the area and waters. If you follow these guidelines you should be able to enjoy some of the best snorkelling in the world and have a holiday of a lifetime.