The Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, might be notoriously known for the Komodo Dragons, but that’s not everything that this paradise has. Undulating hills packed with raw adventures, breathtaking views, stretch of pristine coasts, and crystal-clear water hiding bustling marine life wait in this remote frontier. Snorkeling and diving come only second as favourite activties in Komodo after the dragon visit. Many traveleres—even the non-divers couldn’t resist to take plunge to the transparent water and take a peek of the colourful life beneath. Snorkeling in water as pristine and lively as Komodo is totally exciting. But before you go, pay attention to he dos and the don’ts to ensure a happy and safe snorkeling.
DOs:
Practice Snorkeling Before Coming to Komodo
If you plan to have some snorkeling session in Komodo, you better take some time to practice from now. Rent a snorkel mask and practiceon the nearest swimming pool, especially if you’ve never snorkel before. This give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the gear and how it works.
Take A Buddy to Snorkel in Komodo
Snorkeling is best enjoyed when you have someone to share the beautiful sight. But having a buddy while snorkeling in Komodo also means you have someone to rely on when something went wrong. Especially in place like Komodo where the currents is strong and quite unpredictable. Better to have a snorkel buddy from the liveaboard who know
Know the Currents
It’s best to ask the locals (or your liveaboard crew) about the flow pattern. Knowing the currents in Komodo is very important. Make sure you only swim at places where you are comfortable with the currents.
Choose Easy Sites
As how it’s stressed over and over, the currents in Komodo is no joke. The majority of sites are even reserved for the advanced and experienced only. If you don’t have at least Advanced Open Water certification, don’t take the risk of going to challenging sites. Choose easy sites where the currents are low yet the marine life is still brimming with life. Some best idea is the Kanawa Island, Tatawa Besar, Manta Point, or the China Shop.
More Komodo Stories:
Challenges to Face in Komodo Sailing Trip
The Good and Bad of Sailing in Komodo Cruise
DON’Ts:
Tilting Your Head
This is the ost common don’t (and also the most common mistake) a beginner make when snorkeling. Don’t tilt your head. Doing so when you are floating facedown will cause your snorkel to breach the water surface. You will have water enter the snorkel and that’s definitely not a pleasant situation.
Breathing Too Fast
There’s something important shared by diving and snorkeling: slow breathing. Breathing fast consume a lot of energy and left you exhausted. Learn to control your breathing to conserve body energy.
Go Against Instructor/ Captain Recommendation
A liveaboard sailing ship in Komodo usually have diving/ snorkeling instructor or a captain who is also a divemaster. They will be the one who made all diving/ snorkeling related decisions. Always listen to what they say and never insist on snorkeling when they think it’s not a good idea.
Spend Too Much Time Snorkeling in Komodo
We know, we know! Once you take a plunge to Komodo’s beautiful underwater, it’s hard to keep a track of time. Especially when you are surrounded by mesmerizing coral formation and tropical fish. However, it’s important to limit your time underwater. Not only because you have other destinations in the list to visit, but you also in the risk of dehydration. Many people become dehydrated on prolonged snorkeling session. You need to go to the surface to drink and rest before going on again.
