Diving Tips for Florida Keys SCUBA and Snorkeling

• Before booking a reef trip, check out weather conditions; its best not to go out in rough seas. Poor visibility, strong winds and waves reduce safe interaction at the reef.
• Remember that even the lightest touch with hands or equipment can damage sensitive coral polyps.
• Snorkelers should wear float coats — inflatable snorkel vests — to allow gear adjustment without standing on the coral. Never stand upon a coral reef!
• To avoid contact with the ocean bottom, divers should only use the weight needed and practice proper buoyancy control. Areas that appear empty may support new growth if left undisturbed.
• Avoid wearing gloves and touching or collecting marine life. Most tropical fish captured die within a year. Queen conch is a protected species, and cannot be taken.
• Resist the temptation to feed fish, seabirds and marine mammals; it changes their natural behavior and diet.
• Remember, its illegal to harvest coral in Florida and buying it at local shops only depletes reefs elsewhere in the world.
• Bring back any trash you find and recycle it, if possible.
• Snorkel aware, dive with care!