With so many artificial reefs now off the shore, people are investigating snorkelling and scuba diving in NJ more and more. If you are interested in jumping into one of these hobbies, you will want to ensure you get the best experience possible. So, do you know what the differences are so you can make the most informed decision?
Help is at hand, as this article offers a breakdown of the pros and cons of each. By the time you finish reading, you should have a good idea of which you want to take up.
Equipment
This is one of the places where the differences are the starkest.
In the case of snorkeling, you only use a mask, a short snorkel, and some fins to move around with. You can use these to see underwater, although you must stay near the surface.
With scuba gear, you use a lot more equipment, including a wet or dry suit, buoyancy equipment, and a scuba tank. This allows you to safely descend below where snorkeling would take you.
Depth
Whereas you tend to only do snorkeling in shallow water, where you can see underwater scenes close by below you, scuba allows you to go much deeper.
During a scuba expedition, you can expect to descend several meters below the surface of the water. Some more experienced divers might even go much further.
Mobility
When snorkeling you do have a large amount of freedom to move around the surface of the water, but you cannot go under. You also should not turn around onto your back with snorkeling equipment on, or you will get water in the snorkel.
When scuba diving, you have complete freedom of movement. Not only can you go anywhere, but you can turn upside down and move in any way you wish.
Training
While anyone can go snorkeling with a little help if they are young or brand new, scuba diving needs you to have some training. The process also demands a level of scuba diving certification, especially if you want to go with licensed groups. Though this ensures the safety of all involved.
Range of Experiences
Scuba diving offers complete freedom to engage in many different activities. The experiences you have with it far outstrip anything snorkeling can provide. Examples of water activities you can do when scuba diving but not when snorkeling include:
- Diving deep into shipwrecks
- Ocean exploration among artificial reefs
- Swimming among the marine life
- Cave diving
- Experience the different temperature layers of the ocean
In all, scuba diving offers you so many more choices that you would never get by remaining on the surface of the ocean.
Start Scuba Diving in NJ
With all these pros and cons, you can see why we would recommend scuba diving in NJ over any other sport. If you want to get into the hobby or are looking to return after a hiatus, we can help you out.
Our expert instructors are here to help you start or continue your scuba journey, no matter your age or level of experience. So, get in contact and begin a deep dive into the world of underwater adventure today.