Koh Samui has been a beloved backpacker destination since the roaring 1970s. As for snorkelling, the seas around Koh Samui are scattered with effervescent sea creatures. Let’s talk about tips and tricks to enjoying a snorkelling holiday in Koh Samui.

Image via Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

Find a Koh Samui family resort that caters specifically for snorkelling. Resorts like the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort offer snorkelling facilities to guests on a daily basis. You need to consider accessibility to snorkelling spots, gear and other amenities before you book your resort. Always book accommodation well in advance. You’ll avoid hefty fees and have more time to plan your snorkelling days.

A leaky mask spells disaster. If you can spare the luggage space, bring your own gear. But, since that is not always practical, ask the resort to rent high-quality gear. You can get a snorkelling guide at your resort to help you with the fitting. You should be able to keep the mask on by just inhaling through your nose. Make sure you don’t set the band too tight. If you fail to set the band properly, you run the risk of a painful squeeze from water pressure once you enter the water. Also, opt for a snorkel with a dry valve to protect your face against splashes. A purge valve after the mouthpiece helps you get rid of water that sometimes leaks inside.

Fins help you save energy as you dive in the salty depths. If you need to swim against the current, fins come in handy. Ideally, your fins should fit snugly along your feet without being too tight. Feet tend to shrink a little when your feet get cold and wet. A good rule of thumb is to walk backwards when you’ve got your fins on. This is how pros enter the water when they go snorkelling. And, you know what? They do look a little funny, but they don’t stumble.

Diving into seawater willy-nilly is not going to help you find the right spot to see marine life. You need to ask the resort or the locals (when diving elsewhere). You need to check if the diving site’s structure is right. A good snorkelling site should be either a reef or have rocks or outcroppings along with a sandy bottom to make a thriving space for sea life. Always, take a snorkelling partner and keep an eye out for change in currents.

There is a very low-tech trick to make sure your mask doesn’t fog up while diving. Before you jump in the water, spit on the lens, wipe off the saliva and then dip the mask in water for a rinse.The other pro trick is to avoid putting on your mask too soon before a dive. If water gets inside your mask while you snorkel, learn to tilt your head back a little, and blow a stream of air through your nose. This breaks the bottom seal, and gets rid of water. Always, wear your mask on your neck when treading water. If you put it on your forehead, a sudden wave may knock it out.

· Move slowly, and steer clear of splashing around. Stealthy is the best approach to catch glimpses of marine creatures.

· When you see something interesting, remain still and observe (Don’t pursue)

· Use your legs to propel forward

· If you can, interlock your fingers in front of you to restrict movement

· Most importantly, lather up with reef safe sunburn before you dive in. Koh Samui is blessed with sunshine, and the rays burn – even beneath the cool waters.