We were already familiar with starfish, octopus, mussels, barnacles, clams, and anemonies. As a family we spent hours searching through the tide pools of the Palos Verdes penninsula in Southern California. I was lucky enough to grow up by the ocean, and I was snorkeling almost as soon as I could ride my bicycle to the sea. But my Dad had never seen the realm of fish first hand until I encouraged him to put on a mask, fins and snorkel and see for himself the aquatic playground that was practically in our front yard. And as much as I've always enjoyed snorkeling, it is the joyous hours spent sharing this activity with those I love, especially my father, that I remember best.
Snorkeling is an ideal activity for people of all ages and interests to share with each other.
In fact, this is probably the single most valuable aspect of the sport. The skills are easily mastered by both young and mature, and the marine environment is equally intriguing on every level, from a child's playful view to a biologist's scientific observations of fish behavior. During workshops, I've taught snorkeling to children barely old enough to walk, and to adults nearly too old to walk. I've watched as they were then able to participate in the joys of snorkeling together. I love fish, but I love people more.