Date: 10 May 1986 09:47-EDT 
From: Jerry.Agin@fas.ri.cmu.edu
To: Nizwer.Husain@isl1.ri.cmu.edu
Cc: bovik@k
Subject: Snorkeling and SCUBA
Message-Id: <516116830/agin@fas.ri.cmu.edu>
In-Reply-To: Nizwer.Husain's bboard message of 09-May-86 19:25

Anyone who can swim can snorkel.  A 15-minute lesson in a swimming pool will
give you the basic technique.  Most of the really interesting underwater
scenery in Florida is far enough offshore that you will need a boat and an
experienced guide.  There are lots of operators who will take you out for a
fee.  John Pennekamp State Park off Key Largo has some very beautiful reefs
in less than six feet of water.  If you have your own equipment (buy it or
rent it in Pittsburgh to take with you) you will be able to try it out on
your own at every beach.  The underwater sights are interesting everywhere,
but not as spectacular as the offshore reefs.

SCUBA is another story.  You go places the snorkelers can't get to, but no
reputable operator will rent you equipment without a certificate.  It's
normally about a 40 hour course to become certified.  Courses are offered at
may places--look in the yellow pages under both Divers' Equipment and Diving
Instruction.  I've dealt with Sub-Aquatics and they're reputable.