A couple caribbean questions.

[Anybody]

Thanks for coming in and looking.

My gf and I will be heading down to Turtle Cove buck island in Sept. This we be both our first time getting into the sport (well we are just snorkling a few day trips but I will start to look into my scuba cert when I get back).

My questions are:

Should I invest in a couple low end wet suits for sun protection while we are in the water?

and

Does anyone have any experience with Tigullio dive masks? I have an oppertunity off ebay to pick up a prescription "Bright" model with my prescription in it for around $80.00.

Thanks In advance

Chris

 

[Scottri]

The wetsuit would be a good idea. I wouldn't really think you would need a full suit. Usually a shorty is enough. I wouldn't get one heavier than 3mm. As for the mask, I have never heard of that brand. For a prescription mask I use an Ocean Master Z2 with prescription lenses. I picked it up online for less than $100. Masks shouldn't be purchased without trying it on for fit. If a mask doesn't fit will it won't matter if it was free. Mask fit is very important.


Scott

 

[hodgson]

A 3mm full or a diveskin would work for sun protection. A 3mm full is almost overkill for snorkeling in the Caribean unless you are planning on making a marathon out of it, and spend a lot of time in the water. Then it helps to have the warmth to keep your body heat from escaping. When I'm in the Caribean, I spend as much time as I can in the water, so I usually switch between a 3mm full for scuba and a shorty for snokeling. And ... yes...I do have a farmer tan.

Edited note: Low end wetsuits are fine for warm water... but fit is important. If it bunches up where your body bends (arms, legs, etc) you will be miserable wearing it. If all you are interested in is sun protection, a diveskin might be a better choice. Much more comfortable, and easier to get on and off.



All I can tell you about the mask is it's Italian.... never tried one.

 

[Beach Bum k10]

1.5mm full wetsuit. I prefer full suit over shorty because it offer MORE protection than shorty from the sun. I snorkel for hours and the full suit gave me more warm than a shorty. It also provide more protection against accidental abrasion from the reef.

I believe you can pick up prescription mask from local dive shop for less than $100. Mask is something you need to try it on before you buy. I don't think it is a good idea to buy it online before you have a chance to try it. It is not about the brand or the $$, it is how it fit your face that's the most important.

Good lick and have fun.

Anybody once bubbled...
Thanks for coming in and looking.

My gf and I will be heading down to Turtle Cove buck island in Sept. This we be both our first time getting into the sport (well we are just snorkling a few day trips but I will start to look into my scuba cert when I get back).

My questions are:

Should I invest in a couple low end wet suits for sun protection while we are in the water?

and

Does anyone have any experience with Tigullio dive masks? I have an oppertunity off ebay to pick up a prescription "Bright" model with my prescription in it for around $80.00.

Thanks In advance

Chris