Snorkelling gear for a beginner

[Gareth1974]

I did a spot of snorkelling on honeymoon in Hawaii a few years ago, using hired gear, and really enjoyed it. I'm off to Croatia on holiday at the end of the month, and have heard that the clear waters there are good for snorkelling. This time I'd like to take my own gear - any recommendations of which gear to buy, and where from?
I'm after something basic and functional rather than flash, and ideally not too expensive either!

[Vladimir]

Some really good kits on Amazon; worth getting something half decent as it'll be more comfortable and give clearer vision:

This is a decent set:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cressi-Palau-Mask-Fins-Sno...

You might want to get just the make and snorkel to start with. I'd try on fins as the fit is quite a personal thing but the ones in the link are fine.

[JVaughan]

Go to a dive shop and get a mask that fits comfortably. £30 spent on a quality mask is well worth it IMHO. as for a snorkel ... get a cheap one and dont be fooled by glitz and gizmos like purge valves etc.

[GT03ROB]

Tusa do some good stuff.

[otolith]

Echo the recommendation to go to a dive shop. Didn't cost us much and we spoke to someone who knew what he was selling.

[Phud]

Please try the mask on before you buy.

If it leaks then every penny is wasted, if I may suggest, when you try it on, place the mask in place and breathe in through your nose, it should suck to your face with no leaks

[JVaughan]

Phud said:

Please try the mask on before you buy.

If it leaks then every penny is wasted, if I may suggest, when you try it on, place the mask in place and breathe in through your nose, it should suck to your face with no leaks

What he said ......

[MrsThatcher]

JVaughan said:

Go to a dive shop and get a mask that fits comfortably. £30 spent on a quality mask is well worth it IMHO. as for a snorkel ... get a cheap one and dont be fooled by glitz and gizmos like purge valves etc.

Lol. 30 quid will not buy you a good mask!

Go to the dive shop and buy a open water cert. Then spend several thousand quid on dive stuff like the rest of us...

Btw you'll need at least a twinset to do some basic snorkelling ;-)

Don't worry about it and enjoy!