Snorkelers rescued at the mouth of Akumal Bay
On Monday, December 5, 2016 at 2:30 in the afternoon, three snorkelers got caught in the strong outgoing current at the mouth of Akumal Bay and were rescued in a joint effort by the onsite lifeguard and a Dive Center boat manned by two Dive Center staff.
There were no serious injuries, however, one snorkeler was treated for minor abrasions.
The snorkelers, who rented snorkel equipment, told rescuers that they were not made aware of or briefed about the conditions and currents in the bay.
Without the trained personnel and their quick actions, the potentially dangerous situation could have ended quite differently.
BE SAFE AND SMART!
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE HEADING INTO THE BAY
While most companies or cooperatives operating snorkel tours in Akumal will also rent equipment, it is evident that not every outfit is providing full explanations, directives on the dynamics of the bay, or even the snorkeling guidelines.
Visitors to Akumal Bay who choose to snorkel independently with their own gear or with rental gear should become familiar with the following:
the exact conditions and currents. Ask the lifeguard on duty or one of the dive shops for a briefing—they have the most experience and updated weather, wind, and current conditions.
the beach flag system—red flags indicate unsafe conditions for snorkeling. READ MORE
the best practices/guidelines for snorkeling in Akumal Bay. READ MORE
For those visitors renting gear, be sure to:
Get a full briefing from the rental provider (conditions, currents, flags, best practices for snorkeling). Both dive shops in Akumal include this briefing as part of the equipment rental process.
Ask questions if you do not feel the briefing was complete or clear.
Feel comfortable and confident with the gear you have rented.
And on top of everything, know your limits and abilities. While it is not mandatory to hire a guide, if you are new to snorkeling or don't feel confident in regards to the conditions or currents, consider hiring a guide from a legitimate business who is experienced, licensed, first-aid qualified and insured.
