Snorkelling: do I need the fins as well as the mask & snorkel?

[Aridane]

Will be going on a small boat for x5 days with the opportunity for lots of swimming and some snorkelling.

Masks and snorkels are provided but not fins.

Question is whether I need the fins or not having them will make a difference.

I can buy them from Decathlon quite cheaply - so money isn't the issue as such. It's just that I'm travelling lightly, hand luggage only, and fins will take up precious space.

They can be quite heavy as well! I wouldn't bother if you aren't taking hold luggage. DH has fins and we regularly snorkel on holiday, the last few years he hasn't bothered taking them.

I don't think you do - we went to menorca last year and there was a cove that was very popular for snorkelling, we just took masks and snorkels and were fine, I didn't do any 'serious' swimming though, just pootling around looking at the fish. Most people didn't have fins, the full face masks seemed popular too, but I've never tried one so don't know how they compare to separates.

You don't actually need them to snorkel no, however, I dive and snorkel and always wear fins, as if you get carried by the current it can be difficult to swim back against it without them.

I’ve done lots of snorkelling and have never bothered with fins. They’re useful if you want to go faster, or deeper to look at something more closely, though. I’m happy on the surface.

You do t need them but if you want to go deeper they are a big help. Shortie fins aren't too heavy.

If you're a decent swimmer, you don't need them, but if weak, they will help. I'd be more inclined to take my own mask so I know that it fits properly and won't leak.

I've never used them when snorkeling. But did try them one. I found the helped dive down. So we're good for looking at bits on the sea floor. I think if your just pootling around they are by no means essential. I'm jelouse I'd love a bit of snorkeling in the warm right now!!

Thank you, all - very helpful