coral reef
 

This may sound silly to the experienced but I was reading somewhere that you need shoes when out in the coral and on the cays. Don't you wear flippers/fins? or should you wear some form of shoe or aqua shoe? Thanks

Hi, Jane - it is hoped that you would not have to touch the coral with your hands or your feet or with flippers as it may cause great damage. I think the only reason someone might suggest shoes is if you have difficulty walking in and out of the water or are just wading in shallow water where the bottom may be composed of sharp dead coral pieces or stones. It is so very important to protect the live coral.

You must definitely wear shoes while walking on the reef, otherwise the coral will rip up your feet. Not only that, but because the coral is a living organism, you can get a nasty infection if you're scratched. Old sneakers, jelly, or aqua shoes work well. <BR>

Gigi - I hope you read my post above yours and I really hate to repeat my words but please don't walk on living organisms and recommend to someone what to wear while doing it.

Dear Jane: <BR>You have been misinformed. One does not walk on the coral. It is a world class attraction worthy of viewing, not walking on. <BR>Please expect to leave it the way you found it for future generations to enjoy. <BR> <BR>John