CC

We are staying at the Atlantis in June. Should we buy our snorkel gear here or does the Atlantis provide it at the beach area for guests. If there is a rental fee, what is it? Thanks, CC

Patty

I do not know if the Atlantis has snorkel equipment but if you want a Bahamian to take you on wonderful snorkeling trips contact Kendal Flowers at the Kings and Knights Club at the Nassau Beach Hotel. He is the drummer in the band. Call before 7pm to set up appointment. His boat does not look the best but he is very reliable and keeps a safe watch over you. The reefs are the best and you are not on a big tour boat. Have fun.

tweedy

I don't know how great snorkling is right off the beach at the Atlantis, but there are 2 good trips you can take for about $35pp and they will provide the snorkle gear. The water in June is like bathwater, but make sure you bring a tee shirt to wear and LOTS of sunscreen. I have learned by experience and (ouch, burns) that the sun is more direct and the water will intensify the rays, so have a great trip but be just a little careful you don't want to ruin your vacation. <BR> <BR>tweedy

Bob

The snorkeling off of Atlantis isn't good, compared to formal snorkeling trips you can take through dive ops. I'd also recommend Bahama Divers, who have been in operation the longest on Nassau, for over 30 years. Very watchful crew, and the dive master goes in with you. They take you to shallow reefs that are fantasic; you're kids will see many coral and caribbean reef fish species. Back to Atlantis. I snorkeled, just for fun, off the beach. Check around the boulders in the water, and you will see some reef fish. Also, walk down the beach toward the Radison, and snorkel out a hundred feet or so. The water gets up to 20 feet, but you can explore around the water buoys, and the lines which connect them. I saw barracuda, southern stingrays, sargeant majors, angel fish(both French and Grey), and many blue-stripped grunts. Don't have your kids swim out beyond the buoys, because the jet skiers are literally crazy speed demons. The best thing is to teach your kids how to float belly down and relax, breathing controlled, with their head and face mask under the water. They can still breath of course, and really observe the underwater world for 15 minutes without raising their heads up. I'd recommend going to a dive shop in the states and purchasing a good snorkel, mask, and fins. Easy to pack and light weight. Train them in the water and once their confidence is developed they'll see a lot, even off of Atlantis beach. Then, go with a dive op to some unbelievable reefs, once their accustomed to the snorkeling adventure. Most dive shops have afternoon trips, where the dives are shallow. Ask them when you get there...the snorkeling prices are very reasonable. Bob

Keith's Nan

I would suggest buying your own snorkel gear. It is easy to pack. Wrap a skirt around the goggles so they don't get broken. We picked ours up at local Sporting Goods store - about $30-40 for fins, goggles and snorkel. This way you will always have it and can use even when you are at the beach at home for fun.

tweedy

YOu can get some inexpensive snorkle gear for the kids, I've even seen it at the local Rite-Aid, you won't have to spend more than $20 for the kids. For adults, I would agree to get your stuff before you go and take it with you, then you know you have equipment that fits correctly. (learned that the hard <BR>way) <BR> <BR>There are a couple of good dive/snorkle trips you can take off Nassau like the trip to Rose Island. It is a small island off the coast and it's about $35pp (not sure of the cost for kids) and it includes all your food and drinks for the half day session. <BR> <BR>You can have the Atlantis make a reservation for you. <BR> <BR>Also there is a swim with dolphins trip that is wonderful and something the kids will remember always. I think it is called Dolphin Encounters or Dolphin Experience, (again Atlantis would know) If you want to do the Dolphin swim, book it before you go since it books up quickly. <BR> <BR>There is a Pirate Museum downtown Nassau that is fun and the Forts. Also there is a wonderful Zoo that the kids will love, bring lots of quarters to feed the ducks, geese and peacocks. <BR> <BR>Have a great time and if you need any more info on the Bahamas, please let me know. <BR> <BR>tweedy