Hi Della,
It is usually cheaper to take snorkel equipment with you when you go to the Islands, (unless the resort you are staying at provides it as an activity). That way you'll have it if you go somewhere else i.e. Mexico, Hawaii

In my opinion, they’re going to cost about the same if you want it for a week. But for 2 weeks, definitely cheaper to buy than to rent.
Plus, you’ll get a better quality, brand new set.
Plus, you can you it again and again the next time you come back to St John.

But where to buy? Your local store or On-line…Actually the real question should be “How to buy a cheap mask that fits your face?” because the snorkels and the fins usually have no problem.

My suggestion:
1. Go to your local diving store, try the masks, check out the snorkels and fins, remember the brand and model you like.
2. Go to “leisurepro.com” (This is a cheapest), check the price.
3. If the total price from your local stores is not much more expensive, just buy it from your local stores. So, you can support your neighborhood and get a good quality set at the same time.
4. But if leisurepro.com is cheaper by about 50%, which means a lot in total (many people in your group), then… well, you decide by yourself where do you want to buy? 🙂

My own experience:
The mask that I like costs about $80 (before tax) at the local store. I bought the same mask with a fin, a completely dry snorkel, a boot for about $90 (yes, for everything) from the website.

Hope this help.

Colo Boy

If you were only visiting for a day or two and not considering snorkeling anywhere else in your lifetime, it makes sense to rent. However, you are there for 2 weeks and I strongly suggest you bring it with you. Weekly rate is ~ $60 depending on what and where you get it. You can get a very good set for $50-60 on the mainland. You save $60, don't have to worry about dental hygiene of the previous user, don't worry about losing anything and don't have to meet their hours for collecting or returning gear.

Take the time to get a good fitting mask (test is the mask should remain on your face when breathing in through your nose) and get fins fitted for your feet (not the strap version). If you're like us, you'll spend 75% of the time in the water and easily make the expense worth the effort.

Thanks for all your help. It sounds like we should go "snorkle" shopping this weekend. I do have another question, can you wear contacts or glasses when you are snorkeling?

Della: You can wear contacts or you can buy a prescription mask. If you are only a "little" nearsighted, the natural magnification of the water may take care of the problem. If you buy a mask at home, you might want to try it in a pool, so you know how to put it on, how to float and breathe. Snorkeling is great fun!

Della, I have a prescription mask, but if you only want to use it for a couple of weeks, don't spend on that. Definitely get a mask at home where you can try it on rather than renting one that might or might not fit. You'll be much happier if it fits.