Please Register / Login to take part in discussions about the Virgin Islands.
Hi,
I'm trying to decide between a shortie and a full wetsuit (3/22mm) for our trip to St. John mid-Nov. I'll be doing a lot of snorkeling in the daytime and maybe a couple night snorkels. Am conflicted; I get cold easily, but maybe the full version is overkill. Any opinions welcomed! Thanks!
A shortie would probably do you just fine. If it turns out you need something more you can always rent something from a local shop, but I can't imagine you'll need to. The water is quite warm even in November...
Dave
Hi,
A shortie should be perfect. I am an avid snorkeler (in the water by 6am and then until evening) and at approx. 82 degrees your core temp is bound to drop if you are in the water any length of time. Without it, after an hour, I am hugging my torso trying to warm up as I also get cold easily. I went on a night snorkel last trip with Sadie Sea Charters and just used a rash shirt. This was my first full dark night snorkel and while a bit chilly, I think the adrenaline helped in keeping me comfortable. I was lucky enough to have a spotted ray rush by me where I felt the water surge of his escape from our high beam lights. We saw lots of lobsters and puffers and the most incredible night sky - lit with more stars than I have ever seen - the silence, the stars; it was surreal. I will be back in December and will be bringing my shortie. I always wear it for long snorkels then hang it to dry and just bare-suit it for shorter trips into the water around where we settle our stuff on the beach for the day. Each trip to St. John, I will hike to various locations for a new experience. Using guide books is a great way to get the most out of your experience. I purchased mine from this site many years ago and they have been invaluable in helping me get the best experience. Without the knowledge they provide, I would have missed some of the most amazing experiences. But, no matter where you end up in the water, even in the shallowest areas, if you just hover, you will see octopus, shrimp, crabs etc, etc.
I will even drape my shivering body after a lengthy snorkel over some of the large outcroppings of lava rock at some beaches to warm up. We visit St. John twice a year and NEVER get tired of its beauty - land and sea. If I ever hit the lottery, this is where I will end my days. Hope you have a FANTASTIC trip!!!!!!
Corinna
