Hi all, I have a question about the equipment they provide. I thought I read somewhere that you get the mask & fins and can keep them in your cabin for the duration of the cruise, is that correct? If not, I might buy my own and bring it with?

They provide you with mask, fins, and float vest that are in a mesh bag with your suite number attached that you keep in your room for the week. The times the sports marina are open to go down and pick up gear are published in the daily newspaper. If you board early, you can go down the first day. If not, you can go down the second day. The sports staff fit you personally with equipment that fits. If you need a wetsuit they also have those available. I have found the equipment to be some of the better equipment for loan or rent that I have had. I wouldn't waste the money buying your own.

Just returned from 3 weeks on PG - Susan has described the equipment process and availability dead on. However, a properly fitted mask mekes the difference between awful and wonderful snorkeling. While a mask with good fit may be available on PG, you might consider going to a good dive shop for a mask for this as well as future snorkeling adventures.

Ted

Let me just add that if you wear glasses and have a relatively strong prescription, they can incorporate the correction in the mask. It can also make a tremendous difference.

----------

Eugene

I happily use the ship's masks, George brings his prescription one. By all means use their fins which are not as easy to pack.

To add to that, I'd snorkled many times before we went on the PG but the day we were at the Motu they had snorkel lessons, and we decided to take them. I learned some new things that really made a difference in the quality of my snorkel experience. Very worthwhile.

Thank you kindly, everyone! This is great info.

There is nothing worse than a bad mask or better than a good fit..... I suggest you buying your own mask a good one costs about $75 I also suggest getting a pair of wet suit gloves to avoid coral cuts and stings. And if you are really into it a wet-suit 1/8" T shirt protects you ftom sun-burn and gives added flotation... and is better than a vest to swim in...... cost is about $50 at your local dive shop. I base this on 20 years of south Pacific snorkeling and diving. Considering the costs and distances you travel to get there an investment in this area will take a good experience to a great experience......