Is Snorkeling Good When It Is Cloudy?

by Anonymous

Is snorkeling good when it is cloudy? We are headed to St. John, USVI shortly for a once in a lifetime trip. The weather forecast looks awful with no sun for 8 of the 10 days we are going.

Is snorkeling still good without sun? The whole point of this trip was to show my children the most beautiful place I know and now I don't know if it will be worth it to go.

Comments for Is Snorkeling Good When It Is Cloudy?

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Nov 12, 2015
 It Depends
by: Nicole & Galen

Hello, very good question. And the answer is, it depends.

If it is lightly overcast and not too stormy, snorkeling can be very good. But if it is heavily overcast and dark out, it does decrease our enjoyment of snorkeling. The colors are more muted and you cannot see as far.

But if it is a good snorkeling spot you can enjoy it on a cloudy day if there is a lot to see. We would not cancel a trip because of forecast clouds, unless the forecast also calls for high winds and rain for the entire trip.

It is advisable to look at weather websites to plan your snorkeling outings for the best conditions.
Nov 12, 2015
 Still Good
by: Adam Thompson

In my experience, you see just as much cool stuff when it's cloudy, it's just that the colors won't be as vibrant. I certainly wouldn't cancel a trip due to cloudy weather.
Nov 12, 2015
 Sometimes Even Better
by: John

When it's overcast but windless, we find it easier to spot the Manta Ray "wings" breaking the surface which improves our chances of swimming with them. Also, although the colors are not as vivid, the lack of shadows oftentimes results in fish, eels, etc. remaining in the open longer. Good luck!

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