Snorkeling at Coco Cay

[Larry in Miami]

I have searched around on here and read about the snorkeling on Coco Cay. I just want to make sure nothing has changed since some of these posts are kind of old.

Is there any advantage to booking an excursion for snorkeling or is there enough to see doing it on your own?

I heard there is a cove with a sunken airplane and a fake shipwreck. Where is this? Can I get to it from shore?

I'm looking for some good photo ops.

[spoheat]

I don't know of any advantage to booking this with the ship--I did my first time, but it was my first time snorkeling and I wanted a guide and instruction. Otherwise it is all very accessable from shore and self explanatory. Also later in the day my husband went with another guy when most people were back on the ship and without dozens of flippers flapping saw more. Take note: This island is owned by RCCL and even if you have your own gear they will require you to rent their life vest and seek you out if you do not.

[Dave]

The excursion is really just an all-day equipment rental and briefing/instruction session. Everyone snorkels at their leisure. But note that everyone is required to have a vest on, even those using their own equipment. They will chase you out of the water if you snorkel without one. You can rent a vest. I forget the price.

[Larry in Miami]

Thanks. I would wear the vest anyway, it makes picture taking a lot easier it you don't have to worry about staying afloat on your own.