When swimming or snorkeling near a reef, it’s essential to practice care and respect for the environment. Only use a swim-through if you can pass through without making contact with anything. Always maintain a safe distance from the reef to avoid touching or damaging it, and never break or disturb corals. Be sure to use designated entrances and exits when entering or leaving the water, and try not to stir up sand, as this can cloud the water and suffocate corals.

It’s important not to hunt, harass, or feed marine animals, and unless you’re properly trained, avoid touching them. Refrain from taking any souvenirs from the sea and ensure that if you use a reef hook, it’s placed in a way that won’t damage the reef or disturb its delicate ecosystem. Lastly, when taking photos, never disrupt animals or their habitat for the sake of a better shot. Respecting these guidelines helps preserve marine life and the natural beauty of the ocean.

Make a personal commitment to protect the environment and actively encourage others to do the same through positive actions and motivation. Support meaningful projects and organizations that focus on marine conservation. If you can, collect garbage during your dives, but only if it won’t cause further harm to the environment. When possible, cut away hanging ropes and gather floating nets or plastics. If you’re unable to remove a net, inform your dive buddy or the crew at the surface immediately. Avoid consuming products such as shark fins, whale meat, or turtle eggs, and promptly report any violations involving the use of marine animals as souvenirs. Your efforts can make a significant impact on marine protection.