Just Ordered Snorkel Gear!

I know it's dorky, but I wanted to share that my BF and I just ordered snorkel gear for an amazing deal off Amazon! I am SO excited to go practice this weekend (got 2 day shipping) as my folks live on a lake.

Besides at Xtabi, where we're staying, where else is a great place to snorkel? Is it worth it to pay someone to take us out to the little island I've read about if we can swing it?

PS, on a slightly unrelated note, my BF and I keep talking via text and Facebook and she thanked me for "cruise directing the ****" out of the trip - thought that was pretty funny!

TIA!

i usually take Captain Moses boat out to Bobby Cay or the other reef out in front of Seven Mile beach, he charges about $25.00 for an hour, soon come

nice place to practice in even just off the beach just go out and swim around in the morning before people are moving about, plenty
little fish.......this was out in about 5 feet of water in front of Errols early in am

You'll find snorkling in salt water different than the fresh water lakes, but you'll catch on pretty quick, floating much easier!
It is worth it to get out on a boat, most will take you out to the reef around the cannon and anchor. I'm not sure they weren't just planted there, but it's fun anyway and a good way to meet other folks too. Also, you can get a cheap underwater camera and maybe click some memories.

Thanks all! I got a waterproof camera cover/sheath that you can just stick your camera in from Amazon as well - we'll see if it lives up to the stellar reviews! I have a small point and shoot and that's the only camera I'm bringing - I'm leaving my SLR at home for this short trip.

Half Moon Bay is just a short taxi ride north and has great snorkeling. i saw an eel and watched crabs menacing sea urchins, they can move faster than you might think.
it was a great place to hang out for half a day or more, bar/restaurant and facilities available.
i've heard that Rhodes Hall Plantation has a nice reef and free pickup and drop off for $15 day pass, i plan to visit there next time.

there is a beautiful vast area for you to discover just off Xtabi. A perfect spot. U probably won't feel a need to look anywhere else for your first trip. Will be so nice and easy since you are staying at Xtabi...

If you have the time, I would suggest calling Famous Vincent and having him pick you up and head out to the reef. He charges $25 a person and actually goes out snorkelling with you and guides you through the reef pointing out everything that comes along.
It's also a nice way of getting a tour of the cliffs from the waterside.
We have used him every time we go.
Next trip we plan on heading out to Rhodes Hall for a daytrip though, heard the snorkelling was fantastic there!

i have good things about Rhodes Hall for snorkeling, i will try it this february, soon come

Without question Rhodes Hall is the best in the area. A cool place to visit. Call them for pickup or hop in a taxi. Snorkel or just relax. No vendors no hassles good underwater map available.

I looked it up and it does seem like it'd be a cool half day trip - especially for $15 with pickup/drop-off! Thanks for the great tip!

Im excited for you... we want a trip report... the easiest way to report is to take notes when u go back in the room cuz its soo much fun it tends to melt together.. again wish i could make it in sept. =( have fun for me tho ok? =)

We went to Rhodes Hall my first trip Feb 2012. Were just there for 3 hours for their all you can eat/drink pizza lunch but spent a good part of the time snorkeling. We didn't realize though that the reef is maybe a km or so off the beach, just sort of snorkeled aimlessly without going in a particular direction. I've since read about the reef, and that if you're not up for swimming to it, you can pay to have a boat take you out. It's nice and natural there, quiet. Peacocks wandering around. Also a historic property with little tours available (additional cost). It's only about a 15 minute ride from Negril beach. I'm not sure that I'd take the time necessary (to take full advantage) with it being your first time to Negril and it only being 4 nights. Especially being you'll be at Xtabi with great snorkeling on your doorstep and so much else to take in, cliffs & long bay. I would recommend going out with Vincent for a couple of hours, as Rina says, a cheap, good excursion, offering a great view from the sea along the way.