One of my favorite experiences is located at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park, called Shark Reef. It allows guests to snorkel with live tropical fish, and even sharks! The Shark Reef is located in the back right corner of the water park and upon arriving you will be given a mask, snorkel and life jacket (optional). You will then wait in a short line, waiting to be briefed with safety information. The cast members will show you how to use your mask and snorkel, as well as give a few facts about the tank you will be snorkeling in.
Some of the most important facts to note about swimming in the Shark Reef is that you are not allowed to kick your feet when swimming to prevent harm to the fish. Make sure that you are very comfortable with floating and using just your arms to swim before you begin. I prefer to use a life jacket just because it is so easy to relax and float around.
Also note that the water is very cold in comparison to the rest of water at the park, and it is also salt water.
There are lifeguards on duty, but please make sure that your children or anyone else, is very confident with swimming, breathing through the snorkel and with seeing live animals underwater. I have frequently seen kids start screaming underwater when they see the sharks, so make sure they are prepared. It is an amazing thing to see, if you know what to expect.
My number one tip for visiting the Shark Reef is to take your time! Many people feel they have to just paddle right through the tank and miss a lot of opportunities to interact with the fish. You do need to keep swimming somewhat in a forward direction, but you can stop and look at fish and explore a little. Look around you while you are swimming and follow the fish, because sometimes they are all in a huge group on one side, and you don't want to miss that!
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