Many people tend to associate the ocean with being calm and serene. However, for those who suffer from thalassophobia, the opposite is true. While aquaphobia is the fear of water as a whole, thalassophobia is specifically the fear of large bodies of open water, like an ocean or inland sea.

The vastness of the open water can be incredibly daunting, and the thought of puttering around in it in a boat is petrifying. Snorkeling with just a pair of flippers and a mask is unthinkable. There are ways to overcome this fear, however. With some effort and maybe a little bit of courage, you can learn to love snorkeling, even if you're terrified of open water.

If you have an upcoming tropical vacation planned and want to join your family and friends on one of the many snorkel fish tours available, there are a few steps you can take to prepare yourself for the adventure.

1. Start Small

Remember that adaptability is key to learning how to love snorkeling. If the thought of getting into open water is too much for you, try starting in a swimming pool instead. This will allow you to get used to the sensation of wearing a snorkel mask and having your face submerged in water without the added stressors of waves, currents, and the vastness of it all. Once you feel comfortable snorkeling in a pool, you can move on to more challenging waters.

2. Try Private Lessons

If you're really serious about taking one of the snorkel fish tours on your next vacation, consider taking some private lessons from a certified instructor. They'll be able to tailor the lessons specifically to your needs and help you work through your fears at your own pace. Private lessons are often more expensive than group lessons, but they're definitely worth it if you're serious about conquering your thalassophobia.

3. Go on a guided tour.

When you are ready, one of the best ways to ease your fears about open water is by going on a fish snorkel adventure with an experienced guide. Not only will they be able to teach you about the proper way to snorkel, but they'll also be there to help you if you start to feel panicked or unsafe. Guided tours are especially helpful for those who are new to snorkeling or who have never been in open water before, regardless of their fear level.

There's no need to let your fear of open water stop you from enjoying the beauty of the underwater world. With a little bit of effort, anyone can learn to love snorkeling. Baby steps are key. Before long, you'll be enjoying your snorkeling fish tour.

To learn more, contact a fish snorkeling tour service such as Adventure Mermaid.