Santa Marta Seawalker Review: Is the Underwater Walk Worth It?

If you’re thinking of doing something unique in Santa Marta, Colombia, then perhaps the Seawalker underwater walk may just catch your eye. So, it’s almost like stepping into another world, you know? Instead of simply looking at marine life from the surface while snorkeling or struggling with scuba gear, this activity promises a way to literally walk on the seabed, surrounded by it all. That said, how well does it deliver? And really, is this something that lives up to the hype? I’m going to talk about my own take on the Santa Marta Seawalker excursion, looking closely at what you can expect, and also the things you ought to think about before deciding if it’s a good fit for your travel plans.

What Exactly Is Seawalker?

Seawalker, it’s a bit like this fascinating activity that lets you experience the underwater habitat without any need to be a seasoned diver. So, that’s pretty cool, isn’t it? Using a specifically designed helmet, fed with air from the surface, you’re able to stroll along the ocean floor, much like you would if you were walking in a park – only there are colorful fish and coral right next to you. That said, really, it’s suitable for many people, as you don’t have to be an athlete, or have certifications, just, like, a yearning for something totally unique.

The thing is, in Santa Marta, a good amount of local operators offer this experience, typically, from beaches around El Rodadero or Taganga. Usually, excursions take a few hours, and they include brief instructions, time underwater, and transport back to shore. I mean, what they all say is, to think of being able to feed fish by hand and grab photos of sea life without struggling, right?

My Own Experience with Seawalker in Santa Marta

As a matter of fact, I made a decision to try the Seawalker excursion while staying in El Rodadero, mostly since I was searching for a fun thing to do away from the beach, you know? The booking was easy enough – a lot of kiosks and local travel offices offer it, so it’s almost too hard to miss. Typically, I went with a mid-range priced choice, aiming for a balance between cost and promised quality.

That said, the day started off with a safety briefing which, to be honest, was a bit rushed but covered all the essentials. The guides walked us through the signals we’d use underwater, how the helmets worked, plus ways to deal with any, maybe, ear pressure. Now, it’s worth knowing that these helmets, they’re heavier than you might picture. Even so, they do float quite nicely underwater. Very quickly after that, all of us headed out to the site, it’s about a 10-minute boat trip from the shore.

When I went down the ladder into the water, then having the helmet placed on, now that felt really unusual, I should say. The thing is, suddenly being able to breathe normally underwater is something you need to experience, because describing that doesn’t do that moment justice. Slowly, you make your way to the bottom and then, what do you know? – you’re just strolling around. The sensation of walking on the ocean floor, surrounded by sea creatures, feels rather like a scene straight out of a movie.

As a matter of fact, there were many schools of colorful fish around us, just as the adverts said. Also, the guides had food pellets and that attracted even more marine life; which led to fantastic chances to get photos and feel so close to nature. Sadly, though, the visibility wasn’t top-notch on the day I went. Because of that, the pictures I hoped for ended up being a little grainy. However, this wasn’t enough to spoil my experience.

I mean, the excursion lasted around thirty minutes underwater, it felt adequate enough to appreciate what was on offer without it feeling rushed. Heading back up, taking off the helmet, that’s a bit like returning to planet Earth – the memory stays with you.

The Good and the Bad: Summing It All Up

Like all tourist things to do, that Santa Marta Seawalker tour, it does have its positives along with the challenges. The following are a handful of thoughts to help with your assessment:

• Pros:
  • It is accessible to practically anyone, even those who can’t swim confidently or who don’t want the complexities of diving equipment.
  • The sensation is actually unusual and memorable. Walking on the ocean floor and also getting so near to marine life that’s really very amazing.
  • The experience allows a different point of view from simply snorkeling or seeing it from a boat.
• Cons:
  • Because visibility is something that varies depending on the weather conditions and season, and also poor conditions might diminish the joy.
  • It might seem a bit expensive for the amount of time spent underwater, mostly when you’re taking the overall trip budget under consideration.
  • Environmental impact can be something to consider; it’s essential that the operators do adhere to guidelines of preserving the marine environment.

Stuff To Know Before You Go

To get the most out of your Santa Marta Seawalker, then think about these things: So, check the climate predictions before you decide to book; this may have a large effect on underwater visibility. Then, verify that the tour company uses proper safety gear and has, such as, trained people present. That is, make a comparison on prices among a number of providers, although always aim for trustworthiness rather than going for the lowest price you find. Don’t forget to have waterproof sunscreen and also possibly a water resistant camera to snap photos (ask the operator regarding photos, because some give these as part of the cost).

Is Santa Marta Seawalker Worth the Cash?

Honestly, in the event you like special encounters, plus getting face-to-face marine life seems enjoyable, well then yeah, I’d say so. Really, the underwater walk isn’t that budget-friendly but that feeling and also the unique images do ensure it is money well spent for most people. The thing is, if cash is tight, or very bad weather looms, possibly consider alternate activities like boat tours of Parque Tayrona; which give wonderful sights and without requiring getting wet. That said, you probably understand what’s suitable for you!

All in all, really, my personal encounter with Santa Marta Seawalker has been both fascinating and even remarkable. Though visibility was so-so and it is a touristy kind of adventure, it surely gave a new viewpoint on exactly how to admire and appreciate the underwater environment. So, if you go to Santa Marta; and need a short escape from common traveler things; possibly taking a stroll underneath the sea might be exactly what’s needed!

FAQs About Santa Marta Seawalker

Is it safe?

Yep, as long as the operator puts safety first and delivers full instruction. Really, the helmets are made to make breathing simple and the trip, commonly, occurs in shallow spots. Anyhow, follow your guide’s advice and reveal any worries immediately.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Not really. The Seawalker is carried out on the ocean bottom, plus you’re linked to an air-filled helmet; therefore no real swimming knowledge becomes necessary.

What do I wear?

Simply your swimwear. That is, all the gear is given. Take a towel along, too it’s almost.

Could it be ideal for children?

Many Seawalker excursions have age restrictions; so it is normally suitable for children older than 8 – talk to the specific company for their rules before you go.

Can I use my glasses or contact lenses?

Normally, you are able to keep using contact lenses, although it’s advisable to see with the tour leader. It is usually difficult to use glasses along with the helmet. Really, think about daily disposable lenses as being the simplest alternative.

Key Takeaways:

• Seawalker is a novel way to encounter the underwater environment without any scuba experience.
• It’s typically appropriate for individuals over eight years of age, even those who cannot swim well.
• Make sure the tour operator is reliable; and puts secureness first to obtain a rewarding adventure.