I was wondering if anyone here can help me out with information concerning the general snorkeling conditions around AC in May. Also, are any snorkeling trip providers more highly recommended than others. I have my own equipment, so rental isn't an issue, just the quality of the boat/motor and snorkeling sites visited.

The only problem I've witness in May, is the "pica pica" problem. Seasafe seems to work for some - I used it but wimped out and got out of the boat after Tulu was stung on the neck.

OK, help me out here please. Since I don't even qualify as a "newbie" since I've yet to set foot on AC for the first time, what is "pica pica" and also, what is Seasafe? Sorry for all the mundane questions.

Pica pica is "itchy itchy", and can be a real pain, from what I've read. Seasafe is a lotion that can protect from it.

Mike,
You can buy Seasafe at dive shops. Remember to put it on your whole body especially UNDER your bathingsuit since the little buggers like to "hide" underneath the suit. Do a topic search on pica pica and you can read lots of experienced posters thoughts on the subject.

So is Pica pica around in April? Pan & Dave - do you mean the dive shops on Ambergris, or do you think we could find it in our local dive shops? We live on West Coast of Canada. Thanks

i have been going down to AC all my life in july and have never gotten "pica pica" (knocking on wood).

We've gotten it in March. It doesn't seem to affect everyone; three out of six of us got it. Two of the people who didn't get it used oil to tan, so I think it's a barrier thing. It's a very itchy and unpleasant-looking rash, and it's agony if you're sunburned. The "sting" itself isn't bad, a little stronger than no-see-ums, if you know those.

If one gets stung by them, is there a preferred treatment?

//ambergriscaye.com/pages/town/picapica.html