Barbados affords some really pleasurable snorkelling – whether on your own off the beach, on a catamaran cruise, or from a dive boat. The reefs may not be as pristine as some in the Caribbean, but you’re still guaranteed the occasional intriguingly shaped coral and sponge, and a cornucopia of marine life – from dazzling parrotfish, lionfish and sergeant majors to eels, rays, starfish, seahorses and, of course, turtles.

The best snorkelling spots include the coral-covered wrecks in Carlisle Bay and the reefs and wrecks in Folkestone Marine Reserve, where some of the reef is cordoned off, and you’re less likely to encounter a jet ski. West Coast beaches with accessible reefs with plenty of marine life include Batt’s Rock and Alleynes Beach.