Section 2: Equipment
Required: A pool and swimwear suitable for swimming. For this rulebook, use a shallow, designated part of the pool where every participant can stand comfortably with their mouth and nose above water. The playable space must also meet the conditions in the Playing Area section.
No ball, goals, scoring equipment, or special costume is needed. There are no standardized pool dimensions or swimwear specifications for Marco Polo. Follow the facility’s clothing and pool-use requirements.
- Goggles: Optional. Wearing them does not allow Marco to look during active play.
- Blindfolds: Do not use them in this version. Marco closes their eyes and must be able to open them immediately when play stops.
- Loose equipment: Remove toys, floating obstacles, and loose items from the playing area.
- Personal items: Remove jewelry or accessories that could scratch, snag, or interfere with movement.
A flotation aid does not make an otherwise unsuitable participant or playing area suitable for this eyes-closed game. Choose an activity with eyes open if a player cannot move and regain a stable standing position independently in the selected area.