If you’ve never snorkeled before you might be wondering what equipment you need to get started. The most important pieces of equipment are obviously the snorkel and mask, but can you get away with not using fins?

Technically, you can snorkel without fins. However, many snorkelers find fins to be a valuable tool to help them swim farther and faster, which improves their overall snorkeling experience. Furthermore, snorkel fins can also help you stay afloat and swim out of riptides. So even though you don’t need fins to snorkel, we still recommend it. In this guide we’ll cover the arguments for and against using snorkel fins to give you an idea of what it’s like to snorkel without fins.

Benefits of Snorkel Fins

If you decide not to wear snorkel fins, you will be missing out on many benefits. With fins, you can:

• Swim faster. The extra surface area provided by the fin blade means that each thrust you perform will send you farther and faster than kicking your feet without fins. This is useful for covering larger distances so that you can see more. If you are ever caught by a riptide, swim perpendicular to the waves so that you can escape the currents faster with fins on.

• Keep your feet warm. Especially if you wear an open heel fin, you will most likely be wearing neoprene socks or dive booties to protect your skin from chafing. This also provides extra insulation and will keep your feet warm in cold water. In the case of closed heel fins, you can wear them barefoot and the fin itself can provide some warmth.

• Dive underwater. Ever notice a scuba diver go underwater without wearing any fins? (Hint: no). That’s because with fins, the extra power you get from each thrust can propel yourself downwards more easily. And if you’re an experienced snorkeler, you can also dive down to get a closer look at the underwater sights. Of course, you won’t get as deep as a scuba diver, but the option is there.

• Increase buoyancy. This might sound like a contradiction of the point above, but fins help you stay afloat. The material that fins are made of have small amounts of gas trapped in its fibres. This gas makes the fins slightly buoyant, allowing your feet to stay afloat with little effort. The same is true for wetsuits; many snorkelers find that even without wearing a personal flotation device they can float more easily in a wetsuit. And when you decide to dive underwater, the extra power you get per kick far exceeds the amount of buoyancy pushing against you.

Disadvantages

It seems like having fins provides a lot of great advantages, but are there any downsides? Here are some reasons why you might want to snorkel without fins.

• Cost. You shouldn’t just buy a snorkeling fin by itself. It is highly recommended that you also buy a pair of neoprene socks or dive booties to complement the fins. Socks or booties can protect your feet from rubbing against the fin each time you kick. Thus, you have to buy at least two things which increases the cost. Granted, these items aren’t particularly expensive, but if you don’t plan to snorkel much, then it becomes difficult to justify spending over $50 for the combo. You can consider renting fins instead if you only plan to snorkel once or twice (more on this below).

• They take up bag space. When traveling, your bags have limited space and bringing another piece of snorkeling gear may be difficult. Especially if you own a pair of long fins, those can be around two feet in length. There are much shorter travel fins which can help those who want to save bag space. These smaller fins don’t provide as much thrust per kick, but that’s the tradeoff for saving space.

• Easy to damage coral. The coral reefs have suffered serious damage due to snorkelers accidentally kicking coral with their fins and breaking off branches. This is especially easy to do if you wear long fins. Even just kicking up sediment and covering the coral can harm them because it blocks the sunlight. Of course, this can be avoided if you’re careful, but accidents are much more likely to occur with long or wide snorkel fins.

• Difficult to walk around in. Walking with fins is incredibly awkward and even a little dangerous. It’s really easy to trip over the fin and hurt yourself. When worn, it is recommended that you walk backwards to reduce your chances of tripping over the fin blade. Some people find this cumbersome, so they put their fins on in the water (yet another cumbersome all its own). Either way, it can be awkward and annoying for beginners to go through this, and some might prefer not to bother with them at all.

When Should You Wear Snorkel Fins?

If you plan on going on more snorkeling trips in the future, you should consider owning your gear instead of renting it. Especially if you want to snorkel longer and swim farther, wearing fins will help you do that. If you are not a strong swimmer, you are only making it difficult for yourself by limiting how far you can travel in the water. Furthermore, you’ll just get tired faster and cut the snorkeling session short.

In addition, we always recommend beginners start out in calmer waters by the shore instead of out in the boat. That way when you get tired, reaching dry land is only a couple of minutes away. However, sometimes strong currents known as riptides can pull you far into the sea unexpectedly. These currents are hard to swim against, and will easily tire out a beginner. With fins, you may be able to swim out of it, or at least stay afloat long enough until the waves die down.

Next up, fins can help you freedive if you want to see marine life up close. After all, fins can do more than help you swim faster horizontally, but vertically as well. That way, you can reach the bottom and resurface faster, which maximizes your breath and conserves energy.

Lastly, if you are snorkeling with others, and they are all wearing fins except you, then expect to be left behind. Furthermore, it’s not fun to be the first one out of the water when everybody is still enjoying their snorkeling session thanks to their fins.

When Can You Ditch the Fins?

If you are snorkeling once just to cross it off your bucket list, then we can understand not wanting to invest so much into a one-time trip. You can either rent a pair of fins or do some very light snorkeling close to the shore. That way, you can still stay safe without needing to own a pair of fins.

We recommend snorkeling in warmer, tropical climates with little to no currents for the most stress-free and enjoyable experience. If you’re not sure where to get started, we recommend checking out this site on tropical snorkeling spots to get an idea of where you could start. Many places have beautiful beaches where you can start snorkeling right off the bat, with only a snorkel and mask.

Just be sure that wherever you decide to go that the conditions are safe. That means the marine life is relatively safe, the water is warm, the currents are calm, and there are other people around that can provide help in case of an emergency.

Buying vs. Renting Fins

We’ve briefly touched on this topic throughout this article, but there some additional things to keep in mind. Obviously renting is going to be cheaper than buying. But if you end up renting four or five times then the renting cost will eventually exceed the price of buying a fin. But that’s not the only issue.

When you are looking to buy a fin, you have so many options available. You have the time to carefully research the exact type of fin you want – open heel or closed heel, short fin or long fin. You can find one that looks the way you want, and is the exact size that you want. Also, since it’s your fin, you know that you’ll take good care of it and that it is hygienic. A well fitting snorkel fin will fit snug, be comfortable to wear for long periods, and will improve your snorkeling session.

On the other hand, when it comes to renting, it’s like opening up pandora’s box. You don’t know what kind of selection they have. Whether they have the right size, or if it’s comfortable, or even if it’s been properly cleaned! Who knows how many people with questionable hygiene have worn the exact fin you’re renting?

With that said, if you are renting fins, then at least you don’t have to worry about bag space when traveling. Also, if this is the only time you’re going to be snorkeling, then you will definitely save money.

Essential Snorkeling Gear (No Fins Required!)

Most people commonly think that the essential pieces of snorkeling gear are the mask, snorkel, and fins. As you’ll soon find out that’s not true at all. Since we’re talking technicalities here, you don’t need a pair of fins to snorkel, just the mask, snorkel, and sunscreen.

Mask

If you want to see underwater and protect your eyes, then of course you need a snorkel mask. It is crucial that you find one that fits snug on your face. Unless you want to drain the water from your mask every few minutes, ensuring the silicone skirt on the mask seals tightly against your face is one of the most important things you should do to ensure your snorkeling trip is enjoyable. If you have a beard, then it can be harder to get a tight seal.

It’s very simple to test the integrity of your mask. Once you’ve purchased one, put it on your face with the strap off, and hold it against your face with your fingers. Now inhale through your nose and stop supporting the mask with your hands. If the mask fits well, the suction of air from your nose should keep it in place. Now put the strap on your head and it should feel the same with very light strap pressure.Try using the snorkel with the mask, and see how well they fit together.

The next test you can do is to fill your bathtub with water and submerge your face with the mask and snorkel on. You can do this in a swimming pool for a slightly more authentic experience. You want to make sure your mask doesn’t leak and that you know how to breath with the snorkel.

One of the biggest problems with snorkel masks other than leaking is dealing with fogging. A foggy mask will detract from your enjoyment by impairing your vision. There are some defogging treatments you can do to prevent this from happening. First, clean the lens with toothpaste and a toothbrush. Do not touch the lens with your fingers, as the oils on your fingertips can transfer. If you have a mask with plastic lenses, use dish soap and a washcloth instead to avoid scratching it.

Next, each time before you snorkel, spray the inside of the lens with some anti-fog treatment. Make sure the entire surface has been coated, and resist the urge to touch it with your fingers. Then rinse the mask quickly with salt water or freshwater. Shake off the excess water droplets and put it on your face.

If none of these solutions work and you find yourself out in the water dealing with fog, then the last ditch attempt is to spit on the mask lens. Again, don’t spread the spit with your fingers. Just shake it around until it coats the lens and then rinse with saltwater. If that doesn’t work, then perhaps next time you need to do heat treatment on your mask lens as demonstrated in the video below:

Snorkel

And of course, how could you possibly snorkel without the snorkel? A good snorkel is crucial for an enjoyable snorkeling experience. Personally, we recommend getting a dry snorkel or a snorkel with a splash guard. If you are a beginner, you may accidentally submerge your head too far so that the snorkel is underwater too. Many beginners then end up choking on a mouthful of saltwater, and this may actually end up being a dangerous situation if they start to panic.

To reduce the chances of this, use a dry snorkel. Dry snorkels have a special valve on top that will shut when the snorkel is completely submerged. Sometimes water can enter the snorkel regardless because of a wave or when turning the head sideways. That is why dry snorkels have a special purge valve that will clear out the water out of the tube so you can continue to breathe fresh air, and not choke on water.

Sunscreen

Snorkelers spend a large portion of their time with their back exposed to the sun. As such, they should apply sunscreen with 50+ SPF protection to avoid getting sunburnt. If you are willing to buy some additional snorkel gear, you can consider wearing a rashguard or snorkel vest. These will provide additional coverage so that you have less skin exposed, lowering the amount of sunscreen needed.

How to Snorkel Without Fins

Now that you have your snorkel and mask sorted, it’s time to put them to the test. Here are some tips to help you get started with snorkeling.

Practice in a Safe Environment

Especially if you plan on snorkeling without fins, you can’t be as adventurous as you could otherwise be. Practice putting on your gear and using them. We recommend doing this in a swimming pool or shallow beach so that you can experience what it’s like to breathe underwater.

It can be hard to convince yourself to take a deep breath while underwater. You need to get used to it and feel relaxed. Train your brain that it’s okay to breathe underwater (with a snorkel in your mouth of course). You also need to practice staying afloat and to increase your endurance so that you can actually snorkel for a decent length of time. Be wary of your mask leaking. Wearing it too tight is a common reason, or perhaps facial hair is getting in the way.

Practice kicking around, training your leg muscles to help you move around without fins. If you are not confident in your swimming skills, we recommend wearing a snorkel flotation device. Something like a snorkel vest or even an inflatable noodle is better than nothing. Don’t worry about looking like a weirdo; safety should be your number one priority.

Don’t Panic

Don’t panic and stay calm in the water. Having jittery nerves can cause you to exhaust yourself and make bad decisions. Swimming is a very active sport that consumes plenty of energy. If you’re not pacing yourself, you can use up your stamina in a matter of minutes. Stay calm and swim slowly at a pace that you can breathe slowly using the snorkel.

Keep in mind that a snorkel does make it harder to breathe, so keep your snorkeling session going at a leisurely pace to decrease the amount of breathing required. Unfortunately, not having fins makes this difficult. That is why it’s important you know how to stay afloat with minimal effort to conserve energy. Wearing a flotation device can help with that.

Snorkel in a Calm Spot

Without any fins, you are limited to snorkeling only when it’s calm. Even for experienced swimmers, strong currents can easily pull you out into the sea, even if you’re in shallow waters. To avoid this, we recommend going in the mornings when things are relatively calm. If there are waves, even basic things like entering and exiting the water can be difficult. Snorkel on a beach that has a lifeguard, or go with an experienced snorkeler who can look out for you.

Conclusion – Can You Snorkel Without Fins?

Do you need fins to snorkel? Technically no, but we really think they are beneficial. If cost is an issue, you should consider renting one instead of buying. When you snorkel without fins, you are at risk of exhausting yourself faster or being swept away by currents. That is why we recommend snorkeling in calm waters.

All that you really need to snorkel are the mask and snorkel. Make sure that your mask doesn’t leak or fog up. Make sure that you use a dry snorkel to prevent water from flooding in. One of the most important things about snorkeling is to stay calm. Panic can cause you to expend too much energy and put you at risk of drowning. Furthermore, you should probably practice in a swimming pool if you’re not confident in your swimming skills or how to use the snorkeling equipment.

Most people have a better experience wearing fins while snorkeling, but if you are absolutely against it for some reason, you don’t have to wear them.

So you’re just getting started with snorkeling and you’ve got yourself a mask, snorkel, and a pair of fins. Nice, you got the basics covered. But after jumping enthusiastically in the water and snorkeling for a few minutes, slowly but surely it starts to happen. You notice that you’re starting to get really tired!

You only got brief glimpses of the underwater flora and fauna before your snorkeling session was cut short due to fatigue. If only you could just stay afloat for as long as you want! And with the help of snorkel flotation devices, you can.

What are Snorkel Flotation Devices?

Snorkel flotation devices are a type of buoyancy aid or personal flotation device (PFD) that can help you conserve energy and stay afloat. Beginner snorkelers should wear them to help improve their endurance and get accustomed to snorkeling without fear of drowning. Experienced snorkelers can also make good use of a snorkel flotation device to conserve energy and snorkel as long as they want.

Snorkeling buoyancy aids are relatively cheap and can provide peace of mind for non-swimmers and adults who have to supervise children. There are many flotation devices on the market, and the most popular one for snorkeling are snorkel vests. Below, we will cover each one in detail to help you decide which one is right for you.

If you’re new to snorkeling, we also recommend you read this guide.

Types of Snorkel Flotation Devices

Snorkel Vests

The most common snorkel flotation device is none other than the snorkel vest. As the name suggests, it is a vest that you wear while snorkeling and is highly recommended for non-swimmers. It is designed in a way that makes it easy for the wearer to float along the surface of the water with their face looking down. Snorkel vests typically contain no foam and are inflatable (and deflatable to allow for diving).

Thus, the user can decide how buoyant they want their vest to be by controlling how much air is put into the air pouch. Using the air nozzle, users can inflate the vest even while in the water. To improve visibility in the water, snorkel vests are usually very bright in color so that boats or other snorkelers can see it.

It is important to note that while snorkel vests can help you stay afloat, they are not considered life saving flotation devices like life jackets are (more on that below).

There are two types of snorkel vests: the horse collar style and jacket style.

Horse Collar Vest

Horse collar vests fit over the user’s head and are kept in place with numerous straps and buckles. One of the straps goes between the legs and keeps the vest from riding up against the armpits, however some find it uncomfortable around their crotch area. Also, horse collar vests don’t provide much UV protection in the back, which can lead to sunburns if sunscreen is not applied periodically.

Jacket Vest

Jacket style snorkeling vests are worn like a jacket with a zipper up front. They provide more coverage than horse collar vests. They also come in many sizes, which helps people of various heights and weights get a better fit. Furthermore, they usually come with D-rings and pockets to help you carry extra gear with you. Unfortunately, jacket vests tend to be bulkier which can be an issue when traveling.

Life Jackets

A life jacket refers to a personal flotation device that is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to be life saving. They may have a similar appearance to snorkel vests, but they are constructed differently and are intended for different purposes.

The most important distinction between life jackets and other snorkel flotation devices are that life jackets will keep a person’s head above the water in the event that they lose consciousness, keeping them from drowning and earning them the name “life saving” device.

You can try to snorkel in a life vest, however it is not ideal because you will be fighting against the design of the jacket which will keep your head above water. Furthermore, life jackets are very bulky and get in the way of swimming. You can get inflatable or hybrid life jackets to reduce some of the bulk and increase comfort.

Even though it seems like life jackets are not a good choice for snorkeling, if you are part of a guided tour, then you may be provided one to ensure your safety. Additionally, if safety is your number one concern and you do not mind sacrificing some comfort to stay safe in the water, then life jackets are a fantastic choice.

Flotation Belts

Ski belts or flotation belts for snorkeling are essentially buoyant foam pads that are worn around your waist. They assist snorkelers by helping them stay afloat along the surface without limiting their movements. Flotation belts are similar to regular belts but they are secured in place using a clip or a buckle. Some flotation belts can have their buoyancy adjusted by removing some foam blocks. Snorkel vests and flotation belts

Wetsuits and Fins

Full wetsuits, shorties, and neoprene tops can do more than just protect you from sunburn, cold water, and scratches or jellyfish stings. You may not know this, but wetsuits and fins are naturally very buoyant. Short fins and less buoyant than full fins, but they pack more easily. The reason for this buoyancy is due to the gas particles that are trapped between neoprene fibres which are constantly trying to rise above the water.

However, snorkeling wetsuits provide less buoyancy than the other types of snorkel flotation devices covered above, and this effect is most noticeable in wetsuits made entirely with neoprene. If you struggle to stay afloat, don’t rely on a wetsuit to keep you at the surface without some effort on your part. For experienced snorkelers, the buoyancy provided by wetsuits is enough for them to conserve a lot of energy and snorkel for longer.

Inflatable Noodles/Pool Noodles

Next, inflatable noodles or pool noodles can be useful tools to help a new snorkeler improve their skills by increasing their stability. There are a few ways this can happen. First, you can use them to help you catch your breath when you’re tired, or if you need to surface and clean your mask without having to worry about staying afloat. Just keep a pool noodle beneath your armpits to add to your natural buoyancy.

While inflatable noodles seem like a kid’s toy, they are just as useful for adults as for children. They can also be easily passed around between children or family members as needed. With that said, pool noodles should only be used under adult supervision. After all, if it can be easily passed around, then it is possible for it to accidentally slip out from under a child. If you or your children are not strong swimmers, we recommend you use a life jacket, snorkel vest, or flotation belt instead.

Lastly, inflatable noodles are easy to pack into your bags for travel since they do not take up much space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Snorkel Flotation Device Should I Use?

For the most enjoyable snorkeling experience, we recommend wearing a snorkel vest. Snorkel vests can be easily inflated or deflated even while in the water, which gives you the flexibility of diving underwater if you want to. If you get the jacket style vest, it covers a large portion of your back from the sun. Jacket vests also have the most sizing options so it will be the easiest to find one that fits you. The largest snorkel vests can support over 150 pounds. The biggest concern is if a snorkel vest rides up, then it will make it hard to snorkel.

When it comes to staying safe, life jackets provide the most buoyancy and will make you float too high, making it difficult to look underwater. Furthermore, they are very bulky and impede your movement. However, in the case of an emergency, life jackets will give you the highest chances of survival.

Flotation belts and water noodles are capable of keeping you afloat similar to the snorkel vest, however they have some downsides. First, pool noodles are not secured onto your body at all. If a strong wave comes it is very easy for it to be swept away. Inflatable noodles provide the least amount of protection in this regard. Flotation belts are secured onto you, however they do nothing to keep your face above the water if you have an emergency. It is very important to know your limits, and beginners should wear either a life jacket or snorkel vest.

Why Do I Need a PFD?

There are numerous life saving reasons why you should wear a PFD. You might feel like a weirdo wearing one, but at least you’ll be a safe weirdo (and there are some nice looking PFDs you can wear as well). Here are some of the life saving reasons why you should own a PFD:

• You are not confident in your swimming skills.
• You want to keep your children safe.
• You suffer a medical emergency in the water. E.g. Heart attack.
• You experience a muscle cramp.
• You get stung by a jellyfish and experience slight paralysis.
• A strong current sweeps you far out into the sea.
• You accidentally submerge your snorkel underwater and inhale water accidentally, causing you to panic and waste precious energy.
• If your PFD is a bright color, it can make you visible to boats and other snorkelers.

Some of the above reasons may happen unexpectedly, even if you are a strong and experienced snorkeler. That is why we recommend always snorkeling with a partner, and also wearing a snorkel flotation device just in case.

If you follow snorkeling news, sometimes you read about tragic deaths that occur which could have been easily prevented if the victims had some kind of buoyancy aid with them. Don’t let that be you or anybody you know!

What Are Some Additional Benefits of PFDs?

On a more positive note, let’s talk about some of the other benefits that a snorkel PFD can provide. A PFD such as a snorkel vest can help you conserve your energy as you tread water. While wearing one, you can spend hours in the water without needing to return to shore or the boat to rest. This can give you peace of mind and let you snorkel stress-free with no artificial time limit and the knowledge that you have backup in an emergency.

If you are on a boat tour, you can wear your own PFD that you know fits you well and is clean. In addition, some PFDs have great SPF protection and may have some insulating capabilities for cooler waters.

Can I Rely on a PFD If I Don’t Know How to Swim?

If you don’t know how to swim, the only PFD we recommend for non-swimmers are life jackets. They will keep your head above water and keep you alive in emergency situations. The other PFDs mentioned in this article are effective but are not USCG approved life saving devices. Thus, non-swimmers should only wear life jackets if they plan on going into the water. With that said, we highly recommend non-swimmers practice swimming at the pool before attempting to snorkel.

How Comfortable are PFDs?

A well-fitting PFD should be snug and comfortable. Loose fitting ones will ride up against your armpits, causing discomfort and making it difficult to snorkel. Jacket style snorkel vests have the largest selection of sizes to choose from. Horse collar snorkel vests have many straps that secure it in place, including a crotch strap which some find uncomfortable but it keeps the vest from riding up into your armpits.

Life jackets are the bulkiest and will cause you to float too high, which makes it hard to snorkel. Flotation belts can have their buoyancy adjusted, as can both types of snorkel vests. And owning your own PFD will undoubtedly feel more comfortable than wearing somebody else’s or renting one.

Can I Rent a PFD?

If you are snorkeling for the first time or you are unsure if you will be snorkeling again in the future, then you can consider renting a PFD from the local dive shop or hotel. This way, you can get a feel for what it is like to use a PFD and will help you make an informed decision if you decide to purchase one for yourself. With that said, a rented PFD may have holes, leaks, fit poorly, or can be dirty.

If you are interested in learning about flotation devices specifically for women such as buoyancy compensators used in scuba diving, then click here.

If you’ve never snorkeled before, you might be wondering what kind of snorkeling equipment you need to bring. Thankfully, snorkeling is a pretty casual and leisurely hobby that doesn’t require much gear. Even what’s required is very cheap to buy or to rent. Personally, we recommend you bring your own gear to ensure that they fit you, are comfortable, and are hygienic.

In order to ensure your first snorkeling experience goes as smoothly as possible, we’ve compiled a comprehensive packing list for snorkelers to help make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Essential Snorkeling Gear to Wear

These are the bare minimum pieces of equipment you should have in order to snorkel.

Swimsuit

You don’t need any special swimsuits for snorkeling, just wear what you’d normally wear when you go to the swimming pool. While there definitely are swimsuits designed for snorkeling with 50 SPF to protect your skin from the sun, as a first time snorkeler let’s not complicate things until you’re sure you even like to snorkel.

Next, make sure your swimsuit isn’t too baggy, since it can get caught on stray pieces of coral or rocks. Best case scenario, you tear your swimsuit. Worst case, you can get seriously hurt by getting scraped by coral or rocks. Get a well-fitting swimsuit and stay safe!

Snorkel and Mask

It would be quite difficult to snorkel without a snorkel and a mask! What is a snorkel? It is a tube that lets wearers breathe while looking down into the water. You can sometimes find snorkels bundled with a mask.

Snorkeling masks let you see underwater and can even be used at deep depths if you decide to dive down. Snorkel and dive masks are the appropriate eye protection for underwater use, not swimming goggles! With them, you can see the beauty of the underwater creatures and landscape.

You can choose between wearing a snorkel and mask combination, or a full face mask which has the snorkel built-in. Furthermore, you can get a snorkel mask with a purge valve to deal with water leaking in. People who have facial hair should read this guide before buying a snorkel mask for beards and mustaches.

Sunscreen

As with any outdoor activity, you have to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Even if you have a swimsuit with SPF protection, a rash guard, or a full wetsuit, there will still be areas of exposed skin that you need to protect with sunscreen. It’s not fun to look like a tomato after a full day of snorkeling.

When buying sunscreen for snorkeling, you can’t just buy any old sunscreen; it has to be waterproof sunscreen so that it doesn’t wash off the moment you enter the water. We also recommend getting reef safe sunscreen which will not harm the reef and marine life. Apply sunscreen generously, and don’t forget to reapply it every two hours or even sooner just to be safe.

If you want to cut down on the amount of sunscreen to use, then consider getting a rash guard for snorkeling or a high SPF swimsuit to protect a large area of skin from the sun.

Recommended Snorkeling Gear

While you don’t need a lot of gear to start snorkeling, there are some equipment that we feel could drastically improve the snorkeling experience for you. Many professionals use these products to help them snorkel longer and provide extra protection. If you plan on snorkeling more in the future, consider investing into some of these products.

Rash Guard

Rash guards are relatively cheap and are something you can consider investing in to protect your torso. While they do not provide much in terms of insulation, the SPF and abrasion protection are great benefits. You can get short sleeved or long sleeved rash guards, as well as loose fitting or tight fitting ones.

Personally, we recommend long sleeved and tight fitting rash guards. The extra coverage means less sunscreen needs to be applied, and wearing a tight fitting one will reduce the chances of it snagging on coral or causing drag in the water.

Wetsuit

Wetsuits are the next level up from rash guards in terms of protection, but also price. Wetsuits have different thicknesses, from 3mm up to 7mm. They are made from neoprene, which is a material that is very good at insulating body heat. You can get full-body wetsuits or shorty wetsuits (your arms and legs are partially exposed).

If you are vacationing in a tropical climate such as in Hawaii, using a wetsuit for snorkeling may be a bit overkill, even a shorty wetsuit. However, if you plan on snorkeling in cold water, then wetsuits are a must. They provide everything rash guards do, but they keep you warm on top of that. Wetsuits are also slightly buoyant, so you snorkel without using as much energy to stay afloat. If the waters are cold enough, you can even wear a rash guard underneath a wetsuit.

Fins

Ever notice how a duck has webbed feet? This helps them swim faster, and for us humans we can simply wear snorkeling fins. Fins can help you propel yourself further and faster with each kick. They help you increase your strength and endurance, allowing you to snorkel longer. Fins are also naturally buoyant like wetsuits are, so staying afloat is much easier.

Before buying a pair of fins, you have to consider a few things. First, the length. There are short fins and long fins. Longs fins require more strength to use but can give you more power per kick. With short fins, you’ll have to move your feet more, but they feel almost like you’re not wearing fins at all.

You also have to consider closed heel or open feel fins. Open heel fins are more expensive because of how versatile they are. They have an adjustable strap by the heel which you can use to tighten or loosen the fit. It can therefore accommodate numerous foot sizes, including wide feet, and can be shared with family and friends. However, the strap tends to dig into your heels, and so many snorkelers have to wear dive socks or booties to protect against chafing.

On the other hand, closed heel fins are much cheaper, are not adjustable, and can be worn barefoot.

Optional Snorkeling Gear to Bring

Lastly, here are some things you don’t have to bring to snorkel, but they can provide extra warmth or protection for a much more enjoyable experience. If you have money to spare, consider the following:

Foot Protection

There are various types of foot protection that you can consider, such as neoprene socks and water shoes. We mentioned briefly in the fins section that the strap from open heeled fins can dig into your skin. To prevent this, you can wear neoprene water socks to prevent chafing. In addition, these socks provide insulation and will keep your feet warm.

You can also consider getting some water shoes. You won’t be wearing these shoes while you’re snorkeling, but you can wear them as you are walking to and from your snorkeling destinations. Along the shore you’ll encounter plenty of jagged rocks, seashells, and other debris. It can be difficult walking across it barefoot or with the fins on. Consider getting a pair of water shoes to make the trek much easier.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

If you are not confident in your swimming skills, or you want to take precautions to deal with emergencies in the water, then you should consider getting a snorkeling personal flotation device. The most obvious choices are life jackets, snorkel vests or flotation belts.

You’ll notice that most flotation devices are brightly-colored to ensure maximum visibility in the event you get separated from the group. Rescuers will be able to spot you more easily. Also, if you’re snorkeling in waters with boat traffic, this can help boats see you in the water.

Life jackets are the safest choice, however they may get in the way of snorkeling. The primary purpose of life jackets is to keep your head above water, while the point of snorkeling is to look down into the water. Furthermore, life jackets are bulky and difficult to swim in. But if safety is your number one priority, consider buying a life jacket.

Next, snorkel vests are much better suited for snorkeling. While they do not provide as much buoyancy as life jackets do, some snorkel vests can support over 150 pounds. There are two types of snorkel vests: horseshoe style and jacket style. The horseshoe style is worn over your head and secured in place with straps. Jacket style vests are worn like a jacket and zipped up. Both are effective, though jacket style vests are more expensive.

Snorkel vests can be inflated and deflated easily while in the water to allow you to control your experience. If you see something cool underwater and want to take a closer look, you can deflate the vest and dive down to check it out. Once you resurface, you can blow air into the air pouch using the plastic tube to inflate the vest again.

Another great flotation device for snorkeling are flotation belts. As the name suggests, they are belts worn around your waist that provide additional buoyancy. These belts can have their buoyancy adjusted, depending on the product, by removing some of the foam pads on the belt. Float belts may cause some drag in the water, and many snorkelers prefer wearing snorkel vests. However, in the end it is up to personal preference.

Swim Cap

Swim caps are useful for snorkelers with long hair that get in the way or who want to protect their scalp from sun exposure. Nobody wants to rub sunblock on top of their head, so a swim cap is an easy way to save some product and protect your head. Swim caps may also reduce drag while underwater, which can maximize your speed.

The Bottom Line

If you’re unsure of what to wear while snorkeling, hopefully this guide has helped you make sense of it. To get started with snorkeling, the bare minimum you need are the snorkel, mask, and your swimsuit. We highly recommend getting at least fins on top of this, and a snorkel vest if you want to stay safe in the water. And of course, always wear sunscreen, even if the sun isn’t out!

However, if you are planning on snorkeling once just to cross it off your bucket list, and don’t plan on going again, then consider renting the snorkeling gear. However, if you find snorkeling a fun and enjoyable hobby, we highly recommend investing in your own gear to ensure a good, comfortable fit and for hygienic reasons.

Wearing earplugs for snorkeling or swimming in general can help you avoid a type of ear infection known as Swimmer’s Ear. You can also wear earplugs if you dislike the feeling of having water in your ear after you leave the water. There are a few types of earplugs to choose from, and snorkelers who also dive should be aware that diving with earplugs is not recommended unless they are wearing vented earplugs.

Why Wear Earplugs for Snorkeling?

First of all, most people don’t need to wear any earplugs to get the most out of snorkeling. There are plenty of snorkelers that go into the water with barely any equipment; just their snorkel mask and fins and they do just fine. So why should some people wear earplugs for snorkeling?

Unfortunately, not everyone can just go into the water with no consequences. If you find that you feel dizzy or nauseous each time you snorkel or swim, then you may be suffering from swimmer’s ear. Swimmer’s ear occurs when there is water trapped in the ear canal that results in pain, infection, and inflammation.

You can even get an ear infection just by showering or swimming in a pool; it is not something that is exclusive to saltwater. Furthermore, people who try to dry their ears by sticking things into it to try to absorb the water, such as a cotton swab, can actually cause an ear infection.

It would seem the best solution for ear infection is to prevent it from happening in the first place. By wearing swimming earplugs, you can prevent water from ever clogging up your ears ever again.

Recommended Earplugs

Moldable Earplugs for Snorkeling Along the Surface

For those who only plan on snorkeling along the water’s surface, then regular swimming ear plugs will be sufficient. The issue with regular earplugs is that they don’t always have the best fit and tend to pop out.

With moldable earplugs, you can get an earplug that perfectly molds to the shape of your ear. This forms a seal that is completely waterproof and airtight. Furthermore, since it matches the contours of your ear, it offers comfort that cannot be matched by other earplugs. If you only plan on snorkeling along the surface, then check out these moldable earplugs.

Vented Earplugs for Diving

For those that plan on diving down while snorkeling, consider wearing vented earplugs. When you dive, there’s always a chance that regular earplugs could pop out or get wedged in too far from the resulting water pressure.

Vented ear plugs avoid this problem because they are manufactured with small holes that simultaneously prevents water from entering and allows for pressurization. We recommend you check out these vented earplugs, which are highly-reviewed and created by a doctor. Make sure to wear the appropriate size otherwise they will not be as effective.

Other Types of Ear Protection

If you don’t like the idea of wearing earplugs, there are other ways you can protect your ears from an infection.

Mask with Ear Covers

You can get a special snorkel and scuba mask that has an ear cover which prevents water from entering your ears. It is non-invasive, with a feathered skirt that seals tightly around your ear rather than in it. Furthermore, it uses a one-way valve that connects the pressure in the ear canal to the front of the mask and lets air flow freely between these areas. With it, you won’t have to worry about equalizing air pressure in your ears when you dive down. We recommend this one.

Ear Drops

While ear drops won’t prevent water from entering your ear, they are an inexpensive and non-invasive way to mitigate any lingering effects that water in your ear may cause. With these ear drops, you will speed up the drying process of any remaining moisture in your ear, and also strengthen your ears’ delicate lining to prevent further irritation. They are also a great way to unclog your ear canals of any stubborn water.

Ear Dryer

Some don’t like using the ear drop solution because they dislike how it feels or find it ineffective. In that case, another option is to use an ear dryer. They work exactly like how you think they do; by blowing warm air into each ear to dry them faster.

For instance, this ear dryer looks and is used like an ear thermometer that you’d see at the clinic. Unsurprisingly, that’s because it was also made by a doctor, and they can dry your ears within a minute after you get out of the water. You can use it whether you are snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, or any other water activity. And since it comes with four washable, color-coded earpieces, you can share it with your family.

Ideally you will get an ear dryer that is compact and portable so that it doesn’t occupy much space in your bag. That way, you can also take it with you on vacations.

Parting Words

An ear infection can really ruin your snorkeling experience, but luckily there are some easy ways to prevent it. You can wear regular earplugs to keep water out, but then you cannot dive as the pressure will cause them to get stuck. To prevent this, wear vented earplugs that allow for pressurization and keep water out. If you feel earplugs are too invasive, you can consider wearing a snorkel mask with ear covers.

Another solution to the ear infection problem other than keeping water out is to quickly dry it out after you’re done snorkeling. You can use ear drops for water sports or an ear dryer to quickly cause the water to evaporate, and prevent swimmer’s ear without relying on earplugs. Enjoy snorkeling again by taking better care of your ears with the products recommended above.

You may be interested in other snorkeling equipment such as snorkel masks for beards, rash guards, flotation devices such as snorkel vests and flotation belts, or snorkeling wetsuits.

If you are not a strong swimmer, you may be wondering if it is possible to snorkel with a life jacket. While it is technically possible, we do not recommend it because a life vest is designed to keep your head out of the water so that you do not drown. If you wear a life jacket, you will be constantly fighting against it while snorkeling. There are better flotation devices you can use instead, such as snorkel vests or flotation belts, which will not get in the way of your snorkeling experience.

Sometimes the terminology is not clear, and you may have heard about people wearing “snorkeling life vests” when they go out into the water. True life vests are ones that you’ll find on boats or cruise ships. They are approved by the United States Coast Guard as life-saving personal flotation devices and will keep your face out of the water even if you’re unconscious. They are not ideal for snorkeling because of their drag, bulkiness, and tendency to keep you upright. Instead, we recommend you use a snorkel vest or flotation belt.

In this article, we will discuss how a life vest should be used, what the differences are between a life vest and other snorkeling flotation devices such as a snorkel vest, and how you can properly use these tools to stay safe while snorkeling.

Who Should Use Life Jackets?

When you are out in the water, even shallow water, you should wear a life jacket if you are:

• A beginner snorkeler.
• Finding it hard to tread water due to old age, a physical disability, or lack of experience.
• Part of a guided tour and need to wear it for insurance purposes.
• Struggling to keep water out of your snorkel.
• Planning on spending a lot of time in the water snorkeling at your leisure.
• Snorkeling with kids.

A life jacket will keep you buoyant and reduce your chances of drowning if a sudden strong current or riptide drags you out into the sea. If safety is your number one priority, you can try to snorkel with a life jacket even if it inconveniences you. However, most snorkelers will do just fine with just a snorkel vest or ski belt as their flotation device.

Disadvantages of Life Jackets for Snorkeling

They Get In the Way

Above all, the life jacket’s goal is to keep your head above water. In order to do that, it will keep your body vertical when you want to be horizontal for snorkeling. Furthermore, it has large, bulky pieces of foam around the chest that cause massive amounts of drag in the water. You will find it difficult to swim, let alone snorkel. On top of that, they get in the way if you are trying to look down.

Cannot Duck Dive with a Life Jacket

While snorkeling can be done along the surface of the water, there is another aspect of it that you’re missing out on if you can’t dive down. Getting to see the aquatic life and seafloor up close is a lot more exhilarating than being a passive observer from a distance.

And since a life jacket’s primary purpose is to keep you afloat, if you try diving down you will have to exert significant energy fighting against it while diving down. Only an expert swimmer would be able to do it, and they wouldn’t need a life jacket in the first place anyways. This is where a snorkel vest comes in.

Snorkel vests can be inflated or deflated on a whim. When you just want to snorkel along the surface, keep it fully inflated. If you feel the urge to dive down, slightly deflate it, or if you’re feeling adventurous you can fully deflate it and dive downwards. Don’t worry, you can inflate it again with just a few breaths using the plastic tube that connects to the air bladder of the vest.

Is Snorkeling Dangerous?

Any water activity has the potential to be dangerous. That is why we recommend you wear a flotation device. A complete beginner or non-swimmers should just wear a life jacket. Think about safety first, even if it gets in the way of your enjoyment. If you are ever caught in a bad situation, you’ll be glad you decided to wear a life jacket.

Beginner snorkelers sometimes make the mistake of snorkeling for too long, heading out too far from land or their boat and running out of energy. They may also dip their snorkel too low and accidentally gulp a mouthful of water. Or the currents get too strong and they are swept away. This causes them to panic which only worsens the situation. If you’re afraid of these things happening to you, then just snorkel with a life jacket.

Should Kids Wear a Life Jacket when Snorkeling?

Yes, they should depending on their swimming level. As an aside, we recommend your child take swimming lessons before snorkeling. Before they go out into deep water, they should first practice in a pool, then shallow water, before moving all the way up. This way, they can learn the basics and develop the confidence they need.

Assuming they know how to swim, there are snorkel flotation devices designed just for children that can provide them with extra buoyancy without getting in the way of their snorkeling experience. Just make sure that you purchase a device with a high enough weight rating and that it securely fits your child.

Tips for Snorkeling with a Life Jacket

You don’t need to be a good swimmer to snorkel. Not everyone who snorkels is an athlete or seasoned swimmer. All you really need to know is how to float, breathe through the snorkel, and kick. If floating is difficult, then you can wear a snorkel vest or even a life jacket. There’s nothing difficult about snorkeling, even good swimmers do the same steps. No fancy strokes, just breathe and kick.

All of this is easier to do if you’re not afraid. Wear a life jacket if it gives you the confidence you need. Furthermore, as long as there is air in your lungs, you’ll have a bit of natural buoyancy. It will mostly be around your upper body; your legs will sink if they aren’t kicking, so wear some snorkel fins and just keep kicking. Anywhere you want to go in the water, just kick your legs to get there.

While wearing a life jacket, you may have to kick constantly to keep your head below water to enjoy the sights that the sea offers you underneath the water. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to dive underwater if you’re wearing a life jacket. At the very least, with a personal flotation device, you can literally snorkel for hours on the surface. After all, you will conserve a lot of energy when you barely need to spend any to stay afloat.

If you are a bearded snorkeler and find that water keeps entering your mask, check out our guide on snorkel masks for beards as well as tips on how to keep water out.

Life Jacket vs. Other Snorkeling Flotation Devices

Personally, we recommend wearing a snorkel vest or flotation belt as your flotation device. Depending on what size you buy, snorkel vests can support anywhere from 80 pounds on the lower end to over 200 pounds for extra large vests. Flotation belts also provide a lot of buoyancy, however they do not have the advantage of deflating when you want to dive.

With that said, the many straps of a snorkel vest may cause discomfort. Some users complain that their snorkel vest rides up all of the time, aggravating their armpits and neck. And even though both a belt and vest can keep you afloat, they are not considered life-saving devices because they aren’t intended to keep your head out of the water. They are snorkel flotation devices because they keep you afloat while allowing you to look down into the water.

A life vest’s purpose is antithetical to what a snorkeler wants to do. That is why we generally don’t recommend wearing a life jacket to snorkel. We only suggest it if an individual cannot stay afloat on their own, in which case they should wear the safest flotation device they can. Better to stay safe and have difficulty snorkeling than be at risk of drowning.

While I wouldn’t consider a wetsuit a buoyancy aid since its primary purpose is to keep you warm, wetsuits help keep you afloat simply because of the air bubbles found in the neoprene material. That means that someone wearing a wetsuit would float more easily than someone without it. You might want to consider getting one if you find yourself getting cold in addition to any floating issues. You should also check out our list of snorkeling equipment to help you find more products that can help you with snorkeling.

Parting Words

When you are snorkeling, you want to keep your head in the water to see what’s below the water’s surface. Thus, snorkeling with a life vest will prove to be difficult. Most snorkelers will struggle to keep their body in a prone, horizontal position while wearing a life jacket. If safety is your priority, this is a good thing. That means you are safe, but not so good if you want to enjoy snorkeling.

It is up to you to judge your swimming capabilities. If you are not confident, then choose the safest option, a life jacket. Most people will do just fine with a snorkel belt or vest. Especially in the case of a snorkel vest, it will not get in your way as you can deflate it and dive deeper to truly enjoy the full snorkeling experience. One way to safely snorkel is to do it as part of a tour. That way, you can snorkel with a group, and ask the snorkeling instructor for assistance. You will also be provided personal flotation devices so you don’t even need to buy your own. If you want to stay as safe as possible, then snorkel with a life jacket.

Is it possible to snorkel if you don’t know how to swim? While the answer is potentially yes, in our opinion we strongly recommend you learn how to swim before you go snorkeling. We want to err on the side of caution and say that, for safety reasons, if you are a non-swimmer then knowing how to swim is essential just in case any trouble occurs in the water.

You don’t have to be a strong swimmer (this isn’t a competition, after all), but having basic swimming competency like knowing how to float or do the doggy paddle will drastically reduce the danger. Knowing how to swim will make snorkeling much easier. In this article, we go over the reasons why knowing how to swim is important for snorkeling, as well as discuss ways a non-swimmer can potentially snorkel safely.

Is Swimming Required for Snorkeling?

Again, if you don’t know how to swim, we feel it is not safe to snorkel in water that is much deeper than your height, let alone out in the open water by boat. All it takes is a strong current or an injury and all of a sudden you could be caught up in a life-or-death situation. But before we even get that far, and to tone down the drama a bit, let’s talk about something even more basic.

Fundamentally, snorkeling requires you to know how to float along the water’s surface with your face submerged in the water. This is what snorkeling is and is how it works whether you are wearing fins or not. Most snorkelers, ourselves included, like to snorkel with fins. If you are not a strong swimmer, know that snorkeling with fins makes the activity so much easier.

With fins, you can propel yourself through the water much more easily, which saves your energy. If you want to quickly dive down for a bit, which is known as duck diving, fins help you dive down effortlessly as well. So at the very least, you should know basic swimming skills, and with the assistance of some snorkeling gear, you can safely snorkel. It is up to you to judge your swimming skills and what you are capable of, but please err on the side of caution.

Snorkeling Tips for Beginners and Non-Swimmers

Don’t Panic

When you’re in deep enough water that you can’t see the bottom anymore, and far enough away from land that you might not be able to make it back to shore without assistance, you might feel an overwhelming sense of panic. However, panicking is the worst thing you can do, especially if you’re a non-swimmer. If you panic, your breathing will be in disarray and you could be wasting valuable energy thrashing about.

The most common cause of panic is when water starts to fill your snorkel mask. This often happens because the seal on your mask is not tight enough and you don’t have a good snorkel mask for beards. Once water starts to fill, calmly surface, drain the water, and continue snorkeling.

Staying calm on the other hand accomplishes many goals. If nothing else, you will be aware of your situation and your breathing will be normal. You will be able to think rationally, and discern whether you’re actually in any trouble or not. Keep in mind that if you don’t know how to swim, you’re definitely wearing some kind of flotation device as well as snorkeling with others so it is unlikely you’ll plummet to the bottom of the sea despite your fears.

Use a Flotation Device

There are many flotation devices that you can use out in the water, and some of them are even designed specifically with snorkeling in mind. There are many to choose from such as snorkeling vests, flotation belts, boogie boards, pool noodles, thick wetsuits and of course standard life jackets. Keep in mind that out of all of these flotation devices, only the life jacket is approved by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) as a life-saving device. If you absolutely do not know how to swim, you must wear a life jacket.

The other flotation devices provide a certain amount of buoyancy. Before purchasing one, look up its weight rating to see how much weight the specific device can support. Furthermore, do not rely entirely on the flotation device to keep you afloat. You should still know how to paddle or stay afloat on your own, and use the flotation devices to assist you and conserve energy. We recommend using a flotation belt, snorkel vest, or life jacket as these devices are strapped onto you and will not slip away, unlike boogie boards or pool noodles.

Float Horizontally

When you don’t know how to swim, your natural instinct while in the water is to try to get as much of your body out of the water. However, that is not a good way to float, and you should instead lower your body into the water and then get as horizontal as you can. With the help of a flotation device, lower your chest and keep the water around your chin or neck level. This will help you stay buoyant more than trying to push upwards as if you were trying to jump out of the water.

Control Your Breathing

We covered this briefly in our “don’t panic” section. The first time you snorkel, you will understandably be nervous, particularly if you are not confident in your swimming skills. Your breathing and heart rate will be elevated. Calm down and focus on what’s important which is ensuring that your gear is working and you’re doing the right snorkeling techniques.

First, your snorkel mask and mouthpiece should have a tight seal on your face. If you have a beard or mustache, then this may cause water leaks because the mask skirt will not seal tightly around facial hair. Best to follow the advice in this guide or just shave it off.

Next, breathe through your mouth and not your nose. If you have a mask with a purge system, you can exhale through your nose to expel any water that might have entered. Remember that the snorkel is above water providing you fresh air, so you can breath as you normally would while enjoying the underwater views.

Submerge Just a Little

Snorkeling only requires you to submerge the front part of your face and goggles underwater. You don’t need to fully submerge; pretty much half of your body will be above water, especially with a flotation device on. All you need to do is break the water’s surface with your mask and you can see what the sea has in store for you.

Furthermore, this will reduce the chances of you lowering the top part of the snorkel into the water and gulping down a mouthful of seawater. Choking on water can be panic inducing, and so this is something we want to avoid. After some time water may enter your mask because of a weak seal, but all you need to do is drain the water and resume snorkeling.

Snorkel with a Buddy

Take a buddy with you who is a strong swimmer. That way, you can have somebody to watch your back that can help you or call for help in case there is any trouble. Besides, it’s more fun to do things with somebody else, and in this case a snorkeling buddy could literally save your life. With that said, we still recommend you learn how to swim on your own, otherwise if you panic there is a possibility that you will endanger your buddy as well.

Currents and Rip Tides

Whether you are a beginner at snorkeling or a veteran, you must be wary of currents and rip tides. It can happen very suddenly; one second you’re leisurely snorkeling, and the next you’re swept out into the sea. This is why we recommend wearing a buoyancy aid that can be strapped onto you, such as a life vest or snorkel vest. A boogie board or pool noodle could easily be lost in this scenario.

In this situation, you must not panic. Your life vest will keep you afloat, so you won’t be in any immediate danger, however it will not save you from getting swept further out. What you do in this case is not to swim directly to shore, but rather to swim parallel to the shore. There is no point swimming against the current, you will just waste precious energy. If you swim parallel to the shore, at some point, you will break free from the current or riptide, and then you can swim directly to shore.

Beach vs. Boat Snorkeling

Snorkeling can be done from the beach or from a boat, often as part of a tour. There are pros and cons to each of these if you’re a non-swimmer.

From the Beach

Snorkeling from the beach sounds like the safer option for a non-swimmer, however that isn’t necessarily the case. When you snorkel from a boat, you enter deep water immediately and are on high alert from the get go. On the other hand, snorkeling from the beach can give you a false sense of security.

While there’s less pressure since you can start from shallow water and go at your own pace, all it takes is a strong current or riptide to drag you to deep waters. That is why even if you are in shallow water where your feet can touch the bottom, you should still be wearing a buoyancy aid just in case something like that happens.

Another downside of snorkeling from the beach is that you may not have an experienced snorkeling instructor to help you. They are often working as part of a tour guide, and on boat trips you can simply let the instructor know that you are not a strong swimmer.

If you plan on snorkeling from the beach, make sure to do so where a lifeguard is close by, and try to find a buddy who is a strong swimmer to snorkel with you. Depending on where you go, you can still see a surprising amount of marine life even in shallow water.

From a Boat

If you have some cash to spare, non-swimmers should consider snorkeling as part of a boat trip. Boat trips will provide you with experienced instructors, flotation devices, and a group of people to snorkel with. Let the instructor know you’re a non-swimmer so that they can give you additional guidance and keep a close watch on you.

With that said, if you snorkel from a boat you will enter deep water immediately. You don’t have many options to go at your own pace, you’re literally diving into the deep end. However, just follow the instructor’s tips, wear a life vest, and stay close to the group and you’ll manage.

Parting Words

If you don’t know how to swim, snorkeling can be a horrifying experience with how far out you’ll be from land. We highly recommend you learn the basics of how to swim before attempting to snorkel. However, it is possible for non-swimmers to snorkel with the help of a flotation device and a snorkeling buddy.

An easy way to get all of this started is to go on a tour and to convince a friend or two to join you. You get to go on a nice vacation, you get instructions and guidance, and tons of people to snorkel with that can look out for you if anything goes wrong.