A good question! Nevertheless, fear not, for Snorkeling is not as strenuous or as demanding a sport as scuba diving is and even more better you don’t need any special certification to snorkel. Nonetheless, to ensure that you are safe and able to enjoy the excitement that snorkeling offers, there are a few basic abilities that you should have. These are generally referred to as Open Water Swimming Skills.
If you can accomplish the following tasks, you should be fit enough to snorkel:
- Can you float for 10 minutes in deep water? Most people float naturally and can easily do this by simply lying on their backs and limit their movements as much as possible. Not everyone can do this and if you have problems, you can try to gently tread water for the same time period. Either option is good enough.
- Can you swim about 200 yards without using any equipment? In other words, can you swim this distance non-stop, wearing just your swimsuit? There is no time limit that you need to adhere to, so you can swim, as fast or slow, as you are comfortable with. Just complete the distance. Alternatively, you should be able to swim about 300 yards wearing a mask, snorkel and fins. This is often easier for those who are not very strong swimmers or who have not developed their stamina by swimming regularly. Again, either option is fine. Any swimming style is acceptable, so do whatever you are comfortable with.
For the Beginner
- Before snorkeling in choppy waters with small swells, practice snorkeling in a swimming pool
- Get used to using the snorkeling equipment
- Swimming in choppy waters can be a little disorienting and may result in water entering the snorkel. This is not dangerous at all, just a little uncomfortable. So practicing in a pool will help you get used to breathing through it, will help you to clear it out easily and continue
- Take your time getting used to the mask, snorkel and fins. There is no rush and the longer you spend getting used to the equipment, the more comfortable you will feel
- Generally about 20 minutes is enough, but take more time if you feel you need it
- Practicing in the swimming pool, will help you improve your snorkeling proficiency and you won’t have a problem keeping up with more proficient snorkelers
Nothing Is Set In Stone
These are only general guidelines. The safest and most enjoyable way to start snorkeling is to go out on a charter boat with an experienced crew who can take you to the best spots. Equipment may be available for hire and an experienced swimmer will usually accompany you to show you the ropes, ensure that you face no discomfort and will help you with the finer points of open water snorkeling. Hawaii with its temperate, warm waters and sunny climes has the perfect waters where the marine life is incredible, and where you can have the best snorkeling experience, ever.
