Many people who have never tried SCUBA diving, or know someone who dives, seem to have this irrational fear of being trapped underwater, with nothing but an air tank to keep them alive. While this concept can certainly be unnerving, there is no reason that anyone should jump right into SCUBA diving if their fears have not been allayed. A good portion of experienced — and now addicted! — divers started out with snorkeling, which is akin to learning to walk before you can run. Snorkeling eases your body and mind into breathing underwater, allowing the feeling to start making sense in your brain rather than setting off alarms. One of the best things about snorkeling is that any person of any age can do it, with just a few simple instructions and tips to keep in mind. You certainly don’t have to learn to snorkel to SCUBA dive, but it helps to have an understanding of it in case diving isn’t possible and you still want to be in the water. Here’s a really easy-to-understand video that explains the steps to snorkeling, including the equipment you’ll need. If you have even the slightest interest in SCUBA diving, but aren’t sure you’re ready, don’t be afraid to take up snorkeling. You may just surprise yourself with what you’re capable of!
Image via Rob’nDasha
I took the course first. loved it
the hardest for me was buddy breathing but once I got the hang of it I liked it
Didn’t “HAVE” to cause I’d already been snorkeling for years.
now try scuba diving! its so cool when the water is crystal clear that is! but when its not its OH GOD get me out of here! LOL but just be calm and enjoy yourself underwater with your buddy and your group
Come to think of it, yeah did a lot snorkeling before diving as a kid
I was a kid, that’s all I could afford at the time. But it certainly locked in my desire to one day be a certified scuba diver. Now I proudly belong to those ranks and have many dives under my belt!
Never even had on a mask, fins, or snorkel before my OW class
its part of the naui diving class here in lacrosse.
Never snorkeled before I trained in SCUBA diving.
Sadly, my first time snorkeling was after diving. What an incredible letdown.
Did both in Waikiki and had 13 dives before I was even certified. What a great place to get hooked on the water.
Done the snorkeling thing in september moved onto scuba in february
‘Have to’…..no. I was snorkeling and freediving long before scuba.
Nope. Not a fan of snorkeling either
why not? are you padi or Nuai?
never snorkeled
I’m a Pro Snorkeler! heheh!
No, PADI MSDT 239941
Seemed like a natural progression from using the SCBAs with the Fire Department.
Did not snorkel for 20 years after scuba
Nope… Straight to SCUBA…
I don’t like snorkeling but I am in luv with diving—-snorkeling was and is boring to me—dunno why but diving is amazing!!! The two don’t compare if u want my opinion!!!
yeah I love being underwater when the water is clear!
Tried it, Hated it, Love Diving.
Went straight to SCUBA, only did th snorkeling thing once.
Snorkeled for years before diving and still love it
Not fond of snorkeling as water (especially salt water) always entered thru the top…scuba regulator, just breathe and enjoy being underwater!
HAHA but if you have to clear your mask in salt water OUCH. But its good pratice though if your mask gets knocked off.
No.
Snorkeled for years before getting dive cert. It’s kind of like comparing riding a bike to driving a car…..
yeah and once you get your car you dont want to ride a bike again. Plus I like the gadgets!
Humm Id never suggest this we loose ppl. Who might love diving and not care for snorkling they are diffent skills singing vs piano scuba is easier to do well
Yes…. Just wasn’t good enough, so had to get certified