You don’t necessarily need to know how to swim in order to go snorkeling. However, if you can’t do it, there’s a small chance you’ll feel nervous and uncomfortable about it.
Snorkeling for non swimmers can be challenging, but there’s one thing you need to keep in mind. You need to feel comfortable in the water.
Even if you can’t swim, there are many things you can use to stay afloat and enjoy the snorkeling experience. Now, what else should you know before diving into this experience? How should you get ready for it?
5 Snorkeling tips for non swimmers
Choose the perfect location
There are a few things you need to consider before choosing the location. Since you can’t swim, you need calm waters. Going far into the ocean isn’t really a good idea. Instead, how about Silfra snorkeling in Iceland? How about a quiet lake like Lake Saimaa in Finland?
Other than that, there should be no hazards, underwater dangers or strong currents.
It’s always a good idea to keep close to the shore anyway until you get some experience, rather than go snorkeling from a boat too far out.
Get the right gear
Snorkeling for non swimmers may feel like you don’t need to invest too much in it, but you’re wrong. Just because you’re not an experienced swimmer, it doesn’t mean you should overlook equipment too. Also, you need to know many things about snorkeling gear before you buy.
In fact, you’re even more exposed to dangers, if any. Therefore, opt for the best snorkeling gear for yourself. Make sure it fits. Choose the snorkelling fins, mask, and snorkel. A flotation device is just as important.
It might be tempting to just rent some equipment from the nearest shop, but unless it fits perfectly, you shouldn’t use it out there.
Avoid snorkeling by yourself
No matter how calm waters seem to be, you’re not a swimmer. In theory, snorkeling is not a risky activity if you have the right flotation device, but it’s still a bit of risk, not to mention panic.
It makes no difference if you go snorkeling with turtles or you go snorkeling in Hamata Island. Sure, waters are clear and calm, but you should have someone else with you.
Keep in mind that you’re in water, and dangers can still occur. Even an experienced swimmer will choose to go with someone else.
As a general rule of mind, hook up with someone who’s more experienced at swimming. If you’re in a group, make sure people around you know that you can’t swim, so someone can supervise you.
Knowing that you’re safe will make the experience more enjoyable. You’ll have that well deserved peace of mind to gain as much as possible from Kuilima Cove snorkeling or whatever location you choose.
Keep an eye on the surroundings
No matter how safe the environment seems to be, always be aware of your surroundings. Your health and safety are critical.
Assuming you’re trying to stay close to the shore, you’ll end up going too far without even realizing it. Always keep an eye on what’s around you, from boats to animals.
On another note, when snorkeling with manatees, kicking corals or fish, avoid touching these animals. You can seriously hurt yourself, but you’ll also cause disruption to the environment.
At the same time, avoid chasing sea animals or disturbing them. Feeding them isn’t a good idea either.
No matter how tempting all these things are, snorkeling for non swimmers comes with some strict rules that more experienced swimmers are already aware of.
Relax and keep calm
It’s perfectly natural to feel uncomfortable when in water, especially if you can’t swim. When snorkeling, your instinct will be to struggle to stay on top of the water. That’s not very productive, though, and it will take you out of your comfort zone.
Instead, find your comfort zone and stick to it. Learn to relax and keep calm. If you want, start snorkeling in an area where you can touch the bottom of the water, just to play it safe.
As a general rule of thumb, the more relaxed you are, the easier it becomes to float.
Bottom line
Snorkeling for non swimmers comes with a few challenges that may cause discomfort and panic at times, but the above-mentioned ideas will help you keep calm and find your comfort zone.
