Snorkeling Safety for Your Non-Swimmers: Practice in the Pool and More Fun Tips

Swimming and suntanning are two of the top things to do on Siesta Key. You can spend hours along the crystal white Gulf sands and wading in the turquoise waters. If you’ve ever wanted to get a closer look at what lies beneath the surface, snorkeling in Siesta Key might be the perfect activity for you. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, snorkeling is still an option during your stay in a Siesta Key condo rental! 

What is snorkeling exactly?

Snorkeling involves swimming through a body of water while wearing a diving mask, a breathing tube called a snorkel, and swim fins as commonly worn by divers. Some snorkelers might wear a wetsuit for colder waters or use a kickboard or life vest for extra support. The main idea, however, is to remain facedown on the surface of the water while breathing through the snorkel.

Snorkeling is most popular in tropical areas, where water is calm and clear. 

Can you snorkel if you cannot swim?

You may be surprised, but yes! Snorkeling is entirely possible for those who cannot swim. Having some knowledge of swimming does make the experience easier and often gives you more freedom to explore. However, not being a strong swimmer is not a reason to avoid snorkeling. With a little planning, you’ll have an incredible experience! 

What equipment do you need?

A snorkel, of course, is mandatory. Beginners should invest in something durable and easy to operate. Avoid cheap snorkels. Even if it costs a little extra to purchase a snorkel from a reputable dive dealer, the enhanced experience will be worth the money! The mouthpiece should be big enough that it doesn’t slip out of your mouth. Your lips should surround the mouthpiece entirely. 

Masks can be purchased separately or as part of a full-face snorkel mask, though this can be harder to find. Be sure to find a mask that fits properly and is lightweight, equalized, and defogged. 

If you’re serious about snorkeling, it might be worth investing in reef fins, which are half the length of other diving fins. They are lighter in weight and easier to control when gliding through the surface of the water. 

What precautions should you take?

If you don’t swim, it is important to take extra precautions, such as bringing a lifejacket and/or a lifeboard. Test your equipment beforehand to know how it functions. This can easily be done by trying it out in a pool. Go snorkeling in a group, never alone, and be sure to let your instructors know that you are not a strong swimmer. It is helpful to start from the beach rather than the boat and try to choose a calm spot if you can. The most important rule of all: Don’t mix alcohol and snorkeling! Doing so will put yourself and others at risk. 

What are some necessary tips?

Oftentimes, snorkelers are just thrown right into the experience without much preparation. You don’t need to be an expert to snorkel, but the more you prepare beforehand, the better the experience will be. The following tips will help you make the most of your snorkeling adventure.

1. Start by taking a deep breath and then holding it. 
2. Hold your head far enough underwater that the snorkel is covered.
3. When you need more air, bring your head back to the surface.
4. Release your breath, blowing with a lot of force from your lungs, pushing air back out through the snorkel.
5. Keep swimming and repeat.
6. The more you practice these motions, the easier it is to do!
7. Make sure you always have a buddy nearby.

Practice these steps beforehand so that by the time you reach the ocean, you’re a pro. Our Siesta Key vacation rentals with a pool provide the perfect opportunity for you to prepare and break in your new snorkel gear. Another option is to rent one of our beachfront condos, which give you immediate access to shallow waters. Whether you snorkel in the ocean or in a pool, our Siesta Key vacation rentals are a comfortable and cozy place to return to after a long, exciting day of snorkeling.