Do You Need to Know How to Swim to Snorkel?
Snorkelling looks easy, and with a flotation vest some non-swimmers try it. But being able to swim makes it much safer and more enjoyable. Here is why, and what to learn first.
The short answer
You should be able to swim. Some tour operators let non-swimmers snorkel with a life jacket and a guide, but if your mask floods, your snorkel fills with water, a wave hits or you drift away from the group, swimming skills are what keep you calm and safe. Snorkelling usually happens in open water where you cannot stand, and conditions can change quickly.
Skills to have before you snorkel
- Swim comfortably for a few minutes without stopping, in any stroke.
- Float and rest on your back in deep water. See floating in swimming.
- Tread water while you adjust your mask or wait for the boat.
- Breathe calmly with your face in the water. See how to breathe while swimming.
- Clear water from a snorkel with a sharp breath out, and lift your head to empty a mask.
Practise in a pool first
Try your mask and snorkel in a pool before your trip, if the pool allows it. Practise breathing through the snorkel face down, clearing it, and floating with fins. It is much easier to sort out a leaking mask or a nervous breathing pattern in calm, clear water than at sea.
Flotation
A snorkel vest or a properly fitted life jacket adds buoyancy and lets you rest. It is a good idea for children, weaker swimmers and anyone in deeper or choppier water. It does not replace swimming skills or supervision.
Safety tips for snorkelling trips
- Never snorkel alone. Stay with a buddy and your guide.
- Snorkel only in calm, permitted areas, and follow local guides' instructions.
- Check the weather; leave the water if a storm approaches.
- Wear a rash guard and use reef-safe sun protection; do not touch or stand on coral.
- Watch for boats, and use a brightly coloured vest or float so you are visible.
- Know your limits, and return before you get tired.
- Children need close, arm's-reach supervision and a properly fitted vest.
Many Singapore families snorkel on holidays in the region. Read our ocean swimming tips and water safety tips before you go.
Learn to swim before your trip
If you are planning a beach holiday, a few months of lessons can build the confidence and skills you need. See our adult swimming course, kids swimming course or, for nervous swimmers, the water confidence course.
More in water safety
- 20 water activities in SingaporePaddling, sailing, team sports and more, and the swim skills they need
- Water safety tips for familiesSupervision, condo and public pools, the beach, lightning and emergencies
- 10 ocean swimming tipsSwimming safely in the sea in Singapore: water quality, weather, sighting and jellyfish
- Where to swim in SingaporePublic pools, family pools, condo pools and beaches
Further reading
- World Health Organization, Drowning fact sheet. Drowning risks and the measures that prevent them, including swimming and water safety skills.
- National Environment Agency, Water quality at recreational beaches. Beach water quality grades and weekly updates for Singapore's popular beaches.
Getting ready for a beach holiday?
Tell us the learner's age, their swimming experience and when you travel. We will suggest a suitable course, format and pool. Lessons run at public swimming complexes, private venues and condominium pools across Singapore.