What is snorkelling?

Snorkelling is being able to breathe (via a plastic tube called a snorkel) while your face is in the water. Other terms, such as skindiving, freediving and breath hold diving, also refer to the activity of swimming with the use of a snorkel. (Swimming underwater with the use of a tank of compressed air is called scuba diving).

Snorkelling can be as easy or challenging as each individual prefers. Some people simply float on the surface, exploring the aquatic life in shallow waters. Others choose to perfect the technique of taking a big breath, diving down and staying submerged for up to a minute or two.

Who can snorkel?

Unlike scuba diving, there are no medical or age restrictions associated with snorkelling, and absolutely anyone with basic swimming skills can enjoy snorkelling.

Is it suitable for children?

Snorkelling is an excellent activity for all children who possess reasonable swimming skills. Not only is it great exercise, but it helps children improve their swimming skills, while at the same time teaching them water safety skills and boosting their confidence in and around water. Parents, please take note, despite experience or confidence, small children should always be supervised when snorkelling.

Why would I want to snorkel rather than scuba dive?

Snorkelling requires very little equipment … only a mask, snorkel and fins although it can be more comfortable with a wetsuit and light weightbelt depending on water temperatures. It requires no formal training, although most people enjoy this activity more if they get at least some instruction. There are no age or medical restrictions. So, practically any friend or family member, even the very young, can join you in an excursion. Most snorkelling takes place in the shallow waters fringing Australia and it is as easy as jumping off of a coastal rock or swimming out from a local beach.

Are there any considerations when buying fins, masks or snorkels?

The most important consideration is the fit of your mask. Faces come in all shapes and sizes and not all masks will fit all people. When selecting a mask, make sure it passes the sniff test. Ensuring there is no hair interfering with the face seal, place the mask against your face without using the strap and breathe in through your nose. The mask should stay on your face until you exhale. If it doesn't, then that particular mask doesn't fit properly and it will leak. Trying different styles of masks until you find one which passes the sniff test. A good fit for children is equally important. Nothing puts children off snorkelling faster than a leaky mask. Your local Apollo Dive Centre will be able to advise you on the perfect mask for every member of your family.

Can I get some training?

A little bit of training will vastly improve the pleasure of snorkelling. Short, inexpensive courses have been designed by training agencies such as SSI and PADI to assist snorkellers in selecting the right equipment, as well as perfecting skills such as mask and snorkel clearing, duck diving, and basic safety skills. Contact your local Apollo Dive Centre for more information on snorkelling courses.

What is Spearfishing?

Spearfishing is a form of underwater hunting using a spear gun. In most areas of Australia, spearfishing can only be practiced on snorkel. Scuba equipment may not be used.

Is spearfishing environmentally sensitive?

Yes. Spearfishers visually sight their prey prior to shooting, thereby exercising complete control over which fish they spear. Also, spearfishing requires exceptional snorkelling abilities. Successful spearfishers must be strong swimmers and able to hold their breath for up to a minute at a time. In most cases, the fish gets away.

Are there restrictions associated with spearfishing?

Yes. Spearfishing is carefully controlled and is usually banned in areas such as marine reserves or popular swimming beaches. There are also regulations regarding which species which can be legally hunted as well as minimum sizes. Oftentimes a fishing license is required. Being a dangerous weapon, there are age restrictions, and children should never be allowed to handle or use a speargun. Legislation is regional, and your local Apollo Dive Centre can advise you on the regulations associated with the areas you wish to hunt.

Can I get some training?

Yes. Some Apollo Dive Centres specialise in this area. They may run an Underwater Hunter certificate course which will give you a basic foundation in this area.

Click here to find your nearest Apollo Dive Centre store who will be happy to help.

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