Are you a timid snorkeler?

Question

Hi, my name is Pattie and im a timid snorkeler.

Are you a wannabe snorkeler? A timid snorkeler? Do you long to be out in the water with the other snorkelers? Do you have a DH or DW who you'd like to accompany when they snorkel?

You can swim, but never got the hang of snorkeling.

What can you do? I've been reading about Looky boards at Snorkel Bob's. Has anyone tried these? Also read about their boogie boards, but im not sure about those unless you had the mask and just look down in the water while on the boogie board.

I'd be ok with the mask, but would wig out with the snorkel.

Does anyone have suggestions or found ways to join in the fun with the real snorkelers?

Thanks!

Answer

Hi Pattie, it’s completely normal to feel timid about snorkeling—many people feel the same way! There are several ways to enjoy being in the water and see marine life without fully committing to traditional snorkeling with a snorkel tube, which can feel intimidating at first.

Here are some approaches and options for timid snorkelers:

Looky Boards (Snorkel Bob’s): These are essentially floating boards with a viewing window, allowing you to lie on top of the water and look down without having to put your face fully in the water or use a snorkel. They are excellent for observing fish and coral comfortably and are ideal if you want to avoid the snorkel altogether.
Boogie Boards with Masks: As you mentioned, using a boogie board with just a mask allows you to float and look down at the water while staying mostly above it. This can give a similar experience to snorkeling without the need to breathe through a snorkel, which can sometimes trigger anxiety.
Snorkel Lessons in Calm Water: Many tour companies offer beginner-friendly snorkeling sessions in shallow, calm lagoons. A short introduction to using a mask and snorkel under guidance can help build confidence gradually.
Snorkel Vests or Floatation Devices: Wearing a vest or other flotation aid can help you feel secure and reduce the fear of sinking. You can float comfortably on the surface while exploring the marine life.
Try “Face-in-the-Water” Approach: Instead of using a snorkel at first, you can practice just putting your face in the water with a mask while holding onto a floating device. You can slowly progress to using the snorkel once you feel more comfortable.

Additional tips:

Go with a partner who is experienced; their comfort can help you relax.
Choose calm, clear-water locations with easy entry points, such as protected bays or lagoons.
Practice breathing through a snorkel in a pool or shallow area first to get accustomed to it before heading out into deeper water.
Focus on observing and enjoying the marine life rather than feeling pressured to keep up with others.

Overall, the goal is to enjoy the water and see the fish in a way that feels safe and fun. Many timid snorkelers find floating boards or shallow guided tours to be the perfect compromise between staying dry and joining in the snorkeling experience. Over time, confidence usually grows, and you may find yourself ready to try the full snorkel experience.