What is snorkeling? Detailed snorkeling instructions for beginners

What is snorkeling? Snorkeling, or diving with a snorkel, is an exciting activity that helps you explore the beauty of the seabed without having to use complicated diving equipment. With a set of diving goggles, a snorkel, and fins, you can enjoy amazing underwater scenery with ease. This article will provide detailed information about what snorkeling is, the equipment needed for snorkeling, famous locations for snorkeling in Vietnam, whether snorkeling requires knowing how to swim, and many useful experiences for you to prepare for your trip.

Introduction to snorkeling

• What is snorkeling?

Snorkeling is a form of shallow diving that uses diving goggles, a snorkel, and fins. Participants can float on the water’s surface while breathing through a snorkel to observe the ocean world below without the need for complicated equipment or extensive training.

• Difference between snorkeling and scuba diving

Difference between snorkeling and scuba diving

What is the difference between scuba diving and snorkeling? In fact, snorkeling differs from scuba diving in depth and equipment. While snorkeling only requires a snorkel to dive near the water’s surface, scuba diving requires the use of oxygen tanks and more complex equipment to dive deeper. Scuba diving also requires extensive training and diving certification.

Benefits of snorkeling 

Benefits of snorkeling

Relax and explore the amazing ocean: Snorkeling helps you immerse yourself in the magical world beneath the ocean, allowing you to feel the peace while diving to see corals and marine creatures.

Exercise for health: Snorkeling is a great way to boost cardiovascular health and improve breathing.

Economical and easy to do: It does not require specialized equipment, expensive costs, or complicated training processes; snorkeling is suitable for everyone from adults to children. In Vietnam, you can easily participate in snorkeling at an extremely economical cost in the Phu Quoc Island Speedboat Tour or the Snorkeling Tour to see coral and catch the sunset in the southern waters of Phu Quoc.

Necessary equipment for snorkeling

The equipment needed for snorkeling is generally quite simple. You can easily find it or have it available at locations that provide snorkeling services.

• Diving goggles, snorkel, and fins

Diving goggles, snorkel, and fins

The three basic pieces of equipment needed for snorkeling are diving goggles, a snorkel, and fins. Diving goggles help you see clearly underwater while also limiting seawater from getting into your eyes, which can cause eye irritation for sensitive people. A snorkel helps you breathe while keeping your head above water and diving face-first into the water. Fins help you move more easily underwater.

• Appropriate swimwear and sunscreen

Appropriate swimwear and sunscreen

Choosing the right swimsuit and using sunscreen not only makes you more comfortable but also protects your skin from the effects of sunlight during snorkeling. This is not essential equipment for snorkeling, but it helps you have a better experience.

• Underwater cameras: GoPro, Insta360

GoPro

To capture amazing underwater snorkeling moments, devices like GoPro or Insta360 are ideal. Not only are they waterproof, but they also deliver sharp image quality, helping you preserve beautiful memories.

Famous snorkeling locations in Phu Quoc

Snorkeling locations in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, is a paradise for snorkeling lovers. Some famous snorkeling locations include:

• Doi Moi Island (Turtle Island)
• May Rut Island
• Gam Ghi Island
• Kim Quy Island
• Hon Bom Island
• Hon Roi Island
• Hon Dua Island (Coconut Island)

Each location has a rich natural coral ecosystem and marine life, providing a great diving experience. However, depending on the weather and season, some islands may have more favorable conditions for snorkeling.

Experiences and notes when participating in snorkeling

Experiences and notes when participating in snorkeling

As a longtime and regular organizer of coral diving tours for tourists, here are some Phu Quoc snorkeling experiences from Rooty Trip:

• Practice breathing through a snorkel before diving: Before starting snorkeling, take some time to practice breathing through a snorkel to get used to the feeling and ensure steady breathing underwater. Exercising the whole body before snorkeling is also necessary, helping to limit unexpected cramps when entering the water.
• Don’t touch coral or marine life: Coral is very fragile, and many marine species can harm your skin if you touch them. Avoid touching them to preserve the marine ecosystem and protect yourself.
• Notes on weather and water safety: Always check the weather forecast and follow safety measures before snorkeling, especially when the sea is rough or there are strong currents.

Take note of these Phu Quoc snorkeling experiences to have an easier and more complete diving experience!

Suggested snorkeling tours and services

Suggested snorkeling tours and services

Snorkeling services in Vietnam can be provided in marine tourist areas with diverse natural marine ecosystems. Phu Quoc is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Vietnam for domestic and international tourists.

Many tours in Phu Quoc provide snorkeling services with professional guides and full equipment. You can join tours to explore many islands by canoe or boat, enjoy a deserted island lunch, and experience snorkeling at the most beautiful locations.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

• Does snorkeling require knowing how to swim?

Not necessarily. However, knowing how to swim will help you be more confident and safer when participating in snorkeling. Life jackets are provided for free if you do not know how to swim.

• Can I wear glasses when snorkeling?

You can use diving goggles with lenses, or use contact lenses underwater.

• What time of year should you go snorkeling?

The ideal time for snorkeling in Phu Quoc is from October to April, when the sea is calm and the weather is favorable.

• Is snorkeling safe for children?

Yes, but children should be supervised by an adult and equipped with a life jacket to ensure safety.