The Complete Beginner's Guide to Snorkelling

Swimming in the ocean is one of the great joys of summertime, as refreshing waters cool you off while you get some healthy exercise, or just let the gentle waves rock you into a state of blissful relaxation. And living in a country blessed with so many picturesque beaches, bays and stretches of coastline means we're blessed with endless opportunities to enjoy a dip in the sea.

The pleasures of the ocean are much more than surface deep though. Beneath the waves, there's a magical world of breathtaking scenery and sea-life waiting to be discovered. And one of the best ways to start exploring this underwater kingdom is by getting into snorkelling.

But if you're a complete novice when it comes to snorkelling, never fear. This beginner's guide has everything you need to know about what exactly snorkelling is, how it works, what snorkelling gear you'll need and the best ways to learn how to snorkel. So keep reading, and you'll go from a snorkelling beginner to a seasoned pro in no time!

Quick Links

• Safety First
• How Snorkelling Works
• Equipment for Beginner Snorkelers
• Learning How to Snorkel
• Snorkelling Tips & Techniques

Safety First

Before we get into the basics of snorkelling, we need to talk about safety. This guide is intended only to be a general guide to snorkelling for beginners, and readers should carefully research and follow all safety precautions before entering the water. Only confident swimmers should go snorkelling, and only during safe weather conditions in appropriate locations. Patrolled beaches and waterways are always a safer option.

Read and follow the instructions on all snorkelling equipment, and always supervise children while they're snorkelling. And if you're ever unsure about your safety, ability or confidence level, play it safe and sit it out.

What Exactly Is Snorkelling & How Does It Work?

Even if you've never been snorkelling before, you're probably seen someone doing it. Basically, the way snorkelling works is that you swim (or more accurately, float) facedown on the surface of the water, while propelling yourself forward with your legs. Your body position means you can look down the whole time and take in all the underwater sights, and your snorkelling gear lets you see everything clearly and breathe comfortably without needing to raise your head.

Not only is snorkelling a great way to explore the world beneath the waves, it can be incredibly peaceful and relaxing. As you admire the ocean's flora and fauna, you'll only hear the sounds of the water gently lapping, and the floating sensation puts your body completely at ease. And getting started as a beginner snorkeler is easier than you may think!

Everything You Need to Snorkel as a Beginner

One of the best things about getting into snorkelling is how accessible it is. You don't need a lot of equipment, your gear is easy to carry, and it's not very expensive to buy everything you need to start snorkelling. There are some basic pieces you'll need to have, and some accessories that can make snorkelling more comfortable, but overall you'll find it's surprisingly easy to kit yourself out as a beginner snorkeler.

Must-Have Gear to Get Started With Snorkelling

There are some basic gear than you must have for snorkelling, including:

• Snorkel: The most obvious item on your list, a snorkel is the tube you'll use for breathing while you're facing down in the water. Snorkels come in several styles, with some models incorporating a valve at the top that shuts off if you venture below the surface, or a purge valve that makes it easier to release any water that enters the snorkel.
• Mask: Your mask allows you to see clearly underwater when you're snorkelling. They range from a simple mask that covers your eyes and nose to a full-face mask that covers your mouth as well as an integrated snorkel. Some masks even come with a mount for a waterproof camera!
• Fins: Swim fins are worn on your feet to make swimming easier, which is great for when you want to move faster or you're working against the current, or you just want to conserve energy. Fins range in size and style but they all serve the same basic purpose.
• Swimwear: Men's snorkelling clothing, women's snorkel wear and snorkelling clothing for kids can range from a simple swimsuit or pair of board shorts to a rashsuit or even a full wetsuit.

Extra Equipment that Can Make Snorkelling Easier

Opt for some extra equipment that can make snorkelling easier and more enjoyable for a beginner:

• Wetsuit or Rash Vest: In warmer waters, you may find a swimsuit is all you need to feel comfortable while snorkelling, but if it's a bit chillier you may want to wear a wetsuit. And if the UV is high and you don't want to keep reapplying sunscreen, a rash vest can protect your skin.
• Boots: Dive boots can make wearing fins more comfortable, and they also protect your feet if you're walking over rocks or rough ground to get to the water.
• Life Jacket: If you're not a strong swimmer or just want to relax more as you're snorkelling, a life jacket (also known as a Personal Flotation Device) can make it easier to float.
• Gloves: Dive gloves help protect your hands, keep them warm and give you a good grip.

Snorkelling Gear For Kids

For kids, it's important to choose snorkelling equipment that's appropriately sized and adjustable to accommodate growing bodies. Plus, you'll want kids' snorkel gear that's comfortable so they can stay in the water for as long as they want. A full face mask is a good choice for increased comfort.

Step-By-Step Instructions For Learning How to Snorkel

Another great thing about snorkelling is that as a beginner, you can be out enjoying the underwater wonders without having to go through a steep learning curve. You'll find a lot of the steps for getting started snorkelling are pretty intuitive, but we'll take you through them regardless so you're confident from the get-go.

1. Select the right equipment: With such a wide variety of snorkelling gear to choose from, you'll want to consider how often you plan to go for a snorkel, what conditions you're likely to do it in, what your budget is and more. The experts at your local Anaconda store can help you choose the perfect beginner snorkelling gear for you.
2. Test it out before you go: Before you hit the water, try on everything first to make sure you've got the right fit and it's all adjusted correctly, and you're able to comfortably move around.
3. Gear up at the water's edge: It's usually easiest to get into your snorkelling clothing first, then put on your mask, snorkel and fins when you're close to the water.
4. Walk backwards to wade in: Once you're fully geared up, walk backwards slowly (glancing over your shoulder for hazards and incoming waves) so your fins don't catch on anything. Once you're about waist deep, plunge forward and start paddling your fins, and presto - you're snorkelling!
5. Start slow and stick to the shallows: Until you feel confident, just take it easy. Kick your feet gently and let the momentum take you forward, and keep an eye out for any interesting underwater life to check out. Stay in the shallower and calmer waters, and then as you feel more at ease with snorkelling you can explore further afield.

Tips and Techniques to Improve Your Snorkelling and Gain Confidence

• Go with a buddy: This is a good idea in general, no matter your skill level. Not only have you got someone to look out for you and vice versa, two sets of eyes means twice the opportunity to see something amazing! Plus it's just more fun to share your experiences as a beginner snorkeler.
• Stay in a safe area: Make sure you aren't snorkelling anywhere with physical hazards, boat traffic or strong currents.
• Head check: Every so often, pop your head up above the surface to see where you are and make sure you haven't drifted from where you intended to snorkel.
• Mask seal: If you find water keeps getting in your mask, perhaps because it isn't a great fit to your face's shape or if you have a beard, putting a light coating of petroleum jelly on the lip of the mask can help you get a better seal.
• Defogging: Your breath can cause the glass on your mask to fog up, but there are easy ways to address this. Sure, you can buy a special anti-fog solution, but the easiest remedy is just to spit on the glass and rub it in. It may sound a little gross - but it works!

Now That You Know How to Snorkel, Hit the Water with Anaconda

Explore the underwater world and discover the enchantment that lies beneath the waves with Anaconda. Shop snorkelling gear, swim and surfwear, life jackets and much more online and in-store at Anaconda today. Play more and pay less this summer with all the snorkelling gear and outdoor essentials you need!

For help choosing the right beginner snorkel gear and finding places to go snorkelling, check out these guides:

• How To Choose A Snorkel, Mask & Fins
• Where To Find The Best Spots For Snorkelling In Sydney
• Where To Find The Best Spots For Snorkelling In Victoria

Order online and get your beginner snorkelling equipment conveniently delivered, or take advantage of our Click and Collect services. Join the Adventure Club for exclusive offers and deals today and make the most of your snorkelling adventures!