Can’t Swim? No Problem! Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef is for Everyone
A trip to the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list experience, offering breathtaking encounters with vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. But what if you’re not a strong swimmer? Can you still enjoy a snorkelling tour? Absolutely! At Pure Snorkelling, we specialize in providing a safe, enjoyable, and accessible snorkelling experience for everyone, regardless of swimming ability.
Do I Need to Be a Good Swimmer to Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef?
The most common question we get is: “Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel?” The good news is that you don’t need to be an Olympic athlete to enjoy the reef. Snorkelling is designed to be a relaxed, surface-based activity, and our expert crew is there to ensure you feel safe and supported in the water. Whether you’re a confident swimmer or new to the ocean, we provide the right gear, guidance, and flotation options to make your experience enjoyable.
Always snorkel with a buddy or a group for fun and safety.
How to Snorkel: Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide
Choose the Right Snorkel Gear
- Mask: A comfortable, leak-proof mask is essential.
- Snorkel: A dry-top snorkel prevents water from entering.
- Fins: Help with smooth propulsion and less effort in the water.
Our crew will take the time pre departure, to help you select gear that’s best suited to you. We have 9 different style masks available to make sure you have the right shape for your face. Wear glasses? No problem! We have prescription masks (replace your glasses while snorkelling) for complimentary use.
Practice Before Entering the Water
Try your gear in a shallow pool or calm beach before heading into open water. Practice breathing through the snorkel, clearing your mask, and adjusting your fins for comfort.
If you don’t have the opportunity to practice beforehand, don’t stress! When you are out on the reef first time or nervous snorkel, head upstairs to our top deck and watch everyone else enter the water first. We have a designated crew member that will get in the water last with guests, and allow you to take your time getting used to the equipement and the sites and sounds of the reef.
Use Proper Breathing Techniques
- Take slow, deep breaths to stay calm and relaxed.
- If water enters your snorkel, blow forcefully to clear it.
- Use our anti-fog spray on your mask to prevent fogging.
Master the Floating Technique
Let the buoyancy of saltwater help you float effortlessly. Use a flotation belt if needed and keep your body horizontal.
Keep your head at a 45 degree angle to make sure the snorkel tip remains out of the water. This angle lets you easily see what’s ahead of you like coral. giant clams and maybe even a turtle. Every minute or so look to your buddy to make sure they are ok too!
Move Smoothly and Efficiently
- Use slow, steady fin kicks, (imagine you’re painting a wall with your feet) keeping your legs long and extended and slight bend of your knee with each kick.
- Avoid using your arms—fins provide better propulsion. Most snorkeller either keep their arms relaxed by your side, use for signaling and pointing out cool critters, or taking videos of the marine life.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
- Never touch, chase, take, kick, or stand on coral or marine life.
- Stay close to your buddy, group, or guide.
- Respect local marine regulations to preserve the reef.
How Pure Snorkelling Ensures a Safe and Comfortable Experience
Easy-Access Equipment and Flotation Devices
We provide high-quality swim belts and the crew have flotation rings to help guests feel more secure in the water. Our gear is designed to keep you floating effortlessly, allowing you to focus on the incredible underwater world rather than staying afloat.
Small Group Snorkelling with Expert Guides
At Pure Snorkelling, we offer small group snorkel experiences to ensure personalized attention and a more intimate encounter with the reef. Our experienced guides swim alongside you, offering support, pointing out marine life, and ensuring you feel comfortable throughout your adventure.
Dedicated Snorkel Briefings & Technique Tips
Before you enter the water, our team provides a detailed snorkel briefing covering:
- How to properly wear your mask and snorkel
- Breathing techniques for a comfortable experience
- How to use flotation devices effectively
- The best way to move in the water with minimal effort
These simple instructions help first-time snorkelers feel confident and prepared before taking the plunge.
Gentle Entry Points and Shallow Reef Areas
Unlike deep-water dive sites, our handpicked snorkelling locations feature shallow coral gardens where you can enjoy incredible reef views while staying close to the surface. We also use stair-like swim platforms for easy water entry and exit, ensuring a stress-free experience.
What If I’m Nervous About Snorkelling?
If you feel anxious about snorkelling, you’re not alone! Many of our guests are first-time snorkelers, and we understand that being in open water can feel intimidating. That’s why we provide extra assistance, small-group support, and even one-on-one guidance when needed. Simply let our friendly crew know, and we’ll tailor the experience to your comfort level.
Our experienced in-water guides are there to assist you making for a stress free experience!
Do I Need a Medical Certificate to Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef?
No, you do not need a medical certificate to snorkel with Pure Snorkelling. However, all guests complete a brief medical questionnaire before entering the water. This allows our team to provide additional support if required.
The Queensland Government’s Recreational Diving and Snorkelling Code of Practice helps ensure snorkelling remains a safe and enjoyable activity. Guests with certain medical conditions may be asked to wear a designated snorkel vest so our team can keep an extra watchful eye on them. Only individuals with severe medical conditions that pose a life-threatening risk may be restricted from snorkelling.
Enjoy a Hassle-Free Snorkelling Experience with Pure Snorkelling
At Pure Snorkelling, we believe everyone should have the chance to experience the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef—whether you’re a seasoned ocean lover or stepping into the water for the first time. Our guided snorkel tours, expert safety measures, and commitment to personalized service ensure an unforgettable and stress-free reef adventure.