SNORKELLING GUIDE
If you cannot swim well, have not snorkelled before, or have any concerns, you must advise our crew before entering the water. Please be aware that snorkelling is a strenuous physical activity even in calm waters. For safety reasons, children under 6 will not be permitted under any circumstances to snorkel on the reef. There may be the opportunity for them to snorkel at one of the islands, but there must be constant adult supervision of each child. Responsibility to monitor children lies solely with the accompanying adults.
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Flotation devices are available for you to use, but again, you must be able to swim
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Always follow the instructions of your snorkelling supervisors and lookouts
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Always snorkel in buddy pairs
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Always stay in an area which allows your supervisor to provide the close supervision necessary
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To avoid sunburn, you must use natural sunscreen and wear suitable clothing
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The medical declaration form that will be provided to you must be completed before you enter the water.
Always be aware of your snorkelling environment:
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Take careful note of the environment in which you will be snorkelling. Conditions can change.
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With the assistance of the snorkelling supervisor, identify boating channels, marine animals, wind and tide strength and direction
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Identify and locate flotation devices, such as buoys and rest stations
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Stay clear of the ramp while snorkelling. Ease into the water quickly and gently.
Essential Medical Considerations:
Snorkelling may increase the health and safety risks for anyone, but particularly persons suffering from:
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any medical condition that may be worsened by physical exertion, for instance heart disease, asthma and some lung complaints. If you are unsure, we advise you do not snorkel.
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any medical condition that can lead to loss of consciousness, for example, some forms of epilepsy and some diabetic conditions. If you are unsure, we advise you do not snorkel.
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asthma can become unmanageable due to saltwater spray. If you are unsure, we advise you do not snorkel.
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You must tell the snorkelling guide if you have any concerns about any other medical condition
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Older persons are more likely to suffer from diagnosed and undiagnosed medical conditions that may be worsened by physical exertion, for example heart disease and stroke.
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Concealment of any medical or physical condition could put your life and health or the health and life of others at risk.
Important facts:
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You must practice snorkelling beside a platform, boat or in shallow water, before venturing into more open, deeper water
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Always consider your own limitations when snorkelling, if in doubt wear a flotation device
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Note the location and availability of life jackets, wetsuits or other flotation devices
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Learn how to communicate with supervisors and other snorkelers by using hand signals, so that you know when to return to the boat and how to communicate if you need assistance. If you become anxious or unwell, return immediately to the boat.
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Learn how to lift and keep your face clear of the water
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Learn how to use the buddy or pairs system, where two snorkelers ensure they are always within a short distance of each other and keep a watch on each other’s safety
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Never drink alcohol before snorkelling
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The boat has very limited medical facilities, therefore, in the event of illness or injury. Medical care will need to be summoned by radio and may be delayed.
