How long to learn to use snorkel?

[Northstar]

Do you think, if we've never used snorkel gear before, we could get the hang of it and enjoy it during a day at Discovery Cove? It SEEMS pretty easy from looking at it. How about for an 8-year-old who knows how to swim reasonably well?

Is any instruction available at the Cove? Will we NEED instruction?

[Sylvester McBean]

the only thing you need to learn how to do with a snorkel is how to clear it. you're going to get water in it. it's not a big deal, because it's not like you're in open water, but it's nice to know how to clear it.

[padisneylover]

I don't remember instructions at all for using the snorkle but I do know I was afraid to use if for fear I would drown. About mid afternoon I got brave and tried it and it was so simple and enjoyable I don't know why I didn't do it at the start. I saw kids of all ages floating around with the snorkle and they didn't seem to be having any problems.

[ShannonRT]

We were there yesterday and I didn't have any problem with getting water in my snorkel. I didn't go all the way under with it though. The vests they make you wear make it very difficult to go all the way under anyway. I just floated along on top of the water. I did see a sign in the Coral Reef area for snorkel lessons. I say go for it, as much $$ as it costs to spend a day there. There were lots of colorful fish and sting rays to see.