Can I snorkel even I can't swim?

[Little Twin Stars]

I have read a lot of messages telling how great their snorkeling experience was and I really want to give it a try. But: I can't even swim. Plus I have two little kids: 4 and 6. Both of them can't swim either. My husband, luckily, is a good swimmer.

I would appreciate, therefore, if anyone can answer my questions:

1. Can we snorkel even if we can't swim?

2. How's snokeling at Castaway Cay different from that of at Nassau?

Thanks everyone!

 

[floridaminnie]

Yes you can snorkel if you can't swim, I just wouldn't recommend going far from the boat if you do it in Nassau and I wouldn't do it with two little ones that can't swim also. You have to wear vests that allow you to float.

 

[AnnMorin]

Since that is a "walk in" trail (meaning you don't have to jump in off a boat) and the water is quite shallow you may feel most comfortable. The life vest will hold you up but at least at CC there are life gaurds incase anyone got into trouble . I would be nervous having children who can not swim jumping off a boat to snorkle on a reef. Any chance you could take some swim lessons before the cruise? I know the YMCA here in MA. gives private lessons for only like $15.00 an hour to NON-members. I got my son started in those when he was about five and he was a little fish after about eight lessons.

 

[Little Twin Stars]

Thanks floridaminnie and AnnMorin for your very prompt reply.

I did not know that there is a kind of "walk in" trail. How deep is it? If it is not really deep, I really want to bring my kids with us.

I however notice that there are two different snorkeling excursions offered at CC: one is called Snorkeling Adventure and another one is for Snorkeling Equipment Rental. It seems that the second one is offered to the beginners. Can anyone tell me more about these 2 excusions?

I have learnt swimming before but still ...

 

[AnnMorin]

the equipment rental is for the walk in trail, that is the one I would recommend for you since the water can get choppy further out. It is never too late to learn to swim, you could take the children and get a semi private class for the three of you!!