Can't Swim, Where's Best Snorkeling for Me?

[nehdeh]

My DH cannot swim. In the past, we have always done the type of snorkeling where you simply walk out and snorkel so he feels "safe". However, after reading much on this board, it seems that the snorkeling at Castaway Cay is not the best: cloudy, sandy, etc. I'm wondering about some of the boat and Catamaran snorkeling excursions...do they only drop you off in deeper waters? He will not go in anything deeper than his chest, and he's 6'0". He's taken swimming lessons, both group and private and each instructor is befuddled because even on a floaty noodle he sinks!! It takes 3 noodles just to keep his chin out of the water.
So, long story short, is there any other snorkeling in relatively shallow waters other than Castaway Cay?
Thanks!

 

[GenieDana]

On CC, you are issued a snorkeling buyancy compensator or snorkeling vest(an inflatable life vest).

If you are concerned, buy your own before you go! You can get one from a local Dive Shop, if you have one, or buy online.

They don't cost very much (i.e. search eBay for "snorkeling vest" or buy new online like at: http://www.joediveramerica.com/page/JDA/CTGY/snorkelvest) and your DH can gain confidence in a local pool/lake before your cruise. The snorkeling type pack light too.

Why miss out?

 

[sweet angel]

You can go out pretty far at Serenity Bay (CC) without going past a 6' man's chest.

 

[zacsmom]

I have had this problem for years. I used to take the life-vest from the cruise ship that I happened to be on at the time. Now, I have an inflatable dive vest that I carry with me. I took lessons at the Y in order to pass a Boy Scout swim test. and it gave me a lot more confidence as well as taught me how to more efficiently use my energy. I also found that by wearing a dive suit that I have more bouyancy. My swim instructor taught me that one. It kinda acts as an additional float for the rest of your body. Maybe this will help. Good luck!

 

[nehdeh]

Thanks everyone for all of your advice!
I would still like to know if the boat/catamaran snorkeling excursions are in deeper water. Thanks again! This board is a WEALTH of knowledge!

 

[jaysmom4285]

We did one snorkeling excursion a couple years ago on our land/sea cruise. I think it was in Freeport, but I'm not positive. They did take us out into deeper water - not incredibly deep, probably no more 8-10 feet in most spots, less in some. But definitely deeper than anyone could stand in. We were given vests that helped you float. I'm not a very strong swimmer myself, but with the vests, I was fine.

 

[TammiMcMan]

Yes, most of the snorkeling excursions do take you out into deeper waters. As another poster mentioned, the adult beach at Castaway Cay would be a great spot for him. Just remember to pick up your snorkeling gear before heading over. They have some nice sandbars there and we saw lots of marine life without having the water go above our knees. You can go out really far there and still be able to stand up.

Tammi