Using a snorkel properly will give you a clear vision of what’s going on under the sea without having to breathe water.

Step One

Test your mask and snorkel together to determine fit and comfort.

Step Two

Position the small rubber strap that attaches the snorkel to your mask so that the snorkel passes just above your left ear. (If you are using a special left-handed snorkel, it will be on your right.)

Step Three

Take a deep breath, bite down on the mouthpiece and submerge your head in the water.

Step Four

Exhale sharply once to clear any water that may be in the snorkel shaft. This is commonly called ‘blasting’ or ‘purging.

Step Five

Inhale gently at first in case there is any residual water. Blast a second time if needed, and continue to do so whenever water enters the snorkel.

Step Six

Learn to move gently on the surface’rapid or abrupt movements can fill the snorkel with water.

Step Seven

Inhale and hold your breath, then dive to explore the underwater environment around you.

Step Eight

Ascend, make sure the snorkel end is above the surface, then purge to clear the tube of water.

Step Nine

Breathe cautiously to be sure the snorkel has cleared completely. If you don’t have enough air left to purge, lift your head above the surface and take the snorkel out to breathe.

Tips & Warnings

* When you’re floating facedown in the water in a relaxed position, the snorkel should extend vertically above your head.

* It’s normal for snorkels to flood with water periodically because of wave action as you move about on the surface. Practice purging your snorkel until it becomes routine.

Clearing the Snorkel of Water

Step One

Make sure you are gripping the mouthpiece of the snorkel securely with your teeth.

Step Two

Exhale forcefully through your mouth. The majority of the water should be expelled from the tube. This method is commonly called “blasting” or “popping.”

Step Three

Inhale gently at first in case there is any residual water. Blast a second time if needed.

Step Four

Continue blasting whenever water enters the snorkel.

Tips & Warnings

*If you are ascending to the surface, you can tilt your head back and exhale a small puff of air into the snorkel. Then as you rise, the air puff will expand and clear the tube naturally so that by the time you reach the surface the snorkel is already clear. This trick takes some practice to perfect, but it requires less effort than blasting.

* Some snorkels have a type of one-way valve at the top that is intended to stop any water from washing inside while on the surface. These rarely work as advertised and are not needed.