10 Tips for Snorkelling With Your Kids

by Catalin Andries on January 16, 2024

Snorkelling offers an unparalleled opportunity for families to bond, create lasting memories, and foster a deep appreciation for nature.

Whether you have seasoned snorkelers or beginners in your family, this thrilling activity caters to all ages, making it an ideal choice for a fun-filled day out. In this article, we'll delve into ten fantastic tips and ideas for snorkelling as a family, ensuring that you have a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience beneath the waves.

1. Choose the Right Snorkelling Spot

Picking the perfect snorkelling location is crucial for an enjoyable family outing. Look for places with calm and shallow waters, especially if you have young children or inexperienced snorkelers.

Protected bays, lagoons, and designated snorkelling areas in marine reserves are often excellent choices. These spots usually have minimal currents and ample marine life, making them safe and captivating for the entire family.

Research the snorkelling location beforehand to learn about the marine life you might encounter, as this can add excitement and education to the experience. Ensure that the destination you choose has the necessary facilities, such as restrooms, picnic areas, and easy access to the water.

 

2. Safety First

While snorkelling is generally a safe activity, it's essential to prioritise safety, especially when exploring with children. Before heading into the water, ensure that everyone is equipped with properly fitting snorkelling gear. Teach little ones how to use the equipment effectively, and practice in shallow waters first.

A cardinal rule of snorkelling is to never touch or disturb marine life, as some creatures can be dangerous or easily stressed. Familiarise yourself and your family with the local underwater environment and potential hazards.

If there are areas with strong currents, it's best to avoid them, as they can pose risks, even for confident swimmers. Always keep a close eye on each other, and establish a system of buddy pairs, where no one snorkels alone.

3. Encourage Marine Conservation

Snorkelling provides a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems up close. Use this chance to instil a sense of responsibility for the oceans and marine life in your family. Talk to your children about the importance of preserving these environments and the impact of pollution, climate change, and overfishing.

Consider organising a beach cleanup before or after your snorkelling adventure, involving the whole family in removing litter and debris from the shoreline.

You can also join local or global marine conservation organisations and support their initiatives. Encourage your children to be responsible snorkelers by emphasising the significance of leaving no trace and respecting the underwater world.

4. Dive into Underwater Photography

Capture the magic of snorkelling as a family by engaging in underwater photography. Nowadays, waterproof smartphones and action cameras make it easier than ever to document your underwater experiences.

Underwater photography also presents an excellent opportunity for educational purposes. Encourage your kids to identify and learn about the fish and other creatures they photograph. This way, snorkelling becomes not just a recreational activity but also a means of learning about marine biodiversity and ecosystems.

If you’re interested in learning more about underwater photography, we have a whole article dedicated to it!

5. Snorkel Games and Exploration

To make snorkelling even more enjoyable for the whole family, incorporate some fun games and exploration challenges. For instance, you can create a snorkelling scavenger hunt where each family member tries to find specific fish or objects underwater. Another exciting game is "Simon Says" but with snorkelling movements, where one person takes the lead, and others mimic their underwater actions.

Encourage curiosity and exploration by observing marine life from a distance and trying to identify different species. Bring along a waterproof field guide or use smartphone apps that can help identify the fish and other creatures you encounter.

6. Snorkelling at Night

For a unique and magical experience, consider snorkelling at night with your family. Many snorkelling spots offer guided night snorkelling tours that allow you to witness a whole new world of nocturnal marine life. Bioluminescent plankton, hunting octopuses, and sleeping parrotfish are just a few of the fascinating creatures you might encounter.

The underwater landscape transforms under the glow of underwater flashlights, creating an enchanting and memorable adventure for the entire family. Before embarking on a night snorkelling adventure, make sure that everyone is comfortable swimming in the dark and that you have proper illumination and safety gear. Remember, this activity might be a bit much to chew for newbies, so plan accordingly!

7. Snorkelling with Educational Guides

Enhance your family's snorkelling experience by joining guided tours led by marine biologists or naturalists. These experts can provide valuable insights into the marine ecosystem, explain the behaviours of various marine species, and identify the underwater flora and fauna.

Educational guides can turn snorkelling into an interactive and enriching learning opportunity for both kids and adults! Their knowledge and passion for marine life can spark curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for the ocean's wonders.

8. Try Snorkelling from a Boat

Explore different snorkelling sites and enjoy the convenience of having a boat as your base by engaging in boat-based snorkelling. Many family-friendly snorkelling excursions take you to multiple locations, maximising your chances of encountering diverse marine life.

Snorkelling from a boat also offers a comfortable and safe platform for children, especially those who might feel uncomfortable swimming in open water. It allows you to access more remote and less crowded spots, ensuring a more exclusive and peaceful experience.

9. Choose the Right Gear

No matter the activity you’re choosing or whether you’re embarking on a family or solo holiday, the gear you choose will likely have a huge impact on your experience.

It’s our duty as Australia’s #1 Snorkelling Choice to recommend the right gear for an amazing experience; ours!

For Instance: our full-face snorkelling masks are designed to let you breathe naturally through your mouth and nose, create a tight seal that keeps water out, and offer a comfortable experience thanks to the premium material.

You might be interested in going high-tech with the First Smart Snorkelling Mask in the World, or you might want a way to help keep a closer eye on your little ones while they’re snorkelling with our Longer Tube mask. Whatever the choice, we’re here to help your holiday level up from uncertain to amazing.

But don’t take our word for it. After all, everyone thinks that what they’re selling is the best.

Check out our reviews! Hundreds of people, just like you, have had (and are continuing to have) amazing experiences thanks to our gear.

Consider us when planning your next snorkelling trip!

10. Snorkelling Games for Skill Development

Transform snorkelling into an opportunity for skill development by introducing games that improve swimming, snorkelling, and breath-holding abilities. For instance, set up an underwater obstacle course using floating buoys or weighted hoops that your family must swim through or under.

Play games that challenge participants to hold their breath for progressively longer durations while observing marine life beneath the surface. These activities not only make snorkelling more enjoyable but also build confidence and competence in the water.

 

Final Thoughts

Snorkelling as a family provides a fantastic way to connect with nature, build lasting memories, and nurture a sense of wonder for the underwater world.

Even if none of the above ten snorkelling ideas sparked your interest, as long as you experience snorkelling as a family, you’re already on the right track!


Have you ever dreamed of snorkelling but felt uneasy about wearing a full face snorkel mask?

Just ask Phill, a true NINJA SHARK lover! He reached out to us after trying our masks, here’s what he had to say:

Our masks are equipped with advanced Anti-Fog technology, automatic drainage, and improved breathing chambers, ensuring there's no CO2 buildup. It's the ultimate gear for a worry-free and safe snorkelling adventure.


From total newbie to pro, Ninja Shark is the way to go!

The Ninja Shark full face snorkel masks makes your experiences the best they can be. They are exclusively sold on the Ninja Shark website.





“If you thought we’re just here to sell you products, think again. You’re part of the Ninja Shark family, and your feedback matters! We’re constantly working to improve our products and to bring the dreamlike full face snorkel mask to reality!"

What customers are saying about us…

"Amazing"

We bought the equalizer mask and fins package for lake and river snorkeling and it’s amazing. As soon as I submerged my head I was in a whole new world. I have never experienced such an immersion into the underwater world before (with normal snorkel gear). The equalizer mask is crystal clear, no water ever gets in (even when I dive, do summer saults, jump in off a rock) and being able to equalize my pressure by plugging my nose is awesome. I love breathing freely through my mouth and nose. I’m just really impressed and love my mask. The flippers are really nice to. They fit great.

Try our line of snorkelling and swimming gear
by Ninja Shark! You’ll love it.

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Based on 1513 reviews
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Prescription Lens for full face snorkel

Recently we went on a cruise to the South Pacific with lots of opportunities to snorkel. I was asked so many times "are they prescription lenses in there" & "where did you get them from".

The lenses were awesome, I was able to see and enjoy the snorkelling. Others tried mine and were amazed how good they were. As they were suctioned to the mask it made sure the mask was in the correct position on you face (not too high/low). Initially my lenses were a little tight to put together but they went in alright in the end :)

It was easy to find out what level (prescription/strength) was needed, I just went to my optometrist with the options and they told me which ones I needed.

D
Lifetime Warranty
Diane K. (Melbourne, AU)
The Ninja Shark Snorkel mask is awesome!

We bought these snorkel masks as we were going on a tropical holiday which included snorkelling tours and we both hated breathing through traditional plastic snorkels shoved in our mouths. My partner in particular did not want to snorkel because of this. These snorkel masks are FANTASTIC and were GAME CHANGERS. We did several lots of snorkelling on our holiday and every time, we were able to lie in the water, breathe normally and focus on looking underwater without worrying about breathing. Even if you dive underwater with these masks, the valve blocks water from coming into your snorkel mask. I bought the premium Equaliser Pro with the ability to pinch your nose if diving and my partner bought the basic model. Both are fantastic products - comfortable, easy to wear and highly recommended. You need to fit it tightly but it's really comfortable in the water and doesn't leak. Even when you come up you don't need to take it off, just keep breathing normally. I loved snorkelling with this product and even my anti-snorkelling partner really enjoyed it and felt this mask was a game changer.

T
Lifetime Warranty
Tom P. (Melbourne, AU)
Recommended

Great product and even better customer service

J
Package : Air Adults (Mask + Fins + Bag)
JEANNIE O. (Piara Waters, AU)
Bloody love this!

Never snorkelled in my life. Petrified of putting my head under water. But now my neck is bad - if I don't alter the way I swim - then no more swimming for me. This has opened 'a whole new world' - (haha -that songs stuck in your head now) - to me. I'm just using my ninja gear in my gym outdoor pool atm. My legs are getting so strong - and my lungs too - as I'm doing some great breathing. I have huge surgery coming up soon - and i believe this is allowing me to get to a great level of fitness - in preparation. Honestly - i can't go on enough about this product enough. My friend bought a cheaper version. She's given it away already... say no more 🤿🤿🤿

B
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Bolang C. (Perth, AU)
Great design

This is the best snorkel mask I’ve ever had. Very comfortable on face, easy to breathe. I am not a good swimmer, it makes me feel safe and enjoy snorkelling without distraction. Thank you ninjiashark.

Best snorkel ever!!

Got one of these for me and my 7 year old daughter for Xmas. We’ve used them twice already and love them!! So much easier to breathe, can see so much and just makes the whole snorkelling experience better! Would highly recommend!

Clear as day

Clear to see and easy to breathe,
Whole family loves the NinjaShark Snorkel mask.

R
Lifetime Warranty
Robyn H. (Adelaide, AU)
Amazing

The best snorkel and mask combination. No going back now! I could snorkel for over an hour easily. So glad I made this purchase

M
(DRAFT) Package: Dry Snorkel (Set + Fins + Bag)
Maureen R. (Townsville, AU)
Mermaid

While travelling in Timor leste l met a fellow snorkeller. We snorkelled for 10 days together the food was shit but the water was stunning. The friend was using Ninja Shark fins and mask mine were steaming up, letting in water and heavy. On arriving back in Australia l ordered straight away.
I was a little bit anxious on receiving my order as the mask was quite different to my old one and the fins were short and adjustable ( l wanted them to be my size ! ) well to my luck the weather was beautiful ( yes mid winter in Mackay ) and perfect for boating so off we scooted to Cockermouth ( don't laugh it's a real place ) jumping in and WOW I'm now a mermaid 🧜‍♀️ the mask and fins felt like part of me. I actually cried as not only was the equipment allowing me to explore as l wanted but the reef was STUNNING. So lm indepted to Ninja Shark for making me the mermaid l always aspired to be 🧜‍♀️

Took it to Tahiti

I wasn’t quite sure about getting a full face mask but bought mine (Electra package) before a trip to Tahiti which we got home from yesterday - absolutely LOVED it!!! I’ll be getting one for my wife before our next trip to a similar destination. BTW I make LOTS of crazy videos with lots of toys.

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Life changing

I do love my full face snorkel.. the freedom of nose breathing under the water.. the meditative and relaxative effect of this snorkeling is unexpected and great. Fits so well.. comfy to wear for long time.. highly recommend

J
(DRAFT) Diving Dry Snorkel Set with GoPro mount
Joanne T. (Brisbane, AU)
Super quality & fit

So happy we got Ninja shark, perfect for Great barrier reef snorkel day.
Flippers, mask, dry wallet, carry bag (good quality bag), anti fog spray, happy days.

Ninja Shark Kids Mask

We recently brought the Ninja Shark Kids 3-11 Mask + Fins + Bag package for our 7 year old who absolutely loves it! Will be buying three more for the rest of the family. 😊

Even better than expected!

I saw the kids full face snorkel masks online, and thought they looked pretty cool. I ordered two for Christmas, for my 3 and 6 year olds. Wow, did they have a great time with them!

I wasn't sure how the 3 year old would go with it, but he was comfortable in it almost immediately, and spent hours swimming around and seeing a whole new world of underwater scenery.

They were easy to fit, zero issues with them staying on. No leaks or fog.

They can't wait to get back to the water!

Highly recommend this product :)

N
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Nick J. (Brisbane, AU)
mask swimming

The mask did exactly what was stated. I was very happy and will get another mask for my daughter.

R
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Raffaele S. (Perth, AU)
Great way to swim

I have NEVER been able to snorkel but love swimming. These full face snorkels are an absolute game changer in my life. Now I try to swim around 5 kms a week in the local pool. The Ninja mask makes it easy to do laps. I’ve been using the Ninja Shark for a quite few years and find the new Electra the best full face mask ever. No leaks, no fog and really easy to use and great quality. I’ve noticed my regular chats with other swimmers at the pool have encouraged many of them to purchase one of their own. I’ve given my older models to my grandkids and they love them too.

Fabulous

I got one for the 3 year old and one for the 5 year old, I thought maybe the 3 year old would get the hang of it eventually but they both loved it and mastered it pretty quickly. We’ve only used in the swimming pool, excited to go snorkeling in the ocean soon. Great product.

S
Lifetime Warranty
Sarah B. (Surfers Paradise, AU)
Love it!

Amazing product ! Have the electra package, kids love it. So easy to use. Highly recommend

J
(DRAFT) Diving Dry Snorkel Set with GoPro mount
Jen M. (Brisbane, AU)
Love it

Bought these for myself and my husband after getting the full face masks for the kids, and they were so good we’re getting them for the rest of the extended family for Xmas. The fact u can dive down and not get water down ur snorkel is a brilliant bonus! Makes our family holidays much easier and better without snorkel dramas!

This made our holiday

The product itself was amazing, but the service we received allowed us to get our 2 sets of masks for our cruise. We took them with us and used them multiple times for snorkelling on our cruise to Nouméa and New Caledonia. It was amazing snorkelling and being able to breathe easily, and the fins were the most comfortable I've ever used. I've got size 13 feet, and not only were they completely adjustable, but they were THE most comfortable fins ever invented. A massive shoutout to Colleen Zamora from your support staff who helped me out and made it possible to take our gear on holidays! Thanks Colleen!
The photo is us snorkelling off Amadee Island looking for turtles!

My kids love them

I’ve got three of these masks for my younger kids, however the oldest wants one too as the young ones rave about how good the are.

Summer Family Fun

Our Ninja masks have made snorkelling as a whole family very easy and enjoyable. The kids (and parents) find them super easy to use and have allowed us as a family of five to snorkel for longer than we ever could using traditional snorkel gear. I would highly recommend these masks.

G
Lifetime Warranty
Geri D. (Sydney, AU)
Lifetime warranty

Glad I have but haven’t needed to use .. yet

Great Mask

Love this mask. Kids find it so much easier snorkelling with the Ninja Shark. The snorkel mask is super clear and doesn’t fog up. The adjustable straps are great and easy to loosen and tighten. Very happy that we made the decision to get these for the kids.

A must for snorkelers!

Recently purchased the Equaliser Pro Mask, Finns and bag. 🤿 🐠🐡🐟🦈 Had an amazing time snorkeling off Fitzroy Island, the Pro mask allowed me to explore for over 7 hours. Higly recommend! Planning must next snorkeling trip! 🤿💦🌴☀️