January 25, 2022 6 min read

Snorkeling and scuba diving are two different ways of exploring the ocean. The main difference between these two is that scuba diving takes place underwater, while snorkeling takes place on top of the water. Scuba diving equipment includes an air tank, regulator, gas mask, fins, weight belt, wet suit, and buoyancy compensator. A snorkel is the only equipment needed for snorkeling. The depth that a person can go in the water while snorkeling depends on the strength of the person's lungs. Snorkeling is a better option for people with asthma or sensitive skin.

What is Snorkeling?

Imagine relaxing on the surface of a serene pond, gazing up at the clouds above. All of a sudden, a shoal of fish darts by. If you watch long enough, you see that they're not swimming alone, but in a neat-looking pattern. Now imagine yourself in that same pond, but only instead of the surface of the water, it's your mask that is just above the water. You can see the rest of the blue-green world around you with the most amazing clarity. It feels like you're exploring a whole new world with just your mask and snorkel.

This is snorkeling! Snorkeling is an activity in which people swim atop or near the surface of the water. When snorkeling you wear only basic snorkel gear.

woman snorkeling

Some people prefer snorkeling over scuba diving. This is because cost of snorkeling is cheaper than scuba diving. Another advantage is that it is easier to learn since you just have to breathe through the snorkel. Some people prefer snorkeling to scuba diving because it is more relaxed, even though they are missing some of the features of diving.

While diving, there are creatures that can't be seen if you are looking down at them, but because snorkelers are able to remain at the surface, they are able to see them. There is also no need to spend money on all the gear for scuba diving, meaning the sport is much more accessible financially. Third, if you are new to snorkeling, you are far less likely to be out of breath because you are only using your nose and not your mouth.

What is Scuba Diving?

Scuba Diving, also known as scuba, is a unique recreational activity which is an extreme sport. Scuba Diving involves underwater exploration using a device called a scuba set. The scuba set is made up of an oxygen tank, regulators, and mouthpiece. The breath of the diver is filtered through the mouthpiece and enters the regulator which is connected to the oxygen tank. When the diver breathes out, the air is treated by the oxygen in the tank and is then breathed back in by the diver.

The scuba set is designed for use underwater and it allows the diver to dive down to a maximum depth of 40 meters. Scuba diving is a popular recreational activity which can be enjoyed in all seasons.


One of the greatest enjoyment one can have in the water is Scuba Diving. It provides for a completely different experience when one can submerge, rather than being on the surface. There are many benefits to Scuba Diving when compared to snorkeling. The most important aspect of Scuba Diving is that one can be submerged for longer periods of time and at a much deeper level due to the use of a Scuba tank. One can breathe more comfortably and travel farther with a tank. The gear for Scuba Diving is also more durable and versatile, allowing one to explore underwater terrain and see things from a whole new perspective.

What is the Special Equipment Required for Scuba Diving?

Scuba diving is an incredible form of underwater exploration - an opportunity to see things that most people never have the chance to see. However, there is some equipment that is necessary for this activity. One of the most important items is a mask with a snorkel. When diving, you will most likely be wearing the mask.

The mask is tight over the face, so the nose and mouthparts are covered. This leaves space for breathing with the snorkel. Scuba divers have plenty of breathing space in the mask, but for snorkeling, they need to keep the mouth on the tube of the snorkel on top of the water surface.

The face mask is necessary to protect your face, the air tank is necessary for breathing, the weight belt is necessary to keep you afloat, the fins are for swimmers, the dive computer is recommended, the snorkel is for breathing, and you should also have a wetsuit or dry suit.

people scuba diving

How Do I Go About Learning Scuba Diving?

If you want to go diving but you're unsure of how to go about learning the art, these are some great ways to get started. Join a scuba club or organization. This is one of the best ways to get started. You'll find people with similar interests who are willing to help you get the basics down before you go out on your first dive. It's also a great place to make friends with other divers. Visit a scuba retailer. Employees at these stores can be very helpful and knowledgeable about what type of gear you need to use diving. They can also help you with deciding on the level of certification that you need. Investigate different certification options.

To Wrap Things Up

What is the difference between snorkeling and scuba diving? Snorkeling is a great way for anyone to get up close and personal with the sea life. Both snorkelers and scuba divers use masks and snorkels to breathe underwater while they explore the depths. The difference is that scuba divers carry their own air supply and must be at least 18 years old to participate, while snorkeling does not require any special gear- the snorkel is the sole piece of equipment.

Commonly Asked Questions

Which is better snorkeling or scuba diving?

If you are on the fence about whether to snorkel or scuba dive, it is likely that you are not alone. There are some who believe that snorkeling is the superior underwater experience, while there are others who will argue that scuba diving is the preferred way to explore the depths. Given that you are still on the fence about this question, here is something to consider when deciding which option is correct for you.

One of the things to consider is whether you are looking for a deeper dive. Snorkeling will not allow you to go down as far as scuba diving will, which means that if you are looking to explore deep water, scuba diving is the way to go.

Is snorkeling an expensive hobby?

No! Snorkeling is one of the best water-based hobbies to take up. You don't need to spend a fortune on any snorkel equipment because snorkels are available for hire in most holiday destinations. You can also buy a snorkel gear online for around $20. Try it out and see if you like snorkeling before you commit to buying the equipment.

scuba diving woman

Is snorkeling harder than scuba diving?

I have always found it difficult to say what is "harder" when it comes to snorkeling or scuba diving. I think that it really boils down to what you are looking for when you are in the water. If you are looking for something that is more laid back, relaxing, and easy to do, then snorkeling would be for you. On the flip side, if you are looking for something that is more intense, with greater challenges to overcome, then scuba diving will certainly suit you better. People who are more daring will enjoy the challenge of scuba.

How long does a scuba tank last?

Scuba tanks are small metal cylinders that a diver carries with them to provide air while underwater. They are often made of aluminum and have a regulator, which helps the diver control the air pressure to make it easier to breathe while underwater. The size of scuba tanks is typically 20 cubic feet or 208 pounds, which is divided up into pounds per hour. Scuba tanks can last for a few hours depending on how much a diver is underwater.

Author - Aleksandra Djurdjevic
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aleksandra Djurdjevic          

Senior Content Creator

Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering surf, kayak and various watersports activities. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the ocean / rivers, getting out waves, season after season, seeking epic adventures across the globe helps her continue to be a top expert at CSG.


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