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 Contents
iii PADI’s Snorkeling Philosophy
One Discover Snorkeling
Two Skin Diver Course

Download the most current forms

from padi.com/Pros area
Check with your PADI Office for
region specific releases,
applications or forms

PADI Snorkeling and Skin Diving programs

Instructor Guide
© PADI 2007
All rights reserved.

Published by PADI Americas, Inc.

30151 Tomas Street
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 USA
Printed in U.S.A.
Product No. 79116 Version 1.02 (Rev. 11/07)

ii Introduction
 PADI’s
Sn o rk el in g Ph il o s op hy

The truth is that snorkeling is simple, fun, inexpensive, has no age

barriers and can be experienced nearly anywhere. Consequently,
more people are interested in snorkeling than in scuba. Although
the potential market is huge, the types of services that snorkelers
seek are different from the needs of scuba divers. To successfully
cater to this market, dive professionals must understand why people
snorkel, then supply the experiences, equipment and services that
allow snorkelers to discover the underwater world.

PADI’s snorkeling philosophy has three basic premises:

1. People snorkel because they want to see and interact with the
underwater world.
2. Snorkeling is easy and safe.
3. Snorkelers may not want to be scuba divers.

Interacting with the Underwater World

One of the most common reasons given for going snorkeling is to see the under-
water world. Aquatic life identification books, slates and videos are popular snor-
keling materials because they enhance the snorkelers' experiences by defining
and categorizing the animals and plants they see.
Beyond aquatic life identification, snorkelers may have other specific goals.
For example, photography and videography are natural extensions of aquatic life
interests. Collecting and sharing photos or videos taken while snorkeling broad-
ens and diversifies the experience. Shallow water exploration can include search-
ing for artifacts and research activities. Wrecks near shore or partially submerged
can provide exciting snorkeling. Night snorkeling can produce the same thrill
experienced by night divers.
Snorkeling often appeals to those with a general interest in oceans, tide pools,
and inland waterways. Snorkelers tend to be nature-oriented people who pursue
environmental causes, and want to take part in preserving our underwater
resources. Snorkelers can be strong Project AWARE ambassadors, participating in
beach cleanups, shallow water cleanups and other activities.

Snorkeling/Skin Diving Programs Instructor Guide iii

Easy and Safe
Because most people who snorkel do so without formal training, potential snor-
kelers may not be interested in seeking professional instruction. Snorkelers may
enjoy themselves in the water, even if they have little or no aquatic ability.
Although most people enjoy snorkeling in the open water environment, snor-
keling in a swimming pool may also be fun. For example, snorkeling may be an
aerobic activity, part of an overall fitness program in health clubs, colleges and
universities.

Doesn’t Always Lead to Scuba

Scuba oriented people have a natural tendency to want to persuade snorkelers to
scuba dive. Because many scuba divers were first introduced to the underwater
world through snorkeling, they see trying
scuba diving as a logical progression.
However, there is risk of alienating a
snorkeling customer when scuba is pro-
moted in a manner that diminishes snor-
keling. Some snorkelers have no desire to
try scuba. Others have tried diving and
decided that snorkeling suits them better.
Avoid promoting snorkeling as an activity
that is nothing more than a precursor to
scuba diving. Consider snorkeling a worth-
while activity and promote it as such.

What is the difference between snorkeling, supplied air

snorkeling and skin diving?
For the purposes of this guide, snorkeling is defined as the use of a mask to see
underwater and a snorkel to breathe comfortably while looking down from
the surface. Snorkelers may also use fins, buoyancy vests, and exposure suits,
although this equipment may not be necessary depending on the environment.
Snorkelers generally stay on the surface, although they may perform occasional
dives to get a better look at something below.
Supplied air snorkeling involves the use of a BCD-like flotation device with
a compressed air tank and regulator. Wearing a mask, fins and the supplied air
snorkeling unit, users swim on the surface while breathing air supplied via the
regulator and tank. Supplied air snorkelers may also use exposure suits. Going
below the surface is not possible when using these units.
Skin divers use masks, snorkels, fins and buoyancy vests to both snorkel on
the surface and dive down below. Skin divers are proficient at properly adjusting
their equipment and buoyancy, equalizing air spaces while diving and clearing
their snorkels of water. Skin divers generally venture further than snorkelers and
may make frequent surface dives.

iv Introduction
 What is the difference between Discover Snorkeling and the
PADI Skin Diver course?
The PADI Skin Diver course results in PADI certification. It is structured and has
specific performance requirements. Skin Diver students must demonstrate profi-
ciency in surface dives, equalization and ascent techniques. Once the course is
completed, it’s not repeated.
Discover Snorkeling, on the other hand, is an experience, not a course. It’s a
supervised snorkeling tour for fun. Snorkelers can return to you many times to
participate in different Discover Snorkeling tours. Introducing snorkelers to sur-
face dives and equalization can be part of the tips given by the Discover Snorkel-
ing tour leader, however, this is done only if the snorkeler wants to learn these
skills.
At some point the Discover Snorkeling participants may be interested in
pursuing PADI Skin Diver certification. However, they may not. Either way, both
snorkelers and certified Skin Divers can participate in Discover Snorkeling.

Snorkeling/Skin Diving Programs Instructor Guide v

vi Introduction
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 One
Discover Snorkeling
Contents
1-3 Key Standards
1-4 PADI Snorkeling Materials
1-4 Overview
1-5 Marketing and Promotion
 If snorkeling doesn’t require formal training, why would a
snorkeler seek you out?
For two reasons:
1. Equipment: You can give snorkelers individualized attention and advice when
making equipment selections in terms of fit, function and quality. You can
introduce snorkelers to quality accessory equipment, related books, videos,
aquatic life identification slates and clothing, etc.
2. Experiences: You can lead Discover Snorkeling tours and vacations, enhanc-
ing the overall experience by giving assistance, advice and tips. Essentially,
you assume the role of adventure guide. In this tour leader role, you guide
the group, point out interesting features and aquatic life, and give those who
need it simple snorkeling tips and suggestions. You provide the support that
allows snorkelers to have more fun.

Supplied Air Snorkeling

Supplied Air Snorkeling systems are BCD-like flotation devices with a compressed
air tank and regulator. The units allow users to swim on the surface and breathe
air supplied via a regulator and tank. The units are designed so that the partici-
pants are unable to submerge. Weights are not used with the units.
The units are attractive options for those who are ineligible to dive or do not
wish to descend on scuba, yet prefer the units to use of traditional snorkeling
equipment.
Participants must be 5 years of age or older.
A diving certification is not required to fill the tanks. A Supplied Air Snorkel-
ing (SAS) decal affixed to the tank identifies it as part of a Supplied Air Snorkeling
system. Additionally, an optional recognition card is available for the owners of
such units. PADI Members are encouraged to fill SAS tanks for their customers.
Discover Snorkeling guidelines may be used when participants in PADI pro-
grams are using SAS systems.

Key Standards
Prerequisite certification:
none
Minimum age:
none*
Participant-to-
Ratios are left to the dive leader’s
PADI Member ratio:
discretion. Exercise sound judgment
relative to the environment,
conditions, ability to control the
group and any other relevant factors
when determining appropriate ratio
Minimum PADI Member Rating: Renewed (and insured where
required) PADI Divemaster
*Children under eight require special consideration such as close supervision, care-
ful attention to equipment fitting, assessment of aquatic ability, etc. Those as young
as five are eligible to use supplied air snorkeling equipment.

Snorkeling/Skin Diving Programs Instructor Guide 1-3

PADI Snorkeling Materials
The following PADI materials will help you organize and promote Discover Snor-
keling:
Video — Discover the Underwater World focuses on the sights and experiences of
snorkeling. The video emphasizes reasons to snorkel, not snorkeling itself. Simple
tips to make snorkeling even easier are wrapped in, and viewers are encouraged
to seek out PADI professionals for equipment, travel and services.
Field Guide — Accompanying the video is Discover the Underwater World, The
Snorkeler's Field Guide, which follows a similar philosophy. It illustrates various
underwater environments with common aquatic life snorkelers can expect to see.
Brochure — The Discover Snorkeling brochure is patterned after other PADI
brochures, suitable for distribution in dive centers, resorts, travel agencies, aboard
cruise ships, etc. The brochure describes how snorkeling provides easy, inexpen-
sive access to the underwater world.
Snorkeling Releases — Although Discover Snorkeling isn’t a course, when
leading snorkeling tours you can incur liability. For this reason, use the PADI
Discover Snorkeling/Skin Diving Statement or Supplied Air Snorkeling Statement,
as appropriate.
Recognition — When you conduct a Discover Snorkeling experience, recognize
participants with the Discover the Underwater World four color decal and Certifi-
cate of Participation.
Project AWARE Specialty Program and materials — The Project AWARE
Specialty Program teaches snorkelers about threats to the aquatic environment
and what individuals can do to make a difference. Associated materials, Project
AWARE brochures, decals and beach cleanup materials are as appropriate for
snorkelers as they are for scuba divers.
Underwater Naturalist Specialty Course Instructor Outline — The PADI
Underwater Naturalist Specialty course allows snorkeler participation and recog-
nition. The course goals are to create awareness of the underwater world, evoke a
sense of responsibility, expand knowledge of the aquatic environment and recruit
nondivers to scuba.
Dive Center/Resort Display — Creating a Discover Snorkeling Center display
of materials assists the snorkeler in locating equipment and materials specific to
his interest.

Overview
Leading Discover Snorkeling Tours
Because Discover Snorkeling is entirely experiential, most often all you will do is
lead a PADI Discover Snorkeling tour. Participants who are already comfortable
snorkeling, may only need a guide. Participants new to snorkeling, however, may
appreciate more help.
Participants using supplied air snorkeling equipment may need more assis-

1-4 Discover Snorkeling

 tance with assembly and donning equipment than those using just a mask and
snorkel. Tailor the Discover Snorkeling experience to each participant’s needs.

Use these guidelines:

1. Overview and brief participants on points of interest, aquatic life, local con-
ditions, and hazards.
2. Suggest procedures and techniques for entering and exiting the water.
3. Provide guidance (snorkeling tips and suggestions) when necessary and
appropriate. This may include orienting participants to:
• Mask defogging
• Mask and fin adjustment
• Donning equipment
• Swimming with fins
• Snorkel/supplied air breathing
• Entering and exiting the water
• Maintaining themselves in the water comfortably and with ease

Discover Snorkeling Outline — Optional

Participants who view the Discover the Underwater World video prior to the
experience receive information about basic equipment use, water safety, aquatic
life and snorkeling destinations. If the video isn’t available in a language partici-
pants understand, or a more structured approach is desired, using the following
outline can highlight key elements of the snorkeling experience:
I. Things to do and see
1. Watching aquatic life
2. Photography
3. Exploration
4. Local activities
II. Tips
1. Mask, fins, snorkel
2. Buoyancy vest
3. Exposure suits and weight systems as needed
4. Accessories
5. Gearing up
III. Snorkel swimming and water safety
1. Local sights, sounds and water temperature
2. Hand signals: OK, not OK (both close and at a distance), follow me, look
here
3. Defogging mask
4. Entering and exiting the water
5. Floating, breathing, relaxing
6. Buddy system
7. Removing water from snorkel and mask
8. Kicking with fins
9. Adding air to vest
IV. Show participants samples of equipment and fit them
individually

Snorkeling/Skin Diving Programs Instructor Guide 1-5

Marketing and Promotion
Cater to the Snorkeler
Successful Discover Snorkeling promotions cater to individual needs and send a
strong message to snorkelers that they are welcome.
For example, snorkeling families and enthusiasts will likely respond favorably
to special trip promotions focusing on snorkeling destinations. When promoting
dive trips, specifically welcome snorkelers to join (if appropriate). Make certain
that there are good snorkeling sites available and allocate a snorkeling tour
leader to accommodate these travelers.

Create a Snorkeling Center

By creating a snorkeling center in the dive store or resort, snorkelers are attracted
to quality snorkeling equipment, accessories and Discover Snorkeling materials in
one convenient location.
Have a variety of masks, fins and snorkels available (styles, colors and sizes,
including equipment designed for children). Offer snorkeling vests and exposure
suits, including skin suits and wet suits. Display supplied air snorkeling equip-
ment and explain how it provides an uninterrupted air supply and constant
buoyancy. Fill the area with snorkeling accessories, such as dive lights, underwa-
ter cameras, equipment bags, dive flags, mesh bags, dry boxes, defog, lanyards,
aquatic identification cards, spare straps kit, videos, books, clothing, etc.
Incorporate the theme of snorkeling (separated from scuba) into all promo-
tions, advertisement and facility signage.

Cross Marketing
If potential snorkelers don’t come to you – you must go to them. Be creative and
search for opportunities that extend to many areas of your community.
For example, a Discover Snorkeling experience may be a community event
during a warm weather holiday celebration. It may be a service given to under-
privileged children in the community or as a means to provide healthy diversions
for delinquent juveniles. Discover Snorkeling tours can be marketed to senior citi-
zen groups as part of wellness programs. Snorkeling has also been part of rehabil-
itation for those with certain physical challenges. Discover Snorkeling tours may
be promoted through the local chamber of commerce or tourism board as a way
to see and experience local waterways and the environment.
Don’t overlook the obvious: consider promoting snorkeling to people with
other water oriented interests, such as swimming, board sailing, jet skiing, fish-
ing, parasailing, surfing, white water rafting, kayaking, canoeing, etc.

Splash Parties
An effective way to introduce people to snorkeling (and stimulate interest in those
who already snorkel) is for dive centers, resorts and instructors to align with fit-
ness centers, travel groups, apartment complexes, spas, etc. to co-sponsor “splash
parties.”
To hold a snorkeling splash party, keep these simple points in mind:
1. Make it an exciting, fun and easy experience. Participants should leave
enthusiastic about snorkeling, with a desire to do more.
2. Your role is to facilitate discovery rather than “train.” Indirectly, participants
learn, and develop an interest in doing more. You need to be helpful and
enthusiastic about snorkeling.

1-6 Discover Snorkeling

 3. Before getting in the pool, have participants read and sign the Discover
Snorkeling/Skin Diving Statement or the Supplied Air Snorkeling Statement.
Besides explaining potential risks to the participant and increasing liability
protection, you can use these forms to create a store database for Discover
Snorkeling tour promotions.
4. Help participants with equipment — defog masks for them, adjust straps,
and make sure they are fitted with the most comfortable equipment.
5. Play snorkeling games and award prizes to everyone. Try relay races, swim-
ming through plastic hoops (weighted to rise, just touching the surface), find-
ing plastic weighted sea shells, in-water tug of war, etc.
6. Keep the party to about an hour; doing so keeps interests levels up, is not
tiring and reduces the potential for chilling.
7. Allow time for a brief refreshment social afterward to encourage the party
atmosphere, answer questions, and promote Discover Snorkeling events,
travel and fitness. Have travel flyers, Discover Scuba Diving brochures and
cooperating sponsor brochures available. In addition, hand out Discover the
Underwater World decals, especially to children and youth groups.

Snorkeling/Skin Diving Programs Instructor Guide 1-7

1-8 Discover Snorkeling
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 Two
PADI Skin Diver
Contents
2-3 Goals
2-3 Overview
2-3 Standards
2-5 Open Water Dive
2-5 Certification Procedures
2-5 Key Standards
 Goals
1. Make practical application of skills that are uniquely for skin diving.
2. Have students enjoy themselves while building confidence in their skin
diving ability, developing judgment and gaining experience.

Standards
Prerequisites
To qualify for training as a PADI Skin Diver, an individual must be 8
years of age or older.

Instructor Supervision
Skin Diver courses may be conducted by a renewed and insured (where required)
PADI Divemaster, PADI Assistant Instructor or PADI Underwater Instructor (or
PADI Instructor with a higher rating).
The maximum in-water ratio of skin diver students to instructor is
16 students to one instructor (16:1) in confined water and 10 students
to one instructor (10:1) in open water.

Equipment
During confined and open water training, each student must be
equipped with fins, mask, snorkel and buoyancy-control device (BCD).
Appropriate exposure protection and weight belts are to be used as needed, at the
instructor’s discretion.

Considerations for Open Water Training

Open water training is recommended, but not required for certification.
The minimum number of recommended hours is 12, with the time being
equally divided between knowledge development and skill development sessions.

Overview
Adjust the degree of subject matter and technical information for the age level
of the class. You can cover information in an interesting, nontechnical manner,
whether presented to junior or adult classes.
The knowledge development portion of the PADI Skin Diver course
must cover information on equipment, diving science, the environ-
ment, problem management and safe practices of skin diving in the
local area.
The water training portion of the PADI Skin Diver course must
cover the techniques of donning equipment, entering the water, check-
ing buoyancy, surface swimming, snorkel clearing and performing
surface dives.

Snorkeling/Skin Diving Programs Instructor Guide 2-3

Performance Requirements
To be certified as a PADI Skin Diver or to participate in a PADI-sanctioned open
water skin dive, a student must demonstrate satisfactory completion of the perfor-
mance requirements in confined water using snorkeling equipment.

By the end of this course, the student must be able to:

1. Prepare, don, adjust and remove all skin diving equipment inde-
pendently.
2. Check his own equipment and the equipment of another diver for
malfunction or maladjustment.
3. Make safe entries and exits into the water, including boat entries,
using a variety of techniques appropriate for local conditions/
environment.
4. Achieve neutral buoyancy at the surface by independent selection
and adjustment of weights as necessary.
5. Control the airway to prevent choking while breathing through
a snorkel.
6. Orally inflate and completely deflate a buoyancy control device
(BCD) at the surface.
7. Remain within 3 metres/10 feet of a buddy diver continuously
while at the surface.
8. While wearing snorkeling equipment, swim proficiently at the
surface in water too deep to stand up in.
9. Dive vertically headfirst from the surface in water too deep to
stand up in.
10. Swim at least 15 metres/50 feet under water on a single breath
of air.
11. Ascend safely by looking up and around while swimming, and by
holding one hand over the head.
12. Clear a snorkel of water by using the blast method and resume
breathing through the snorkel without lifting the face from the
water.
13. Clear and breathe from a snorkel upon ascent without lifting the
face from the water. Use displacement and/or blast clear methods,
depending upon snorkel design. Exposure to a variety of snorkels and
both snorkel clearing methods is recommended.
14. Swim on the surface and underwater in snorkeling equipment
while maintaining control of direction.
15. If using a weight belt, remove and replace it at the surface in
water too deep to stand up in.
16. Correctly interpret and respond to PADI standard hand signals, at
the surface and underwater.

2-4 PADI Skin Diver

 Open Water Dive
This skin dive is not required for certification as a PADI Skin Diver. The option to
include this dive is left solely to the instructor’s discretion.

Overview
• Briefing
• Equipment preparation
• Suiting up
• Equipment inspection
• Entry
• Buoyancy check
• Surface swim
• Surface dives and underwater swimming (buddies alternate)
• Exit
• Debriefing

NOTE:
For further information on how to conduct the open water dive, see the Optional
Skin Dive in the “Open Water Diver Course Instructor Guide.”

Certification Procedures
Upon satisfactory completion of all performance requirements the
certifying instructor issues a PADI Skin Diver certification. This is
accomplished by submitting a completed, signed PIC to the appropri-
ate PADI Office. The PADI Instructor, Assistant Instructor or Divemas-
ter who conducts the student’s final water training session is the
certifying instructor. The instructor certifying the student must ensure
that all certification performance requirements have been met.

Key Standards
Prerequisite certification: None
Minimum age: 8
Recommended time: 12 hours
Minimum open water training: None required (one recommended)
Skin Diver-to-PADI Member ratio: 16:1 for confined water; 10:1 for
open water
Minimum PADI Member rating: PADI Divemaster

Snorkeling/Skin Diving Programs Instructor Guide 2-5

2-6 PADI Skin Diver