We get asked the question frequently, “What is SNUBA®“? To put it simply, SNUBA® is a blend of both snorkeling and SCUBA diving. With SNUBA®, you’ll enjoy the simplicity of snorkeling, but you’ll also enjoy the freedom of diving deeper and staying submerged longer – similar to SCUBA diving, only without the required certifications.
Similar to SCUBA, you’ll continue to breathe through a standard SCUBA regulator that receives air from an air supply; only you’ll be connected by a 20-foot airline to the air supply that has been placed on a specially designed SNUBA® raft that floats on the ocean’s surface following your every move.
By taking the heavy gear that enables you to breathe underwater and placing it on the surface, you’re able to freely explore the beauty of our underwater world at the depth most comfortable for you – from 2ft to 20ft. In a sense, we’ve taken the load off your back!
HOW IT ALL STARTED
The invention of SNUBA® is a story of entrepreneurialism. The idea was conceived nearly 40 years ago by Michael Stafford, the original founder of SNUBA® International, when he used an older surface ‘hookah’ system that enabled him to mine for gold underwater in the streams and lakes throughout Northern California. It was during one of those excursions that Michael was struck with the idea of a hookah style system that might be used recreationally as a way to allow people to explore underwater for a longer period of time.
After many months of working to test and perfect a lightweight, durable surface-supplied air delivery system, Michael secured the patents and trademarks for what is known today as SNUBA® – the perfect hybrid that captures the essence of SCUBA diving with the ease of snorkeling.
Now under the direction of Lynn Ekstrom and Sandy Ullrich, former SNUBA® Operators themselves, SNUBA® has expanded worldwide and is offered as a recreational activity by licensed SNUBA® Operators across the globe who have guided thousands of SNUBA® tours and delighted millions of SNUBA® Guests.
WHAT MAKES SNUBA® UNIQUE?
HIGHLY TRAINED SNUBA® GUIDES
Did you know? Our SNUBA® Guides join each tour to ensure the safety of every SNUBA® participant! Each SNUBA® Guide is certified and professionally trained and with you every step of the way – from the time you check in at your SNUBA® location to the moment you’ve finished your tour.
Upon arrival at your SNUBA® tour location, you’ll be fitted with the proper equipment that includes a lightweight harness from which the airline is attached, along with a mask and fins, and an adjustable weight belt. You’ll then join your fellow SNUBA® tour participants for a 15-minute safety briefing prior to heading into the water. Although you’ll be able to freely explore underwater at your own pace, your SNUBA® Guide will always be there with you to lend a helping hand.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
SCUBA diving is at the top of most bucket lists when thinking about things to do on a tropical vacation, but the required certifications and time-consuming classes can be a turn-off for many – which makes SNUBA® the perfect alternative. In fact, we consistently hear from families how amazingly EASY and accessible, not to mention incredibly fun, it is to SNUBA®. From the tender age of six to the wise old age of 86, anybody can SNUBA®!
Kids can SNUBA®, too! Our SNUBA® DOO program is uniquely designed for children aged six and seven so that they, too, can join their families on a SNUBA® adventure.
How does it work? SNUBA® Doo participants wear a specially designed flotation vest and regulator. The SNUBA® raft is never more than 10-feet from the SNUBA® Doo participant and can always be used at any time for support. And what’s more – SNUBA® Doo participants are under the supervision of a professional SNUBA® Guide the entire time!
SNUBA® Doo is a great way to introduce smaller children to the natural beauty underwater.
EVERY SNUBA® RAFT MADE BY HAND
Over the years, there has been a rise in the number of surface air delivery systems available for purchase and for private use. In fact, several products are described as snuba delivery systems. There is, however, only one surface air delivery system that contains the SNUBA® trademark.
All SNUBA® rafts are handmade from the highest quality inflatable fabric with fully welded seams and custom-shaped compartments that contain and conceal the air cylinders.
SNUBA® OPERATOR LOCATIONS ACROSS THE GLOBE
Unlike many of the surface air delivery systems being sold today, SNUBA® is not for private use. SNUBA® is a licensed product and program and is only offered by recreational operators who are certified by SNUBA® International. Most importantly, SNUBA® Operators must adhere to strict licensing requirements, operating procedures, safety protocols and environmental standards set forth by SNUBA® International.
Therefore, when you set out to SNUBA® with one of our many licensed SNUBA® Operators, you can have the peace of mind that you’ll be in the best of hands!
SNUBA® Recreational Centers can be found across the globe including St. Lucia, the Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos, Florida, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, and so many more amazing locations. Don’t you think it’s time to GO BEYOND SNORKELING? Click below to find the SNUBA® location that works for you.