SNUBA is a shallow water diving system that bridges the gap between snorkeling and scuba. SNUBA is fun, friendly, un-intimidating, simple to use, and does not require you to wear heavy or cumbersome equipment. SNUBA is comprised of the following components:
The SNUBA Raft:
Standard (2 guests) or Quad (4 guests)
The SNUBA Raft is made from the highest quality inflatable fabric, fully welded seams and shaped for easy towing. The Standard SNUBA Rafts hold 1 air cylinder in a recessed compartment, and the SNUBA Quad Rafts hold 2 air cylinders. The recessed compartments are designed to allow easy access for the SNUBA Guide to make convenient cylinder changes between tours and to keep the first-stage regulator dry while changing out tanks in the water. The compartments sit below the water line, providing a low center of gravity and stability to the SNUBA Raft. Rafts are inflated using a “power inflator nozzle” which is easily connected to a compressed air cylinder.
A Standard Raft can accommodate 2 participants, while a Quad provides air for 4 guests. At the bow, the Raft flies either the U.S. or International “diver down” flag to alert individuals at the surface that there are divers below the water. Additionally, the SNUBA Raft is never more than 20 feet from a SNUBA participant, and can be held onto for support while guests are at the surface.
SNUBA participants breathe through a standard scuba regulator system and mouthpiece. Air is delivered through a positively buoyant 20-foot air line that connects via manifold distribution to the compressed air cylinders in the SNUBA Raft on the surface–– participants do not have an air cylinder strapped to their back. The air line allows guests to dive at whatever depth is most comfortable, from the surface “power snorkeling” to 2 feet… 10 feet… or the maximum depth of 20 feet. Guests are also trained to use the air line for “hand-over-hand” controlled ascents and descents, and to maintain their vertical control over fragile coral reefs.
SNUBA Harness, Mask, Fins & Weight Belt:
Participants wear a lightweight, highly adjustable, quick-release harness from which the air line is attached. The harness tow point is located between the shoulder blades to provide easy towing of the SNUBA Raft.
Each participant is fitted with a mask and fins, the same as used for snorkeling, including the lesser powered fins to reduce foot cramping and slower controlled movements. Guests also wear a weight belt, comfortably adjusted around the waist. Certified SNUBA Guides determine the proper amount of weight so that each guest is neutrally buoyant in the water. Participants can choose not to wear a weight belt if he or she prefers to hold onto the raft and “power snorkel” (continuing to breathe through a regulator) at the surface.
SNUBA Doo Vest:
Children ages 4 to 7 can participate in the SNUBA Doo program. SNUBA Doo kids wear a specially designed SNUBA Doo floatation vest. The vest is made so that the participating child cannot remove it without the assistance of a Guide or parent/guardian. Participants are also fitted with a mask, fins (optional), and breathe through a standard regulator with a child-sized mouthpiece. Visit SNUBA Doo for more information.