What the heck is SNUBA?

Snuba is a trade name (of Snuba International, Inc.) for a underwater breathing system. The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba." The swimmer uses swim fins, a diving mask, weights & weightbelt, and breathing apparatus as in scuba diving. The air, however, instead of coming from tanks strapped to the diver's back, comes through a long hose from tanks on pontoon rafts on the surface. Snuba often serves as a form of introductory diving, in the presence of a professional, insured guide, and following a very short lesson, but not requiring SCUBA certification).

Popularity
Snuba diving is a popular activity in tropical tourist locations such as Hawaii because of its relative ease and because one need not be SCUBA certified to participate. Its popularity as a first timer's experience can be attributed to several factors.

The professional diveguide is usually physically tied to the rafts, and the rafts are connected by airhose to the customers. This keeps the diveguide's hands free, but still gives the customer the secure knowledge that he/she can't become separated from the diveguide.
The beginner/customer is physically connected to a canoe-like rubber raft with a handle-like around its perimeter, giving a feeling of safety, and the option to hold onto the raft while staying with the group.
The weight of the gear carried by the beginner/customer is only slightly more than the weight of the weightbelt. Compare this to full SCUBA gear which includes a buoyancy compensator, weights, cylinder and often more, and can weigh in excess of 60 pounds. Although the equipment is nearly weightless underwater, out of the water the weight becomes a significant factor for weaker individuals.

To learn more please contact us at info@k2scuba.com or comment below this blog. Have a great day!