How to Get out of the Water and Into a Boat When Snorkeling

Boats vary in user-friendliness for snorkeling. It's a good idea to know how you plan to climb out of the water before you jump in it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Coast Guard Certified Life Jackets
• Dive Masks
• Snorkels
• Swimming Fins

1. Check to see that the engine is either off or that you are far away from the propeller before approaching the boat.
2. Swim up to the spot where you plan to climb out, making sure to watch your head in case the boat is bouncing.
3. Remove your weight belt ' taking care not to drop it or any individual weights ' and hand it to someone on board. This will make you more buoyant and ease your climbing effort. Depending on the boat, this maneuver can require significant upper-body strength. Appropriate exercise will make this move much easier for you.
4. Hand any other excess gear to someone aboard the boat so that your hands are free to help you climb.
5. Have someone aboard give you a hand when you are ready to climb out.
6. Keep your fins on and use them to help thrust you upward if you're using a swim step or climbing over the side.
7. Perform a "dip" with both hands shoulder-width apart.
8. Turn your body 180 degrees until you are in a seated position.
9. Hold onto the boat and carefully remove your gear.

Tips & Warnings

• When exiting using a swim ladder, always remove fins first.
• Falling back into the water on top of another snorkeler or falling into the boat are common causes of injuries. Use one hand for you and one hand for the boat to prevent such accidents.
• Snorkeling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.