Is SNUBA Diving Right for Me?

Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or new to underwater exploration, SNUBA offers an exciting way to experience Maui's vibrant marine life. This hybrid activity combines the ease of snorkeling with the thrill of SCUBA diving, allowing you to dive deeper without heavy equipment.

Explore the underwater oasis of Maui’s top snorkel spots like Molokini Crater or Hulopo’e Marine Preserve on Lana’i, all while enjoying the flexibility to travel safely afterward. Perfect for families, honeymooners, and adventure seekers, SNUBA is a must-try on your Maui itinerary. Every diver, from a complete beginner to a master diver, remembers the first breath they took underwater.

If you've always wanted to experience the underwater world, SNUBA is one of the easiest and safest ways to experience what it's like to breathe underwater.

A lot of Maui visitors have heard about SNUBA but have questions about how it’s different from snorkeling or SCUBA diving (hint: it’s kind of like both!).

While your professional Trilogy SNUBA guide can answer specific questions on the day of your Maui snorkeling tour, here are some of the most frequently asked questions for those who are thinking about SNUBA diving on Maui:

What is the minimum age for SNUBA?

Kids aged 8 and up can enjoy SNUBA, making it a family-friendly activity.

Can I visit fly in an airplane, take a helicopter tour, or visit Haleakala after a SNUBA dive?

Yes, with a minimal risk of decompression sickness. A 4-hour wait is recommended before high-altitude activities.

What is the maximum depth in SNUBA?

The maximum depth in SNUBA is 10 feet—just enough to marvel at Maui’s underwater wonders without the need for SCUBA certification.

What do I wear when SNUBA diving?

You’ll wear a mask, fins, and a lightweight harness connected to a raft on the surface, keeping it easy to surface whenever you need.

Are there medical requirements for SNUBA?

There are some, but they're far more lenient than those for SCUBA diving. Your Trilogy guide will ensure you’re ready.

What does SNUBA stand for?

SNUBA is an acronym that stands for Surface Nexus Underwater Breathing Apparatus.

How long does a SNUBA dive last?

The length of a SNUBA dive will be different for every person, but on average, dives last 20-25 minutes. The more relaxed you are and the slower you breathe, the longer your dive will end up lasting.

Do I wear a tank on my back?

No. The the scuba tank rests inside of the SNUBA raft to which you're tethered, and as you swim, the raft follows you above on the surface.

Am I allowed to go to the surface if I need? 

Yes, although for the best dive experience it's recommended to stay underwater for the duration of the dive. Should you feel the need to come to the surface, whether it's to clear your mask of water, grab a second camera, or simply to take a short rest, as long as you don't hold your breath and ascend no faster than your own bubbles, you should be able to surface safely and easily.

Also, when taking time at the surface, it's easiest if you hold on to the side of the raft so that you don't need to tread water with a weight belt on.

If I've never snorkeled before, can I SNUBA?

Technically, yes, although without having snorkeled at least once before there's no guarantee of how comfortable you’ll be. There are plenty of people who successfully SNUBA dive without having snorkeled before, but there are also others who are uncomfortable with the feeling of needing to breathe through their mouth.

As a test, pinch your nose and breathe through your mouth for a whole minute. If you can do this comfortably, it's the first step in determining if you can go SNUBA diving in Maui.

Ultimately, however, the choice is up to you, and since our Molokini snorkeling tour makes two separate snorkeling stops, perhaps consider snorkeling at the first stop and opting for SNUBA once you've gotten comfortable.

Which trilogy tours offer snuba?

Trilogy offers SNUBA diving upgrades on many different tours, including our Discover Lana’i Day Trip, Discover Molokini, Discover West Maui Snorkel, and Discover Ka’anapali!

SNUBA offers a safe, immersive way to explore Maui’s underwater world, making it a top choice for visitors. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced snorkeler looking to dive deeper, SNUBA provides an unforgettable experience.

Do you have more questions about SNUBA in Maui? Leave us a comment or send us a message on our Facebook page and we'll be happy to answer your questions!