Staff Answer
Jun 22, 2026 - 09:06 PM
If you are nervous about swimming, I would focus less on finding the "best" snorkeling company and more on finding one that is known for working with beginners. The good tours spend time helping first timers feel comfortable instead of expecting everyone to jump in and know what they are doing. Companies like Destin Snorkel and Flippers Adventures have built a reputation for being family friendly and welcoming guests with little or no snorkeling experience. Their crews typically provide flotation devices, help fit your mask correctly, and stay in the water with guests who need extra assistance. That being said, I always tell people that you do not have to be a great swimmer to enjoy a snorkeling trip in Destin. Most of the popular locations have relatively calm water, and you are wearing flotation if you want it, so you are not out there trying to tread water the entire time. If you ever feel tired, you can simply float and look down into the water instead of constantly swimming around. Before you book, I would mention that you are a little nervous. The crews hear that every day, and they will usually give you a little extra attention and explain everything before you get in the water. From what I have seen over the years, the people who are the most anxious before the trip often end up having the biggest smiles afterward because they realize snorkeling is much easier than they imagined. Once you put your face in the water and see fish swimming around you for the first time, the nerves usually disappear pretty quickly.
