Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the tour leaders?	Why take a group trip?	How many on a trip?	Do I need to have snorkeling experience?
What do previous participants say?	What will the weather be like?	How much does a trip cost?	What does the tour fee include? What does the tour fee exclude? How do I arrange for air travel?

Q: Who are the tour leaders?   Back to Top

A: On Sea for Yourself programs, your Tour Leader will be accompanied by a Tour Assistant depending on the number of participants. In most cases the number of guests per staff member on our programs is lower than the industry average. To learn more about your Sea for Yourself staff, click here.

Q: Why take a group trip versus snorkeling on our own?  Back to Top

A: We are often asked why participate in an organized group snorkeling program rather than going independently. This is a good question, and there are good answers.

Most dive resorts are exactly that: dive resorts that cater to the needs of SCUBA divers, not snorkelers. Most often, independent snorkelers are told simply to use the beach. While shore snorkeling can be excellent, many of the most exciting snorkeling sites are more easily accessed by boat. At most resorts, snorkelers are permitted to "tag along" on a dive boat if they wish: but are firmly instructed to stay out of the way of the divers, and when the dive is over, so is your snorkel. On Sea for Yourself programs, we charter boats exclusively for our groups. We dictate the timing and location, picking the most ideal sites for snorkeling, not diving. But that's just one significant answer. There are others, including learning about safe snorkeling practices, marine biology, natural and cutural history.

Safe Snorkeling Practices

Sea for Yourself believes firmly in safe snorkeling practices. Sea for Yourself staff members play an active role by providing a general snorkeling orientation at the start of each program, followed by any level of instruction that's needed. Whether you're novice or experienced, skills can always be developed and our staff is always happy to assist. We deliberately limit our group size to insure that everyone receives the personalized attention they deserve. Before entering the water, either from shore or from a boat, staff leaders provide a brief evaluation of the site including any particular highlights, such as resident sea horses, schools of fish. Also, any relevant conditions are briefly reviewed: surge, currents, depth, visibility, etc. And staff members will always be present to assist in any way needed: helping with a mask, entering or exiting the water, or helping you identify an unknown fish.

Marine Biology and Coral Reef Environments

For learning marine biology and developing an appreciation of coral reef environments, there is no better classroom than the reef itself. Sea for Yourself programs emphasize an environmental awareness by incorporating interpretative presentations, both by staff members and resident experts. There's no final exam, but we believe that education enhances your sense of discovery and the joy of snorkeling. On Sea For Yourself programs you will learn about the tropical reef ecosystem, both it's strengths and vulnerabilities.

Although snorkeling is simple, through modest instruction, Sea for Yourself programs hope to instill both the skills and information that allow snorkelers to visit the reef without harm -- either to themselves or the living coral.

Natural and Cultural History

On Sea for Yourself programs, you will also experience the natural and cultural history of each destination we visit. While the emphasis is on appreciation of the marine environment through the joy of snorkeling, we believe it's important to appreciate and interact with local cultures. Sea for Yourself land tours often include especially arranged visits to villages, schools, marine labs, local restaurants, museums, and incorporate presentations from guest speakers, visits to family homes, and nature walks led by residents.

Sea for Yourself programs are designed to be full, yet relaxed. While our programs are carefully choreographed and include most meals, snorkeling and land based activities, and staff services, we also acknowledge that the time is yours to utilize as you wish. If you enjoy the unencumbered freedom of snorkeling, and wish to embellish that with dedicated snorkel boats, the companionship of other snorkelers, and an emphasis in marine education, then we invite you to come with us and Sea for Yourself.

Q: How many people on a trip?  Back to Top

A: Most trips are limited to 24 participants, with a minimum of 10. Due to the limited space available on our tours, reservations for space will be accepted in the order deposits are received. To ensure a space, we recommend that you send your deposit upon receipt of our Reservation Form. You will be notified when your space is confirmed.

Q: Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler?  Back to Top

A: We cater to both novice and experienced snorkelers. Every program is distinguished by snorkeling instruction on whatever level is needed, whether it's how to put on a mask, or how to improve your free diving skills.

We concentrate on allowing you to develop a calm confidence in the water regardless of swimming ability or previous experience. Your relaxation in the water enhances both safety and enjoyment. Plus, it also reduces any perception of threat in the animals we've all come to view.

Q: What do previous participants say?  Back to Top

A: Boy, are we glad you asked this question! We have dozens of Sea for Yourself alumni who would love to share their enthusiasm for Joel and our programs! Please click here to read what some of them have to say.

Q: What will the weather be like?  Back to Top

A: We have carefully chosen times that should give us optimum weather conditions. However, even the best preparations cannot guarantee good weather. Please click on names below to view weather details for each trip.

• Humpback Whales of Tonga
• The Remote Reefs of Fiji
• Snorkel with the Manatees
• The Remote Reefs of Belize
• Exploring Bonaire
• The Remote Reefs of Roatan

Q: How much does a trip cost?  Back to Top

A: Costs are based on double occupancy. For those requesting a single room an additional supplement will be added to the tour cost.

Click here to see a table for costs for each trip. Please note that some trip costs include international air fares. Click on trip names below to view details for each trip, including more information on costs and single/double occupancy options.

Q: What does the tour fee include?  Back to Top

A: On most programs (see specific trips for details), tour fees include all group bus transfers as specified in itinerary, meals as indicated in the itinerary, accommodations in hotels as specified, all snorkeling activities, guided excursions, local taxes, group gratuities to hotel/guide staff, services of the trip leader including any needed snorkeling lessons and lectures on the development, behavior, and conservation issues.

Q: What does the tour fee exclude?  Back to Top

A: On most programs (see specific trips for details), tour fees do not include international or domestic airfare, medical immunizations, medical expenses, snorkeling equipment or wetsuit rentals, SCUBA-costs, accident/baggage/cancellation insurance, excess baggage charges, meals not specified in the itinerary, dishes and beverages not part of included meals, alcoholic beverages, laundry, telephone, or fax charges, room service, and other items of a purely personal nature. Other terms and conditions exist, please see all the information listed in the Reservation Form specific to each program.

Q: How do I arrange for air travel?  Back to Top

A: Normally, Sea for Yourself arranges for discounted international group air tickets. If you would like rate information, or have other questions regarding airline arrangements, please feel free to call our office manager Sue Kinder at (650) 322-1494.