There is nothing quite like the feeling of gliding over a coral reef, with the sun on your back, and a kaleidoscope of marine life below. The sensation of floating in another world is priceless — but if you’re not careful, it can be costly to the precious ecosystems you are visiting. With 40% of reef-building coral species at risk of extinction according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ latest global assessment, eco-friendly snorkelling practices have never been more important. The good news is, it’s very simple to snorkel sustainably and still have a great time.
Why sustainable snorkelling?
You might not think so, but traditional marine tourism can be very damaging to coral reefs and other marine life. Research has shown that tourism-based activities like contact with coral, boat anchoring on reefs and chemicals from sunscreen contribute significantly to reef degradation around popular destinations. These bad practices by operators and tourists cause serious harm to the vital ecosystems, endangering the very thing underwater explorers come to appreciate.
Protecting coral reefs is really important for life below water, as they are a haven for marine biodiversity. As outlined in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), the health of the planet is closely tied to the health of the ocean. However, these complex ecosystems are delicate and are very sensitive to change. Fortunately, by adopting responsible practices, snorkellers can appreciate these underwater wonders while helping to preserve them for generations to come.
When we enter these habitats, we must be mindful of our presence and act as respectful visitors. Whether you are new to snorkelling or an experienced underwater explorer, this practical guide will help you enjoy the magnificent underwater world while minimising your impact.
1. Pick the right crew
Before you hop on a boat, do a little research. Go with snorkel operators that genuinely care about the reef — not just your Insta shots. Use the Green Fins Member directory to find an operator who is actively improving their environmental practices. If a Green Fins Member isn’t available, look for operators that keep groups small, teach good habits (like providing pre-snorkel environmental briefings and no-touch policies), and work with marine conservation groups. Bonus points if they support local communities too. Don’t be shy to ask questions when you’re “shopping” for your operators. Remember, as a consumer, you have the power to vote with your wallet!
2. Sunscreen? Read the fine print
Toxic sunscreen and coral reefs don’t mix. There are many chemicals in sunscreens, including oxybenzone, octinoxate, non-nano zinc oxide and non-nano titanium dioxide, that are harmful to the environment, even in small doses. Either grab a non-toxic version (they’re easier to find these days) or, even better, throw on a rash guard and skip sunscreen altogether. Your shoulders will thank you — and so will the ocean and its inhabitants.
3. Hands off, fins up
Tempted to touch that brain coral or boop a sea turtle on the nose? Don’t! This can cause great stress to any animal, transmit disease and remove protective coatings. Corals are super fragile, and marine creatures don’t need a human cuddle. Stay horizontal on the surface to keep your fins off the coral reefs and your hands to yourself.
4. This ain’t no picnic
Feeding marine life is an absolute no-no. You might think it’s a generous thing to share snacks with the local coral community, but this disturbs the food chain, and you definitely won’t be giving the right kind of food — most marine life have a very specific diet and very specific range of digestive bacteria.
5. Get your float game strong
Wearing a snorkelling vest, even as a confident swimmer, can help you float and stay chill on the surface. It helps avoid those accidental reef smacks with your knees or fins. Plus, it means you can snorkel for a longer time without tiring yourself out.
6. Be the champion who picks up trash and nothing else
Sometimes, you’ll spot something that doesn’t belong underwater — like a rogue plastic bottle or snack wrapper. If you can grab it safely, do it. You just became an ocean cleanup champion! But please don’t drop anything while you’re out there. No gear, no snacks, no nothing. Equally, anything natural should be left in the ocean. This includes shells and stones (yes, even the pretty ones).
7. Learn about the locals
You don’t need to be a marine biologist, but it’s pretty cool to know what you’re looking at. Google or look up a few species before you go, or ask your guide to point stuff out. Understanding what you’re seeing creates deeper appreciation and turns you into an advocate for protection. The more you know, the more amazing it gets because you #protectwhatyoulove.
Wrap-Up: Dive In, Don’t Wreck It
Following the best practices while snorkelling isn’t about rules — it’s about respect. The ocean is wild, weird and wonderful, and we’re just lucky guests. So go ahead, chase that next eco-friendly underwater adventure. Just do it with some love and a little extra care. The reef will reward you with the kind of memories that don’t fade.
To learn even more about how to become an eco-friendly snorkeller, keep an eye out for the new Green Fins Snorkeller e-Course, which the Reef-World team is developing, designed just for underwater explorers like you! Register your interest in joining the waiting list and be the first to access this e-course when it launches. Until then, the Green Fins Diver e-Course also offers valuable guidance for both divers and snorkellers.
Please share this blog with your friends and family if you’d like them to learn more about why and how we should be snorkelling sustainably.
