Snorkeling safety: tips for first-timers and weak swimmers

Deaths are rare. Researchers reviewing Australian cases from 1994 to 2006 found 60 deaths from cardiac or suspected cardiac causes, 33 surface drownings, 19 breath-hold drownings and 10 from trauma. Most cardiac deaths were men with a median age of 65, found floating silently. DAN's summary estimated roughly five deaths per million snorkelers using Australian figures; that is not a measured rate for Hurghada or a prediction of an individual's risk.

The researchers recommend a medical check for people with heart or lung disease, or a family history of sudden unexpected death. DAN adds that the health of the heart and lungs matters most, and both decline with age.

• Practise breathing through the snorkel in shallow water before swimming out.
• Snorkel with a buddy and stay near the boat or guide.
• Use a life jacket or float if you're not a confident swimmer.
• Swim slowly; rest on your back if you feel tired or out of breath.
• Get out of the water if you feel unwell — chest pain or unusual breathlessness is a reason to stop.

The Australian review found that inexperienced snorkelers also got into trouble by breathing in water through the snorkel or in rough water and currents. On our boat trips the crew picks calm, sheltered spots each morning for exactly that reason.