Snorkeling vs Scuba Diving. What's the difference? | Decathlon TH

Snorkeling or Scuba Diving - Which One is Right for You?

Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities for beach goers in Thailand. If you’ve never tried them before, you might be wondering what they’re all about, and which one is best for you. In this article, we’ll explain it all.
Read on to find out how they work, what equipment they require, and where you can go scuba diving and snorkeling in Thailand.

What’s the Difference Between Snorkeling and Scuba Diving?

Technique and Preparation

Snorkeling involves staying near the surface of the water and looking down at the marine life, using a breathing tube and a mask. Anyone can give it a try, with little preparation.

Scuba diving, on the other hand, is more complicated. This involves going deep underwater for longer periods of time, with the help of breathing equipment.

Before you go scuba diving, you’ll have to take a PADI course to learn breathing techniques, how to use the equipment, and safety protocols. After that, you’ll be able to explore much more of the underwater world.

What Equipment Do You Need for Snorkeling and Scuba Diving?

You don’t need much equipment to go snorkeling. Mainly, you’ll need a snorkeling mask. For the best view, go with an Easybreath, which is a full-face snorkeling mask that gives you panoramic views underwater while still being able to breathe through your nose and mouth. You can also add some fins, as well as some aquashoes to make it easy to walk across stone and rocks on your way to the water.

For scuba diving, your list of equipment will be a bit longer. There are 5 essential items you'll need:

- Scuba diving mask
- Buoyancy control device (BCD)
- Regulators
- Dive computer
- Fins

With these items, you'll be fully-equipped from head to toe. However, there are lots more accessories available at Decathlon Thailand. At our stores, you can now also find diving products from Cressi, Italy's famous diving brand!

Where to Go Diving in Thailand

Now that you know which type of diving you prefer, it’s time to start planning your next trip. Here are the best destinations in Thailand for diving, recommended by our sports staff.

Surin Islands/Similan Islands
The Surin Islands are one of Thailand’s best places to go diving. Here, you can walk out from the beach and start snorkeling right away. The water is crystal-clear, and the coral reefs are natural and pristine. The Similan islands are a popular destination for tourists to admire the beauty of marine life, with stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters. A must-visit!

Koh Phi Phi/Koh Racha
These islands are not far from Phuket, and are suitable destinations for tourists who want to go on a one-day trip that doesn’t cost too much. Suitable for both snorkeling and scuba diving.

Koh Samae San
If the Andaman coast seems too far to travel, try visiting Koh Samae San. You’ll find many small islands to go snorkeling or scuba diving, including Koh Kham, Koh Chuang, Koh Jam, and more. Easily accessible from Bangkok, this is an ideal destination for city dwellers.

Koh Tao
When you think about diving in Thailand, this is the first place that comes to mind for many people. The marine life here is ranked among the most beautiful in the world, and there are plenty of dive resorts to visit. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll find something for you.

Koh Kradan
This island is becoming a top hit in Thailand these days. Located in Koh Libong, Trang province, it provides beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lots of different types of fish to admire. With many different diving spots around the island, you won’t be disappointed.

Dive in with Decathlon Thailand

Whichever type of diving you prefer, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

At our Decathlon Thailand stores, you’ll find a wide range of equipment and apparel for each type, as well as helpful sports staff to help you choose the right products.

Check out our range of Subea snorkeling products, as well as several types of diving gear at Decathlon.