BSAC Snorkel training and qualifications

Build skills, gain confidence and have fun in the water — one snorkel grade at a time.

Whether you're new to snorkelling or want to develop your skills, BSAC’s Snorkeller Training Programme offers a clear pathway from beginner to experienced snorkeller. With each grade, you’ll grow in confidence, improve your technique and enjoy more of the underwater world — safely and at your own pace.

BSAC has been training snorkellers since the 1950s. Today, our programme is more fun, flexible and supportive than ever, with expert volunteer instructors guiding you every step of the way.

Snorkeller Grade Courses

Dolphin Snorkeller

Aimed at younger children, Dolphin Snorkeller is all about fun! Kids take part in seven lively in-water sessions, each themed around a different type of dolphin. Every time they complete a session, they earn a dolphin sticker—and when they collect the full set, they become a BSAC Dolphin Snorkeller. To move on to the next level, they just need to complete the Snorkel Diver theory and knowledge review.

Snorkel Diver

 Perfect for beginners (or those progressing from Dolphin Snorkeller), this course introduces safe snorkelling techniques in a pool or sheltered water. It includes theory sessions to help you understand the basics and build your confidence. You’ll learn essential snorkelling skills while having fun and exploring a whole new world beneath the surface.

Advanced Snorkeller

This course takes you beyond the basics. With more advanced theory and open-water snorkelling, you’ll become a capable and confident snorkeller ready for more adventurous dives. Advanced Snorkellers are trained to be self-reliant, safety-aware, and ready for varied conditions.

Snorkel Dive Manager 

If you're an experienced snorkeller ready to lead and take on more responsibility, this is your next step.

Snorkel Dive Manager teaches people how to safely organise, manage and supervise group snorkelling activities. You’ll learn how to plan sessions, assess conditions, brief your group and handle potential incidents — developing your leadership and safety skills along the way.

The course also encourages you to broaden your snorkel diving experience by exploring a variety of sites and conditions.

Because of the responsibility involved, the minimum age to be awarded the Snorkel Dive Manager grade is 18. However, if you're 16 or 17 and meet all the prerequisites, you can complete the full training, you’ll just need to be supported in the role by an adult, until you reach 18.

Why train with BSAC?

• Learn at your own pace with friendly, expert instructors
• Train alongside other snorkellers in a supportive club environment
• Earn recognised BSAC snorkel qualifications
• Build confidence and have fun in the water