The Ocean Conservation Trust‘s Snorkel Safari offers the opportunity to join our amazing Ocean Discovery Rangers at multiple Plymouth locations around the the UK’s first National Marine Park!

Whether you are a complete snorkelling beginner or someone looking for an Ocean adventure this summer, we have an experience for everyone. Join us at Mount Batten Beach to create some amazing Ocean memories! Location: PL9 9SJ

For all sessions, wetsuits and snorkel equipment will be provided. Please let us know at the time of booking what sizes you require. Below is an overview of each session, what session is most suitable for you!

snorkellers floating in the water in Firestone Bay

Sensory Friendly Snorkelling (Ages 8+)

Tailored for those with sensory issues, our sensory friendly snorkel sessions prioritise comfort and a gentle introduction to the sea by starting off at Mount Batten

With reduced capacity, our Ocean Discovery Rangers offer close support. The relaxed schedule allows ample time for gearing up and beach access. Participants have the flexibility to skip equipment they’re uncomfortable with.

BOOK NOW
little bouy trying on his snorkel on a beach in Plymouth

Beginner Snorkelling (Ages 8+)

Gain your confidence in rock pools before venturing into the sea. Our Ocean Discovery Rangers will be on hand to help you practice with the equipment, acclimate to seawater, and explore without dealing with ocean currents.

When everyone feels ready, we’ll venture into Mount Batten’s kelp forests, home to spider crabs, pollack, sticklebacks, and sea bass!

BOOK NOW
a group of snorkellers standing in the

Snorkel Safari (Ages 12+)

For those that have snorkelled before or are confident sea swimmers, join our Snorkel Safaris at Mount Batten—featuring rock shore habitat, kelp meadows, and flooded rockpools!

Brush up on snorkelling basics, then dive into the open sea to encounter incredible marine life. From blennies to jellyfish, eels to oystercatchers, Mount Batten offers a diverse range of animals and habitats to explore. *

 

 

BOOK NOW
What sort of wildlife can I expect to see?

It depends on the day, the tide and habitats at the location your snorkelling! The most common species we see are Corkwing Wrasse, Snakelocks anemones, Sand Eels and pollack. Your snorkel guide will be able to take you to the best locations!

Do I have to wear a wetsuit?

Yes, the wetsuit is there to keep you warm and protect your skin from grazing on the rocks

How deep will we be swimming?

This depends on the group, i.e intermediate snorkellers will be in shallower depths than advanced. You will be snorkelling in areas where you cannot touch the floor, so you we can teach you how to duck dive.

How many instructors will be in the sea with me/my child?

1:6 ratio of instructor to snorkeller as per the British Scuba Aqua Club snorkel guidelines

What happens if my child or I get cold?

Your wetsuit should keep you nice and warm, however you can bring a rash vest, boots and neoprene gloves if you want extra warmth. If you wish to get out of the water early, we will escort you to the shore so you can warm up on the beach. We recommend bringing a flask with a warm drink!

How long will I be in the water?

You’ll be in the water for up to an hour

If you have any questions about this experience please contact: experiences@oceanconservationtrust.org

Terms and Conditions

  • Age 8+ (ages 8-11 need to be accompanied by a paying adult in the water on a two to one ratio).
  • Ages 12-16 need to have an adult present at the sessions but not in the water.
  • All participants must sign this wavier form before joining the session, Parents or Guardians must sign the waivers on behalf of all minors entering the water.
  • All participants must be confident swimmers, being able to swim 25m unassisted. 
  • Starts times are strictly adhered to.  If you arrive late, you will not be permitted to join the session as you will have missed important safety announcements and training.

The National Marine Aquarium (NMA) is the UK’s largest aquarium, located in Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth. It is run by the Ocean Conservation Trust, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the Ocean.

Find Out More