Singapore Oceanarium at Resorts World Sentosa has started PADI Discover Snorkelling, a beginner programme that puts guests in the water above manta rays and sharks in its Open Ocean Habitat. It costs S$109 a person, includes a one-day Oceanarium ticket and is open to anyone aged 10 and up.
Resorts World Sentosa launched the programme on 21 October as Singapore’s only snorkelling experience in an oceanarium. No swimming, snorkelling or diving experience is needed.
What happens in the water
The session starts with a short lesson on basic snorkelling techniques and safety. Participants then enter the Open Ocean Habitat and snorkel at the surface, looking down on manta rays, sharks and shoals of fish below. Trained instructors stay with the group throughout.
Groups are capped at eight people, and the whole programme runs about 90 minutes.
The programme comes from the Singapore Oceanarium PADI Dive Centre, which has been upgraded and accredited as a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Dive Resort. The same centre runs the PADI Open Water Diver course for those who want to go further.
Times and booking
Sessions run on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 10.30am, with lessons conducted in English. Participants meet at the main entrance of the PADI Dive Centre, beside the Research Learning Centre, at least 30 minutes before their session.
The S$109 price covers the snorkelling session and a one-day ticket to Singapore Oceanarium, so participants can walk the galleries before or after their swim. With only one session a day, three days a week, and eight places each time, slots are limited.
Who it suits
The minimum age of 10 makes it a fit for families with older children, as well as adults who want a first taste of snorkelling without a boat trip. Participants spend the session at the surface rather than diving, which keeps it within reach of nervous swimmers.
Singapore Oceanarium is at Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island. Tickets for PADI Discover Snorkelling are sold on the Singapore Oceanarium website.
