Snuba is an easy way for kids and adults to experience a new and wonderful world. RELATED LINKS Back to Maui City Guide

SCUBA Diving is a great way to explore oceans and lakes, giving humans the ability to not only breathe underwater, but to swim free like fish. But learning to safely handle SCUBA equipment can take time, and isn't always appropriate for young kids. With a far newer technique called Snuba, which combines elements of SCUBA and snorkeling, beautiful undersea environments all over the globe have gotten a lot more accessible to beginning divers.

34-year-old Todd Winn is a Snuba instructor for Maui Molokai Sea Cruises. Born in Texas and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Winn learned to dive while attending California State University Chico, and has lived on Maui for over 8 years. He is most proud of his 7 year old, who dives better than he does. Here Winn explains why Snuba is a wonderful way for beginners to discover the ocean:

• See an alien world.
  According to Winn, humans actually know more about the surface of the moon than we do about the world beneath the waves. Snuba is a great way to experience the beauty and mystery of an alien world that's right here on our own planet.
  
• Breathing is the key.
  In Winn's experience, the act of breathing underwater does more than just keep you alive under the waves- it's actually what makes diving so fantastic. Just to be surrounded by liquid and still breathe free and easy- it's a unique and unforgettable experience.
  
• Easier than traditional SCUBA.
  Snuba diving is easier to get used to than standard SCUBA, as you don't have the air tank strapped to your back; it floats above on the surface of the water. It's also less of a commitment than standard diving, as it doesn't require as much time to get started.
  
• Great for young kids.
  Snuba is also better for young children, pushing the minimum age for diving down to around eight. This is wonderful for the family that wants to dive together on vacation.
  
• Available everywhere.
  And Snuba is now being offered in diving spots all over the world, so the next time you're in a holiday hotspot with plenty of water, seek out a friendly Snuba instructor and explore a whole new world!

For more information about Snuba and other types of diving, check out the following organizations or websites:

Snuba International
www.snuba.com

VI Snuba Excursions
visnuba.com

Scuba Duba
www.scubaduba.com

Cyber Diver
www.cyberdiver.net