About a year or so ago we did a review video on a product called the Snorkl, which sold itself as “A shallow diving kit that lets you breathe freely under the surface with no bulky scuba equipment to get in the way of your exploring. No scuba certification is required. The starter kit, which includes a hand pump, sells for around $500 USD”
In the video we spent two days just trying to fill it up with air using the hand pump that was provided, and to be very honest it was no good at all. We couldn’t get any air into the tank using the hand pump and we came to the conclusion that it was a complete waste of time.
BUT
We had a few comments from a few people saying that this product was great and we just didn’t take it seriously or use it correctly. So, now we have done part 2 and this time we got some professional help thanks to the awesome team at H2O Sports here in Phuket, we had a tutorial on the tank, and how to fill it up and they gave us their feedback on mini scuba tanks for use in the leisure market.
Before all that let’s look at what we have:
What is a Mini Scuba Tank?
Exploring the mesmerizing beauty of the deep sea is an exhilarating experience. While traditional scuba diving equipment allows us to explore the underwater world, advancements in technology have introduced a new option for diving enthusiasts: mini scuba tanks.
One of the most significant advantages of mini scuba tanks is their portability and convenience. Unlike traditional scuba tanks, which are large and heavy, mini scuba tanks are compact and lightweight. They are designed to be easily carried and allow for hassle-free transportation, making them ideal for travelers or divers who prefer to be unencumbered by heavy equipment.
Mini scuba tanks are designed to be user-friendly, making them accessible to divers of all skill levels. They typically come with a simple regulator system that is easy to operate and maintain. Unlike traditional scuba diving equipment, which requires extensive training and certification, mini scuba tanks can often be used without formal diving qualifications, although it is still recommended to have some diving experience and knowledge.
Is the Snorkl Mini Scuba Tank any good?
The primary disadvantage of mini scuba tanks is their limited air supply. Due to their compact size, they contain significantly less air than traditional scuba tanks. The duration of your dive will be limited. But before all that you have to get air into the tank. So, the only way that we have found is to fill the mini scuba tank with a normal air tank, if you have one. The one we used from H2O Sports in Phuket was only 200 THB and it filled up our tanks over 10 times.
The marketing words on the Snorkel say that you get 10 minutes of air, but in our tests, you get 3 mins at the most.
So, is it any good? In our opinion the Mini Scuba Tank is not that good, however, it does have a use, and that use is as a backup tank.
Mini scuba tanks can serve as an emergency backup option during dives. They provide an additional air source that can be used in case of an equipment failure or when a diver unexpectedly runs out of air. This backup air supply can be a lifesaver in critical situations, allowing divers to safely ascend to the surface.
They have been using these mini scuba tanks for this purpose and it’s only in the past few years with the rise of people trying to make businesses grow quickly using crowdfunding that the Mini Scuba Tanks have been marketed to the leisure industry.
We have tried and it was fun for 1 or 2 minutes BUT with a mask and snorkel and some underwater breath training, you will have just as much fun and you won’t have to have a huge air tank with you to keep topping up your air.
Safety note:
Before embarking on any diving adventure, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and make an informed decision based on your experience level and diving requirements.
Shaun is the Co-Owner and Founder of 5 Star Marine Phuket. After visiting Phuket for a holiday he never left and over 13 years later he calls Phuket home with his wife and kids. Shaun is passionate about Phuket and the Islands surrounding Phuket and loves helping fellow travellers explore.
Exploring the mesmerizing beauty of the deep sea is an exhilarating experience. While traditional scuba diving equipment allows us to explore the underwater world, advancements in technology have introduced a new option for diving enthusiasts: mini scuba tanks.
The primary disadvantage of mini scuba tanks is their limited air supply. Due to their compact size, they contain significantly less air than traditional scuba tanks. The duration of your dive will be limited. But before all that you have to get air into the tank. So, the only way that we have found is to fill the mini scuba tank with a normal air tank, if you have one. The one we used from H2O Sports in Phuket was only 200 THB and it filled up our tanks over 10 times.
