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Calling All Kids and Snorkelers: SASY® and Snuba®

© Linda Gettmann

Here are two ways to get the whole family in the water-breathing comfortably on the surface, or underneath, and enjoying the ocean environment in all its splendor. Wayne Hasson, Managing Director of the Aggressor Fleet of live-aboard dive boats developed SASY® (Supplied Air Snorkeling for Youth) with his kids who were too young for certified scuba. The enhanced snorkeling system consists of a mini air tank and foam-filled vest that enables kids as young as 5 to float safely on the surface and enjoy water-free breathing through a small regulator mouthpiece. Aqua Lung, Oceanic, and Scubapro make SASY® units that are currently used by dive operators in the Cayman Islands, Bonaire, Aruba, Curacao, Hawaii and the Bahamas. The vests are adjustable and comfortable for kids of all shapes and sizes. "With kids experiencing the beauty and awe of the seas firsthand, we hope to help create a future generation that understands - and is respectful of - the world's marine environments," says Wayne. "Hopefully, in a year or two from now, this simple product will make an important, positive impact on the lives of many kids. And further down the road, we hope those kids will eventually become scuba divers and grow up to be concerned about and help protect the oceans."

There is also an adult-size version, Supplied Air Snorkeling for Adults (SASA®) which will appeal to people who are uncomfortable with conventional snorkel gear. The SASA® units are designed to hold a 19- or 30-cubic-foot tank; each provides plenty of surface time for adult users. With sizes for all, parents and their kids will be able to explore coral reefs together safely while using Supplied Air Snorkeling units at the surface. If youngsters or adults are having trouble snorkeling or learning to swim, this may be a great way to increase their comfort level and confidence in the water by providing a secure flotation and breathing device.

All profits from sales and licensing of the patented Supplied Air Snorkeling products go to Oceans for Youth; a non-profit foundation dedicated to providing aquatic information and resources to schools.

Snuba® goes one step further, getting kids and adults 20 feet down for their first breath underwater in a safe and fun way. The entire family can share the experience from 4 years of age (Snuba® Doo program for kids 4-7, minimum age for Snuba® adventure is 8) on up. No prior snorkeling experience is required.

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