If you’ve ever searched for tropical adventures, underwater travel, or ocean sports, you’ve probably paused at one question: snorkelling or snorkeling — which spelling is correct? Both words look almost identical, sound exactly the same, and refer to the same relaxing underwater activity. Yet, you’ll often see different spellings depending on the website, country, or travel guide you’re reading.
This confusion happens because English spelling changes slightly across regions, especially between British and American English. Travelers, bloggers, and even native speakers regularly mix them up. Although they look/sound similar, they serve completely different purposes. The difference isn’t about meaning or activity — it’s about regional spelling rules.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn the exact difference between snorkelling or snorkeling, how each spelling is used, where it’s preferred, real-life examples, fun facts, and an easy rule you’ll never forget 🐠🌊.
Section 1: What Is “Snorkelling”?
Snorkelling is the British English spelling of the word that describes swimming near the surface of the water while breathing through a snorkel. It allows people to observe marine life without heavy diving equipment.
Meaning
➡️ Snorkelling means floating face-down in water using a snorkel tube, mask, and fins to explore coral reefs, fish, and underwater scenery.
How It’s Used
In British English, snorkelling is used as:
- A verb (the action)
- A gerund/noun (the activity itself)
Where It’s Used
You’ll mainly see snorkelling in:
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- India
- Pakistan
- Other Commonwealth countries
Examples in Sentences
- “We went snorkelling near the coral reef.”
- “Snorkelling is popular in the Maldives.”
- “She bought fins for snorkelling holidays.”
Historical or Usage Note
British English often doubles the “L” before adding -ing or -ed endings (travel → travelling). That’s why snorkelling follows the same spelling pattern.
Section 2: What Is “Snorkeling”?
Snorkeling is the American English spelling of the same underwater activity. The meaning is identical — only the spelling changes.
Meaning
➡️ Snorkeling means swimming at the surface using a snorkel to breathe while observing underwater life.
How It’s Used
In American English, snorkeling works as:
- A verb
- A noun/gerund
Where It’s Used
You’ll see snorkeling primarily in:
- United States
- American travel blogs
- US-based tourism websites
- International content targeting US readers
Examples in Sentences
- “We are snorkeling in Hawaii today.”
- “Snorkeling is safe for beginners.”
- “They love snorkeling during summer vacations.”
Regional or Grammatical Notes
American English avoids doubling the “L” unless the stress falls on the final syllable. As a result, snorkeling keeps a single L, making it shorter and simpler.
Key Differences Between Snorkelling and Snorkeling
Quick Summary Points
- Snorkelling = British English spelling
- Snorkeling = American English spelling
- Meaning and pronunciation are identical
- Difference is purely regional, not grammatical
- Both refer to the same water activity
Comparison Table
| Feature | Snorkelling | Snorkeling |
|---|---|---|
| English Type | British English | American English |
| Spelling Style | Double “L” | Single “L” |
| Used In | UK & Commonwealth | USA |
| Meaning | Surface swimming with snorkel | Same meaning |
| Pronunciation | Same | Same |
| Correct Usage | Region-based | Region-based |
Real-Life Conversation Examples
Dialogue 1
A: “Why does this guide say snorkelling?”
B: “It’s written in British English.”
🎯 Lesson: Spelling depends on the country.
Dialogue 2
A: “I searched snorkeling gear but saw snorkelling articles.”
B: “Same activity, different spelling.”
🎯 Lesson: Meaning never changes.
Dialogue 3
A: “Should I write snorkeling or snorkelling?”
B: “Who’s your audience?”
🎯 Lesson: Always write for your readers’ region.
Dialogue 4
A: “My editor changed snorkeling to snorkelling.”
B: “Probably UK-based content.”
🎯 Lesson: Editors follow regional standards.
When to Use Snorkelling vs Snorkeling
Use Snorkelling When:
✔️ Writing for UK or Commonwealth readers
✔️ Publishing British travel content
✔️ Following UK spelling standards
✔️ Writing educational or academic UK material
Examples:
- “Snorkelling trips are available daily.”
- “Snorkelling is ideal for beginners.”
Use Snorkeling When:
✔️ Writing for a US or global audience
✔️ Publishing American travel blogs
✔️ Targeting US tourism markets
✔️ Using American English style guides
Examples:
- “Snorkeling tours start at sunrise.”
- “Snorkeling is a family-friendly activity.”
Easy Memory Trick
➡️ Double L = British
➡️ Single L = American
Fun Facts & History 🐬
1️⃣ The word snorkel comes from the German word Schnorchel, meaning “breathing tube.”
2️⃣ Snorkeling/snorkelling became popular worldwide after World War II with the rise of recreational diving equipment.
FAQ:
1: Is snorkelling and snorkeling the same thing?
Yes. Snorkelling and snorkeling mean exactly the same activity — swimming on the water’s surface while breathing through a snorkel to observe marine life. The only difference is spelling, not meaning or technique.
2: Which spelling is correct — snorkelling or snorkeling?
Both are correct.
- Snorkelling (double “L”) is used in British English
- Snorkeling (single “L”) is used in American English
3: Which spelling should I use for my website or blog?
It depends on your target audience:
- Use snorkeling for US and global audiences
- Use snorkelling for UK, Australia, and Commonwealth readers
For SEO, you can safely use one primary spelling and mention the other once.
4: Why does British English use “snorkelling” with double L?
British English follows a rule where the final consonant is doubled before adding -ing when the stress falls on the last syllable. That’s why British English prefers snorkelling, travelling, and counselling.
5: Why does American English use “snorkeling” with one L?
American English simplifies spelling rules. It usually avoids doubling consonants unless necessary, which is why snorkeling, traveling, and counseling are standard in the US.
6: Is one spelling more formal than the other?
No. Neither spelling is more formal. Both are grammatically correct and professionally accepted — as long as they match the regional English you’re using.
7: Can I mix snorkelling and snorkeling in the same article?
No. For clarity, professionalism, and SEO consistency, you should choose one spelling and stick to it throughout your content.
8: Do search engines treat snorkelling and snorkeling differently?
Search engines understand both spellings, but snorkeling has higher global search volume. For SEO purposes, many websites use snorkeling as the primary keyword and include snorkelling as a secondary variation.
9: Are snorkel, snorkelling, and snorkeling related words?
Yes.
- Snorkel = the equipment
- Snorkelling / Snorkeling = the activity
Only the activity spelling changes by region.
10: What’s the easiest way to remember the difference?
➡️ UK English = double L → snorkelling
➡️ US English = single L → snorkeling
Simple rule: British doubles, American simplifies.
Conclusion
The difference between snorkelling or snorkeling is simple once you understand regional spelling rules. Both words describe the same relaxing underwater activity and are pronounced exactly the same. The only difference lies in British vs American English. British English prefers snorkelling with double “L,” while American English uses snorkeling with a single “L.” The meaning never changes — only the spelling does. When writing, always consider your audience and location. Next time someone uses these two words, you’ll know exactly what they mean! 🌊🐠
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