The one and only time I have ever had a near-drowing experience was on a snorkelling tour on Caye Caulker. I am not a strong swimmer and had a life 'belt' around me most times but was told in a certain spot I would not need it and had no reason to put it back on. Unfortunately the current took me and my eight year old son out to deeper waters and we couldn't get back. I have never felt panic like that in my life and was shouting for help when I couldn't keep my head above water any longer and another boat came and rescued us. That day is still so vivid that I have never gone snorkelling since. Why would the guide tell us it was ok, when there was a current? There is no panic I can imagine worse than being swept out by water and fighting a current to the point of exhaustion and 'knowing' you are about to drown. And having your child out of reach as he is being swept away as well.