Basic Freediver

SSI Basic Freediver · Bay of Islands

Basic Freediver

Your first real breath-hold, or your foundations done properly. One day in the pool and studio, and a certification that lasts a lifetime.

$350 or start with your online learning · $100

Course

People

How would you like to start?

Next, fill in the self-check medical form. We'll be in touch to lock in your date.

What to expect

One day, structured and certified. Your first real breath-hold, or your foundations done properly. It's day one of the Level 1 course, so you can do it on its own, or add the ocean day later.

How long One full day
Where Pool sessions, plus theory at our Paihia studio
Who it's for Snorkellers, scuba divers, spearos
Gear Wetsuit, mask, fins and weights included
Certified SSI Basic Freediver, for life
Recovery Sauna, cold plunge, hot drinks
What you'll learn, and what's included

What we cover

  • Breath-hold physiology: oxygen, CO₂, the mammalian dive reflex
  • Equalisation: Frenzel technique and troubleshooting
  • Static and dynamic apnea in the pool
  • Safety: rescue, recovery and buddy protocols
  • SSI e-learning, done at your own pace

Included

  • One full day of instruction
  • SSI Basic Freediver digital materials and certification
  • All equipment hire and pool entry
  • Sauna and cold plunge, hot drinks

Want the ocean too?

Day two is open water, to 10m and beyond with your buddy. It's not included here: book the Level 1 course to get both days together and save.

SSI Basic Freediver is recognised worldwide and lasts a lifetime. You'll be qualified to freedive in a buddy team anywhere.

Dates

We go out weekly. Request a date, or pick one that suits, and we'll work out what fits best.

How to book

Buy your online learning now for $100 and start straight away, then pick or request your date when you're ready. The $100 comes off the full fee.

1 · Choose your date Or start with online learning · $100 Book → 2 · Medical form Quick self-check form Open form →
3 · Confirmed We email your date and plan

What to bring

The freedive gear is included. Bring any of your own gear if you have it.

Togs
Towel
Warm clothes
Snacks & lunch Water bottle too
A good sleep The night before
Commonly asked questions
Do I need to be fit?

Reasonable fitness helps, but there's no benchmark. Just show up.

Is there a swim test?

Yes, a short one. Swim 25m, any stroke, no time limit, no fins or floats. Then tread water or float for 2 minutes.

Do I buy the e-learning separately?

No. Your SSI e-learning is included. Buy it now for $100 and start straight away; it comes off the full fee.

What's the buddy system?

You're paired with another student or the instructor. We never teach or allow solo freediving.

Can I get a refund?

Tell us 7 or more days before and you get a full refund, minus the $100 SSI e-learning on courses, which is yours to keep. Inside 7 days we can't refund, because boats and crew are booked, but you can move your date or transfer it to a friend. Unwell? Talk to us and we'll move you. Full policy.

Something else? Message us

Buy online learning

Where we dive

Swipe through, tap a place for the full story.

Bay of IslandsBay of IslandsOur home water, from the Paihia studioHave a look Poor Knights IslandsPoor Knights IslandsMarine reserve, from TutukakaHave a look Cavalli IslandsCavalli IslandsWild islands off Matauri BayHave a look Kai Iwi LakesKai Iwi LakesClear freshwater lakesHave a look Pacific expeditionsPacific ExpeditionsNiue and beyondHave a look

Where to next

Freedive Course · Level 1 Freedive Course · Level 1Get certified in 2 days · $799Have a look Try Freediving Try FreedivingOne day, no experience · $280Have a look Signature Pool Training Signature Pool Training10 weeks · $450 or $45.85/weekHave a look Freedive Course · Level 2 Freedive Course · Level 2Past 20m, to 30m · $1,200Have a look