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This introductory course welcomes those new to freediving with a complete overview of essential techniques. You will learn foundational skills such as body relaxation, breath control, finning, and equalisation to confidently explore underwater environments. Training takes place in calm, tropical waters ideal for first-timers.
Your day begins with an in-depth introduction to freediving theory, including safety fundamentals and how to prepare your body and mind for breath-hold diving. This includes practical breathing exercises designed to calm the nervous system and extend breath-hold capacity safely. Instructors will guide you through correct posture and finning techniques, essential for efficient movement underwater.
Following theory, the practical session takes place in shallow, protected waters near the resort’s House Reef. You will learn how to equalise pressure effectively and execute the duck dive, preparing you for safe and comfortable descents. The calm and warm waters of North Sulawesi provide an ideal setting, with clear visibility allowing you to focus fully on technique.
Throughout the day, emphasis is placed on safety, including buddy checks, communication, and recognising personal limits. By the end of the course, you will have gained confidence in basic freediving skills and a clear understanding of safety procedures, setting a solid foundation for further training.
The course is based in Manado in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, offering immediate access to sheltered bays and a House Reef suitable for beginners. Water temperatures consistently range from 28 to 29°C, making conditions comfortable year-round.
Manado Bay’s calm waters provide excellent visibility, typically between 15 and 25 metres, ensuring a safe environment to develop early freediving skills. The region's marine protected areas enrich the underwater experience with abundant marine life.
Participants must be 18 years or older and capable of swimming 100 metres without stopping. No previous freediving experience is necessary, but good general health is required.
Individuals with any respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should consult a medical professional before enrolling to ensure they are fit for breath-hold diving.
The centre is staffed by certified instructors who specialise in welcoming new freedivers with patient, tailored coaching. Emphasis on safety and individual attention ensures a positive learning experience for all abilities.
Facilities are well-equipped, and the resort’s easy access to protected reefs makes learning convenient and enjoyable. The supportive environment encourages progression at a comfortable pace.
Participants must be at least 18 years old. This minimum age ensures that individuals possess the necessary maturity and physical development to handle the demands of breath-hold diving safely.
There is no upper age limit, but all applicants must be in good health and physically capable of swimming 100 metres continuously to meet the course’s safety requirements.
A swimming ability of 100 metres non-stop is mandatory for safety reasons, to ensure that participants can confidently manage themselves in the water. This basic swimming competence is essential for freediving practice.
No previous freediving or scuba diving experience is required. The course is designed specifically for beginners and focuses on building foundational skills from the ground up.
The centre provides all the essential freediving equipment you need, including a mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, and weight belt. Each participant will receive professional fitting and advice to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
If you prefer, you may bring your own personal freediving gear. Instructors are happy to assist with fitting and provide recommendations on suitable equipment.
This is a one-day course, usually lasting between four and six hours. The schedule is structured to include both theoretical instruction and practical in-water training sessions, with breaks to prevent fatigue.
The duration ensures comprehensive introduction to freediving basics without overwhelming participants, giving them time to absorb and practise skills effectively.
Safety is the foremost consideration throughout the course. Instructors maintain strict buddy systems during all water activities and continually monitor participants for signs of fatigue or distress.
Detailed safety briefings and protocols, including surface intervals and emergency procedures, are explained and practiced to minimise any risks associated with freediving.
The theoretical component covers the physiology of freediving, basic breathing techniques, methods of equalising ear pressure, and essential safety practices.
Understanding these core concepts helps prepare students mentally and physically for safe freediving, fostering confidence and awareness in the water.
Successful completion of the course earns you an internationally recognised AIDA Level 1 certificate. This certification signifies your basic competence in freediving principles and techniques.
The certificate enables you to progress to higher levels of training or to engage in recreational freediving within your skill limits.
The course is not suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions or those unable to swim 100 metres non-stop. Pregnant individuals and those with recent injuries should consult a physician prior to booking.
All participants must be able to follow instructions carefully and communicate effectively to ensure a safe and positive experience for themselves and others.
About the centre
Murex Resorts Manado, Jl. Raya Tanawangko No.1, Kalasey Satu, Mandolang, Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi 95661
Operated by Murex Resorts, a partner of adventuro.
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
From £150.50
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
From £210
North Sulawesi, Indonesia
From $3447
