Learn to unlock your natural ability underwater with this introduction to freediving. The PADI Basic Freediver course is designed to give you confidence in the water while teaching essential breathhold techniques in a safe, supportive environment. It’s the perfect first step if you’re curious about freediving or want to improve your snorkelling skills.
The session begins with a short introduction and knowledge development section where you’ll learn about freediving principles, safety, and the basics of breathhold diving. Using PADI’s eLearning materials alongside instructor guidance, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how your body responds when holding your breath.
Once you’re ready, the focus shifts into the pool. Here you’ll practise static apnea (holding your breath while still) and dynamic apnea (swimming underwater while holding your breath). You’ll also learn correct finning techniques, how to streamline your body for efficiency, and how to work effectively as a buddy. By the end of the day, you should be able to comfortably achieve a 90-second static apnea and a 25-metre dynamic apnea, often surprising yourself with what you can achieve in such a short time.
Every step is done at your own pace, and the supportive teaching style ensures you never feel rushed. By combining practice with feedback, you’ll leave with both confidence and a strong foundation to continue into the full PADI Freediver course if you choose.
Training takes place at Scalloway Pool or Sandwick Pool, two excellent venues for beginners thanks to their controlled, safe conditions. Both pools are in Shetland, offering a convenient and comfortable learning space before taking skills out into the open sea.
Shetland itself is an incredible place to begin your freediving journey. With dramatic coastlines, hidden coves, and an abundance of marine life, it’s the ideal backdrop for building confidence in the water. While this course focuses on pool-based skills, being in Shetland connects you to one of the UK’s most unique aquatic environments, inspiring you for future dives.
To take part, you must be at least 12 years old, comfortable in the water, and have basic swimming ability. No prior experience with snorkelling, skin diving, or freediving is required.
Good general health is important for freediving. If you have any medical conditions or concerns, a doctor’s approval may be required before joining the course.
The centre is led by an instructor who has turned a personal story of recovery and resilience into a passion for helping others experience the power of the underwater world. Training here isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about gaining confidence, building skills, and seeing what your body and mind are capable of achieving.
Sessions are friendly, encouraging, and taught in small groups so everyone gets the attention they need. With high-quality equipment, professional teaching, and a welcoming atmosphere, this is a great place to begin your freediving journey in Scotland’s northern isles.
This course is open to anyone aged 12 and over who is reasonably comfortable in the water. You don’t need any previous experience with snorkelling, freediving, or scuba diving to join. It’s a great option for beginners who are curious about what freediving involves.
The only real requirement is that you’re able to swim and are in good general health. Even if you’ve never held your breath intentionally before, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can learn safe and effective techniques.
The PADI Basic Freediver course runs for around five hours in total. This includes both knowledge development and practical training in the pool. Sessions are broken into clear sections so you can learn without feeling rushed.
Time in the pool is maximised to ensure you get plenty of practice with static and dynamic apnea, as well as proper buddy procedures. By the end of the day, you’ll have a strong foundation and confidence to continue your freediving journey.
Don’t worry if you feel you can’t hold your breath for more than a few seconds at the start. The course is designed to teach techniques that make a huge difference, such as relaxation, breathing preparation, and correct body position.
Most beginners are surprised at how much they improve even in a single session. With proper guidance, you’ll find yourself reaching safe but impressive times and distances that you didn’t think were possible.
No need to invest in gear right away, as all specialist freediving equipment is provided for you. This includes masks, fins, snorkels, wetsuits, and weight belts, so you’ll be properly kitted out from the start.
If you already own basic snorkelling equipment, you’re welcome to bring it, but using professional freediving gear ensures you get the most out of the experience. Your instructor can also offer advice if you’re thinking about buying your own equipment later.
The main focus is on static apnea (breathholding without moving) and dynamic apnea (swimming underwater on one breath). You’ll also learn efficient finning, how to streamline your body, and safe buddy procedures.
Alongside the physical practice, you’ll gain knowledge about how your body responds during breathhold diving. This combination of theory and practical work ensures you understand both the “how” and the “why” behind the techniques.
Safety is always the highest priority. All activities are supervised by a qualified freediving instructor, and everything is done in a controlled pool environment. Buddy procedures are built into the course so you’ll never dive alone.
By learning proper techniques from the start, you’re actually reducing risk compared to trying freediving without guidance. You’ll leave the course with a strong understanding of how to keep yourself and others safe in the water.
About the centre
Scalloway Pool, New Rd, Scalloway, Shetland ZE1 0TN
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Freedive Shetland - Atlantica, a partner of adventuro.
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £200
Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi
From $225
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £275
