Basic Freediver
A one-day introduction to breath-hold diving that builds confidence, teaches essential skills, and opens the door to the underwater world.
What is Basic Freediver?
The PADI Basic Freediving course is designed for complete beginners and anyone wanting to experience freediving in a safe, supportive environment. In just one day, you'll learn the fundamentals of breath-hold diving, from relaxation techniques to underwater movement, all while discovering capabilities you didn't know you had.
This course focuses on building confidence and proper technique from the start—no pressure, no rushing, just solid foundations that set you up for success in freediving.
Breath-Hold & Relaxation
Learn proper breathing techniques and mental relaxation methods to hold your breath for 90+ seconds comfortably and safely.
Equalisation & Safety
Practice safe pressure equalisation to protect your ears, plus essential buddy procedures and rescue skills.
Underwater Movement
Master efficient duck dives, finning technique, and swim 25 meters underwater with control and minimal effort.
Freediving Fundamentals
Understand how your body responds to breath-holding, freediving physiology, and the principles that make freediving safe and enjoyable.
PADI Basic Freediver?
Duration: One full day
Location: Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre
Group Size: Small groups for personalised attention
Certification: PADI Basic Freediver certification upon completion
What's Included:
PADI instruction and materials
Pool facility access
Safety supervision throughout
PADI Basic Freediver certification
What to Bring:
Fins, mask, and snorkel
Wetsuit (5mm recommended)
Weight belt
Gloves, socks, and hood for comfort
Towel and change of clothes
Don't have all the gear? Contact us about rental options.
Who Can Join
Physical Requirements:
Able to swim 200 meters confidently
Age Requirement:
18+ years of age
Medical Clearance:
Complete PADI medical questionnaire
Medical clearance required if any conditions flagged
Have questions about prerequisites? Get in touch and we'll help you determine if you're ready.
After This Course
The PADI Basic Freediver certification is your foundation. From here, you can:
Continue training in our regular pool sessions
Progress to PADI Freediver certification for open water diving
Join Deep South community sessions and events
Build your skills toward deeper, longer dives
Many of our advanced freedivers started exactly where you are now—curious, maybe a little nervous, and ready to try something new.
Why choose Us
Learning to freedive requires trust. Our certified instructors combine rigorous safety standards with a personalised approach that respects your pace and goals. We don't rush you—we guide you.
Certified Instructors: Years of experience.
Continuous Growth: Regular training sessions and community support for lifelong development.
Personalised Training: Your pace, your goals, your journey—we adapt to you.
Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of Tasmania's best and safest dive sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Absolutely. This course is specifically designed for first-timers. Our instructors expect you to be new to this and will guide you through every step.
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Most beginners start around 30-45 seconds. By the end of the day, you'll surprise yourself. The course teaches you how to extend your breath-hold safely and effectively.
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Basic fitness helps, but freediving is more about relaxation and technique than raw athleticism. If you can swim 200m, you're ready.
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We spend time teaching and practicing equalisation techniques. Most people can learn with proper instruction, and we'll work with you individually if you're having trouble.
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You'll learn the fundamentals and earn your certification in one day. Like any skill, you'll improve with practice—which is why we encourage continuing with our pool training programs.
Join the Deep South Community
Freediving is better together. When you train with Deep South, you're joining a supportive community of ocean lovers who push boundaries and celebrate progress as one.
Connect with experienced freedivers for regular group sessions, find trusted dive buddies for weekend ocean adventures, and access our network for tips, encouragement, and trip planning. We organise social events, explore Tasmania's best dive sites together, and build genuine friendships through our shared passion.
The mental resilience and trust developed through freediving create bonds that extend far beyond the water. You're not just learning a skill—you're finding your tribe.
Dive deeper. Together.
