PADI Basic Freediver (Theory & Pool)
A 2-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 beginners and anyone wanting to experience freediving in a safe, supportive environment. In just two sessions, 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 is the first half of your PADI Freediver (Level 1) course. You can complete the Open Water session and Boat Dive at a later date to complete the full freediver course.
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
Learn 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: 2 days
Location: Hobart (Tasmania wide upon arrangement)
What's Included:
Theory and Breath Work Session - Evening 3 hrs
Pool Session - Morning 4hrs
PADI eLearning materials to be completed prior to the course at home (allow up to 5 hrs)
Instruction from certified and experienced freedive instructors
On-going instructor support and training opportunities
Access to a thriving, supportive community of ocean lovers
Small class setting for personalised attention
Your Certification Goals:
By the end of this course, you'll be able to:
Hold your breath for 90+ seconds
Swim 25 meters underwater
Complete the PADI online exam
Perform safe buddy procedures and rescues
Understand freediving physiology, psychology and safety principles
Continue your freediving journey with confidence
What to Bring:
Fins (ideally freediving fins but any are fine)
Mask and snorkel
Wetsuit, wetsuit socks (3mm minimum recommended)
Weight belt/ weights
Towel and change of clothes
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Pen, paper and yoga mat or towel for Theory & Breath Work session
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:
Receive a globally recognised PADI Basic Freediver certification upon successful completion
Enjoy a %15 off reward to our Pool Training Sessions to be used within 6 months with our Course to Community benefit
Progress to PADI Freediver certification for open water/ ocean freediving
Participate in Deep South social and conservation events
Build your skills toward funner, deeper, longer dives
Unable to meet your goals? Don’t worry! You can rebook individual components of your course with 12 months.
Many of our advanced freedivers started exactly where you are now - curious, maybe a little nervous, and ready to try something new.
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. Please get in touch with us if you have any concerns.
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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 two days. Like any skill, you'll improve with practice which is why we encourage continuing with our pool training programs.
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.
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.
