PADI Level 1 Freediver
Become a Certified Freediver: A comprehensive 2-day course that takes you from beginner to confident freediver, with skills to dive 10-16 meters and explore Tasmania's underwater world.
What is PADI Level 1 Freediver?
This comprehensive 2-day course takes you from beginner to certified freediver through a combination of theory, pool training, and ocean diving. You'll develop the fundamental skills, safety knowledge, and confidence to dive to 10-16 meters and hold your breath for extended periods. No prior freediving experience required—just comfort in the water and readiness to discover your potential.
Static & Dynamic Apnea
Develop breath-hold endurance through static training and learn to swim extended distances underwater with efficiency and control.
Equalisation & Depth
Master pressure equalisation techniques and vertical diving skills to safely reach 10-16 meters in the ocean.
Safety & Rescue
Learn comprehensive buddy procedures, risk awareness, and how to recognise and respond to freediving emergencies.
Theory & Physiology
Understand freediving physics, how your body adapts to breath-holding, and the principles that keep you safe underwater.
PADI Level 1 Freediver?
Duration: 2 days (Saturday & Sunday)
Pool Location: Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre
Ocean Location: Tasman Peninsula Boat Dive
Group Size: Small groups for personalised instruction
Certification: PADI Level 1 Freediver upon successful completion
What's Included:
Instruction from certified and experienced freedivers
Free pool facility access
Boat dive with Tasmania’s highest rated dive centre
On-going support and training opportunities
What to Bring:
Fins, mask, and snorkel
Wetsuit (5mm recommended for Tassie waters)
Weight belt and weights
Gloves, socks, and hood
Towel and warm change of clothes
Water bottle and snacks
Don't have gear? Contact us about rental options.
Prerequisites Section:
Who Can Join
Physical Requirements:
Confident swimmer, able to swim 200 meters
Age Requirement:
18+ years of age
Medical Clearance:
Complete PADI medical questionnaire
Medical clearance required if any conditions are flagged
Experience Level:
No prior freediving experience necessary
Basic water comfort is essential
Questions about whether you're ready? We're here to help—just reach out.
Your Certification Goals
By the end of this course, you'll be able to:
Dive comfortably to 10-16 meters in the ocean
Hold your breath for 90+ seconds
Swim 25 meters underwater
Perform safe buddy procedures and basic rescue
Understand freediving physiology and safety principles
Continue your freediving journey with confidence
This certification is recognised worldwide and qualifies you to freedive with buddies, join freediving trips, and progress to advanced courses.
After Certification
Your PADI Level 1 Freediver certification is just the beginning:
Join our regular pool & line training sessions to refine skills
Participate in Deep South social and conservation events
Progress to PADI Advanced Freediver (level 2) for depths to 24m
Access freediving sites and communities worldwide
Continue developing your practice with ongoing support
Many of our most advanced students started with this exact course. The skills you build this weekend become the foundation for everything that follows.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Safety comes first. If conditions aren't suitable, we'll reschedule the ocean session to another day that works for you and the group.
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Completely normal. We progress gradually and never push you beyond your comfort zone. Many students surprise themselves with what they achieve when properly prepared.
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Having your own gear ensures proper fit and comfort, especially for a 5-hour ocean session. If you need to rent, contact us in advance to arrange.
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PADI Basic is a one-day pool introduction. Level 1 is a comprehensive 2-day certification course including ocean diving to depth and full freediver qualification.
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Yes, if you're comfortable swimming and in the ocean. The course teaches you everything you need—no freediving experience required.
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We work with each student individually. Most people achieve the requirements with proper instruction, but if you need more time, we can arrange additional training.
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.
