PADI Freediver (Level 1)
Become a Certified Freediver: A comprehensive 3-day course that takes you from beginner to confident freediver, with skills to dive comfortably and safely in Tasmania's underwater world.
What is PADI Level 1 Freediver?
This comprehensive 3-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 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: 3 days
Day 1: Hobart
Day 2: - Pool - Hobart
- Ocean - Hobart (weather dependant)
Day 3: Tasman Peninsula
What's Included:
Theory and Breath Work Session - Evening 3 hrs
Pool Session and Shore Dive - 9 hrs
Boat Dive with Tasmania’s highest rated dive centre - 5 hrs
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 instruction
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
Complete the PADI exam online
Perform safe buddy procedures and rescues
Understand freediving physiology, psychology 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 and training.
What to Bring:
Fins (ideally freediving fins but any are fine)
Mask and snorkel
Wetsuit with hood (5mm open cell recommended for Tassie waters)
Weight belt/ weights
Wetsuit gloves and socks
Towel and warm change of clothes
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Pen, paper and yoga mat or towel for Theory & Breath Work session
Don't have 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 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.
Not ready for the ocean yet? Join our Basic Freediver Course and get comfortable in the pool first.
After This Course
Your PADI Level 1 Freediver certification is just the beginning:
Receive a globally recognised PADI Freediver certification upon successful completion
Enjoy a %15 off reward to our regular Pool and Line Training Sessions to be used within 6 months with our Course to Community benefit
Participate in Deep South social and conservation events
Progress to PADI Advanced Freediver Level 2 (coming soon)
Access freediving sites and communities worldwide
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 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 gear, please contact us in advance to arrange.
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PADI Basic is a 2-day pool freediver introduction course and is the same as the first half of the Level 1 course.
Level 1 is a comprehensive 3-day certification course with an additional shore dive and boat dive.
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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, you can book additional training for specific course requirements within 12 months.
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.
