Freediving Level 1 Course in Bali – 3-Day Beginner Experience

Summary

Beginner Freediving Course: Learn to Dive on One Breath in Bali

If you’ve ever wanted to explore Bali’s underwater world without tanks or noise, this course is for you. You’ll learn from local instructors, build confidence in the water—even if you’re new—and finish able to dive deep on a single breath. It’s not just about depth; it’s about feeling calm and safe below the surface.

What’s the experience like?

The first morning, I remember walking barefoot across the cool tiles of the dive center just before 8:30 am. The air was already warm, but not heavy yet—just that salty hint you get near the coast. Our instructor, Kadek, greeted us with a grin and handed out digital tablets for theory. We sat under a shaded terrace, sipping strong Balinese coffee while learning about equalization and safety signals. It wasn’t all technical stuff; Kadek shared stories about his own first dives and how he panicked at five meters once—made us all feel less nervous.

By midday, we were slipping into wetsuits for our first confined water session. The pool water felt cooler than expected. There’s this odd silence when you’re underwater holding your breath—your own heartbeat sounds louder than anything else. I struggled with my first breath-hold (only made it to 45 seconds), but by day three, I surprised myself hitting almost two minutes. Open water sessions were something else entirely: floating on the surface off Sanur Beach, watching tiny bubbles drift past as we practiced duck dives. Most of us managed to reach between 15 and 20 meters by the last day—Kadek kept cheering us on from above, tapping his fins on the buoy line if we looked unsure.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Freediving Level 1 Course

• Course introduction and theory sessions
• Confined water practice session 1
• Confined water practice session 2
• Open water session 1
• Open water session 2
• Open water session 3

Top questions

Do I need any previous freediving or scuba experience?

Nope! As long as you can swim comfortably, you’re good to join. Most people are total beginners.

How deep will I be able to dive after the course?

Most students reach between 15–20 meters by day three—it depends a bit on your comfort and progress.

Is equipment provided or do I need my own?

All freediving gear is included during the course—just bring your swimsuit and towel.

I’m not super fit—will I manage?

You’ll need moderate fitness since there’s swimming involved, but you don’t have to be an athlete.

What’s included

You’ll get digital learning materials, use of all freediving equipment during sessions, and an official certification when you finish. Lunch breaks are built in so there’s time to relax between sessions too.