SSI Freediving Level 1 is your first internationally recognised freediving certification. Two days, with depths up to 20 metres and a complete grounding in technique, safety and the diving reflex.
What you’ll learn
- Breathing. Diaphragmatic relaxation. How to slow your heart rate at will. Why packing and hyperventilation are dangerous — and what to do instead.
- Equalisation. Frenzel technique. How to keep your ears comfortable past 10 metres, where snorkellers stop and freedivers begin.
- Safety. Buddy practices, rescue from depth, how to read your own body’s signs. You’ll never freedive alone — and you’ll know how to keep a partner safe.
- Technique. Streamlined body position, efficient finning, neutral buoyancy adjustment, calm descents and ascents.
By the end you’ll have completed a confined-session static apnea, a 30-metre dynamic-with-fins, and ocean dives to 15-20 metres — relaxed, with a buddy, and with the SSI Level 1 card in your hand.
Contact us at freedivegiliair@gmail.com or via WhatsApp to confirm dates.
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Do I need to hold my breath for ages already?
No. Most students arrive holding their breath for 30 seconds and leave holding it for 2 to 3 minutes — calmly. The technique you learn does most of the work.
How deep will I actually go?
Level 1 certifies you to 20 metres. Most students reach 15-20m on the final day of the course. The depth happens because you're relaxed, not because you push.
Is Level 1 an internationally recognised certification?
Yes. SSI Freediving Level 1 is recognised worldwide and is equivalent to PADI Freediver and AIDA 2. Most schools accept any of them as the prerequisite for the next level.
Can I do the theory online before arriving?
Yes. SSI online theory is free — complete it before you fly and you save half a day on the boat. Tell us when you book and we'll email the access code.
I struggle to equalise — can I still freedive?
Equalisation issues are workable, not impossible. Day 1 includes a long session on the Frenzel technique. Most students who think they "can't equalise" leave able to clear past 15 metres. Known sinus infection? Postpone until it clears.
Do I need dive accident insurance?
We recommend any diver — scuba or freediving — to hold DAN or equivalent dive accident coverage. About €60/year, pays for hyperbaric treatment if needed. Not mandatory but smart.
Verified reviews
What divers say about this course
Highly recommend this place to learn to dive - everyone who works there is so lovely and welcoming and they put you at ease straight away.…
Highly recommend to do scubadive or freedive with these guys! I completed the AOW course with Alex as my instructor. He help me improve my…
Absolutely the best experience I could have imagined – felt like family I came to Gili Air looking for relaxation and maybe a bit of…