Freedive Northern Ireland's Intro to Freediving in Portrush
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in decent health with no severe medical conditions; no prior experience required.
Overview
Discover the thrill of freediving on Northern Ireland’s rugged coast with this full-day beginner course in Portrush. Perfect for those looking to build water confidence and explore the ocean in a safe, guided setting.
Basic Freediving – Full Day Introduction
8 hours • Great for ocean lovers! • Experience freediving • Ages 12+
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About This Adventure
Dive into an immersive 8-hour freediving and spearfishing course designed for beginners and those seeking to refine their skills. Experience personalized instruction with breathing techniques, theory lessons, and hands-on water sessions. Enhance your confidence and safety in the water while enjoying the thrill of freediving in a supportive environment.
All equipment included!
Duration
8 hours
About
This course is a fully customized course and a great option if you want to learn more as a beginner, already started freediving or spearfishing on your own but never did a proper course and are now struggling with the main basic techniques. We aim at improving your level so that you will be able to enjoy your spearfishing or recreational freediving activities.
The course includes: • 1 breathing and relaxation session • 1 dry breath hold session • 1 Theory session • 2 Water sessions
More info
The course duration is 7-8 hours and includes equipment, room, pool or quarry and boat hire.
Course Itinerary
We will start at around 9 am by learning to breathe correctly for freediving, how to use your breathing to relax and you will try a dry breath-hold. We follow with a short theory session to talk about the most important safety-related issues associated with freediving. We will follow with the first confined / open water session lasting about 60-90 minutes, then have a lunch break before some theory and then follow with the second confined / open water session. In the open water we will practice descending on a line, while working on equalization, streamlining and relaxation.
You can choose to include an exam at the end to get the pool freediving certification for an additional £35. Please let us know if you are considering this at the time of booking.
Adventure Tips
Wear Wetsuits Properly
Ensure your wetsuit fits snugly to maximize warmth and mobility during water sessions.
Listen to Your Instructor
Pay close attention to safety briefings and personalized coaching to prevent discomfort or accidents.
Practice Breathing Techniques Beforehand
Simple breathing exercises outside the water can help you prepare for the course and improve breath-hold capacity.
Check Weather Conditions
Optimal water conditions are key—plan your trip for days with calm seas and clear weather.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common seals
- Porpoises
History
Portrush has been a hub for maritime activity since the Victorian era, with remnants of its fishing industry still visible today.
Conservation
Local operators prioritize minimal environmental impact, practicing responsible freediving and marine conservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Belfast
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm and buoyant, essential for comfort and safety in varying water temperatures.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Mask and Snorkel
Provides clear underwater vision and an easy breathing tool during practice sessions.
Fins
Enhances your propulsion underwater, making movement more efficient and enjoyable.
Towel and Change of Clothes
Important for comfort post-session and for keeping warm after water activities.