Do I need prior freediving experience to join the camp?

No prior experience is needed; the course is designed for beginners as well as those looking to improve their skills.

Is spearfishing suitable for beginners?

Yes, the workshop teaches safe and responsible spearfishing techniques appropriate for newcomers.

What safety measures are in place during the training?

Instructors follow strict safety protocols including buddy systems, monitoring, and progressive skill development.

Are wetsuits and gear provided?

Basic gear like wetsuits and weight belts can be rented on-site, but bringing your own mask and snorkel is recommended.

Can photos and videos of my dives be taken?

Yes, professional underwater photography and videography are part of the experience to document your adventure.

What is the cancellation policy for the camp?

Cancellation policies vary by booking date, so please check directly with Catalina Island Mermaids when reserving.

Catalina Freedive Training & Spearfishing in Avalon

Experience the thrill of freediving combined with spearfishing in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Catalina Island. Over a focused three-day PADI Freediver Course led by Catalina Island Mermaids, participants will gain valuable skills and knowledge, from breath-hold techniques to safe spearfishing practices. The training takes place near Avalon, where the vibrant kelp forests provide a breathtaking underwater playground filled with diverse marine life. This immersive experience offers a supportive team environment, ideal for beginners and intermediate divers who want to push their limits safely. Besides training, guests will have opportunities to capture their journey through professional photos and videos, perfect for preserving memories. Whether you're drawn by the adventure or the beauty of Catalina's marine ecosystem, this workshop promises a unique mix of education, excitement, and natural wonder, making it an exceptional choice for ocean enthusiasts visiting California.

About Catalina Island Mermaids

Catalina Island Mermaids is a specialty experience provider based in Avalon, California, offering a range of mermaiding and underwater services on and around Catalina Island. The company runs guided Catalina Island Mermaid Photoshoots on Middle Beach, in-studio Mermaid Transformation sessions with themed sets and souvenir photos, and a PADI Mermaid Class for participants ages 12 and older. Catalina Island Mermaids also provides Avalon Bare Bottoms underwater services for boats in Avalon Harbor, organizes Mermaid Community Meetups at Casino Point Dive Park, operates a Catalina Freedive Training Camp & Spearfishing Workshop, and offers Meet a Catalina Mermaid meet-and-greet experiences.

All experiences emphasize safety and accessibility: the Mermaid Transformation requires no swimming, the PADI Mermaid Class follows PADI instruction standards for training, and freedive courses include structured freediving techniques and supervision. Professional photographers capture photos and videos for many experiences, with digital galleries or souvenir prints provided when listed. For boat owners, Avalon Bare Bottoms focuses on underwater maintenance and retrieval tasks specific to Avalon Harbor conditions.

Catalina Island Mermaids engages the community through meetups and water-safety initiatives, combining recreational mermaiding with education. The fleet of offerings accommodates families, couples, children, and adult enthusiasts seeking creative photos, skill development, or specialized underwater services. Visitors planning a trip to Avalon can choose from introductory mermaid experiences to multi-day freediving and spearfishing workshops, all delivered locally on Catalina Island.

Bookings are coordinated through the Avalon activity calendar and include clear pre-visit instructions, equipment options, and accessibility details to prepare guests for each unique session.