Catalina Freedive Training & Spearfishing in Avalon

Explore the kelp forests on Catalina Island while taking your PADI Freediver Course during our immersive 3-day training camp designed for all skill levels. Whether you're brand new to freediving, working toward your Advanced Freediver, or pushing for Master Freediver depth goals, this camp is designed to meet you where you’re at — and help you level up.

We train as a team, encouraging and challenging one another to grow. Expect a supportive and empowering environment where every diver works toward their individual goals while sharing in the collective energy of the group.

Each morning begins with freedive theory and physiology, including breathwork, safety systems, equalization, and how the human body adapts to pressure. In the afternoon, we head into the water for confined water training, including dynamic apnea and static breath-hold sessions.

On Day 2, we take our training to the ocean at Casino Point Dive Park, where you’ll refine your technique on the dive line and complete performance requirements. Then we explore the kelp forests, capturing photos and videos of your progress and time in the water.

On Day 3, we dive into spearfishing education. We provide all necessary equipment — including one speargun per buddy team — but you’re encouraged to bring your own gear if you have it. This workshop is designed for all experience levels, and Brandon will tailor instruction to ensure everyone leaves with new knowledge and skills, whether it's your first time or your 100th.

Every participant will receive access to an online gallery with photos and videos captured throughout the training weekend, so you’ll walk away with beautiful memories and content of your underwater journey.

There is no experience necessary, and all freediving equipment is included!

Catalina Island Mermaids has partnered with Odyssey Freediving to offer this course in Avalon.

Meet your Instructor!

!Brandon Burke

Brandon Burke is a freediving instructor and spearfishing guide based in Monterey, CA. He founded Odyssey Freediving and is known for his patient and empowering teaching style to help you become more comfortable holding your breath underwater. Freediving is a practice of looking inward, and there is no better place to do so than the kelp forests of the California coast. His goal when instructing is to teach foundational skills in freediving, breathing techniques, physiology, safety, and ocean education. Possessing a deep respect for our oceans, his goal is to work with you to become not only a competent freediver but a knowledgeable ocean advocate.

What to expect:

A detailed schedule, packing list, and additional information will be provided upon signup. You can expect to arrive in Avalon Friday evening, with training running Saturday through Monday. Each day includes a blend of classroom learning, hands-on water practice, and plenty of time to bond with fellow freedivers. Day 2 wraps up with our photo and video session in the kelp forests — your chance to capture your new skills in action.

We can't wait to host you in Avalon, enhance your skills, and certify you as a PADI Freediver!

SPEARFISHING WORKSHOP

All participants will be included in the spearfishing workshop on Day 3 unless they opt out. The workshop is designed for all levels and includes use of spearfishing equipment.

FAQ's

How cold is the water? In Catalina, the water can range from a brisk 55°F to 75°F in the summer and fall months. Please bring warm clothing for after dives — you’ll want towels and dry layers for the walk back from the water.

What meals are included? We include a light lunch on each training day. Other meals are on your own, and there is a grocery store just 150 steps from our meeting point for convenience. We’ll also have water, sports drinks, coffee, and tea available.

What if I have dietary restrictions? No problem at all! Just let us know ahead of time so we can plan accordingly.

How will I get around while I’m on the island? Everything is within walking distance in Avalon, but taxis are available if needed.

If you have any additional questions before booking, feel free to text 801-699-9411 to schedule a call!

Mermaids are welcome to attend this course and bring your tail for the photo and video session on Day 2 to capture some magical content underwater!