Adventure Collective
Discover SSI Intro to Freedive: Explore San Francisco’s Underwater World - San Francisco

Discover SSI Intro to Freedive: Explore San Francisco’s Underwater World

San Franciscomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4–6 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness, comfortable with swimming and breath-hold activities.

Overview

Unlock the secrets of San Francisco’s coastal waters with the SSI Intro to Freedive course—a perfect blend of online learning and hands-on freediving that takes you up to five meters underwater near the city. Discover why this unique program stands out for ocean lovers and beginners alike.

San Francisco, California

SSI: Intro to Freedive - San Francisco, CA

Learn to Snorkel Beyond the Surface

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

SSI: Intro to Freedive - San Francisco, CA photo 1

About This Adventure

Dive into adventure with the Advanced Snorkeler course, where you'll explore the underwater world up to 5 meters deep. This unique program combines online learning with practical skills in the pool and ocean, ensuring you gain confidence and earn your SSI Basic Freediver certification. Perfect for aspiring underwater explorers!

TRAINING COSTS:

  • $275 Tuition per person
  • $75 SSI E-learning materials

The payment of Course Fees guarantees TRAINING, not necessarily certification. Certification is EARNED only by successfully meeting all applicable standards and objectives.


OBJECTIVE: The Advanced Snorkeler course is your first step into the peaceful, exhilarating world of diving below the ocean's surface. During this entry-level program, you will learn how to safely desccend with a buddy in up to a depth of 5 meters (15ft).

Online training is combined with basic freediving fundamentals to give you all the skills and knowledge you need to become more confident underwater. Upon completing this program, you will earn your SSI Basic Freediver certification.


DURATION:

  • 2 hour E-learning via SSI
  • 3 hour Classroom
  • 3 hour Pool
  • 1 day Ocean

TECHNIQUES/SKILLS:

  • Equalization Techniques
  • Breathing Techniques & Breath Holds
  • In Water Safety
  • Maximum 10m/33ft

DIVER REQUIREMENTS:

  • Fit to swim

  • 10 years old

    Any participant under the age of 18 will REQUIRE:

    • The parent/guardian to be listed as the main point of contact.
    • A SEPARATE email & phone number for the parent/guardian and the minor participating in the course.

GEAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • Swimsuit & towel
  • Mask & Snorkel

ADDITIONAL GEAR INCLUDED IN COURSE:

  • Wetsuit
  • Socks & Fins
  • Weightbelt
  • Weights
  • Gloves

Adventure Tips

Master Breathing Techniques

Practice breath control in the pool before heading into the ocean to ensure safety and comfort.

Dress for Cold Water

San Francisco waters are chilly even in summer—wear a thick wetsuit to stay warm during ocean sessions.

Understand Local Currents

Be aware of tidal flows in the bay to plan safe diving times and avoid strong currents.

Respect Marine Life

Keep a safe distance from kelp and marine animals to protect both yourself and the ecosystem.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Harbor seals
  • Garibaldi fish

History

San Francisco’s coastal waters have long been a hub for marine exploration and conservation efforts dating back to the early 20th century.

Conservation

SSI emphasizes low-impact freediving practices to protect underwater habitats and promotes ocean stewardship among students.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in San Francisco

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Wetsuit

Essential

Keeps you warm in San Francisco’s cold waters during ocean sessions.

summer specific

Snorkel and Mask

Essential

Essential for underwater visibility and breathing at the surface.

Fins

Essential

Increase efficiency when swimming underwater and help with maneuverability.

Waterproof Watch or Dive Computer

Useful for tracking dive times and surface intervals safely.