Monterey Freediver Course: Master Free Diving in California
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a good baseline of physical fitness, comfortable swimming ability, and basic breath control.
Overview
Join the two-day Monterey Freediver Course and experience the thrill of freediving up to 55 feet. Learn essential techniques, safety skills, and gain confidence in the beautiful waters of Monterey, California.
Monterey Freediver Course
PADI Freediver Certification Course• 2 Day
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of freediving in a comprehensive two-day course designed for all skill levels. Learn essential safety protocols, refine your techniques in the pool, and dive into the ocean to master depth skills. With expert instruction and free rental gear, this adventure promises unforgettable underwater exploration.
Learn to Freedive the Right Way. Push your limits in a fun and engaging learning environment.
About
Learn performance and safety protocols that enable you to confidently freedive depths of up to 55 feet (16 meters). This course is designed as a fun learning experience for any level. Freediver course is conducted over two days in three phases:
Duration
- 2 Day course: Saturday & Sunday
- 6 Hours per day
Day 1
1. Academic Start with online learning (completed before class) followed by academic lecture to understand freedive physics, underwater physiology, and technical skills of freediving. We'll also overview the gear and skills you'll need to succeed.
2. Pool Pool training sessions are designed to refine your water skills in a controlled environment. You’ll learn buddy procedures for rescuing divers from black out, practice breathing techniques and perform static apnea, as well as essential movement skills like duck diving and fin kick technique
Day 2
3. Ocean Put it all together for open ocean training. We’ll utilize a freedive float and line to train for diving to depth. You’ll work in rotation with other freedivers to master your skills and equalization as we seek depth under the supervision of your instructor.
DIVER REQUIREMENTS:
Prerequisites
- Minimum age is 16 (parent signature required for those under 18)
- Must possess competent swimming skills
Pool
- 200m swim without rest
- 10 minute safety float / tread
- 1:30 minute static apnea (STA)
- 25 meter dynamic apnea (DYN)
Ocean
- Minimum 10m (33') Depth
- Weight Belt Removal at Depth
- Mask Removal at Depth
- Underwater Rescue
RENTAL GEAR
We offer a fleet of FREE rental gear, all freedive specific equipment, for your use during the course. Any additional gear we don't have available is easily rented at our partner shop Bamboo Reef.
Students enrolled in a course get a 20% discount on all Odyssey Equipment.
Freedive Gear List
- Open Cell Wetsuit
- Long Blade Fins
- Low Volume Mask & J-Tube Snorkel
- Weight belt & Weights
- 3mm Dive Gloves and Socks
What to bring
- Swimsuit & towel
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
Equipment Purchase Discount Available for Participants Photo/Video Package Add-On Available Course Deposit is Transferrable but Not Refundable
Adventure Tips
Stay Hydrated Before Diving
Proper hydration helps maintain breath-hold capacity and overall performance during freediving sessions.
Practice Equalization Techniques
Mastering equalization before ocean dives reduces discomfort and helps you dive deeper safely.
Use Slow, Controlled Breathing
Deep, controlled breaths improve oxygen efficiency and relaxation during dives.
Always Dive with a Buddy
Safety is paramount; ensure constant supervision and communication when freediving in open water.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- California sea otters
- Harbor seals
History
Monterey’s coastline was a historic hub during the Spanish colonial period and remains vital for marine conservation and research.
Conservation
Local organizations actively protect kelp forests and marine habitats, promoting sustainable freediving practices that minimize environmental impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in San Jose
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit (5mm or thicker)
Keeps you warm and comfortable in cooler Monterey waters.
spring specific
Freediving fins
Long, flexible fins help maximize propulsion with minimal effort underwater.
Mask and Snorkel
Essential for clear vision and breathing at the surface during training and ocean dives.
Dive Computer or Depth Gauge
Monitors depth and dive time to enhance safety and track progress.