You've decided to learn freediving in Porto de Galinhas — great choice. Now comes the natural question: where to start? Which course is right for me? What happens at each stage? In this guide, we explain how all our courses work, from Try Freediving to Level 3, so you arrive knowing exactly what to expect.
Try Freediving: Your First Breath at the Bottom of the Sea
Try Freediving is the gateway to the world of freediving. It's ideal for those who are curious but not yet sure whether they want to do a full course — or simply for those who want to live the experience once and take that memory home.
How it works:
- 1 theory class of 45 minutes (basic concepts of breathing, equalization, and safety)
- 1 ocean session of 1.5 hours
By the end, you will have made your first freediving dives with professional guidance, in a safe environment and an incredible setting. Many students who do the Try end up enrolling in the full course shortly after.
Level 1 Course: The Foundation of Everything
Level 1 is the course for those who want to truly learn freediving, starting from zero. No previous experience is needed — we start from the beginning.
How it works:
- 2 theory classes of 1.5 hours each (can be done online or in person)
- 2 ocean sessions of 2.5 hours each
What you will learn:
- Breathing and relaxation techniques
- Equalization (how to balance pressure in your ears when diving)
- Body positioning and movement in the ocean
- Different's disciplines with or without fins, statics, etc.
- Safety: the buddy system and basic rescue procedures
- First freediving dives in open water
Depth:
The first ocean dives take place at around 5 to 10 meters, progressing according to each student's comfort and development. The main international certification systems set Level 1 with a requirement of 10 meters and a maximum recommended depth of up to 20 meters — a standard followed by CMAS (1★), AIDA (AIDA2), and PFI.
Theory classes can be completed online before your trip — meaning you can arrive in Porto de Galinhas with the theory already done and spend every minute in the water.
Level 2 Course: Going Deeper
Level 2 is for those who have already completed Level 1 and want to progress. The focus shifts: we work on more advanced equalization techniques, greater depth, and mental relaxation refinement.
How it works:
- Theory classes (in person or online)
- Ocean sessions focused on technical development and greater depth
Depth:
Level 2 works at depths between 20 and 30 meters. According to international standards, CMAS (2★) sets a requirement of 20 meters and recommends up to 30 meters; AIDA (AIDA3) certifies up to 30 meters; PFI follows similar standards.
Level 3 Course: Advanced Freediving
Level 3 is for experienced practitioners who want to take their freediving to the next level. We work on advanced deep equalization techniques, mental control in demanding situations, and ocean performance.
How it works:
- Theory classes (in person or online)
- Ocean sessions at greater depths and more demanding conditions
Depth:
Level 3 works from 30 meters and beyond. CMAS (3★) sets a requirement of 30 meters; AIDA reaches AIDA3/AIDA4 with depths of 30 to 40 meters; PFI follows an equivalent progression.
Safety First: The Buddy System
In all our courses, one of the first things you will learn is the **buddy system**: in freediving, you never dive alone. Always in pairs, with one partner watching from the surface while the other dives. This system is the foundation of freediving safety and is the standard followed by all international certification bodies.
We also work with groups of no more than 5 students, ensuring the instructor is always present and attentive during every dive.
Who Can Take the Courses?
Anyone who is healthy, with no medical contraindications to diving, can take Try Freediving or Level 1. The minimum age is **14 years old** (parental authorization required for those under 18). You don't need to be an advanced swimmer or have any previous diving experience.
For Levels 2 and 3, the previous level must be completed first.
If you have any questions about medical contraindications, get in touch before enrolling — we'll guide you through it.
Theory Classes Can Be Done Online
One of the conveniences we offer is the possibility of completing theory classes online before your trip to Porto de Galinhas. That way, when you arrive, all your time in the ocean is dedicated to practice — without having to split your trip between the classroom and the water.
How to Enroll
Courses run throughout the year in Porto de Galinhas. To find out about available dates, prices, and bookings, get in touch directly — we respond quickly.
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*This post is part of a series about freediving in Porto de Galinhas. Also read: Why Porto de Galinhas is the Best Place to Learn Freediving?