Learn freediving in Malta and Gozo

Learn the fundamentals of freediving in just 2 days with our Freediver Course in Malta/Gozo

Beginner Friendly Course

Learn Freediving in Malta and Gozo - Freediver Course picture 1

Duration: 2 days
Sessions: 2 academic + 2 open water
Depth: up to 20m
Level: Beginner
Certification: Apnea Total Freediver (20m)
Location: Malta and Gozo

250 €

INCLUDES:

Course Materials
Freediving Gear
Transportation to/from dive site
Videos & Pictures
Water and Snacks
Freediving Certification (upon successful completion)

Learn Freediving in Malta and Gozo - Freediver Course picture 2

Our 2-day Freediver Course in Malta and Gozo is designed for beginners who want to learn how to freedive safely and confidently to up to 20 meters while working toward an internationally recognized 20m certification, with no additional training sessions required upon successful completion.

This beginner freediving course is also ideal for snorkelers, self-taught freedivers, as well as scuba divers and spearfishers with experience in the water but without formal freediving training. Wherever you are starting from, we will adapt the teaching to your experience, comfort and progression.

This first level course is available in both St. Paul's Bay and San Lawrenz, giving you the opportunity to learn freediving in Malta or Gozo, two of Europe’s top diving destinations. Crystal-clear waters and ideal conditions await you.

Any questions about the Freediver Course?

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Freedivers in Malta ready to start their first lesson

WHO IS THE FREEDIVER COURSE FOR?

This beginner freediving course in Malta and Gozo is open to anyone aged 15 or over (11y for the junior version) who wants to learn freediving, regardless of their previous experience in the water.

As our first certification level, this course welcomes participants of all backgrounds. Whether you are completely new to freediving, already comfortable in the water, a snorkeler, scuba diver, spearfisher or self-taught freediver, we adapt the course to your starting point and help you build the right foundations.

WHAT IS THE FREEDIVER COURSE?

The Freediver Course is our 2-day beginner freediving course, designed to teach you the essential skills needed to freedive safely and comfortably to depths of up to 20m. It is the first step towards becoming a certified freediver and provides the foundation for continuing your freediving education.

The morning classroom sessions take place in our freediving center (St. Paul’s Bay/Malta or San Lawrenz/Gozo). You will learn the theory behind freediving through videos, guided explanations and exercises. The aim here is to expand your freediving knowledge, build confidence, and ensure you fully understand the techniques before applying them in the water. You will also learn about the freediving equipment and its use: mask, snorkel, long fins, wetsuit, weight belt, weights and freediving buoy..

The water practices take place directly at sea. We don't stop by the pool. During the open water sessions, you will put theory into practice. We will work on your body position and duck dive, which are essential for a good dive, as well as your finning techniques to move efficiently underwater. You will also learn and apply key skills such as equalization and breathing, while being introduced to different freediving disciplines.

Safety is a key component of this freediving course for beginner, so you will learn and practice safety procedures and buddy teamwork.

Freediver in a black wetsuit and with a yellow freediving weightbelt touching the bottom plate

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN 2 DAYS

Our course lasts 2 days. Each day consists of an academic session in our training centre and an open water session, providing the perfect balance of knowledge and practice without overstimulation or overexertion.

LEARN TO FREEDIVE SAFELY

During the ademic sessions, we will cover essential freediving safety protocols and standards. We will also explain the importance of the buddy system and why you should never freedive alone. Know that your instructor will always dive with you along the line.

In the water, you will practice safety and rescue scenarios.

FREEDIVE WITH EASE AND CONFIDENCE

We will teach you our unique breathing techniques, along with yogic breathing called pranayamas. So you will not only learn to control your body but also your mind underwater, which will help build confidence in your new abilities.

EARN AN INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FREEDIVING CERTIFICATION

Your instructor will evaluate your progress, technique, and safety awareness throughout this 2-day freediving course. If they determine that you have acquired the necessary skills and follow all safety protocols, you will get the Apnea Total Freediver certification.

Apnea Total certifications are internationally recognized, meaning you can continue your freediving journey anywhere in the world, whether with an Apnea Total school or another freediving center. There are more than 15 freediving certifying agencies worldwide contributing to a global community that allows freedivers to train and dive safely around the world.

Founded in 2003 by passionate freedivers, the Apnea Total Education System was built to embrace every freediver's individuality while providing the knowledge and skills needed to freedive safely and with confidence.

Freediver Course Structure

Day 1

Classroom DAY 1

Introduction to Freediving
Familiarization with equipment
Duck dive techniques
Kicking techniques
Equalization techniques
Breathing techniques
Hydration and Diet
Important points

Water Session DAY 1

Preparation of equipment
Apply breathing techniques
Practice the duck dive
Practice kicking technique
Buoyancy test
Practice freediving disciplines
Freedives on the descent line
Maximum depth of 12 meters

Day 2

Classroom DAY 2

Review of the dives from Day 1
Fine-tuning of breathing
Learn new breathing patterns
Safety regulations
Safety procedures
Rescue techniques
Pranayamas (yogic breathing)
Water session planification

Water Session DAY 2

Warm up dives
Practice of new breathing
Improvements of the technique
Deeper relaxation
Adaptation to the depth
Dive buddy team work
Practice of safety procedures
Maximum depth of 20 meters

Ready to book your Freediver Course? Get in Touch !

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six freedivers with the apnea total malta tshirt posing on camera with the blue at the background

WHY LEARN FREEDIVING WITH APNEA TOTAL MALTA?

BUILT ON PASSION, EXPERIENCE & EFFICIENT TEACHING

This beginner freediving course was created by passionate freedivers who wanted to make freediving accessible to everyone. Being a first level course, it was genuily built with beginners in mind, so nothing is fast‑paced or forced. Our teaching is simple, practical and efficient. We introduce skills gradually and respect every freediver's abilities.

A PERSONALIZED APPROACH

You are at the core of our teaching philosophy. Our aim is to help you become the best freediver you can be. We create a calm, fun, non-competitive and supportive environment so that you can feel safe, comfortable, and confident while discovering what you are capable of in the water.

We keep groups small to ensure personalized attention and faster progress.

SUPPORTIVE AND EXPERIENCED INSTRUCTORS

You will be guided by highly experienced instructors who combine expertise with a deep understanding of individual needs. They will always be by your side when underwater to ensure safety and support throughout your dives.

Arturo, Apnea Total Instructor Trainer and Wave 3 Instructor, brings over 20 years of freediving experience and more than a decade of teaching at all levels, including instructor training.

Reggie, Apnea Total Instructor, AIDA Instructor and safety freediver in competitions, brings strong technical knowledge combined with a supportive and highly empathetic coaching style.

FLEXIBLE AND ADAPTED TO YOU

This freediving course for beginners takes 2 days, which is enough to learn freediving, but it can also be combined into a tailored programme depending on your goals and needs. You can add coaching for additional in water practice, or continue with the Advanced Freediver Course to expand your knowledge and learn to dive deeper. If you are eager to explore wrecks or caves on a single breath, a freediving expedition is the natural next step.

We also adapt to your availability, and schedule all our freediving courses and activities on request on a first come first served basis.

What our students say about their experience!

See all our reviews

    
 
 
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   Adrian Wangerin 
 27 October 2026
 
 
  I had a wonderful time with Regina: she's incredibly empathetic, has a great understanding of the psychological side of freediving, and at the same time works meticulously on refining and optimizing your technique. I felt completely at ease with her, she's a wonderful person with great energy, and I'd come back anytime. Highly recommended!
  
 
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   Adrian Wangerin 
 27 October 2026
 
 
  I had amazing days in the water with Arturo: he's a true expert and an excellent teacher who values safety just as much as exploration and adventure. On top of that, he's super friendly, always there to help with any problem, and goes to great lengths to make sure his clients have a really good time. Highly recommended!
  
 
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   Antonio Floris 
 26 October 2026
 
 
  I completed my freediving course here, and it was an amazing experience!

The facilities are excellent, and the instructors are highly skilled and professional.
Reggie was fantastic at helping me understand and feel what was happening in my body throughout the training.

I highly recommend Apnea Total Malta to anyone interested in freediving!
  
 
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   Kate Eynon 
 24 October 2026
 
 
  Apnea total freediving in Gozo was incredible. I booked my two teenage children (18 and 15) in with Arturo and he was amazing with them. They learnt so much from his expert tuition and really appreciated his humour. His English was perfecto! They both flourished with his guidance and completed their freediver course. He also sent us amazing footage of them freediving - memories to cherish forever. I 100% recommend Apnea for a freediving certification and experience.
  
 
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   Carlos Rey 
 21 October 2026
 
 
  I’m scuba diver and I wanted to try apnea to learn new things.
I chose Gozo island in Malta to do the level 1 freediving course with Apnea Total Malta and the experience was amazing.

The instructor Arturo was fantastic, professional, patient and encouraging, making me feel confortable and confident throughout the training.
I got certified in two days with no problem.

Reaching 20 metres deep with no gear, just fins and mask, was an unforgettable experience.
The crystal-clear, beautiful blue waters and perfect water temperature made the experience even more enjoyable.

I’ll definitely keep practicing, that’s for sure!

I totally recommend it!

THANKS !!!
  
 
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   Ida Cicola 
 20 October 2026
 
 
  This was my second time doing multiple dives with Apnea Total Malta. So happy with the experience, with the instructor, the set up and the teaching. Super nice fun dives around a reef and diving in caves. Would love to come back again!
  
 
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   Moutaz Altrabulsi 
 12 October 2026
 
 
  Spearfishing 🎣

I did my first-ever spearfishing safari with Arturo, an instructor at Apnea Total Malta, and it was hands down one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!

Everything was extremely well organized, with every step explained clearly and professionally. The session was not only exciting but also very informative. Arturo took the time to identify my weaknesses and give me valuable advice to improve my skills, while making sure I enjoyed every moment of the experience.

On top of being an outstanding spearfishing instructor, Arturo also captures amazing professional-quality photos and videos, giving you incredible memories to look back on! 🤿📸

Freediving 🌊

I also did two freediving sessions with Reggi, and the improvement was honestly crazy!

I used to struggle with a high heart rate on the surface, relaxing properly, and some technical issues. After just the first session, following Reggi’s advice, I was surprised to reach 30 metres and set a new PB of 32 metres! 🤯

I’ve tried several freediving schools and instructors, but one thing I’ve often missed is the fun and enjoyment. Reggi manages to combine real progress with a fantastic atmosphere and positive vibes, even when seasickness decides to join the session! 😂

It was a great mix of learning, improvement, and pure fun. I can’t wait to come back for another session!

Overall, I highly recommend Apnea Total Malta to anyone interested in spearfishing or freediving. Whether you want to improve your skills, challenge yourself, or simply enjoy an unforgettable experience in the sea, you’re in great hands.

You definitely won’t be disappointed! 🤙🏼
  
 
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   Nina Dostal 
 9 October 2026
 
 
  Ich habe bei ApneaTotal meinen Advanced Freediver Kurs gemacht und würde es auf der Stelle wieder hier tun! Meine Instruktorin Reggie war stets bemüht, dass ich mich wohl und sicher fühle. Sie war die ganze Zeit so aufmerksam und hat mir dabei so viele Tipps gegeben, wie ich gewisse Dinge verbessern kann. Außerdem war alles total flexibel und unkompliziert, gleichzeitig hab ich mir so viel von diesem Kurs mitgenommen und so schöne Tauchsessions gehabt. Ich kann ApneaTotal jedem empfehlen, der auf Malta nach einer guten Freediving Schule sucht!
  
 
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   Laurie Tupper 
 6 October 2026
 
 
  Arturo The Man! Incredible last minute organisation of an Advanced Freediver Course for me after my planned school had to cancel last minute. With a few key tips and new pointers I was able to absolutely smash my expectations of what I was capable of before the course. Seems to have great intuition for when to encourage students to push limits and when to slow things down a bit, all with safety as the key priority. Had some equalisation issues on one of my deep diving days so Arturo was patient, kind but firm that it wasn’t the day to push it and bent over backwards to rearrange for another day on my short trip and make sure I could complete my course before leaving Malta. Can’t recommend his coaching enough. Apnea Total also an interesting different association to try out if you have previous experience with a different one (I crossed over from AIDA 2)
  
 
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   FEIFEI WANG (XIAOYUGANFEIFE327) 
 2 October 2026
 
 
  This is a fantastic dive school. The instructors are great fun, highly responsible and patient with students. I had a really good experience.
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 552 reviews

Freediving in Malta and Gozo as a beginner

Malta/Gozo is one of the most beginner-friendly places in Europe to experience freediving for the first time. Beginners feel at ease from the get go thanks to calm, warm and crystal-clear water, as well as year-round sunshine.

Diving conditions around Malta and Gozo are very similar and excellent on both islands, so beginners can choose either one. Freediving in Malta offers a wide variety of sites, including many wrecks to explore. Freediving in Gozo delivers more dramatic underwater landscapes.

Whether you choose our beginner freediving course in Malta or our beginner freediving course in Gozo, you can expect expert guidance, local knowledge, and complete support throughout your experience.

FAQ Freediver Course

I can't hold my breath long, how can I free dive?

You don't need to be able to hold your breath for a long time before taking a freediving course. Freediving is not about simply holding your breath for as long as possible. You will learn breathing, relaxation and equalization techniques that help you become more comfortable and efficient in the water.

Your instructor will guide you progressively and work within your individual limits. The focus is on learning to freedive safely and comfortably, not on forcing longer breath-holds.

Are 2 days enough to learn freediving?

Apnea Total has been teaching freediving successfully for over 20 years throughout the world, thanks to an educational system created by apneists for apneists and whose instructors follow a long and demanding training.

The Freediver Course is designed over two days to teach the core skills of freediving, including breathing techniques, safety and buddy procedures, equalisation, body positioning, and line diving practice. Students can learn and practice these skills effectively within this timeframe.

It is important however to separate learning to freedive from earning a certification. Certification is granted after your instructor confirms you can perform the skills safely and confidently, ensuring every certified student can freedive responsibly with a buddy. The vast majority of our students successfully achieve certification, making this an encouraging and achievable first step into freediving.

Do I automatically get certified?

No, certification is not automatic. Your Freediver certification is granted only after your instructor has assessed your skills and confirmed you can freedive efficiently, confidently and safely. This ensures you have mastered the essential techniques and safety procedures needed to enjoy freediving confidently with a buddy.

If more practice is needed before certification, additional session can be arranged to help you reach the required level.

Do you need prior experience to take the FD course?

The Freediver Course is a beginner freediving course, so no previous freediving experience is required. You don't need to be a strong swimmer either, but you must be able to swim independently.

The course is also suitable for people who already have experience in the water but have never received formal freediving training, including snorkelers, scuba divers, spearfishers and self-taught freedivers.

Whatever your background, you will progress at your own pace and our instructors will adapt the training to your individual needs.

Prerequisites for the FD

How can I book a Freediver Course?

The Freediver Course is our most popular course. We schedule it on request, 1st come 1st served. To book your spot, fill in the form below or send us you request by e-mail, WhatsApp, Messenger or Telegram. You can also pass by and we will provide you with all the information you need. Once we agree on dates, a non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your booking.