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Frequently Asked Questions
Is freediving safe? What precautions do you take? Yes, freediving is safe when practiced correctly and with proper training. At Freedive Lefkada, safety is our top priority in every course and training session. We take the following precautions to ensure your safety: Certified Instructors – All our instructors are internationally certified and experienced. Small Group Sizes – We keep our student-to-instructor ratio low for personalized attention and safety. Buddy System – We always dive in pairs or groups. Freediving alone is strictly prohibited. Step-by-Step Progression – We never push limits. You progress at your own pace, within your comfort zone. Pre-Dive Safety Briefings – Every session starts with clear instructions and safety reminders. Emergency Preparedness – Our team is trained in freediving-specific rescue procedures and certified in first aid and safety response. Freediving is incredibly rewarding, and when approached responsibly, it’s a safe way to explore the underwater world. Let’s always dive together. It’s more than a motto — it’s the first rule of freediving: never dive alone.
Do I need previous experience to start freediving? No, you don't need any prior experience to start freediving. Beginner courses are specifically designed for newcomers and cover all the essential knowledge and skills to ensure a safe and enjoyable introduction to the sport. Who Can Join? Prerequisites: Be 18 years of age or older (16 or 17 years old with parent or guardian consent) Swimming Ability: You should be comfortable in the water and capable of swimming a certain distance, such as 100 to 200 meters, without assistance Health: You should be in generally good health. All participants are required to complete a medical questionnaire and sign a liability release form before joining any course or training.
Do I need a clean medical record? When you sign up for a course with us you will be asked to complete a medical form stating you are fit to dive. Having a past medical issue doesn't necessarily mean you can't dive with us, but you will need to be signed off by your doctor before hand.
What equipment do I need before I start? Just yourself! We will provide you with wetsuits, masks, snorkels, fins and weights while you are on our courses. We are more than happy to advise you what kit to buy should you want to after finishing.
My ears always hurt at the bottom of the swimming pool, does this mean I shouldn't dive? This is totally normal! Equalising for most people is not an automatic process and takes time to learn. All of our courses involve a detailed equalisation session on the first day, where we teach you how to dive without any ear discomfort or pain.
Where is the meeting point for courses and training sessions? The meeting point for all our freediving courses and training sessions is by the pool at the Surf Hotel in Vasiliki, Lefkada. This is where we start each day — with theory, warm-ups, or water practice, depending on the schedule. Some sessions take place right at the pool or nearby beach, while others may include a short boat ride to a dive site. You’ll get all the details in your booking confirmation. And if you need help finding the location, just reach out — we’re happy to assist!
What should I bring with me on the course day? We recommend bringing a bottle of water, a towel, and a swimsuit to wear underneath the wetsuit. It’s also best to have a light breakfast before the course — something easy to digest. We suggest avoiding coffee, as it can interfere with relaxation and breath-hold performance.
How should I prepare before my freediving course? The best way to prepare for your freediving course is to arrive well-rested, hydrated, and relaxed. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your experience: – Get a good night’s sleep the night before — freediving requires focus and calm energy. – Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking large amounts of water right before diving. – Eat a light breakfast at least 1–2 hours before the session. Choose easy-to-digest foods like fruit, oats, or plain toast. – Avoid alcohol the day before and limit caffeine on the morning of the course — it can raise your heart rate and make it harder to relax. No special training is needed in advance — just bring your curiosity, and we’ll take care of the rest.
How deep will we dive in the beginner course? In our beginner courses, depth is not the main focus — safety, comfort, and technique come first. Most students dive between 5 to 10 meters by the end of the course, but everyone progresses at their own pace. We teach you the proper breathing techniques, equalization, and safety skills so you can build confidence and enjoy the experience — whether you're diving 5 meters or more. As your comfort grows, you’ll naturally be able to explore deeper — but there’s no pressure. The goal is to enjoy the process and discover what your body is capable of.
Can I wear glasses or contact lenses while freediving? Glasses can’t be worn under a freediving mask, but soft contact lenses are generally fine — many of our students use them without any issues. If you wear contacts, just let us know. We’ll help you adjust your mask properly to minimize the chance of water entering. Tip: Close your eyes during mask removal drills to avoid losing a lens underwater. If you have strong vision correction needs, you might also consider a prescription mask, which we can help you find or recommend.
Is freediving dangerous for people with asthma or heart conditions? If you have asthma, heart conditions, or any other medical issue, it’s essential to speak with your doctor before joining a freediving course. We require all students to complete a medical questionnaire and, in some cases, provide a doctor’s approval. This ensures your safety and allows us to tailor the experience to your needs. Freediving can be accessible to many people with mild conditions, but your health must always come first. If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us in advance — we’re happy to help guide you.
What is the minimum age to take a freediving course? To join an AIDA certification course, you must be at least 18 years old, or 16 with written parental consent. However, we also offer fun freediving experiences for younger participants (from age 10 and up) when accompanied by a parent. These are not certification courses, but they’re a great way to safely explore the underwater world together as a family. If you’re unsure which option is best for your child, feel free to get in touch — we’ll help you choose the right experience based on age, comfort, and swimming ability.