If the thrill of whales gliding playfully beside you sounds like an unforgettable experience, you need to try freediving!
Freediving lets you experience ocean wildlife encounters without having to use scuba gear or any other breathing equipment. This allows you to peacefully share their underwater world and enjoy unforgettable experiences.
Watch as a sea turtle’s flipper brushes past your hand before a pod of dolphins circle you playfully. You can experience this and so much more freediving!
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is only advice. Any time someone enters the water with wild animals they need to be careful.
Marine encounters while freediving are not dangerous, as long as you behave ethically with animals.
By remaining aware of your surroundings, maintaining safe distances, and avoiding aggressive species, you can minimise risks and maximise the excitement of ocean wildlife experiences.
Maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
Marine encounters are best experienced from afar. Touching or catching ocean wildlife can harm them.
Choose an operator who prioritises safe training and practices. Freediving Central runs courses for all skill levels so you can go from a beginner to an expert in no time!
Never chase after or corner animals. Give them space and allow them to approach you if they choose to.
Feeding disrupts their natural feeding patterns and can introduce unhealthy food sources.
Coral reefs are delicate ecosystems. You must avoid accidental contact at all times.
Freediving is a fantastic way to get up close and personal to all kinds of breathtaking marine life. Here are some animals you might encounter freediving, and important things to remember to get the most out of your experience.
Species like humpback whales can be seen migrating along the western and eastern coasts of Australia.
As whales are sensitive, it’s important to appear non-threatening and avoid erratic movements.
Whales have limited backward visibility, so be sure not to approach them from behind.
Swimming with sharks can be exhilarating, but minimising risk is crucial.
It’s important to stay calm, make eye contact and avoid sudden movement if you see a shark. Erratic movements and splashing can mimic prey behaviour.
If you’re put off by the idea of swimming with sharks, you’ll be glad to know that species like whale sharks have never attacked humans.
Did you know that dolphins are social creatures who often live in pods with dozens or even hundreds of other dolphins?
While dolphins are known for their playful nature, the calmer you are, the more likely dolphins are to interact with you. Even without meaning to, playful behaviour like breaching can cause injury to a person, so give them space.
Turtles are fascinating animals. Sea turtles have been around for over 100 million years, and scientists believe that they have a magnetic map embedded in their brains!
Sea turtles are docile creatures who are mostly concerned with swimming and eating. You should appreciate these amazing creatures from a safe distance and avoid erratic actions that might disturb them.
It’s important to research jellyfish species in the area that you’re freediving to find out if their stings are harmful to animals.
Wearing a stinger suit or protective clothing like gloves or a rashguard that covers up as much skin as possible is a helpful step to prevent stings.
Always be sure to rinse bluebottle jellyfish sting areas with seawater before applying hot water to soothe the pain.
Manta rays are the largest rays on Earth, with a wingspan reaching up to 7 metres!
It’s important not to touch these graceful creatures as their skin is delicate and touching them can disrupt their protective mucus coating.
You can discover a whole new world beneath the surface and immerse yourself in Balinese culture, or challenge yourself by freediving with reef sharks in Fiji.
Swim with Humpbacks along Tonga’s ‘Humpback Highway’, or encounter a majestic Blue Whale in the gorgeous waters of Timor Leste.
If you’re ready to experience breathtaking marine encounters, be sure to join one of our many dive trips here at Freediving Central!
Discover various breathing techniques that are commonly used in freediving and relaxation practices. Whether you’re an experienced freediver or someone looking to reduce stress and anxiety, these techniques can help you achieve your goals.
