Shipwreck freediving is an activity that’s both exciting and challenging – it’s a unique experience worthy of every freediver’s bucket list!
In this ultimate guide to shipwreck freediving, we will explore what’s involved, discuss the reasons for taking up this activity, share some wreck diving reminders and list places where you can enjoy wreck freediving.
Let’s dive in!
Shipwreck freediving or wreck freediving is a recreational activity that allows freedivers to relax while exploring the breathtaking wreckage of ships, aircraft and other man-made structures underwater. With wreck freediving, you can discover the mysterious sunken wrecks from the past while expanding your diving skills.
Each shipwreck has an interesting story! By freediving on wreck sites, you can go on your own adventure, see the thriving marine life and learn about the stories behind these beautiful sunken relics.
Shipwrecks are challenging environments for freedivers, given the variety in depths, currents and spaces. When you try shipwreck freediving, you can push your limits further while experiencing something truly incredible!.
If you’re into freediving photography, shipwrecks will set the scene for some amazing photos and videos that you can share with your family and friends. Not only will these photos be visually stunning, but they also tell unique stories from the past.
Going wreck diving with a community of fellow freedivers allows you to build strong relationships as you bond over exploring submerged shipwrecks together. What a great way to build a sense of community camaraderie!
If you’re planning to go on a wreck freediving trip, take note of some of these tips for a safe adventure:
It’s important to understand all of the conditions before going on a shipwreck freediving trip. Before going, check the following:
Whenever you’re freediving, it’s ideal to have a trained freediver to guide you on the trip. This way, you have someone who can support you and assist you throughout the wreck freediving activity.
Before going through an entry point in the wreck, be sure to check the exit point and have an exit strategy in mind. It also helps to be aware of the entire shipwreck space to avoid your wetsuit or freediving fins from scraping the rusty metal of the wreck.
Australia has over 8000 shipwrecks and a number of these are available for wreck diving. Plus, there are a lot more all over the world.
Here, we’ll list some domestic wreck diving sites that you might want to explore:
Located in Townsville, Queensland, S.S. Yongala is often ranked as one of the best dive sites in the world and is known as one of the largest and most well-preserved wrecks. It is now home to an abundance of marine life – so it’s definitely a must-visit!
Discovered in 1989 at Shark Bay, Western Australia, Gudrun is only 6 metres below the water off Cape Peron. This is Western Australia’s largest wooden shipwreck and is now home to a variety of marine life.
Glenelg Dredge is situated only 15-20 metres below the surface near Adelaide, making it a perfect dive for beginners. Aside from the wreck, you can also expect to see various fish and colourful corals as you explore here.
HMAS Adelaide is located off Terrigal Beach on the Central Coast. The ship measures 138.1 metres and sits 32-23 metres under the sea. This is the location of our Central Coast courses and makes for an incredible freediving experience.
Just keep in mind that because shipwreck freediving is a challenging activity, it always requires proper training, safety precautions and the guidance of experienced freediving instructors.
So, if you’re looking into wreck freediving, don’t forget to follow safe freediving practices and discuss your goals with your freediving instructor so you can gradually progress your skills, adjust your depth limits and enjoy a safe and fun shipwreck freediving experience.
Are you ready to explore relics of the past through shipwreck freediving?
Well, you’re in luck. At Freediving Central, we offer beginner, intermediate and advanced freediving courses, as well as freediving courses for instructors.
Even if you already have freediving experience, our courses can help you refine your technique and help you add freediving for fitness and add it to your health routine.
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.
