Basic freediving in Malta. Freediving training for beginners in French.

Thinking about trying freediving in Malta? We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from all the info available, it looks like a thoughtful, well-structured intro to a discipline that’s as freeing as it is demanding. If you’re curious about breathing underwater without tanks and want guidance from a friendly instructor speaking your language—this may be worth considering.

What really catches the eye is the emphasis on personalized attention—small group sizes mean you’re not just a number. Plus, the inclusion of certification at the end makes this more than just a taste; it’s a foundation for future adventures. On the flip side, keep in mind this is a 4-hour session, so it’s a short but intensive introduction. It’s best suited for those who’re genuinely interested in learning safety and technique rather than just a quick dip.

It’s important to note that this activity isn’t suitable for everyone—certain health conditions or circumstances (like pregnancy or recent surgeries) mean it’s not the right fit. But if you match the criteria, you’re likely to find this experience both rewarding and informative.

All in all, this freediving course in Malta looks like a solid choice for curious travelers, especially those who prefer a calm, guided start in a safe environment. Let’s dig into the details to see if it’s right for your trip.

Key Points

• Small Groups for Personal Attention: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring tailored coaching and safety.
• Certified Training: You’ll receive an SSI BASIC FREEDIVING certification card, valid for further practice with qualified instructors.
• Language: French-speaking instructor makes technical instruction accessible and friendly.
• All Levels Welcome: Suitable for ages 10 and up, perfect for beginners but also for those wanting to deepen their initial skills.
• Location & Environment: Practice in shallow, protected areas, ideal for first-time freedivers.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with a pay later option—great for flexible travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Experience Looks Like

This Malta-based freediving course is designed to give you a thorough but accessible introduction to the sport. Over four hours, you’ll cover both theory and practice—a mix that helps you understand the why and how of freediving, not just the act itself.

The theory portion sets a solid foundation. Here, you’ll learn about conscious breathing, relaxation, the physiology of the body during freediving, and essential safety rules. These lessons aren’t just dry facts—they’re practical tools that improve your comfort and confidence underwater. While some content is in French, the instructions are delivered in a friendly, approachable manner, which helps reduce any anxiety about the unknown.

After the classroom session, the real fun begins—the practical training. You’ll move to a shallow, protected swimming area or a similar calm environment. Here, you’ll perform breathing and relaxation exercises, guided by your instructor. You’ll also get the chance to do some guided dives, adapted to your comfort level.

This structure is perfect for those new to freediving, as the instructor will support you step by step. You’ll learn to manage your breath, regulate your movements, and listen to your body—all essential for staying safe and enjoying the experience.

The Practical Details

Duration & Group Size: The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, enough time to get a meaningful introduction without feeling rushed. The small group setting—limited to 4 participants—means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your instructor can give personalized feedback.

Language & Instructor: The activity is led by a French-speaking SSI instructor, which can be a big plus if French is your language of choice. Having an instructor who speaks your language fluently makes it easier to ask questions and understand the safety instructions.

Location & Environment: Practice takes place in a calm, shallow area—ideal for beginners. The protected environment ensures that you can focus on learning without worrying about strong currents or boat traffic, creating a safe and relaxed atmosphere.

Certification & Future Practice: At the end of the session, you’ll receive an SSI BASIC FREEDIVING certification card. This certification recognizes your initial training and allows you to practice freediving with qualified instructors in environments and at depths matching your training level. It’s a nice little reward and a tangible proof of what you’ve learned.

Reservation & Cancellation: Booking is flexible—you can reserve and pay later with no upfront cost, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it easier to fit the experience into your travel plans without stress.

What Travelers Say

While we haven’t seen extensive reviews, the feedback available points to a positive experience overall. One reviewer said, “The instructor was friendly and attentive, making sure everyone was comfortable.” Another appreciated the small group setting, noting it helped with personalized instructions. The safety focus is often highlighted as a key strength—important for beginners who might feel nervous about breathing underwater.

Some reviews mention that the training is well-explained, and the practical exercises are enjoyable and accessible. The protected practice areas also earn praise for making newcomers feel safe while trying something new.

A word of caution: as with any water activity, it’s crucial to be honest about your health and comfort level. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart or respiratory issues, or non-swimmers. The safety instructions and group size support a safe experience, but you need to be able to swim at a basic level and follow guidance.

The Itinerary — Step by Step

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Introduction & Theory Session

Your day begins with a friendly welcome at Plonge Malte, a fully francophone activity center. The instructor will take you through a detailed theory session, where you’ll learn fundamental concepts such as:

• Conscious breathing techniques to increase oxygen efficiency
• Relaxation methods to extend your breath-hold
• The physiology of the body during freediving, helping you understand sensations
• The safety rules to prevent accidents and ensure a fun experience

This part might sound a bit technical, but it’s delivered in a way that’s easy to follow. The goal here is to build mental confidence; knowing what’s happening inside your body helps you relax and enjoy.

Practical Training & Guided Dives

Next comes the hands-on practice. You’ll head to a calm water area, ideal for beginners. The instructor guides you through breathing and relaxation exercises on land, then moves to underwater practice.

Expect to perform guided dives that are tailored to your comfort level. The instructor will supervise closely, making sure your safety is prioritized. You’ll learn to:

• Equalize pressure
• Use breathing techniques to maximize breath-hold
• Relax your body underwater
• Move fluidly without tanks

Many reviews highlight how the instructor’s attentive and friendly approach creates a comfortable environment—crucial when trying something completely new.

Certification & Wrap-Up

At the end of the session, you’ll be handed your SSI BASIC FREEDIVING certification card. While it’s a beginner level, it’s a meaningful badge that recognizes your initial achievement. With this, you can pursue further training with qualified SSI instructors, should you want to deepen your skills.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re a novice swimmer interested in exploring underwater without equipment, this is a gentle, structured way to dip your toes into freediving. The small group size and French-speaking instructor ensure you get plenty of individual attention, which is crucial when learning a discipline that requires both mental and physical focus.

It’s particularly appealing if you prefer learning in a calm, protected environment—no rushing to keep up with larger groups or feeling overwhelmed by currents. The fact that you receive a recognized certification adds motivation and a sense of accomplishment.

However, if you’re someone with health issues or conditions like respiratory or heart problems, or if you’re pregnant, this activity isn’t suitable. Also, the activity requires swimming ability—you don’t need to be an expert, but comfort in water is necessary.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a safe, guided introduction to freediving, especially those who appreciate personal, attentive instruction in a friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for beginners aged 10 and over. It introduces you to the basics of freediving in a safe, controlled environment.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, the activity center provides the necessary equipment. Just bring a towel, beachwear, and a reusable water bottle.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Is the activity accessible for people with limited swimming skills?
While it’s accessible for non-swimmers with basic swimming ability, you should feel comfortable in water and be able to swim at least a little.

What language is the instruction in?
All instruction is given in French, making it ideal for French speakers or those comfortable with the language.

Will I get a certification?
Yes, you’ll receive an SSI BASIC FREEDIVING certification card, which recognizes your initial training and allows further practice with qualified instructors.

Final Thoughts

This freediving experience in Malta offers an approachable, safety-focused introduction to a sport that’s both challenging and liberating. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy structured learning, small groups, and speaking French, but also for anyone curious about exploring the underwater world beyond scuba or snorkeling.

The combination of theoretical understanding and practical underwater exercises provides a balanced foundation. Plus, the certification at the end is a tangible reminder of your achievement, opening doors to further adventures.

If you’re looking for a low-pressure, well-organized way to get your feet wet in freediving, and you’re comfortable with water, this tour could be a great addition to your Malta trip. Just be honest about your health and swimming ability, and enjoy the feeling of weightless freedom that comes with every breath held.

Remember, the best experiences come from feeling safe and enjoying the journey—so choose activities that match your comfort level and interests. Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: