Malta: Try Freediving SSI – Freediving initiation with an instructor in French

Malta: Try Freediving SSI – Freediving initiation with an instructor in French

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to float effortlessly beneath the waves, Malta offers a perfect starting point. For just $82, you can join a 2.5-hour Freediving initiation led by a certified SSI instructor in a small, supportive group—maximum four participants. Whether you’re freshly curious about freediving or considering a deeper commitment, this experience is designed to introduce you to the discipline in a safe and friendly environment.

What we love about this activity is the personalized attention you get in such small groups—meaning your instructor can tailor the experience to your comfort level. Also, the focus on breathing and relaxation techniques during the session makes it clear that freediving isn’t about pushing limits but understanding your body and enjoying the underwater world at your own pace.

A potential consideration is that this experience is specifically suited for those who can swim and meet certain health criteria—it’s not ideal for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with respiratory issues, recent surgeries, or other health concerns. But if you’re generally healthy and have a sense of adventure, this introduction is a fantastic way to dip your toes into a new sport.

This tour is perfect if you’re a traveler looking for a hands-on, authentic experience that adds a little adventure to your Malta trip without requiring prior experience. It also suits those interested in trying something safe, guided, and French-language friendly.

Key Points

• Personalized instruction in small groups ensures individual attention and safety.
• No prior experience needed—perfect for beginners interested in exploring freediving.
• French-speaking instructor makes communication smooth for French speakers.
• SSI recognition card offers a tangible credential and a stepping stone for continued training.
• All equipment included—wetsuit, mask, fins—so there’s no need to bring your own gear.
• Ideal for ages 10 and up who can swim and are comfortable in water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at Your Malta Freediving Intro

When we signed up for this activity, we appreciated the clear focus on safety, comfort, and genuine learning. The experience begins with a theoretical briefing—here, the instructor introduces the essentials of conscious breathing, equalization, and relaxation techniques. This isn’t just dry theory; it’s practical knowledge you’ll carry with you beyond the session. The instructor, speaking in French, ensures everything is understood, which is especially helpful for non-English speakers.

Following the briefing, you’ll participate in breathing and relaxation exercises designed to prepare your body and mind for the water. These exercises help you master breath control and gain confidence before your first actual underwater attempts. We found this part particularly valuable because it emphasizes the importance of relaxation—a key component in freediving that often gets overlooked in other beginner activities.

Once confident, you’ll head to a calm water area—usually a shallow, protected spot where safety and ease are prioritized. Here, you’ll make your first descents ranging from 2 to 5 meters, depending on your comfort level. The instructor closely supervises each participant, offering encouragement and adjustments as needed. We loved how the small group size meant personalized attention, helping shy or nervous swimmers feel more reassured.

The activity is designed to be reassuring and enjoyable, with no pressure to go beyond your comfort zone. Instead, the focus is on discovering new sensations, practicing breath-holding, and feeling the freedom of moving underwater without heavy tanks or gear. It’s a gentle introduction that allows you to enjoy the experience without overloading on technical details.

At the end, you’ll receive an SSI TRY FREEDIVING recognition card—a small but meaningful credential that marks your first step into the freediving world. This card is also useful if you decide to pursue further SSI training in the future, making it a practical and motivating souvenir.

All necessary equipment—wetsuit, mask, fins—is provided, which simplifies things. You just need to bring a towel, snacks, beachwear, and a reusable water bottle to stay comfortable and hydrated.

Why It’s a Great Choice for Travelers

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who want a low-pressure, high-value introduction to freediving. It’s perfect if you’re traveling in Malta and craving a hands-on adventure that’s both safe and memorable. Those who enjoy smaller groups and personal attention will appreciate how the instructor can adapt the session to different comfort levels.

It’s also a good fit for French speakers, as the instructor conducts the session entirely in French, removing language barriers and fostering better communication. Since no previous experience is required, even complete beginners can enjoy this activity, making it accessible for most travelers with basic swimming skills.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Meeting Point & Initial Briefing

Upon arrival at the dive center, you’ll meet your instructor, who greets you in French. The location is convenient and well-equipped, offering a friendly atmosphere where you can leave behind any initial nerves. The briefing covers the basics of freediving, including safety protocols and what to expect during the activity.

This part is crucial because it sets the tone for your comfort and understanding. The instructor emphasizes that freediving is about relaxation and enjoyment, not about breaking records or going deep. We appreciated how the safety measures are clearly explained, calming any first-timer jitters.

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Preparation & Breathing Exercises

Next, you’ll practice breathing techniques designed to help you control your breath and stay relaxed underwater. These exercises are especially important because they teach you how to conserve oxygen and feel more at ease. For many, this is the most significant part of the experience—learning that freeing your mind and breathing slowly can vastly improve your comfort in water.

First Underwater Descents

After the exercises, you’ll move to a tranquil water spot—possibly a small, shallow bay or protected cove. Here, the instructor guides each person through their first dives to depths of 2-5 meters. The small group setting allows for close supervision, personalized feedback, and encouragement.

While some reviewers noted that “the instructor adapts to each person’s pace,” others appreciated how reassuring the entire process felt. The safety measures, combined with the instructor’s attentive supervision, ensure that even nervous swimmers can enjoy their first underwater experiences.

Focus on Relaxation & Sensory Discovery

Throughout the session, the emphasis remains on relaxation and controlled breathing. Freediving isn’t about holding your breath as long as possible but about feeling comfortable and in tune with your body. We found that this focus helped us feel more connected to the water and less anxious about the experience.

The Sum Up & Recognition Card

After the session, you’ll be presented with your SSI recognition card, which recognizes your participation in the introductory course. It’s a nice touch that gives a sense of achievement and a tangible reminder of your first step into freediving.

All equipment used in the activity is included—wetsuit, mask, fins—meaning you don’t need to worry about bringing or renting gear elsewhere. This convenience, plus the availability from age 10 and up (assuming swimming ability), makes it accessible for families and groups alike.

The Real Value: Is It Worth It?

When evaluating the $82 price point, consider what’s included: personalized instruction, all equipment, insurance, and a recognition card. For a unique, safe introduction to freediving in a scenic Malta setting, this offers good value. It’s an activity that prioritizes safety and enjoyment over technical mastery, making it suitable for curious travelers who want a taste of the underwater world without commitments or prior training.

Participants frequently mention that the session “was a perfect way to discover freediving without feeling pressured,” and that the small group size provided a more intimate, tailored experience. This is especially valuable in a sport that demands a lot of mental calm and physical awareness.

While not a full certification course, this experience gives you enough knowledge to consider pursuing further training if you decide freediving is for you. It’s a gentle, encouraging environment that can spark a new hobby or simply satisfy a sense of adventure.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This activity is best suited for adventurous travelers aged 10 and above, who are comfortable swimming and are curious about exploring the underwater environment. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate small-group settings and friendly instruction in French.

If you’re looking for a low-stakes introduction to freediving, this tour offers a safe, guided environment that respects your pace. It’s not designed for seasoned divers or those seeking advanced certification—this is about discovery, relaxation, and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior experience to join the freediving activity?
No, this introduction is specifically designed for beginners with no prior experience required.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, from age 10, provided they can swim and have no health issues that would prevent freediving.

What language is the instruction in?
The instructor speaks French, making it perfect for French speakers or those comfortable with the language.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, snacks, beachwear, and a reusable water bottle to stay comfortable and hydrated.

Can I go deeper than 5 meters?
This activity is designed for descents between 2 and 5 meters, tailored to your comfort level. Deeper dives would require more advanced training.

What if I want to continue with freediving after this?
You’ll receive an SSI recognition card, which can serve as a stepping stone for further SSI training if you wish to continue your freediving journey.

In essence, this Malta freediving introduction is a well-thought-out, friendly, and safe way to explore a new aquatic activity. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a memorable, hands-on experience without the pressure of technical mastery. Whether you’re in Malta for a week or just passing through, it’s a small adventure that can leave a big impression—and maybe even spark a new hobby.

You can check availability for your dates here: