Las Palmas: Survival Apnea Course

Las Palmas: Survival Apnea Course offers a focused introduction to freediving in the stunning Canary Islands. Designed by seasoned big wave surfers and freediving specialists, this six-hour class promises a practical, hands-on approach to breathing techniques, rescue skills, and open water confidence—all in a small group setting. It’s perfect for anyone curious about freediving or looking to improve their breath-hold and water safety skills.

One of the aspects we really appreciate is the balanced mix of theory and practice. From understanding the physiology behind breath-holding to practicing rescue techniques, the course provides a comprehensive foundation. However, a potential consideration is that it’s a single-day event, which means some might want more time to refine their skills or explore advanced techniques later on. This experience is ideal for beginners or intermediate freedivers eager to gain practical skills in a safe, guided environment.

If you’re someone who loves the water, values safety, and enjoys learning new skills in a small, intimate group, this tour could be a great fit. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a meaningful, educational activity that blends adventure with safety awareness—without the need for prior diving experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive learning: Covers breathing techniques, physiology, physics, rescue, and buddy supervision.
• Small group size: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring personalized guidance.
• Multiple sessions: Includes theory, pool, and open water practice.
• Value for price: At $150, the course offers a well-rounded, hands-on freediving introduction.
• Expert-led: Designed by experienced big wave surfers and freediving professionals.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect from the Las Palmas Survival Apnea Course

The survival apnea course in Las Palmas isn’t just about holding your breath longer—it’s about understanding your body and developing safe, confident freediving habits. It’s tailored to give you practical skills that you can carry beyond the course, whether you’re just curious about freediving or planning to pursue it further.

Starting Point and Meeting

The experience begins at Calle Alegranza, inside the Centro Deportivo Fariones. Meeting here makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re already exploring Playa del Ingles or Puerto del Carmen. You’ll head to the class prepared for a day of learning—be sure to arrive with your swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable in the sun.

Theory and Breathing Techniques

The first part of the day is dedicated to theory, where your instructor covers the essentials of freediving physiology and physics. This is where you’ll learn why certain breathing techniques can extend your breath-hold and how your body responds underwater. We found this segment particularly valuable because understanding the why behind the techniques makes them easier to master.

Following theory, there’s a breathing session in the pool. Here, you’ll practice breathing exercises designed by experts that help increase your lung capacity and calm your nervous system. This part is crucial—it sets the foundation for all your later open water work. The pool environment allows you to experiment with your new skills without pressure, which most participants found reassuring.

Transition to Open Water and Freediving Skills

After the pool practice, you’ll move to the open water—probably a calm, protected spot ideal for beginners. Here, the focus shifts to freediving-specific equipment, safety measures, and understanding the physiology and physics relevant to your underwater experiences.

The open water session is where you’ll develop open water freediving techniques—things like proper equalization, streamlined body positioning, and breath-hold strategies. Expect to practice in small groups, with instructors providing tailored feedback. Many participants appreciated this hands-on approach, especially since the group is limited to four people, ensuring plenty of individual attention.

Rescue Skills and Buddy System

An essential part of the course is open water rescue skills and buddy supervision. These are practical skills that aren’t just theoretical—they could be crucial in real situations. You’ll learn how to recognize signs of distress in a buddy and how to assist safely. One reviewer highlighted that “knowing how to help in an emergency makes me feel much more confident in the water.”

End of Day and Reflection

The course wraps up with a review of what you’ve learned and possibly some self-evaluation tips. It’s a satisfying way to end a day filled with learning and new skills. Participants leave with not only techniques but also a better appreciation of what the human body can do with proper training and safety awareness.

The Details That Make a Difference

The 6-hour duration makes this a manageable, full-day activity, especially if you’re on a busy itinerary. The small group size ensures you get plenty of individual guidance, which many found helpful for mastering techniques. The pricing at $150 offers good value considering the number of sessions included—especially since it covers theory, pool, and open water practice.

While the activity doesn’t include transportation or personal equipment, the comprehensive sessions mean you’ll gain skills and knowledge that can serve you well in future freediving adventures. You’ll need to bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and hat, but all instruction and session facilities are provided.

Instructor and Language

The course is offered by Ocean Freediving Lanzarote, with instructors fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian. This multilingual approach helps ensure clear communication and personalized instruction, especially if you’re less comfortable in Spanish.

Weather and Physical Condition

Being an outdoor activity, it’s subject to weather conditions. Good weather means calmer waters and better learning conditions. Participants should be in good physical health and competent swimmers, as the course involves open water sessions. Those with pre-existing health conditions might need a medical statement, which is a smart precaution.

Who Should Consider This Course?

• Beginners curious about freediving but unsure where to start
• Intermediate freedivers looking to improve safety skills and breath-hold techniques
• Travelers who value small, personalized classes over big group experiences
• Anyone wanting to understand the physiological and safety aspects of freediving

This is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with heart problems. Non-swimmers should also look for alternative activities, as swimming ability is a must.

Final Thoughts

The Las Palmas Survival Apnea Course is a smart choice for travelers seeking a practical, hands-on introduction to freediving in a safe, supportive environment. The mix of theory, pool, and open water practice ensures you leave with real skills and confidence—not just a fleeting sense of achievement.

Given its small group size, expert-led instruction, and the potential to learn rescue and safety skills, it represents excellent value at $150. It’s particularly appealing to those who want an experience that’s both educational and adventurous, without requiring prior diving experience.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your water safety, extend your breath-hold, or simply enjoy a new aquatic challenge, this course offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to connect with the ocean in the Canary Islands. It’s a meaningful activity that combines learning with fun—perfect for curious travelers willing to embrace a new skill set.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to the activity location is not included, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point inside the Centro Deportivo Fariones.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. These essentials will keep you comfortable and protected during the outdoor open water session.

Do I need to have previous freediving experience?
No, this course is designed for beginners and intermediate freedivers. It provides a solid foundation suitable for all skill levels.

How long does the course last?
The entire experience lasts 6 hours, including theory, pool practice, and open water sessions. Check with the provider for specific starting times.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the course offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to reschedule or get a full refund if needed.

Is it suitable for children?
The activity isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old, and participants must be able to swim confidently and be in good health.

What languages are instructors available in?
Instructors speak Spanish, English, and Italian, making the class accessible to a variety of travelers.

In essence, the Las Palmas Survival Apnea Course is a practical, engaging way to start your freediving journey. It balances education and adventure, all within a small-group setting that enhances learning. If you’re ready to breathe better, understand your body, and have fun in the water, this experience is definitely worth considering.