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

Planning to try something truly different during your Malta trip? A freediving initiation might just be the perfect fit, especially if you’re curious about exploring underwater with minimal equipment and maximum tranquility. This 2.5-hour session is designed for beginners and offers a safe, supportive environment to get a taste of what it feels like to move freely beneath the surface.

What we love about this experience is the personalized touch—small groups capped at four participants, led by a French-speaking SSI-certified instructor—ensuring plenty of attention and tailored guidance. A possible consideration is the limited duration; at just 2.5 hours, it’s a quick intro rather than a comprehensive course, but for those wanting a taste without commitment, it hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for travelers who are adventurous, curious about underwater sports, or simply eager to try something new. Even if you’ve never snorkeled or swum in open water, you’ll find it accessible and enjoyable. It’s especially great for those looking for an authentic activity that combines learning, relaxation, and a bit of adrenaline—all in beautiful Malta.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized instruction and attention.
• No previous experience required — perfect for beginners.
• French-speaking SSI-certified instructor adds comfort for Francophone visitors.
• Learn breathing and relaxation techniques that are fundamental to freediving.
• First dives between 2-5 meters are gentle and suitable for all comfort levels.
• SSI recognition card provides a memorable certification of your first freediving experience.

Why This Freediving Intro Works

We found that the structure of the session offers a well-rounded introduction to freediving. It begins with a clear, thorough theoretical presentation where you’ll learn about conscious breathing, equalization, and relaxation techniques—key skills for any diver. This part is particularly valuable since understanding your body’s reactions under water reduces anxiety and makes the experience more enjoyable.

Following the theory, you’ll participate in breathing and relaxation exercises. These are crucial for calming the mind and preparing your body, making your underwater descents smoother and safer. The instructor emphasizes a reassuring approach, encouraging you to focus on sensations and breath control rather than performance. This philosophy fosters a relaxed atmosphere and helps beginners feel confident.

The most exciting part is the sea session, where you’ll make your first descents to depths of 2 to 5 meters. The water is described as calm and safe, and the small group setting means you’ll get individual supervision, which is especially reassuring if you’re new to this. Participants have noted that the activity is designed to give a sense of freedom and joy, rather than pushing limits or setting records.

What to Expect During the Experience

The experience kicks off at the Dive Center, where you’ll meet your instructor and receive a briefing. The team, led by a French-speaking SSI-certified instructor, ensures that language isn’t a barrier to understanding the essentials. The briefing covers the basics of freediving, critical safety tips, and what to expect during your time in the water.

Once in the water, you’ll start with breathing exercises, which help you learn conscious breathing and relaxation techniques. These exercises are designed to help you feel more at ease, control your breath, and reduce panic or discomfort. The instructor will guide you through this process, paying close attention to your pace and comfort.

After the exercises, you’ll move into the sea, where the instructor will help you descend to a shallow depth—typically between 2 and 5 meters. Depending on your ease, you might go a little deeper, but the focus remains on enjoying the sensations and gaining confidence underwater. The small group size allows for personalized feedback and adjustments, ensuring you’re comfortable every step of the way.

At the end, you’ll receive an SSI TRY FREEDIVING recognition card, a tangible keepsake and proof of your first underwater breaths. This card is also a good starting point if you decide to pursue more advanced SSI courses in the future.

The Equipment and Logistics

All necessary equipment—wetsuit, mask, fins—is provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything. The activity takes place in a calm water area, ideal for beginners, and the instructor emphasizes safety and comfort over pushing limits.

The tour lasts 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well into any Malta itinerary. The meeting point is straightforward at the Dive Center, with easy access and friendly staff ready to assist.

Participants are advised to bring a towel, snacks, beachwear, and a reusable water bottle. The activity is suitable from age 10, provided you can swim and have no contraindications such as respiratory or heart issues.

Price and Value

At $83 per person, this experience offers a lot of value. Considering that all equipment, supervision, and a certified instructor are included, you’re paying for a safe, professionally guided introduction that could spark a lifelong passion. The recognition card adds a touch of achievement, making it more than just a splash in the water.

Compared to larger, less personalized activities, this small-group format ensures you’ll get the attention needed to feel secure and enjoy yourself. For those keen on trying freediving without a big commitment, this session provides a perfect balance of fun, safety, and learning.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This activity is best suited for curious travelers who are comfortable in water and want to try something different. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an authentic introduction to freediving—not just a snorkeling trip but an activity that teaches you about breath-hold and relaxation techniques.

It’s also ideal for beginners because no prior experience is needed, and the small class size ensures personalized guidance. The fact that it’s led in French can be a bonus for French-speaking visitors, making communication smoother and more confident.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 10, or those with contraindications like respiratory or heart issues. If you’re wary of deep water or have health concerns, a calmer, more traditional snorkeling experience might be preferable.

Final Thoughts

This Freediving SSI initiation in Malta offers an engaging, safe, and accessible introduction to a sport that combines tranquility and adventure. The personalized approach, led by a French-speaking instructor, makes it especially welcoming for Francophone travelers, but the fundamental skills you’ll learn are universal.

While the session is brief, it provides a valuable foundation—you’ll leave with a sense of achievement, a new skill, and a recognition card to prove it. The focus on breathing, relaxation, and safety means you can enjoy the experience without stress or pressure, making it a perfect activity for those wanting a gentle introduction to underwater exploration.

If you’re someone who loves learning new things, enjoys the water, or just wants a unique story to tell, this freediving initiation is a worthwhile addition to your Malta adventure. It’s a refreshing change from typical beach activities and opens up a new way to connect with the sea.

FAQ

Is previous experience required to participate?
No, this activity is designed for beginners with no prior freediving or snorkeling experience needed.

What is included in the price?
All necessary equipment (wetsuit, mask, fins), supervision by a certified instructor, a briefing on freediving, breathing and relaxation exercises, and an SSI recognition card.

What is the duration of this activity?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including briefing, exercises, and sea session.

Can children participate?
Yes, from age 10 onwards, provided they can swim and have no health contraindications.

Is the activity accessible for people with limited mobility?
The activity is wheelchair accessible, and the instructor offers personalized supervision to ensure safety.

How do I get the certification after the session?
You will receive an SSI TRY FREEDIVING recognition card at the end of the activity, certifying your participation.

In essence, this freediving initiation in Malta offers a safe, friendly, and memorable way to discover the underwater world. Whether you're seeking a new hobby or just want to see how it feels to breathe underwater, it's a genuinely worthwhile experience that combines learning, adventure, and a touch of the extraordinary.