Master Freediver

The PADI Master Freediver course is the top rung of PADI's freediving pathway, designed for divers who have already built a solid foundation in breath-hold diving and now want to push their static apnea, dynamic apnea, free immersion and constant weight performance toward genuinely advanced levels. Over two days at Diving Academy in Reading, you will refine the breathing, relaxation and equalisation techniques that separate a competent freediver from one approaching elite standards, working under close instructor supervision in both confined and open water settings.

This is a demanding course that rewards divers who are serious about their mental and physical conditioning underwater. Expect extended focus on breath-hold physiology, safety protocols for deeper and longer dives, and the buddy and rescue skills that keep advanced freediving safe. Because performance freediving carries real risk, the course leans heavily on discipline, technique and honest self-assessment rather than simply pushing numbers.

To join, you will need to be at least 18 years old, hold a current PADI Advanced Freediver certification or a recognised equivalent, and have completed Emergency First Response Primary and Secondary Care training within the last 24 months. These requirements exist because Master Freediver builds directly on skills and judgement developed at the Advanced level.

Completing Master Freediver marks you out as a highly capable breath-hold diver with the technique and safety awareness to continue progressing within the sport, whether that means chasing personal bests, exploring freediving instruction, or simply diving with a level of control and calm that most divers never reach.