Can anyone learn freediving?
Yes! Freediving is for everybody and you will be able to learn as long as you come with an attitude of openness and non-expectation.
The Level 1 requirements are accessible to almost every person.
If you have some physical disability or other limitation please do not hesitate to contact me. There is usually a way to work around or accommodate limitations and I aim to make freediving accessible to all people, regardless of age, gender, physical condition, nationality, or religion.
Is freediving safe?
Yes! Freediving is incredibly safe!
Despite some recent media releases that paint a sensational picture of freediving as an extreme sport, freediving is generally only dangerous when practiced alone, in combination with other activites (such as spearfishing), or without the correct knowledge of freediving safety.
In my freediving courses I will teach you everything you need to know to stay safe and enjoy the wonders of the ocean.
Is Dahab safe?
Dahab is a very safe place for visitors and long-term foreign residents alike!
The usual cautions must be observed, as in any new place you visit around the world, but it is safe to walk around at night for both genders, exercising common sense.
The main challenge for visitors to Dahab will be the tummy bugs many visitors get due to either not being used to the bacteria here, or eating in restaurants where the hygeine is not up to expected levels.
Make sure to bring any medications you think you might need, such as Imodium (Loperamide). Rehydration/electrolyte powders are also useful in the hot summer months.
There aren’t many mosquitos in Dahab, fortunately!
There are lots and lots of dogs and cats, everywhere in Dahab! Unlike some places, the dogs here are incredibly friendly and safe to be around, and the cats are, too!
What are the requirements to take a Level 1 course?
You must be over the age of 16 to join a Level 1 course. You must be able to swim comfortably and you must be able to speak and read English well.
I don't need a certification course, can I design my own experience?
Yes, you can design your own course with as much theory, dry, pool or open water sessions as you desire.
However, the first day of the Level 1 course with its theory and dry training is compulsory for all students.
A course like this will not have any requirements to achieve, but no certification will be awarded at the end.
This is a good option for those who wish to do a freediving course without the pressure and expectations of reaching a particular depth, or other goals.
Just let me know what you would like to do!
Why is your beginner's course 5 days long, and others are only two or three?
After many years as a school owner and instructor, after teaching hundreds of students, I know that most students need more time to learn freediving comfortably…
Almost everyone will face some challenges with equalisation, technique, anxiety, water-fear, or relaxation.
I like to give my students the time to really experience freediving as a deep, soulful, healing and meaningful experience.
I also like to do my own training (I compete in depth competitions) and make sure everyone has enough rest, and a chance to enjoy Dahab and the surrounding area.
If you are more inclined towards a quick and basic freediving course there are many options available in Dahab. My courses are intended for those who desire a more flexible and slower-paced experience.
Is equipment included?
Equipment rental is currently not included in the course fees.
You can rent a full set of gear for 5 – 10 euros per day, depending on whre we source it from.
It’s always nice (if you can afford it, of course) to find your own wetsuit and fins that fit you well before you attend a course.
There is no need to fork out for expensive wetsuits and carbon fins. Decathlon, for example, has some perfectly good beginner’s wetsuits and fins.
Do you provide pictures and videos?
If you would like the videos or pictures from your course, please bring a hard disk or USB stick compatible with a Macbook.
You must take your videos after each session, after the video analysis, in case I need to wipe the SD card.
Under no circumstances will videos be sent to the student later by email/Dropbox/file sharing etc. (Airdrop is OK!).
What is the best way to get to Dahab?
The best way to get to Dahab is to fly to Sharm el-Sheikh airport and then take a taxi to Dahab (takes about 1 hour).
I can help you arrange a taxi pick-up at the airport (costs about 35 euros).
Where are you located in Dahab?
The Freedive & Thrive Centre, also know as ‘The Little Blue’ is located right on the waterfront of Lighthouse Bay, 10 seconds from the water, and the closest location to the freediving in Dahab!
Do you offer accommodation in Dahab?
Yes! There is a newly renovated one-bedroom apartment attached to the centre.
Prices are as follows:
Non-students Rate Per Night:
1 Person: €45
2 Persons: €55
Students (on a Lv.1, Lv.2 or Lv.3 course) Rate Per Night:
1 Person: €35
2 Persons: €45
Freedive Cafe Podcast Patrons Rate Per Night:
1 Person: €35
How do I sign up? Deposit?
You can sign up by contacting me through the CONTACT PAGE, INSTAGRAM or email: donny@freediveandthrive.com
I don’t respond to social media, emails etc before 8am or after 6pm, CET.
I am always available for a call on Whatsapp. A phone call is a much better way to get a feel for a person before you commit to spending money on their services.
My WHATSAPP number is +886 909452409
A 30% (non-refundable) deposit is required to book any course or training.
If you cancel your course or want to change your course dates the deposit will not be refunded, but it can be used as a deposit for another course or can be transferred to another person.
What should I bring with me? What shouldn't I bring with me?
Dahab has a hot, arid, desert climate.
Bring a reusable water bottle, sea-sickness medication, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a good hat.
Many students who have never been sick on a boat or in a car experience motion sickness for the first time during a freediving course. If you are unsure about your situation in this regard, please make sure to bring some medication (Dimenhydramine/Drmamine, for example) just in case.
You do not need a dive computer. If you bring one, you will not be permitted to use it on the first couple of days of your course, so I can make sure your attention is directed to the correct place.