Start here
Discovery
Try freediving at depth or in the pool for your first time.
Overview
Discovery is the easiest way in. In about three hours you safely try freediving for the first time, at depth or in the pool, with an instructor beside you the whole way. Fees and rentals are covered, so all you bring is yourself.
If you like it, the natural next steps are Lap 1 (pool) or Wave 1 (depth).
What's included
- Approx. 3 hours of instruction
- Pool/quarry fees covered
- Mask, fin, and weight belt rentals included
- Safely try freediving for your first time
Who it's for
Swim 200 m nonstop and have your doctor confirm there are no medical contraindications to freediving. Not a strong swimmer yet? Jake recommends a few swimming lessons first to build skills and confidence in the water.
Gear
Mask, fin, and weight belt rentals are included in the course fee. In Ottawa, Jake keeps a good stock of wetsuits, fins, masks, snorkels and weights for students to use.
Location
Open water sessions are at Morrison's Quarry, just south of Wakefield, QC, about 30 minutes' drive from downtown Ottawa. You need your own transportation (carpooling is encouraged).
Payment & cancellation
Message Jake to reserve your spot. For group courses, payment and cancellation terms are listed on the Wave 1 page; ask if anything is unclear.
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible for anyone to try freediving?
Yes! If you can swim 200 m nonstop and your doctor says you have no medical contraindications, then you should definitely try freediving.
I'm not a good swimmer, can I still try freediving?
We recommend that you invest in a few swimming lessons to build your skills and confidence in the water before signing up for the course.
I want to freedive but I have no gear.
In Ottawa, our coach keeps a good stock of wetsuits, fins, masks, snorkels and weights for you to use. The price of rental is included in the course fees. If travelling abroad, contact Jake ahead of time to secure gear rentals, either an entire set or just what you need.
Do I need a vehicle to access the quarry for Wave 1 courses?
Yes. Morrison's Quarry is about a 30 minute drive from downtown Ottawa and you must provide your own transportation. Carpooling is encouraged.
I want to sign up with some friends, is there a discount?
Yes! Get in touch to discuss discounted rates.
I want to learn without a crowd. Do you offer private courses and coaching?
Absolutely. Get in touch to discuss pricing for private courses and training sessions.
When do you announce courses in Ottawa or abroad?
Course dates are typically announced on the @jake.freedives and @FreediveOttawa Instagram accounts. You can also subscribe to the email newsletter.
From the blog
Next dates
Upcoming Discovery dates
Dates are announced on Instagram (@jake.freedives and @FreediveOttawa) and by email newsletter.