Until today, I’m immensely inspired by AIDA International!
When I started on my own Zero to Hero journey over ten years ago, I had no idea about the different freediving agencies. But as I became an instructor and delved deeper into the sport’s history, I got a good understanding of AIDA’s role in shaping modern freediving.
AIDA’s unwavering dedication to safety, education, and pushing the boundaries of human potential resonated with me. Their commitment to research and rich history of record-breaking dives fueled my passion. I had no other choice—I had to become an AIDA freediving instructor.
Today, I’m proud to own a proper freedive academy in beautiful and tropical Panglao, a dream partly made possible by AIDA’s influence. My passion for this incredible non-profit organization hasn’t wavered. I continue to be inspired by its commitment to the sport and its dedication to fostering a global community of freedivers.
Discover the Ultimate Lifestyle Transformation in a Tropical Paradise
Learn, Develop, and Thrive in Bohol, Philippines!
Are you ready for a life-changing experience that combines learning, personal growth, and adventure? Look no further than the Freedive Academy Panglao in Bohol, Philippines. Whether you’re an aspiring instructor, a freediving enthusiast, or simply seeking a lifestyle change, our instructor courses offer an unforgettable adventure in a tropical paradise.
Nestled on the beautiful Panglao Island, we provide the ideal setting for freedive instructor development programs. Enjoy the lush greenery, palm trees, and breathtaking scenery as you experience the flip-flop freediver lifestyle. With excellent facilities, restaurants, and affordable long-term housing, Panglao offers a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
Our experienced instructors and trainers will guide you through comprehensive courses developed to enhance your knowledge, skills, and confidence. Learn from the best and gain valuable experience in a supportive and nurturing environment. Whether you want to teach freediving to others, deepen your knowledge, or simply do something amazing, our courses and programs are tailored to meet your aspirations.
In addition to the exceptional diving conditions, Panglao Island is known for its warm and welcoming Filipino people. You’ll be embraced by their friendly nature and care, making it easy to settle in and feel at home. Traveling to Bohol is easy, and arranging and extending your visa is a breeze in the Philippines—much easier than in many other Asian countries.
Join us at the Freedive Academy Panglao and embark on a transformative adventure to develop your freediving skills and enrich your life in countless ways. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Filipino culture, explore breathtaking on-land and underwater landscapes, and create unforgettable memories in a tropical paradise.
Freediving in Panglao is something else!
Daily diving begins as we prepare at the center and hop on our scooters for a quick 300-meter ride to the ocean entry. We literally walk into the amazing Napaling Reef, home to the Bohol sardine school. Just 8 meters from shore, we encounter a breathtaking 25-meter coral wall that plunges hundreds of meters into the depths. The convenience of diving without a boat allows us to have a flexible and personalized experience, making it easy and convenient for all divers.
We have fixed lines ready at -50, -80, and -130 meters for the truly brave. With year-round near-perfect diving conditions, the water temperature ranges from 26 to 31 degrees Celsius, and visibility typically extends to 30 meters, with occasional days reaching 40 meters.
At Napaling Reef, we not only encounter the incredible sardine school every day but also have the rare chance to spot larger visitors such as blue whales, grey whales, pilot whales, whale sharks, and mantas. Even if we don’t encounter these giants, the lines are always teeming with fish, including barracudas, Napoleon fish, jackfish, and the occasional turtle.
The convenience of our dive center’s location in Panglao, combined with our experienced instructor team and the exceptional diving conditions just 300 meters from the shop, make the Freedive Academy the perfect choice for your instructor course and training. With our personalized packages, you can be assured of a truly unforgettable freediving experience.
Experience Freediving in the Freedive Capital of the World Panglao!
Please note that this video was shot at our first location. We still dive at the same incredible Napaling Reef with the sardines but moved about 300 meters down the road to a brand-new and fully equipped dive center with bungalows and a two-lane 25-meter pool.
We are running AIDA Freediving Instructor Courses on request every month or so.
As a premier freediving center, we provide a world-class facility, top-of-the-line equipment, and an exceptional team at one of the globe’s most iconic dive sites. This winning combination has transformed us into a world-class freediving instructor development center. Not only do we certify new AIDA instructors almost every month, but we also offer competitively priced, customizable packages to address your needs. Our packages include the Zero to Hero Freediving Program, Freediving Internship, and the different Freediving Instructor Courses, which can all be bundled with additional training – the best freedive training in Asia, accommodations, airport transfers, Swim Teacher courses, and island excursions. We are committed to tailoring your experience to your specific requirements. Explore our range of freediving packages and embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure.
AIDA International Freediving Instructors are Leading the Way!
AIDA International isn’t just another freediving organization; AIDA is the heart and soul of the sport. Born from a passion for exploring the underwater world on a single breath, AIDA has been involved in freediving since 1992. Think of them as the guardians of freediving’s rich history, preserving the romantic spirit of early pioneers while pushing the boundaries of human potential.
But AIDA is more than a keeper of tradition. They’re the driving force behind competitive freediving, setting the standards for safety and fairness that have allowed athletes to reach incredible depths and hold their breath for astonishing durations. Every record-breaking dive, every graceful underwater ballet, owes a debt to AIDA’s dedication to the sport.
And it’s not just about competition. AIDA is deeply committed to the academic side of freediving, too. They’re at the forefront of freediving research, delving into the science behind breath-holds, equalization, and the body’s amazing adaptations to underwater environments. This research makes the sport safer and constantly expands our understanding of what’s possible.
When you hear the word “freediving,” AIDA is probably the first name that comes to mind. They’ve become synonymous with the sport, and their logo is a symbol of excellence and passion recognized around the globe. Becoming an AIDA instructor means joining a legacy of underwater exploration and education, a community that values the art and science of freediving.
- Globally Recognized Expertise: Earn a certification respected worldwide, opening doors to freediving opportunities around the globe.
- Skill Development: Enhance your freediving skills and knowledge by learning advanced techniques.
- Inspire and Empower: Share the joy of freediving with others, guiding them on their own journeys.
- Personal Growth: Experience the profound satisfaction of teaching, challenging yourself, and making a lasting impact on your students’ lives.
- Career Opportunities: Open up career opportunities in the freediving industry, such as leading live-a-boards expeditions to managing renowned dive centers – the possibilities are endless
- Join a Thriving Global Community: connect with a passionate network of AIDA professionals, sharing knowledge, experiences, and deep pure passion for freediving.
- Safety and Standards: Uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism, ensuring the well-being of your students and contributing to a culture of responsible freediving.
- Lifelong Learning: Continuously evolve as an instructor through AIDA’s educational resources and stay updated with the latest developments in freediving.
- Legacy of Excellence: Become part of a prestigious organization committed to advancing freediving education and promoting the sport on a global scale.
- Personal Satisfaction: Experience the joy of sharing your knowledge and helping others discover the wonders of freediving.
AIDA is the Clear Choice for a Rewarding Freediving Career
Change your Lifestyle! Move to a Tropical Island!
At the Freedive Academy Panglao, we offer different instructor courses from various agencies and levels. You can take an instructor course via Zero to Hero, via a freediving internship, or we can make you an excellent package with accommodation, training, airport pickups, scooter rental, etc. Whatever package you choose, you can’t go wrong with what Panglao offers!
Fill in the form today. No strings. Usually, you’ll have an answer within hours.
The AIDA International Freedive Instructor Course!
As an AIDA Freediving Instructor, You Join Something Special!
AIDA International is a non-profit agency run by volunteers. The AIDA Freediving System is a non-commercial agency that delivers pure, academic-based freediving, high-level skills, and competitive freediving. This applies to the recreational AIDA freediving courses and the instructor levels.
The AIDA instructor course is based on technical teaching and academic research – much more than the other freediving agencies – and is a lot of fun!
When you have completed the AIDA 4, SSI Level 3 Performance Freediver course, or the Molchanovs Wave 3 course and are not yet a freediving instructor but want to join the AIDA Professional Network, this AIDA Freediving Instructor Course is the right choice.
To start, the student must have a valid CPR and First Aid certificate and a medical statement not older than one year. The first aid course and the medical can be completed in Panglao but must be completed before the course. Finally, the candidate must be at least 18 years old.
Becoming an AIDA Instructor via Full Instructor Course or AIDA Instructor Cross Over!
The Freedive Instructor Training Course (FITC) from AIDA International is accessible as a comprehensive full course or a cross-over package. To qualify for the cross-over option, you must possess the appropriate certification, such as SSI Level 2 or PADI Master Instructor. It is important to note that the SSI Level 1 Freediving Instructor and PADI Advanced Freediving Instructor are not eligible for cross-over, as they do not meet the required level.
AIDA Instructor Training Course
The AIDA Freediving Instructor can teach the courses AIDA 1 Introduction to Freediving, the AIDA 2 Open Water and Pool Freediving courses, the AIDA 3 Advanced Freediver Course, and the AIDA Monofin Course. If the candidate is also an AIDA judge, they can teach some of the competition courses.
Prerequisites: The candidate must have an AIDA 4 Certification or pass the AIDA 4 Crossover Evaluation and have a First Aid Certificate (no older than two years).
Duration: 10 days
Performance & Course Completion Requirements:
- Constant Weight Bi Fins (CWTB): 40mtr.
- Free Immersion (FIM): 40mtr.
- Constant Weight Bi Fins (CWTB): 30mtr. (dive time 1:30 min.)
- Free Immersion (FIM): 30mtr. (dive time 2 min.)
- Dynamic Bi Fins (DYNB): 90mtr.
- Dynamic No Fins (DNF): 50mtr.
- Constant No Fins (CNF): 20mtr.
- Static Breath-Hold: 4:00min.
- Standby Rescue (1min. Rescue Hang): 15mtr.
- 25mtr. BO Rescue (50mtr. tow incl. Rescue Breaths)
- 5x 20mtr. (1min. surface interval)
* All skills need to be demonstrated at an instructor-level quality.
Price without package discount per person: $1350
Please note: After you pass the AIDA FITC, we will certify you as an AIDA Freediving Instructor. To become an active instructor, you must pay the first-year annual fee directly to AIDA International. The yearly fee for an AIDA Freediving Instructor to remain active is currently set at €50 a year.
The Molchanovs, SSI, or AIDA Freediving Instructor Combo
It doesn't matter if you do a Zero to Hero, a freediving internship, or a single instructor course with training; with the Freedive Academy Freediving Instructor Combo, you get the best of two worlds!
First, please note that this is not a 2-in-1 course - you won't get two certifications with one course! The Freedive Instructor Combo is an entire Instructor course followed by an Instructor crossover course.
Some guests want to take the SSI Instructor course because it, like no other, prepares them to become proper dive professionals. Some want to become AIDA or Molchanovs instructors because of the agencies' flexibility.
The Freedive Academy runs SSI & Molchanovs, SSI & AIDA, and Molchanovs & AIDA combo courses.
We are saving time with performance requirements that are often the same between the different agencies. We're saving time discussing and demonstrating the skills. An excellent example is also, with the SSI and AIDA Instructor Course, we add instructor candidate skills video review, which is usually only done with the Molchanovs FITC. We are adding more value to the different courses, running both courses more efficiently, and thus can do the crossover in a shorter time frame and, therefore, cheaper. The combo package is one fantastic and compact package for both certificates! It's truly the best of both worlds.
Price without package discount per person: $1750
Please note that the above price does not include the mandatory ~$350 SSI fee for the registration and annual membership fee, the SSI Freediving Instructor kit, and the Advanced Freediving Instructor kit.
Also, the first-year annual membership and professional registration of Molchanovs are not included, which is $200.
The additional fee to become an active AIDA Instructor is the least expensive of all agencies and is set at €50 a year.
It’s Time to Schedule Your Freediving Instructor Path
At Freedive Academy Panglao, we offer SSI, AIDA, and Molchanovs instructor courses every month. We’re committed to making your career path to becoming a freediving instructor as smooth as possible. Still, some courses require careful scheduling due to the limited number of qualified Instructor Trainers and smaller class sizes.
The AIDA 1, 2 & 3, the SSI Level 1 & 2, and the Molchanovs Wave 1 & 2 recreational beginner freediving courses are offered multiple times each week, so it’s easy to fit them into your schedule.
Master freediving courses like the AIDA 4, SSI Performance Freediver, and Molchanovs Wave 3 typically run only once or twice a month.
Although the Instructor courses are run and scheduled throughout the year, they require even more careful planning. We recommend booking early to secure your preferred dates. The same applies to internships and Zero to Hero programs, which are scheduled around your instructor’s course.
While it’s possible to arrive just before your course begins, we highly recommend arriving at least a few days to a week early. This gives you time to adjust to travel, settle in, and find your training rhythm.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions about scheduling your Panglao experience. We’re excited to help you plan your exciting, freediving adventure!
~Oct 3 - 12, 2024
AIDA ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Oct 17 - 21, 2024
Molchanovs W2 ITC Cross Over
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Oct 25 - 31, 2024
Mermaid ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Nov 8 - 16, 2024
Molchanovs W2 ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Nov 18 - 27, 2024
AIDA ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Dec 1 - 10, 2024
SSI FITC Level 2
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Dec 14 - 18, 2024
Molchanovs W2 ITC Cross Over
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Jan 6 - 15, 2025
Molchanovs Wave 2 ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Jan 20 - 25, 2025
AIDA Cross Over
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Feb 3 - 12, 2025
AIDA ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Feb 17 - 23, 2025
Molchanovs Wave 2 ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Mar 3 - 12, 2025
SSI FITC Level 2
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Mar 17 - 23, 2025
Molchanovs W2 ITC Cross Over
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~Apr 7 - 16, 2025
Molchanovs Wave 2 ITC
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
~April 21 - 26, 2025
AIDA Cross Over
Location: Freedive Academy Panglao
Please note that the above courses are happening, but we still might be able to move them one or two days.
We have an approximate schedule for this year - in addition to the Freedive Instructor Training Courses (FITCs) for the Zero to Hero programs and the freediving internships. When you're ready to plan your trip, contact us.
Our support team - who are all freedivers, too - is ready to answer all of your questions. They know precisely the seats available for the different FITCs and the dates of the master-level courses. Since we run many beginner and advanced freediving courses each week, we don't have to schedule them - we can start them any day, but the master freediving courses need to be scheduled somewhat in advance.
We run the AIDA Freediving Instructor courses and AIDA and SSI or Molchanovs Instructor Course Combos pretty much every month. We usually teach them in English, but Dutch is also possible. If you prefer another language, please get in touch with us since we also regularly work with translators.
If you want a quick reply, please use the short form on this page.
For more detailed information about Courses, Accommodation, Prices, etc. Please follow the below links.
Change your Lifestyle! Move to a Tropical Island!
At the Freedive Academy Panglao, we offer different instructor courses from different agencies and levels. You can take an instructor course via Zero to Hero, via a freediving internship, or we can make you a nice package with accommodation, training, airport pickups, scooter rental, etc. Whatever package you choose, you can’t go wrong with what Panglao offers!
Fill in the form today. No strings. Usually, you’ll have an answer within hours.
Are you ready to Become an AIDA Master Instructor?
As an AIDA Master Instructor, you join the few Elite Freediving Instructors!
You have taught freediving for about a year and have at least 20 AIDA 2 and at least 10 AIDA 3 certifications, for a total of at least 50 certifications. Then, it’s time to take your Instructor capabilities to the next level.
To upgrade to AIDA Master Instructor, you need to apply to the AIDA Education Commission.
Start Teaching in the Pool as an AIDA Pool Instructor.
AIDA offers recreational pool and open water courses all in one exciting Instructor Course.
At Freedive Academy Panglao, we’re lucky to have Napaling Reef on our doorstep, where we can dive alongside the famous Panglao sardines and explore vibrant marine life daily. But we also understand that not all freedivers can access such exceptional open-water conditions. That’s where AIDA’s pool courses come in.
AIDA offers two pool-focused freediving courses
- AIDA 2 Pool: Perfect for beginners who want to build a solid foundation in freediving skills and safety in a controlled environment.
- AIDA 3 Pool: Designed for those with some freediving experience who want to refine their technique and push their limits in a safe and supportive setting.
While our primary focus is on open-water training, we regularly run AIDA Pool Instructor courses alongside our regular AIDA Freediving Instructor Trainer Courses (FITC). So, whether you dream of teaching in crystal-clear oceans or sparkling pools, we’ve got you covered.
Interested in becoming an AIDA Pool Instructor? Get in touch! We’d love to discuss the possibilities and help you schedule your course toward becoming a certified freediving professional.
AIDA Pool Instructor
The AIDA International AIDA 2 and 3 pool courses are the pool equivalents of the regular open-water courses. The theory and pool requirements are the same but without the open-water requirements.
As with the recreational pool courses, a Pool Instructor can become an (open-water) AIDA instructor once they have met the open-water performance requirements.
If you want a quick reply, please use the short form on this page.
For more detailed information about Courses, Accommodation, Prices, etc. Please follow the below links.
Change your Lifestyle! Move to a Tropical Island!
At the Freedive Academy Panglao, we offer different instructor courses from various agencies and different levels. You can take an instructor course via Zero to Hero, via a freediving internship, or we can make you an excellent package with accommodation, training, airport pickups, scooter rental, etc. Whatever package you choose, you can’t go wrong with what Panglao offers!
Fill in the form today. No strings. Usually, you’ll have an answer within hours.
The Freedive Instructor Development Programs in Panglao.
The Instructor Course can be so much more than just 10 days of studying!
You know it already. At the dive center in Panglao, you’ll find highly skilled and experienced instructors ready to guide you. The academy is fully equipped, has its own private 25-meter two lane swimming pool. And our dive spot, Napaling Reef, has an unique drop-off and a amazing school of Sardines. Unlike many dive centers, we offer boat-free diving and flexible dive times.
Beyond freediving, Panglao and Bohol provide a wealth of activities for your days off. Plus, traveling to Panglao is a breeze. Discover the incredible freediving opportunities in the Philippines.
Now it’s time to decide: will you ‘just’ take a Freediving Instructor Course, or will you create a personalized package? Customize your trip with training, accommodation, scooter rental, airport pickup, and specialized freediving courses. Or, choose one of our pre-packaged specials tailored to your interests.
Experience more than ‘just’ a Freediving Instructor Course in Panglao. Immerse yourself in freediving with the award-winning programs of Freedive Academy.
Zero to Hero Freediving Program
Swim and Freediving Instructor Combo
Freedive Instructor Internship
Live the Freediving Dream: Train, Teach, and Thrive in Tropical Paradise. Ready to make freediving your profession? Trade your office for the beach and your suit for a wetsuit! Our Freediving Internship program immerses you in the ultimate “flip-flop lifestyle” while providing valuable hands-on experience. Hone your skills, gain confidence teaching others, and enjoy the beauty of Panglao – all while earning a generous discount on your program and receiving free housing and lunch. By the end of your internship, you’ll be a skilled freediver and a sought-after instructor, ready to launch your dream career.
Instructor Course Cross-Overs
If you want a quick reply, please use the short form on this page.
For more detailed information about Courses, Accommodation, Prices, etc. Please follow the below links. We look forward to meeting you here in Panglao – you’ll love the freediving family! 🙂
AVAILABLE NOW! The Brand-New Freedive Academy Mobile Training App!
All the Freedive Academy's Expertise, Now in Your Pocket!
The Apnea Assistant, Your Personal Breathwork Coach!
The Apnea Assistant is Hands-Down, the Most Complete Freediving App Currently Available!
Can't make it to Panglao to train with us in person? No problem! Our team has poured their passion and expertise into creating an incredible app that brings the Freediving Academy experience to you, wherever you are.
The Apnea Assistant is completely free to use, with no premiums or annoying ads. It's packed with everything you need to improve your breath-hold, refine your technique, and deepen your freediving journey – from customizable training tables and guided breathing exercises to a detailed training log that tracks your progress. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned freediver, the Apnea Assistant will help you take your training to the next level.
Download it today and start training like a pro!
Disclaimer: The Freediving App provides tools and guidance for freediving training but should not be used as a substitute for professional instruction. Learning freediving involves essential safety practices and breathing techniques best taught in a supervised environment. We always recommend taking an intro or beginner freediving course with a certified instructor before utilizing the app.