COVID-19 Response

We are Ready for the NEW Normal!

We could only think. This isn’t happening…

The Freedive Academy owner, Emily, had this to say about the last two years.

“After almost a year of preparation and hard work, we just finished the first bungalows. We turned a dream into a freediving center and a dive center into a beautiful sports resort. Finally, we were ready to accommodate our guests.

But after exactly two days (!!!) of finishing the first bungalows, the Philippines went into lockdown. Having already dealt with cancellations for weeks, the country was closed, no tourists could enter the Philippines anymore, and Panglao was running empty.

We couldn’t believe what was happening. After all this hard work, we had to send the staff home, and we wondered if it was all done for nothing…

Almost two years later, the Philippines has re-opened its borders to international tourists, and the academy looks incredible! We’ve done a tremendous amount of work, and life in Panglao and the academy is quickly returning. We’re all getting super excited! The time we’ve been waiting for has arrived!”

Dear freedivers – and future freedivers!

We just wanted to answer some questions about how we deal with COVID-19. First of all,

Thank you for your messages and support. We are all healthy, and the dive center and resort remain open. We are fulfilling orders online and in Panglao, and we continue to assist our customers with questions.

Even though the global tourist and freediving industry took a severe beating, it’s important to note that we’ve worked incredibly hard during the entire pandemic. The Freedive Academy is open. We are running courses, have divers training daily, and came out of the pandemic financially healthy. On February 2022, the Philippines re-opened its borders to international tourists, and we are more than ready to welcome you, our guests, back here in Panglao.

Furthermore, the National government of the Philippines and the local government of Panglao made a long set of new rules and regulations for businesses in the tourist industry – a 15-page document, to be exact. We had different inspections from different local government institutes. On July 19th 2020, the honorary mayor Leonila Montero gave us, as the first freediving center in Panglao, the official go-ahead for re-opening. We couldn’t go to the ocean for months. Still, ever since the go-ahead of the mayor, we have been open, running courses, working hard and dedicated for the moment the borders would open – and as expected – tourism has picked up quickly. We are having a great time here in beautiful Panglao.

We understand that we have a crucial role in advising our guests on travel plans and possible restrictions to and from Panglao and the Philippines. Luckily for everyone traveling to the Philippines, traveling within the Philippines is again very easy and very well-doable with little to no restrictions – you don’t even need to be vaccinated anymore.

And because we have such an essential role in helping freedivers travel – and purchase gear, we have listed a few frequently asked questions.

Q: Can I travel to Panglao and the Philippines already?

A: YES, and it’s very easy. Travelers don’t need to be vaccinated to enter the Philippines! Once you take a test before departure and request a very easy-to-get eArrival pass, which you can get via etravel.gov.ph, you are welcome to come to the Philippines.

Traveling to the Philippines is very easy. Please get in touch with us for the latest requirements.

Q: Do I need a special visa to enter the Philippines?

A: NO. Just as before the pandemic, citizens of most countries can get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival. And also, just like before the pandemic, extending your visa is still very easy – no need for visa runs.

Q: Do you still accept bookings?

A: OF COURSE! Not only do we still accept bookings, but it’s also better that you book in advance. Booking course dates for Level 1, 2, and 3 courses is quite easy. You have to book in advance for the freediving internships, zero to hero freediving programs, and the different instructor courses.

Q: Because of COVID, I had to postpone my travels. When can I come?

A: WHENEVER YOU WANT! Rescheduling the recreational courses isn’t a problem at all. We run instructor courses every month, and we arranged something special for the freediving internships. During the pandemic, we had to postpone a lot of internships. Normally we are limited in our staff and intern accommodation. However, we decided to rent extra accommodation this year so everyone who had to postpone their internship could still come when the travel restrictions were lifted. This means we’ll possibly have a big group of interns, but this will be double the fun.

Unlike the scheduled quarterly internships, the postponed internships don’t have approximate arrival dates but are still three months – extendable with three months of extra training.

Q: When will you start training and running courses?

A: WE ALREADY ARE! Life in Panglao is pretty normal. Every day, we run beginner freediving courses and AIDA, SSI, and Molchanovs Instructor Courses pretty much every month.

Furthermore, almost every week, we have online freediving courses starting. You can start from home if you plan to visit Panglao for a recreational or professional freediving course. We’ll certify you as a Theory Freediver for the recreational freediving courses so that you can access the free dry-training programs in preparation for your visit to Panglao. The remote instructor courses are mostly Wave 2 crossovers from other agencies, while some are Wave 3 instructor upgrades.

Q: Is there still someone to help me with my questions?

A: YES! We have a large team at work. We have a team in the academy and support staff at our office answering emails, FB, Instagram, WhatsApp, and phone questions.

Q: Are orders still shipped out?

A: YES! We have taken steps to ensure the safety of our staff (and customers) as we continue to ship out orders.

Q: Is there a delay in shipping and receiving orders?

A: POSSIBLY! Under normal circumstances, the orders will be fulfilled on the same day. However, during COVID-19, we’ve seen a significant increase in online orders, which may be shipped out the next day.

IMPORTANT: We’ve also seen frequent parcel processing delays by shipping companies and customs in various countries. We still expect a standard maximum delivery time of 2 to 3 weeks, but note that we’ve regularly seen deliveries of 6 weeks, too, with few exceptions of 2 and 3 months. If you need the item before a specific date, please get in touch with us before placing the order.

Q: How is the damage after Super Typhoon Odette?

A: THINGS ARE BACK TO NORMAL. On December 16, 2021, the province of Bohol, with our island Panglao and the islands of Cebu and Siargao, got hit by a typhoon with devastating force. The damage was great, but our beautiful island is fully recovered. Panglao has electricity back everywhere, the internet is back everywhere, and we repaired all the damage to the Academy – we improved the shop quite a bit, actually. Tourism is back, and now that borders have re-opened, the island is getting busy again. Life in Panglao is pretty great!

If you have any other questions, please contact us anytime. We will be more than happy to assist you.

Stay safe and healthy!

Emily and Vincent and the Freedive Academy family!

UPDATE 2024: We will keep this page online for those with any questions, but life here in Panglao is completely back to normal – it’s busier now than in 2019 when we moved to the new location. Join us in Panglao for an adventure of a lifetime!

Beck D

We had a terrific experience visiting Napaling Reef with Ryan from Freedive Academy Panglao! We were driven to and from the reef from the academy which is a short way up the road. Ryan took excellent photos and videos of both our family and the reef. It was such an easy experience to be so well looked after by Ryan and the team. All the images were immediately uploaded to my iPhone upon our return to the Academy where we showered after our swim. Would definitely recommend an early booking for less crowds. Thanks for making our time at the reef so enjoyable!

이동현

나팔링투어 다녀왔습니다. 스노클링이나 다이빙은 처음으로 해본건데, 제대로 배워보고싶다는 생각이 들만큼 환상적인 경험이었습니다.다음에 보홀에 방문하게되면 꼭 다시 예약하겠습니다.(고프로 촬영본 메일 발송 부탁드립니다. 12월 12일 09시타임 lee)

Stig Hammarbeck

Had a very instructive and good SSI 'React Right' First Aid training course complete with CPR, AED and Oxygen supplier for freedivers.My teacher was Instructor and course Director Mr Edwin C.Professional and very well prepared,Can be highly recommend!Stig HammarbeckAIDA Master FreediverPADI Dive Master ScubaCMAS*** Scuba diverNorway

Lisa Lukretia Fischer

I spent about 2 weeks at the academy, freshening up my skills and then doing my Aida 4 course with Rea (@reapnea <-- <3 <3). absolutely loved it! the team is fantastic, whole location has a great atmosphere, they catered to all my wishes (bungalow, scooter and fun dive booking). overall it was fantastic experience very effective learning. happy repeat anytime. wishing you best!

EShenn

Jairus Lirazan

Very accommodating, relaible and safety is ensured with the staff

Lawrence

這裡的Dio教練，太棒了，耐心且專業帶你去各個濳點，介紹各種水底生態！很幸運的看到了超大Crown Jellyfish 以及幫你設計角度!拍攝專業美照&影片，嘗試了人生第一個珊瑚礁岩壁洞穴，來這唯一指名找Dio教練沒錯,濳水&拍攝技術都非常專業

Fernanda Caminha

Amazing guide!

Angela Romea

snorkeled for the first time here—such a great experience! we felt so safe and dio was such a wonderful guide. he took amazing photos as well!

Stefanie Van Der Vinden

Absolutely loved the snorkeling experience; lovely guide, saw loads of different species and have some nice videos to remember the day.

林意真

店員人超好～

Elizabeth Nguyen

Just finished my wave 1 course with Jorge and had a great time! I had no prior experience with diving and he really helped me relax my anxieties about going down. Couldn’t have done it without his expertise and friendly spirit.

Rick de Bruijn

蕭仕原 Ben

今天參加了玻璃船行程，剛下船沒多久就下大雨，上岸之後，載我們到店裡盥洗休息，等雨停之後，員工們再扛一次玻璃船下水，讓我們繼續完成玻璃船行程，非常敬業。此外，也參加了沙丁魚風暴行程，官網價格透明且清楚，不會有任何額外附加費用，其他一些地點常會帳面上一個價，到了現場之後開始加東加西，也可能是配合的嚮導或當地店家串通坑觀光客，但這間不會，下次來我一定還會找這一間參加行程。謝謝今天的照顧，感謝。

HONGJUN AN

25년전 호주에서 스쿠버다이빙 어드밴스코스까지 수강했던 이력이 있습니다. 이곳 보홀에선 큰딸은 프리다이빙 트래이닝을 받고 저는 입문경험차 다이빙 했습니다. 보홀에서의 아름다운 바다를 충분히 만끽하였고, 큰딸은 라이선스를 취득하였습니다. 선생님들이 전부 전문적이시고, 친절하십니다. 다음에 프리다이빙을 위해 재방문 한다면 이곳에 다시오고 싶습니다. 친절한 트래이닝, 좋은 경험을 하게 해주신 Mr.Jorge, Mr.Dio 정말 감사했습니다..

Leiqi Chen

Jomai and Dio were our guides. They were professional and patient. The one hour private tour was awesome. I highly recommend them to all of you.

Cheng Lu

It's sooo good! Everyone here is friendly! Emily is super professional and patient!If you want to learn free diving, I strongly recommend this place.In here, everything is working for free diving! You can focused on free diving!Anyway! I like this place!If I have the chance, I want to do a internship here.I make a lot of friends here！it is a wonderful and valuable experience！

Miles Yan

There are friends from all over the world. We study and have classes together. The atmosphere is super wonderful! The coach is very professional! Enjoy diving!!!

Joshua Budihardjo

Very friendly and capable instructor! Had a great time here, thank you to Jomai for the great experience!!

Fiona Cerdan

Lily Holman

I had the privilege to be a student of Charles, an excellent instructor yet has a calm and humble demeanor. I can’t even begin on how to thank Charles throughout my wave 1 course in freediving.I had an incredible time diving with Charles and felt safe and calm during my training. His patience, kindness, and intelligence truly shone through during my course. I particularly appreciated the way he always reassured me that I was safe, which helped me to relax and enjoy the experience even more.He’s got great personality, passionate at what he does. His approach to teaching is truly exceptional, and I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to learn from someone as skilled and dedicated.Charles even sent me my freediving photos and videos he took on his GoPro!I look forward to continuing my journey as a freediver under his guidance, and I will be sure to recommend him to anyone who is interested in pursuing this incredible sport.

Sergey Busargin

Spent a few weeks training there. Great facility, friendly staff, good management.Will be back next year, for more training :)

Kristine Langutan

I love the ambiance and the stuffs are very friendly. Quiet place to stay in.

Matthew Van der ploeg

The team at Freedive Academy Panglao were very supportive, professional and welcoming. Edwin and Charles were great instructors. Unfortunately I had ear issues and was unable to start/ complete the second certificate, although Emily and the team gave me a credit to come back and complete this certificate 2 at a later date! Such a great and positive experience even with some ear issues! 😊

Zoe Peng

在Freedive Academy Panglao的这六天，是我生命中的一段珍贵经历。

在这里，我不仅仅是一个学员，更是一个被热爱潜水的人聚集的大家庭的一员。
不仅结识了技术过硬的大神教练们，更重要的是找到了志同道合的朋友。我们一起学习、探索，一起分享喜悦和挑战，相互支持和鼓励，共同追逐着潜水的梦想，创造了无数珍贵的回忆。

Freedive Academy Panglao有卓越的专业水准和严格的安全标准。
专业课程全面详实、体系科学，涵盖了潜水所需的各个方面知识和技能。这里的教练都具备丰富的经验和专业背景，从剖析原理、技术讲解到泳池和海训，理论结合实践、循序渐进。使我能够系统地学习和掌握潜水的原理和技巧，让即使不太会游泳的我也爱上大海、爱上freedive。
教练也非常严谨负责、耐心、包容，每一项考核都需要付出努力和坚持练习，但这一切都是值得的。即使考核一次没有通过还可继续报名海训，价格非常实惠。

Freedive Academy Panglao地理位置绝佳，就在潜水胜地napling旁几百米。所以每天都在napling海训，与沙丁鱼风暴和五彩斑斓的海洋生物相伴，那种与大自然融为一体的感觉令人陶醉。每一次海训，我都感受到了无与伦比的自由和快乐。而与我的同伴们一同分享这份喜悦和惊叹，更是倍感亲密和幸福。

安全，也始终是最重要的考量。从课堂到实践，从理论到实际操作，每一步都严格遵循安全规程和程序，确保学员的安全与健康。

Academy提供的设施和装备一流，并定期维护和检查，确保安全性和可靠性。在每次潜水活动之前，教练都会进行全面的准备和检查，确保潜水器材的完好和适用。

如果你追求真正专业、安全的自由潜体验，
如果你想真正享受这五彩斑斓的海底世界，
如果你想交到志同道合、真正热爱大海、热爱自由潜的人生朋友，
Freedive Academy Panglao是你最好的选择！

我将永远怀念这段时光，感谢Freedive Academy Panglao给予我如此宝贵的体验和情感共鸣，感谢Charles、Emily、Ben、Jomay、Bob等等所有小伙伴们！未来我一定还会回到这里继续学习wave 2！继续追逐潜水梦想，共同创造更多美好的回忆。

最后有一句话想要送给Freedive Academy Panglao所有小伙伴们：
罗曼·罗兰写到过“世界上只有一种真正的英雄主义，就是在认清生活真相之后仍然热爱生活。”正如你们，我的英雄们，在经历世间冷暖后，依然热爱自由潜、热爱那绮丽大海，才能八年如一日坚持用专业和严谨，让更多人能够安全健康地享受大海的美好。爱你们！

During my six days at Freedive Academy Panglao, it was a precious experience in my life.

Here, I wasn't just a student, but also a member of a big family of people who share a love for diving. Not only did I meet highly skilled instructors, but I also found like-minded friends. We learned, explored, shared joys and challenges, supported and encouraged each other, and together pursued our diving dreams, creating countless precious memories.

Freedive Academy Panglao maintains excellent professional standards and strict safety measures. The courses are comprehensive, detailed, and scientifically structured, covering all aspects of diving knowledge and skills. The instructors possess extensive experience and professional backgrounds, teaching theory and techniques in a progressive manner from analyzing principles to pool and open water training. This allowed me, even as a non-swimmer, to fall in love with the sea and freediving. The instructors are responsible, patient, and accommodating, and although each assessment requires effort and practice, it is all worthwhile. Even I didn't pass an assessment on the first try, I could continue with affordable open water training.

The location of Freedive Academy Panglao is excellent, just a few hundred meters from the renowned diving spot - Napling. Every day, we trained in Napling, surrounded by the beauty of sardines and colorful marine life, experiencing a sense of unity with nature. Each training session brought unparalleled freedom and joy, and sharing these moments of delight and awe with my fellow divers created a sense of intimacy and happiness.

Safety is always the top priority. From the classroom to practical exercises, every step follows strict safety regulations and procedures, ensuring the well-being and health of the students.

The academy provides top-notch facilities and equipment, regularly maintained and inspected to ensure safety and reliability. Before each diving activity, the instructors conduct comprehensive preparations and checks to ensure the integrity and suitability of the diving gear.

If you seek a truly professional and safe freediving experience, if you want to truly enjoy the vibrant underwater world, and if you want to make friends with like-minded individuals who love the ocean and freediving, Freedive Academy Panglao is your best choice!

I will forever cherish these moments and express my gratitude to Freedive Academy Panglao for granting me such valuable experiences and emotional resonance. Thank you to all the companions like Charles, Emily, Ben, Jomay, Bob, and many others! In the future, I will definitely return here to continue my Wave 2 learning journey! Let's continue pursuing our diving dreams and creating more wonderful memories together.

Lastly, I want to share a quote with all the companions at Freedive Academy Panglao: Romain Rolland once wrote, "Il n'ya qu'un héroïsme au monde : c'est de voir le monde tel qu'il est et de l'aimer. (There is only one heroism in the world: to see the world as it is and to love it.)”
Just like all of you, my heroes, despite experiencing the ups and downs of life, you still have a deep love for freediving and the magnificent ocean. It is through your unwavering professionalism and dedication over the years that more people can safely and healthily enjoy the beauty of the sea. I love you all!

During my six days at Freedive Academy Panglao, it was a precious experience in my life.Here, I wasn't just a student, but also a member of a big family of people who share a love for diving. Not only did I meet highly skilled instructors, but I also found like-minded friends. We learned, explored, shared joys and challenges, supported and encouraged each other, and together pursued our diving dreams, creating countless precious memories.Freedive Academy Panglao maintains excellent professional standards and strict safety measures. The courses are comprehensive, detailed, and scientifically structured, covering all aspects of diving knowledge and skills. The instructors possess extensive experience and professional backgrounds, teaching theory and techniques in a progressive manner from analyzing principles to pool and open water training. This allowed me, even as a non-swimmer, to fall in love with the sea and freediving. The instructors are responsible, patient, and accommodating, and although each assessment requires effort and practice, it is all worthwhile. Even I didn't pass an assessment on the first try, I could continue with affordable open water training.The location of Freedive Academy Panglao is excellent, just a few hundred meters from the renowned diving spot - Napling. Every day, we trained in Napling, surrounded by the beauty of sardines and colorful marine life, experiencing a sense of unity with nature. Each training session brought unparalleled freedom and joy, and sharing these moments of delight and awe with my fellow divers created a sense of intimacy and happiness.Safety is always the top priority. From the classroom to practical exercises, every step follows strict safety regulations and procedures, ensuring the well-being and health of the students.The academy provides top-notch facilities and equipment, regularly maintained and inspected to ensure safety and reliability. Before each diving activity, the instructors conduct comprehensive preparations and checks to ensure the integrity and suitability of the diving gear.If you seek a truly professional and safe freediving experience, if you want to truly enjoy the vibrant underwater world, and if you want to make friends with like-minded individuals who love the ocean and freediving, Freedive Academy Panglao is your best choice!I will forever cherish these moments and express my gratitude to Freedive Academy Panglao for granting me such valuable experiences and emotional resonance. Thank you to all the companions like Charles, Emily, Ben, Jomay, Bob, and many others! In the future, I will definitely return here to continue my Wave 2 learning journey! Let's continue pursuing our diving dreams and creating more wonderful memories together.Lastly, I want to share a quote with all the companions at Freedive Academy Panglao: Romain Rolland once wrote, "Il n'ya qu'un héroïsme au monde : c'est de voir le monde tel qu'il est et de l'aimer. (There is only one heroism in the world: to see the world as it is and to love it.)”Just like all of you, my heroes, despite experiencing the ups and downs of life, you still have a deep love for freediving and the magnificent ocean. It is through your unwavering professionalism and dedication over the years that more people can safely and healthily enjoy the beauty of the sea. I love you all!

ando yuuki

I really enjoyed the tour. All people were so nice and so kind :)) even I could see the wild whale shark. I never forget about this. My guide Alex, he took beautiful picture and movies for me. Thank you so much again and I really recommend this shop.

Joëlle Carignan

Very cool experience! I did the introduction course with Edwin and it was super nice, it felt like being in a dream under water. Their diving spot has a beautiful coral wall with cristal clear water, and I was able to go see it pretty deep on my first fun dives because the coaching of Edwin was great. He made sure to adapt his teaching and the progression to each members of my group! They just didn’t have the camera that day like advertised, but the best images are caught with the eye anyway

Kenneth Ortega

Tong Chang

great experience! Great guide!

Tony Wong

The shop environment is clean, staff are friendly and helpful, instructor is professional, shop location is excellent just 1km to the dive site, dive site is very nice.

Lassse

We (Amanda and Lasse) spent 4 month at the academy. Even though not everything always went smooth for us (sicknesses forced us to spent a lot of time out of the water), we had an amazing time (though maybe tell future students to rinse there ears after your pool😉)!Especially all the instructors were great! We got taught by Charles and Igor, and can say that both have exceptional knowledge and drive to make you a better freediver (all the other instructors are of course also great). A big shoutout also goes to Edwin, who directed our internship and is a super kind and genuine guy, as well as a great (patient!) instructor.The staff is also amazing, starting with Aii at reception and not ending with Bong, who fixes everything around the place. All of them are super cool and make the stay there very welcoming.As interns we stayed in bungalows, which are overall fine, though it’s important to know that they are quite small for two people for such a long time and don’t include a fridge (which can be important since the kitchen closes at 7 and it’s impossible to cook or access food after).The best thing about our time here was the community of fellow divers, instructors and staff. We made so many friends from all over the world, diving together, partying together, chilling together, doing breath work together,and of course exploring together. Hope to see you all again!And honorable mention of course goes out to the MVP, Jay. He’s the actual boss of the place, and deserves all the cuddles in the world for it.All in all, we highly recommend everyone to come here to learn about freediving!Hopefully we will return one day! Big love❤️

Vi Na

我是在这学习的macha 1级，教练很负责，有中文教练，叫艾米丽，教练会根据我的实际情况定制专属的训练课程，很好的潜水启蒙地点，我会在这一直考到潜水教练。

Saleh AlSalamah

Had 3 great coached sessions with Charles, David and Bob. Loved the place and the energy, also good place to buy freediving equipments or even try some.

Derik Broadnax

Just finished the Molchanov level one training with Charles. Charles is an outstanding instructor. Capable, patient, and intelligent. When it comes to freediving issues will arise with each student. I was impressed with Charles' ability to customize our sessions while guiding us to the same objectives.Along with Charles, the rest of the staff was incredible to work with. They accommodated some challenging requests that made my stay that much better. If you're thinking about beginning your freediving journey you'll be in great hands here!Aloha,Derik

Tamara

Attending the Freediving Academy in Panglao was an amazing experience. I just finished the two and a half day/ wave one course with Mike. He is not just a teacher but a true enthusiast of freediving. His passion for the sport shines through in every aspect. Mike's dedication to ensuring the safety and success of his students makes you feel really save and seen. He is always making sure each student reaches their full potential.I felt very welcomed by everyone in the team and I qm sure the other instructors are just as amazing. 10/10 would recommend

Mingrui Guo

Excellent Freediving line coaching session. Try mermaid there also!

Jason Round

Did my Wave 2 course and couldn’t have been better. Was very convenient to complete in just 3 days! Intense, but personally much preferred. Thank you!

Dennis J

of course !

Richard Smittenaar

I did my molchanov wave 1 freediving training here, over three days. Great experience, obviously a professional outfit who take the sport, your safety & progress, and your enjoyment of the process very seriously.The majority of the other divers around were considerably more advanced, which is another vote of confidence, by people who know better than me.If I were to do a wave 2 course (and after this experience I'm certainly thinking about it) I'd actually go out of my way to do it here, even if I otherwise wasn't planning to go to the Philippines (I'm based in China, for context).

Milena Zanetti

One of the best freediving school I’ve ever seen. The staff is very professional, I did the course with Rea (@reapnea) and she is an excellent and passionate instructor. The facility is extremely comfortable and clean, the community is big and helpful. I would definitely recommend it if you want to develop your skills or progress with the training levels. Moreover, Panglao Island is lovely!

孟諺蔡

I had a wonderful time in the Philippines with the freediving shop. The instructor was very attentive and taught me how to breathe and dive properly. He also showed me the beautiful coral reefs and marine life. Their equipment was new and safe, which made me feel very comfortable. I highly recommend this shop to anyone who wants to experience freediving. You will not regret it!

Jorys BARTCZAK

I passed my freediving levels at Freedive Academy Panglao. The academy is really great, with all the equipment and conditions to train in the best conditions. Moreover, the instructors are really diligent and available at all times to help us progress. As well as the whole team who run the academy on a day-to-day basis, who are brilliant.

CHEN 55

Miriam Salome

Very friendly, professional and familiar atmosphere.You can dive a lot and learn a lot about free-diving and also have some fun or a chat in around the pool.I especially enjoyed my wonderful and competent instructor Rea and the support I got from all the staff when needed.Thank you!Will be back <3

Amanda Hui

This place is awesome. My instructor Igor is very patient, knowledgeable and really encouraging. I was a bit afraid of holding my breath in the sea but Igor really helped me get out of my comfort zone. I am very grateful to the Freedive Academy Panglao team for helping me discover freediving.

Tammy Leaney-Bell

Highly recommend Freedive Academy Panglao!I arrived at the end of October to complete the Wave 3 and combined instructor program they offer. I signed up to the 3 month package including the master training. Charles, who leads the masters program is an amazing instructor! He takes the time to talk you through how you can reach your individual goals- even when the process can feel tough at times - thanks for all the help.Big shout out to Vincent, the owner, who took our instructor course. His knowledge of freediving and business made the instructor course very informative and fun. During the course we all had time to ask questions about things we were unsure of. Lots of time was also set aside to develop our teaching skills. A really great experience 😊The dive center as a whole has a lovely chilled vibe, and someone is aways there to help you with your freediving questions. I went in worried about my level starting wave 3, but there was no judgement and everyone was helpful and supportive during the sessions.uThe group dynamic is great and there's a real family vibe, with people joining the program from all over the world.Still working towards my last requirements, but getting there..... Glad to be here with the awesome staff and cool ocean life. ✌️Thanks guys!

Alex Ho

The guide was skilled and patience. He took care of me the whole time, so that I could relax and enjoy the moment I had.

Bashar Sharbak

A PLACE WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE 😍🧜‍♂️🐚

To sum up: professional, nice people and very well equipped. I did a mermaid course there, which was my dream for the longest time. They had many colorful amazing tails, and a very professional, lovely underwater photographer. COULDN’T BE MORE SATISFIED 😌😊

I did the Modeling mermaid course there. The perfect course if you, like me, want to try mermaiding and want a one day fun course. You’ll have 2-3 hours in the morning in a swimming pool to learn how to swim with a monofin and mermaid tail, and also how to hold your breath. A photographer comes in the morning to take some pics and videos in the pool. Then you continue with the photographer in the ocean in the afternoon to take the most amazing photos in the wonderful Napaling reef. In the end of the day, you get all the pics and videos they took, and after couple days you’ll receive 10 amazingly edited pics (check their Instagram to see some amazing ones).

The instructor Emily is so nice and lovely. The photographer is so professional, kind and fun. You feel like a real model 😂. The staff there is so nice and the diving center itself is very well equipped and feels like a family. They have many payment methods which was very convenient for me 😌

TOTALLY RECOMMENDED 😍 and I’ll definitely continue with them next time I’ll be in the Philippines ❤️🧜‍♂️🐚

Bashar sharbak

Tomek Cegielny

Vincent is mega passionate about freediving, about teaching and about creating a business around freediving - on all 3 topics he has tons of very insightful anecdotes from his own personal experience. From dives and workshops with the greatest freedivers on the planet, to concrete examples of emergency situations, to funny stories about courses, to struggles and successful bounce-backs in creating and scaling up businesses in freediving (courses, gear, tours, ...). Amazingly convenient location to go for dives (900m on a scooter, and 50m swim to get depths>50m, and a slightly longer swim to get to >70m). A pool at the academy. A masters training program. Friendly competitions. Freediving gear and accessories available for purchase. Good housing options - with good WiFi. That rounds up the course and facilities content part: 5 stars.What makes the experience at Freedive Academy Panglao so pleasant is the people: the Filipino admin/reception/social media staff is always super friendly, helpful and funny, the instructors are super accessible and passionate about what they do, and all students (around 20ish while I am here) create a very cool little community where everyone helps the others, shares experiences and tips, organize spontaneous yoga or breathwork sessions and spend time together for lunch or dinner. A cool mix of nationalities from at least 4 continents having serious and relaxed training and a lot of fun together. Also 5 stars.I haven't left yet but already thinking of when I could come back.

Annabelle Ziemiakowska

A big thank you to Igor. He is very professional, patient and friendly. Me and my boyfriend made the beginner freediving course and we felt all the time very safe. Igor is very good in improving you and give perfect tips. We learnt so much. The whole academy is great. Thank you so much.

Max

I did my AIDA 2 & 3 course with Freedive Academy Panglao, and it was just awesome. I would highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to get into freediving. They are extremely professional and will take your education seriously. My instructor Rea is a very skilled freediver and has a great personality. She helped me to master every requirement and had an answer to every question.

David Hoy

If you’re looking for a school to begin freediving or continue your progress. There’s no better place in the world.The only thing I knew about freediving when I signed up to was that it would involve holding my breath.I took the zero to hero route and spent 30 days learning at the academy. I learned how to relax, equalize, diving techniques and more importantly how freediving is good for my health.The environment here for learning is safe, positive and the academy really tailors to your specific needs and limiting factors. In my case I needed extra help on equalization.From beginning to end. Communication. Process and departure was top notch.I brought some of my own gear but they have everything you need here and they even have their own line of freediving gear which I got measured up for my own custom wetsuit.Special thank you to the office staff Rhea, Yannis, Airis, Jackie, Alaiza and Elaiza for your support and help around the academy.Thank you Rea, Igor, Charles, Edwin and Emily for teaching me with patience, encouragement and positivity.Thank you to my fellow students and interns who were good company and are now friends.If you’re looking to take plunge. This is the place to do it.

GKaren PC

my experience with free dive academy panglao was great. coach mark jacobs was the best.He gives me feedback after every exercise/ dive. He encourages and really made me look forward in learning all the skills i needed to learn and i had so much fun learning them.All the theories were explained really wel .Now i know the right technique and im so happy with the progress i made.
kudos to the whole team especially to coach mark ,thank you so much .will be back for more training❤️❤️❤️

Ashley Uy

I took the intro to freediving course to get myself comfortable in water. I freak out when I see the deep blue and the course today really helped me feel calmer and focus on what I had to do (despite the face-smacking waves today!). I didn't feel pressured through the course and the entire day was a fun experience! Thanks to both the academy and our instructor, Zeal, who helped me get what I came here to do!

Divina Garcia

Had an amazing experience with Freedive academy doing the wave 1 course. Big shout out to my instructor, Dani who was incredible at keeping me calm and being super patient and supportive on my first dives, and to Emily, she makes sure you are prepared and informed before you dive. she explains everything very clearly and lets fun, humor and her expertise flow into the course.

Alfredo Catbagan

Now I know why my son Zeal chose your center to further his diving career... Thank you for accommodating us seniors and for the dumpling lessons... Thank you Emily and Vincent for the warm welcome!!! Enjoyed our short session.... hope to visit back soon...

Aya Fernandez

Highly-recommended for complete beginners or recreational divers who want to develop technique and knowledge from experienced and well-informed instructors. So lucky to have Sophie as our instructor, she made us feel comfortable and safe during all our dives. Kudos to Vincent and Emily for creating this fun, lovely haven for everyone who wants to learn freediving.

P.S. Emily has everything you'll ever ask for. Just tell her and it will magically appear 😉

Mary Grace Isanan Viaje

This is the DREAM FREEDIVING ACADEMY in the Philippines!

When we took the course we already have basic experience from Batangas and we have a lot of problems and mistakes to correct! We're having trouble going deep and our only limit is only 3 meters; we panic most of the time, we can't equalize that much, finning is not perfect, and because of these things we can't enjoy freediving and can't see the fishes. We knew our knowledge was lacking. Especially when you want to freedive with your partner, you need to know more about safety and rescue procedures.

Enrolling in this course taught us everything we need to know! And I'm pretty sure this is one of the best decisions we have ever made! I didn't expect it to be so much fun and exciting!

We had an amazing instructor. Ms. Sophie Bellin was the best that we could ever dream of! She was very patient with us. And it was more fun than being under pressure. She is a brilliant teacher with lots of experience in freediving and sports. She helped us to be calm, patiently correct our mistakes, and always remind us of the things we always forget. She made it easy for us to understand the technicalities.

Well, you'll never know these basic techniques could help you better. Now I'm proud to say in just 3 days, I could be calmer and more confident in the water, now I could dive between 7-8M, and swim at least 40M in the pool. Thanks to Ms. Sophie for assuring us during the lessons that we are safe!

Shout out to Ms. Emily as well. She helped us a lot and made sure we are well taken care of! And Vincent who shared a lot of his experience and inspire us!

The thing I love about this academy, and the instructors, is that they have everything you need. It's like mini heaven for freedivers! xD

I am thankful for all of the lessons in this academy. I will make sure to refer it to everyone I know. And will surely come back!

Bob Cheng

Great place to learn and training freediving. Tons knowledge and skills helps you to grow up. And a lovely sourronding makes you grow faster. You will never regret to choose this place.❤️

RJ Dacanay

They are the best in the business if you want to be a proper freediver in the Philippines. A REAL ACADEMY FOR FREEDIVING!!!

Atiq Rehman

Awesome Freedive academy. This was my first time in sea so Vincent was nice enough to accommodate snorkeling for us. This is a very professional academy with excellent location, assets such as pool, resort, accommodation and world class training, classrooms, instructors, and materials.
Vincent is very experienced and discussed the class types, and presented a personalized learning modules for me. Definitely recommended. And coming back next time I visit Philippines.

Charisse Medina

I've been doing recreational freediving since 2018. April of 2022, my friends and I decided to take the Molanchovs Wave 1 course so that we can further advance our sport. Igor and Sophie really helped us push ourselves to our limits. They're very hands-on in every detail. They allowed us to hit the requirements of the course 1 without the pressure, making sure we are always relaxed. The course is technical and there were a lot of materials to absorb and apply but Igor and Sophie made sure we are at our own pace while enjoying the sessions. This is an experience I will never forget. The waves were not very friendly during our open water sessions but I've never felt more safer and relaxed during our dives. My friends and I will surely come back for our second course sometime soon! I highly recommend this academy- 5 stars! 🥰

Louie Hona

Bought a hard fin case from them. Nice product. Haven’t tried traveling with it but it looks sturdy. Right now it serves as my fins storage at home. Vince and Emily are very accommodating. They happily answered my inquiries and made sure to assist me along the way - up until the item was delivered. Thanks guys 😊

Daniël de Reus

So I did my level 2, 3 and 3 weeks of masters training at freediving academy panglao for which Vincent gave me a great deal. It’s been actually quite a long time since I was there (just before the covid pandemic) and at the time they were still just setting up all the facilities. Despite that though I had amazing time. At the time benji was running the masters program and had everything set up very professionally with a weekly training program. This helped me break through my own barriers and push past everything I thought I was capable of (ending with a 40m free immersion and 5:05 dry breath hold, but most importantly with so much more still left in the tank). I’m not sure what it’s like now anymore, but now that all facilities are in place I imagine it must be even better (wishing I could have used that giant pool). I think the instructor that was there is gone unfortunately but I’m sure Vincent has a good replacement (as when I did my level 2 months before everything was different as well, but had an amazing experience nevertheless). Anyway I can definitely recommend freedive academy panglao. I made some really good friends there, they’re great people and the location is 👌

Kenn Costillas Samaco

My time in the academy was not good, it wasn't better coz you know why? It was one of the BEST training experience I had. Emily and Vincent is one generous and kind couple. They are generous in terms of sharing there skills and knowledge when it comes to freediving. Despite the trying times, they even gave us their Go Deep freediving tools. That is how generous they are. I also need to mention that they are also quite funny especially Emily who's laughter is so contageous. If you are a dog lover they have these adorable rescued dogs, Leah, being my fave. hehe.

In terms of the place, it didn't feel like an academy nor a training institution as their place feels like an extention to my HOME and Vincent and Emily is my family. A family member that supports you all throughout. Encourages and lifts you up and most of all cheer you on.

I will never forget my AWESOME experience in the academy. I can't wait for their new freediving ventures as I believe in their vision.

George Cortes

Whenever we visit places, what matters above all is the exceptional experience one can provide. Freedive Academy has gone above and beyond with their main priority of their students gaining the knowledge and being equipped with techniques on how to dive safely. Me and my husband took the Molchanov Wave 1 course and it was great! Our 7 year old son were with us and Emily, one of the dive instructors made time to play with him while we were doing our training. Mike, our friendly (and strict) lead instructor would correct even the tiniest detail about our form to ensure we get the most out of our course. Vince, the owner is like a walking free diving encyclopaedia, he knows anything and everything and is very generous in giving tips.

It is evident that they run free dive academy because of their genuine passion and care to teach free diving.

You will see a lot of shops that teaches freediving, but if you want the best, go for Freedive Academy.

Vince, Emily and Mike, thanks and see you all back in January!

Nardz Valmonte

I highly recommend Free dive Academy Panglao it's a nice place and convenient.They have a 25meters pool that is suitable for trainings and any kind of occasion.Owners we're very accommodating and hospitable.

Shiny Cecilia

Highly recommend Freedive academy panglao！
原因很简单，全程教学都是干货，价格便宜，老板娘为人亲切，身为中国人学潜水路途上必选的一家店！而且环境非常舒适，离海很近的，出入方便！❤️❤️

Mary Antonette Maglahus Salut

Great experience 😍 lots of free to use stuffs. The owner is approachable ❤️

Aaron Chiang

I took the Molchanov instructor course (remotely) with Vincent, super nice and experienced guy that providing a lot of examples on how to teach freediving and make freediving topic interesting. No matter what course you want to take with Freedive Academy Panglao, strongly recommended!👍

Marius Mecklenburg

Great group of people, super super super skilled instructors, great gear, good price and fantastic dive location. Can't wait till next time!

Michael Brettner

Great teachers, great vibe, I love this place!

COVID-19 Response

We are Ready for the NEW Normal!

We could only think. This isn’t happening…

Dear freedivers – and future freedivers!

Thank you for your messages and support. We are all healthy, and the dive center and resort remain open. We are fulfilling orders online and in Panglao, and we continue to assist our customers with questions.

Q: Can I travel to Panglao and the Philippines already?

Q: Do I need a special visa to enter the Philippines?

Q: Do you still accept bookings?

Q: Because of COVID, I had to postpone my travels. When can I come?

Q: When will you start training and running courses?

Q: Is there still someone to help me with my questions?

Q: Are orders still shipped out?

Q: Is there a delay in shipping and receiving orders?

Q: How is the damage after Super Typhoon Odette?

UPDATE 2024: We will keep this page online for those with any questions, but life here in Panglao is completely back to normal – it’s busier now than in 2019 when we moved to the new location. Join us in Panglao for an adventure of a lifetime!