SHOAL BAY WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Two days to breathe: a concentrated PFI freediver course in Shoal Bay
A two‑day PFI Freediver Course run by Squids Dive Co in Port Stephens that combines eLearning, classroom theory, pool practice and open‑water dives to deliver internationally recognised certification.
Two days to breathe: a concentrated PFI freediver course in Shoal Bay.
Held in the sheltered waters around Shoal Bay and Port Stephens, Squids Dive Co’s 2‑Day PFI Freediver Course compresses the fundamentals of freediving—breath‑hold technique, equalisation and buddy safety—into an intensive weekend of classroom instruction, pool skill work and open‑water line dives, all led by PFI‑certified instructors for small groups.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
PFI‑certified coaching over two full days
Two full days of guided training with PFI‑certified instructors provide structured progression through theory, pool skills and ocean sessions, with an emphasis on safe technique and personalised feedback.
Internationally recognised PFI Freediver credential
The course culminates in an internationally recognised PFI Freediver certification after classroom learning, pool skill development and open‑water dives—your entry point into structured freediving training.
Small groups, full kit and follow‑up resources
A small‑group format ensures individual attention; essential gear such as wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel and weights is included, and participants gain access to post‑course training sessions and an online community.
What the day feels like
What the two days feel like
Expect an economical, hands‑on progression: before arrival you complete SDI eLearning, then Day 1 pairs a morning theory session with afternoon open‑water line dives; Day 2 begins with pool skill practice and finishes with final ocean sessions and a certification wrap‑up—an intense but methodical path from fundamentals to certified freediver.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The course runs over two full days with a mix of theory, pool and open‑water sessions; students complete eLearning (3–5 hours) before arrival.
Meet at Squids Dive Co, 41 Ocean Beach Road, Shoal Bay for course check‑in and morning classroom sessions.
Bring swimwear and a towel, a reusable water bottle, light lunch and snacks, warm clothes for surface intervals and an optional notebook. Essential freediving kit (wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel, weights) is included—you may bring your own gear if preferred.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need experience to join?
No experience is required; you should be comfortable in the ocean and able to swim 200 m unassisted.
What gear do I need?
The operator provides wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel and weights; you may bring your own equipment if you prefer.
What is the PFI certification?
PFI is a globally recognised entry‑level freediving certification from Performance Freediving International.
What if the ocean conditions are rough?
The operator monitors forecasts closely; if conditions are unsafe they will reschedule or adjust sessions.
Is lunch provided?
No—lunch is not provided. There is a one‑hour break each day; please bring your own light lunch and snacks.