Freediving is the sea in silence. A discipline of breath and letting go, open to everyone as long as a few essential rules are respected.
Several ways to practise
Static apnea, dynamic apnea in the pool, deep descents, or simply snorkelling to observe: everyone can find their own level of commitment, from contemplative leisure to performance.
Sensations like no other
Slowing down, listening to your body, gliding without bubbles right up close to the wildlife: freediving offers an intimate connection with the marine environment, quite unlike scuba diving.
Safety first
- Never dive alone: freediving is always done with an active buddy.
- Allow long recovery times at the surface.
- Never push yourself; a blackout gives no warning.
- Train with a club (FFESSM, AIDA or equivalent).
What to discover at MERveille
On 23, 24 and 25 April 2027, in the festival village (Quai Georges Petit and Allées Aristide Maillol, in Banyuls-sur-Mer), the Practise strand will offer free freediving taster sessions supervised by the clubs, open from the age of 8: a chance to experience those first sensations in complete safety before, who knows, pushing open the door of a club.
Freediving carries real risks: a supervised introduction is essential before any independent practice.