How Much Does Freediving Cost in Melbourne?

Freediving can be as affordable or as expensive as you make it. Here's an honest breakdown of what you can expect to spend in Melbourne.

Course Costs

Beginner freediving courses in Melbourne typically range from $350 to $600 AUD depending on the provider, certification agency, and what's included.

What Affects Price

• Certification agency — PADI, SSI, AIDA, and Molchanovs courses may vary in price
• Course length — Weekend intensives vs spread over multiple weeks
• Class size — Smaller groups often cost more but provide better instruction
• Equipment included — Some courses include gear rental, others charge extra
• Open water sessions — Pool-only courses are cheaper but incomplete

Typical Price Ranges (2025)

• Beginner/Level 1 courses: $350–$600
• Intermediate/Level 2 courses: $450–$700
• Advanced courses: $500–$900
• Specialty courses (monofin, etc.): $200–$400

Essential Gear Costs

You don't need to buy everything at once. Most courses provide equipment, and you can build your kit gradually.

Starter Kit (Budget-Friendly)

• Mask: $50–$100 (low-volume freediving mask)
• Snorkel: $20–$40
• Plastic fins: $80–$150 (Mares Razor, Cressi Gara)
• Weight belt: $30–$60 (rubber with quick-release)
• Weights: $5–$10 per kg
• Wetsuit (3mm): $150–$300

Total starter kit: ~$350–$700

Upgraded Kit (Intermediate)

• Fiberglass fins: $250–$400
• Freediving wetsuit (open-cell): $300–$600
• Freediving computer: $300–$600
• Nose clip: $20–$40
• Float and flag: $100–$200

Total upgraded kit: ~$1,000–$2,000

Premium Kit (Advanced)

• Carbon fins: $500–$1,200
• Custom wetsuit: $600–$1,000
• Advanced dive computer: $500–$900
• Monofin: $300–$800

Ongoing Costs

Club Memberships

• Southern Freedivers: ~$50–$100/year
• Melbourne Freedivers: Free (informal group)

Pool Training

• Public pool entry: $5–$10 per session
• Club pool sessions: Often included in membership or $10–$20

Open Water

• Pier diving: Free (most piers)
• Boat trips: $50–$150 depending on destination
• Air fills (for float): $5–$10

Ways to Save Money

• Buy second-hand gear — Facebook groups and Gumtree have good deals
• Join a club — Access to group equipment and knowledge
• Start with plastic fins — Upgrade later when you know what you want
• Share boat costs — Organize group trips
• Pier diving — Free and excellent in Melbourne

Is Freediving Expensive?

Compared to scuba diving, freediving is significantly cheaper — no tank fills, simpler equipment, and lower course costs. After the initial investment in a course and basic gear (~$700–$1,300), ongoing costs are minimal if you stick to pier diving and pool training.

The sport can become expensive if you chase premium gear, but you can freedive safely and enjoyably on a modest budget.