How much does freediving cost in Melbourne?

A beginner freediving course costs $350–$600 AUD. A starter gear kit (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, weight belt) costs $350–$700. After the initial investment of ~$700–$1,300, ongoing costs are minimal — pier diving is free and club memberships run $85–$175 per year.

Is freediving cheaper than scuba diving?

Yes, significantly. Freediving has no tank fills, simpler and cheaper equipment, and lower course costs. A full scuba setup can cost $3,000–$5,000 while a freediving kit costs $350–$700 for beginners. Ongoing costs are also lower since you do not need air fills or as much equipment maintenance.

Do I need to buy gear before my first freediving course?

No. Most freediving courses in Melbourne include equipment hire — mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, and weight belt are typically provided. This lets you try the sport before investing in your own gear. After your course, you can build your kit gradually.

How much do freediving fins cost?

Plastic freediving fins cost $80–$150 and are ideal for beginners (e.g. Mares Razor, Cressi Gara). Fibreglass fins cost $250–$400 and offer better performance. Carbon fibre fins cost $500–$1,200 and are used by advanced and competitive freedivers. Start with plastic fins and upgrade later when you know what you want.

Freediving Costs Melbourne 2026 | Freediving 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

Note: The cheapest course isn't always the best value. Consider instructor experience, class size, and what's actually included before choosing based on price alone.

Essential Gear Costs

You don't need to buy everything at once. Most courses provide equipment, and you can build your kit gradually. See our freediving gear guide for detailed buying advice and where to shop in Melbourne.

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: $95 AUF + $25 club fee = $120/year ($85 early bird before July 31)
Melbourne Freedivers Club: $80/year new members, $40/year renewal (plus $95 AFA membership required), plus $20 per pool training session

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

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.

How Much Does Freediving Cost in Melbourne?