One breath in Dahab

The story

AIDA's beginner course ends with a static breath-hold of at least two minutes, an underwater swim and a dive to at least 12 m, and it asks you to swim 200 m non-stop before you start (AIDA International).

Dahab's Blue Hole drops close to shore into deep water, which is why freedivers train there. Its arch at about 55 m has claimed many scuba divers' lives; it is not a place for a course (Wikipedia); DeeperBlue). You see the Blue Hole from above, and you never go near the arch.

Our judgement: Snorkel boats show you the Blue Hole from the top. This teaches you the skill, in the town that is known for it.

What happens

1. Learn to breathe up, relax and equalise in theory and shallow water.
2. Hold a two-minute static breath-hold with an instructor beside you.
3. Dive down a line in open water, turn, and come back up on the same breath.
4. Practise rescuing a buddy, because freedivers never dive alone.

A proposed shape, not a fixed programme. The host sets the order on the day.

What it asks of you

1. Nerve: CuriousAnyone who is curious. You sit, watch, try and ask.
2. Nerve: BoldPhysically demanding or unnerving: steep, tight, deep, hot or remote.This experience
3. Nerve: QualifiedA certificate is required before you start. We ask for it, and so will the operator.

Water confidence more than fitness, and a medical statement. Hardest of all is learning to relax.

What we confirm before you go

Where it fits

• A Red Sea Coast Journey to RestWhere on the coast should you rest, when some companions are active and others are not?
• Red Sea Diving & Rest JourneyHow do you build a Red Sea stay around your diving level without making every day a boat day?

More in water

• The ThistlegormNear Ras Mohammed, South SinaiNerve: Qualified
• Your first kiteEl Gouna, Soma Bay, Dahab or Ras SudrNerve: Bold

Ask about it

Tell us your dates and where you will be. We confirm the host, the timing and the terms before anything is booked.