FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is freediving safe for beginners?

Yes — when taught properly, freediving is safe and deeply rewarding. Our instructors are professionally trained and always dive with you.

 

What should I bring to a freediving course?

Check out this article: 

 

What is the best age to learn freediving?

If you’re between 16 to 60+, and you’re healthy, curious, and open to learning, it’s the right time.

We’ve trained university students, digital nomads, office warriors, mothers, and retirees.

 

Do I need to know how to swim before learning freediving?

Yes, at least basic swimming is required. You don’t need to be a strong swimmer, but you should be comfortable floating, moving in the water, and treading for a few minutes.

 

If you’re still building water confidence, we highly recommend taking swimming lessons first.

What if I’m nervous or scared of deep water?

That’s okay, many students feel that way at first. Our approach is slow, gentle, and grounded in trust. We’ll teach you: 

​

• How your body adapts to water (yep, humans are born with the mammalian dive reflex!)

• How to equalize, float, breathe, and move mindfully underwater

​

Most people find water easier to adapt to than driving a car, really!

So if you’re nervous, we say: come anyway. With practice and guidance, you’ll surprise yourself.

What does the course include?

Our courses include:

 

• All freediving equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, weights)

• Molchanovs certification, if all requirements are completed

• Base Training from Molchanovs education systems continues training after the course​

Note: Students are expected to care for all provided gear. In case of loss or damage, a replacement fee will apply.

 

Do I need a medical check-up before the course?

Most healthy people don’t need a medical certificate. However, if you have a history of:

 

• Asthma, heart conditions, sinus or ear problems, or

• You’re unsure about your physical condition 

  Please consult a doctor before signing up, and let us know.

 

Your safety is our top priority, and we’re happy to guide you if you’re not sure.

​

​Does it include accommodation/meals?

No, accommodation and meals are not included in the course price.

However, we’re happy to recommend cozy and affordable places nearby to suit your preferences.

​

Do I get any discount?

Usually no, and for a reason.

Our courses are taught in small groups by professional instructors who’ve trained for years.

Freediving isn’t a product; it’s a lifelong skill. We believe in fair pay and quality teaching.

​

Coming with a friend? Message us, we may offer a duo package.

We promise: What you learn here is worth far more than any discount. 💙

​

I have a scuba license. Which course should I take?

If you’re already confident in open water, we recommend our 1-week course.

 

Freediving is a different skill; it’s about breath, calm, and body awareness. Our full-week training helps you build real technique through repetition and guided practice.

 

Why is freediving more expensive than scuba diving?

Because you’re not paying for gear, you’re paying for real transformation.

 

Unlike scuba, freediving courses are held in small groups (2–3 people), with close personal coaching from certified instructors. Every session is tailored, focused, and designed to help you build a lifelong skill.

 

You’ll get:

 

• Personalised coaching (like private training, but in a group!)

• A supportive freediving community

• A skill that sticks with you long after you leave the island

 

​Why choose AndRasa over a regular freediving school?

Because we’re not here to count meters. We’re here to help you become a better version of yourself.

 

Our approach blends professional training, mindfulness, and repetition-based learning, designed to build self-trust, not just certifications. At AndRasa, you’ll learn how to dive deeper into the sea and into yourself.

 

You won’t just get a course. You’ll get a new relationship with the ocean, your body, and your breath.

 

Is my deposit refundable?

We understand, plans can change.

 

If you contact us within 2 weeks of your course, we’ll do our best to help you amend the dates. However, the deposit is unrefundable. We appreciate your understanding. 💙

​

How to get to us?

We’re located at Herrera Perhentian, on Long Beach, Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Malaysia.

 

To find detailed travel instructions on how to get to Perhentian Kecil: including bus, flight, and boat options,

Check out full travel guide here:

👉 How to get to Perhentian Island 

​

We are sometimes located in various locations. Reach out to know more. 

 

When should I arrive?

Our courses start at 8:00 AM on Day 1, so we highly recommend arriving on the island at least one day earlier to settle in and rest well before your training begins.

 

Give yourself time to breathe in paradise first. 😉

 

What if I don’t complete the course?

At AndRasa, we don’t believe in “failing”; we believe in timing and readiness.

 

If you didn’t complete the course this time, you’re always welcome back to join another full 1-week program with us. We’d be honoured to continue supporting your freediving journey.

 

We also offer online Equalisation Support for those who need help on land before returning to the sea. Because in freediving, progress comes from repetition, guidance, and body memory, trained patiently, one breath at a time.

 

How long should I hold my breath?

You’ll be guided to gradually build up your breath-hold time. The requirement is 1 minute 30 seconds in a relaxed, static position. With our experienced instructors and a calm environment, most students are surprised by how much they can do.

 

Will I get a certificate?

Yes, upon meeting all course requirements, students will receive the internationally recognised Molchanovs certification.

But at AndRasa, certification is not the goal; it’s just a milestone.

 

Is it difficult to learn?

Not if you trust your body. Freediving isn’t about force, it’s about remembering. Our bodies are born with the mammalian dive reflex. You are meant to be in water. 

 

With the right guidance and repetition, you’ll realise that adapting to the sea comes even faster than learning to drive.

 

How many students are there in a class?

We keep it intimate, just 3 students per buoy. Unless you’re a close group (like two couples or best friends),

We never exceed 4.

 

And if we ever do? We’ll bring in a second instructor.

 

What are the differences between Molchanovs and other organizations?

Kindly check out this article: How To Choose The Right Freediving Course.

 

How do I reschedule my freediving course with AndRasa?

Yes, absolutely. Life happens, we get it. Just let us know at least 2 weeks before your course begins.

After that, it is not easy for us to accommodate changes, as everything will have already been arranged.

So, if something pops up, just tell us early, we’ll always try our best to help. 🙏

​

Can I pause the course and continue later?

If you’re feeling unwell or have an emergency, yes, you can pause and return to complete your remaining sessions.

 

We simply ask that you complete your full payment before we help reschedule your dives. You’re always welcome back, and we'll pick up right where we left off, but only within a year.