A freediver at the surface in the shallows off Nemberala beach, palms behind

Freediving in Rote

Welcome to the beach-based home for freediving, breath-hold training for surfers, and guided ocean excursions on Rote Island.

  • 15+Years of teaching
  • Safety first
  • Beachfront location
  • Small groups
  • New equipment
  • All levels welcome
  • Certified Molchanovs

Why train with us

Whether you’re interested in freediving or looking to feel more confident in the surf, we’ll meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace.

At Freedive Rote, we offer freediving courses and coaching sessions designed for different levels, from curious beginners taking their first steps into the world of freediving, to experienced ocean lovers who want to refine technique, safety, equalisation, depth and overall performance.

Our approach is personal, safety-focused and grounded in 15+ years of teaching experience. We keep groups small, so the training can be adapted to each student.

Join us at Freedive Rote, where safety, fun, and the beauty of the ocean come together for your unforgettable underwater journey.

Palms and white sand on the beach at Nemberala
Nemberala, Rote Island

What we offer

Surf Survival

Breath-hold training for surfers. Learn practical tools for wipeouts, hold-downs, CO₂ tolerance, breath-hold technique, recovery breathing and managing high-risk surf situations.

Freediving Courses

Freediving courses from total beginner to advanced levels. Learn to move through the ocean with more calm, confidence and control.

Coaching

Custom training programs tailored to your specific goals. Perfect for refining technique, safety, equalisation, depth and overall performance.

Guided Ocean Excursions

Explore Rote on half- and full-day curated excursions to offshore islands and beautiful reefs. Guide, boat, equipment and planning all taken care of.

Drop us a message, and we’ll help create your ideal ocean experience in Rote.

Reviews

Kind words from our amazing students

5.0★★★★★Google rating
★★★★★

I have had a traumatic experience surfing when I was younger and since then I never managed to surf average size waves without being anxious or fearful. I did the surf survival workshop in Freedive Rote and it was really amazing. With such simple and accessible concepts and exercises I managed to regain my confidence naturally. I am looking forward to have one more extra day of training as it was worth every second. Highly recommend.

Vera CostaGoogle review
★★★★★

Doing the course with Kwab at Freedive Rote just before a massive swell hit was hands down the best call I could have made. Kwab is an exceptional coach, calm, incredibly patient, and clearly backed by years of deep ocean experience. He has top quality gear and creates an environment where you feel completely supported from the minute you start. If you are a surfer wanting to overcome fear and perform better in heavy water, or anyone looking to get into freediving in Rote, do not hesitate. Freedive Rote is absolute world class.

Paul McMahonGoogle review
★★★★★

I did the freediving course with Kwab and it was such an interesting and amazing experience. I highly recommend anyone who wants to get more confidence in the water, or who is genuinely interested in getting more knowledge about breath hold, to do this course.

Emma PerrierGoogle review
★★★★★

This is so good. I think everyone should do this course whether you are a land based person or someone who spends their time in the ocean. You will gain so much from it. There are so many elements that you can apply to day to day life. Kwab has a vast amount of experience and knowledge in this field. The classes are insightful and fun, all set in a beautiful location. Go ahead and book it.

Adrian BaileyGoogle review
★★★★★

I had been waiting for an opportunity to learn the art of freediving in Bali but took the opportunity to join Kwab now that he is providing this service in Rote. He provides an excellent course with amazing outcomes. A great experience, and another skillset to add to surf trips.

Mick LaveryGoogle review
★★★★★

Outstanding experience with a very knowledgeable instructor who made it fun and interesting. Did my level 1 refresher and my wave recovery and truly enjoyed it. Thanks Kwab.

Adi KhodjaGoogle review
★★★★★

This was an amazing experience for our family of 4. Kwab is a very good teacher, and there is so much to learn from him. Diving so deep without any gear was so fun, and our kids (10 and 12) absolutely loved it. The class also helped the kids with surfing, and they are still doing the breath-holding exercises 6 months later.

Marcelo WesselerGoogle review
★★★★★

We had such a great day out on the water with Freedive Rote. The whole trip was very well organised, from the boat and route to the different spots we visited. We explored some really vibrant, largely untouched reefs around the offshore islands, and had the chance to dive around one of the islands, which was definitely a highlight. What made the trip especially great was the guidance. Since the trip was led by a professional freediver and instructor, we also got lots of practical tips on how to approach the dives safely and efficiently. If you’re in Rote and want to spend a day exploring the ocean, I’d definitely recommend it.

A. IvanovaGoogle review
Instructors and a student at the buoy in the shallow lagoon, palms and white sand of Nemberala behind

Discover the story behind this place

About Freedive Rote