Bira · South Sulawesi

Freediving in Bira

Learn on one breath, dive Bira's reefs, and help with coral restoration.

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Retreat

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Information soon

Freediving for the reef

Freedive and help the reef

First time in the water or working toward Level 2? We take every level in Bira, at an easy pace.

We combine freediving with coral restoration. You dive the reefs, learn the nursery work, and see gardens we have already brought back.

Train safely

Small groups, clear coaching, and calm steps from the surface to open water.

Dive with purpose

Every session ties into the reef and the restoration work around Bira.

Breathe better

Yoga and breathwork to slow down and feel more at home in the water.

Packages

Courses and prices

Want a full week of diving and reef work? Freediving for the Reef is 8 days in Bira from US$849.

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Beginner

US$300

Level 1 Course

3 Days · 2 Ocean Sessions

Three days for beginners: breath-hold, equalization, safety, pool and open water. You finish certified to dive to 15 metres.

Intermediate

US$400

Level 2 Course

4 Days · 3 Ocean Sessions

Four days to work toward 24–30 metres safely. Theory, pool, and open water with time on breath-hold, equalization, and free-fall.

All levels

US$60

Recreational / Fun Dives

Half-day · Minimum 2 people

For any level. Reef dives, skill work, or coral sessions. We shape the day around you. Minimum two people.

Extra boat charge

LiukangUS$30
KambingUS$40

Where we are

Bira, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

We dive from Bira, a small village at the southern tip of Sulawesi with easy access to healthy reef.

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Need accommodation?

Stay at Tevana House Reef , our partner lodge on the reef in Bira.

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Aerial view of Bira's coastline and turquoise waters, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Reviews

What students say

5.0 out of 5 · 5 reviewsGoogle

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Had a wonderful time waking up in tevana and diving in many locations around bira. Thank you Sjenade for showing us around the waters and encouraging us on our dives and thank you Nori for being a wonderful host and educating us all about the importance of corals and how we can play our part in improving our oceans.

Ahmad Nadree★★★★★

via Google

Amazing view and hospitality, located close and have full view of the ocean from the shared canteen. Has good diving course with easy access to ocean and coral reefs. Instructor was kind and patient and was really helpful and encouraging Helps with conservation efforts and helps out coral restoration

Jarret Young★★★★★

via Google

I had a really great time diving with Sjenade ! She is an awesome instructor, she really helped me to improve my freediving skills and my breath-hold. I passed my level 2 with her She really is an awesome person, really knowledgeable in freediving but also relaxation technics and nature I can only recommend booking a freediving retreat with her

Louis P.★★★★★

via Google

An unforgettable experience! Amazing instructors, crystal-clear water, and a truly calming, almost meditative dive. More than just freediving. learned how to relax, trust my body, and enjoy every moment underwater. Highly recommended, will definitely come back!

Jubelium Mamanua★★★★★

via Google

Did a line diving session with Freedive Sulawesi and had such a good time. The team was super chill and professional, made me feel really safe and relaxed in the water. The spot was beautiful and I even saw an eagle ray while diving, which made it extra special. Sjenade was super friendly, calm, and really supportive throughout. And Sul was an amazing dive buddy. Would definitely recommend if you’re around!

ibrahim adham★★★★★

via Google

The freedive instructor, Sjenade, opened my eyes to a completely different way of exploring the ocean. What stood out most was her emphasis on breathing and relaxation techniques. Her background as a longtime yoga instructor shines through on those topics. With her guidance I reached a 4 minute breath hold. Most importantly, she explained breath holding safety in a very scientific way that eased any concerns I had about holding my breath while freediving.

Lamar★★★★★

via Guest review

We had an amazing experience freediving with Sjenade and the GaiaOne team! We had two freediving coaching sessions to meet requirements for Molchanovs. The quality of instruction was excellent. We felt so at ease, the feedback, demonstrations and encouragement were without fault. Our form improved massively, with both of us hitting a new personal best.

Beth★★★★★

via Guest review

Sjenade's breathwork and yoga sessions were the perfect complement to our diving and conservation work, helping us reconnect with nature and ourselves. The whole approach, mind and body, made for a balanced week.

Jemimah★★★★★

via Guest review

Coming to Bira, Sulawesi was the highlight of my travel in Indonesia. It's so worth it to travel here and I recommend it to everyone. Freediving is a beautiful way to connect with nature and yourself. A 10/10 for my experience with Freedive Sulawesi.

Simon★★★★★

via Guest review

Frequently asked

Freediving in Bira, answered

The most common questions about freediving with us in Bira, South Sulawesi. Still curious? Message us on WhatsApp.

Where is Freedive Sulawesi based?

We are based in Bira, at the southern tip of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The closest airport is Sultan Hasanuddin International (UPG) in Makassar, around 4 to 5 hours by car from Bira.

Do I need previous experience to take a freediving course?

No. Our Level 1 course is designed for complete beginners. You only need to be reasonably comfortable in the water and able to swim. We progress calmly through theory, pool sessions and open water.

How deep will I dive?

On the Level 1 freediving course you will train up to 15 meters. On Level 2, you continue toward 24 to 30 meters. Recreational dives and breathwork sessions adapt to your comfort and level.

When is the best time of year to freedive in Bira?

We freedive in Bira almost year-round. The clearest, calmest conditions are usually between March and November, but we run sessions outside that window too, planning around daily weather.

How do I book a freediving course?

The fastest way is to message us on WhatsApp. We confirm dates, your level and any add-ons (turtle ecology, marine biology, breathwork & yoga) directly with you before you arrive.