Crater Lakes Rainforest Retreat

Welcome to our Freedive Mini Retreat and Level 1 Course, where you'll discover how to dive deeper and stay underwater longer. This 2-day, 1-night mini retreat is perfect for those eager to try freediving and explore the Atherton Tablelands, volcanic crater lakes, and tropical rainforest!

Our experienced instructors will lead you through theory sessions on essential breathing techniques for freediving, relaxation, physiology, and safety procedures. You'll learn how to breathe efficiently, helping you stay calm and relaxed underwater. We'll teach you the dry breath-hold technique to enhance your breath-holding ability and how to recover safely after a dive.

During the in-water sessions, we'll focus on dynamic apnea (horizontal underwater swimming) and depth progression. You'll master proper technique, finning, body positioning, and streamlining. Our instructors will provide hands-on training, ensuring you progress at your own pace, building confidence and comfort with each dive.

After an exhilarating day in the water, we'll head to our accommodation at On the Wallaby for the night and enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. You can opt for a night canoe on Lake Tinaroo or join our short night walk through the rainforest, spotting tree kangaroos and other fascinating wildlife!

On day two, we'll start early with a visit to the platypus viewing platform, hoping to spot the elusive native platypus. Afterwards, we'll check out the impressive curtain fig tree, towering over you as you stroll along the boardwalk encircling it.

After our morning adventures, we'll return to our accommodation, pack up, and check out. Then, we'll head to the open water at Lake Eacham in the Atherton Tablelands. You'll practice pull-downs and duck dives, learning equalizing techniques and how to conserve energy efficiently while diving. You'll see how far you can push yourself before earning your Level 1 Freediving certification.

We provide all necessary equipment, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and snorkels, ensuring you have everything needed for a safe and enjoyable experience. Our instructors are highly skilled and experienced, and our course is designed to maximize your time with us.

Join us for an unforgettable experience that will introduce you to a whole new underwater world. Our Level 1 Freediving Course and mini retreat is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to become a skilled and confident freediver while exploring the tablelands and rainforest! Book your spot now and take the first step towards exploring the beauty of the underwater world.

Mini Retreat Itinerary

Day 1

7:30am - Meet in Dive Centre in Cairns, begin paperwork, learn about equipment we will use and begin theory component for freediving

8:30am - Depart for Lake Barrine National Park

9:30am - Arrival at Lake Barrine and finish theory surrounded by lush rainforest

10:30am - Yoga session, Breathwork session

11am- Practice breath holding (statics) on land and in the water

12:30pm - Break for lunch (provided by Scubabo team)

1:15pm - Begin in water freediving activities (dynamic apnea session)

3pm - Pack up and head to our accommodation for the night in Yungaburra (20 minutes from the lake)

6pm - Dinner at the hostel 

7pm - Optional night canoe on Lake Tinaroo or night time wildlife walk through rainforest

Day 2

6:30am - Wake up and head to the platypus viewing platform in search for the elusive platypus!

7am - Short tour of the curtain fig tree with morning tea 

7:30am - Small breakfast and check out of the hostel 

8:15am - Arrival at Lake Eacham National Park 

8:30am - Morning stretching session, breathwork and breath holding warm ups 

9:30am -  In water session and start depth training

11:30am - Finish in water session, short walk to secret waterfall!! 

12pm - Optional lunch at Gillies Cafe 

1-2pm - Arrival back in Cairns 

Highlights:

• SSI level 1 Freediver Certification
• Visit 2 beautiful Volcanic Crater Lakes surrounded by lush rainforest (and dive them!)
• Stay at a local hostel in Yungaburra, Atherton Tablelands Rainforest
• Lunch, BBQ dinner and breakfast included
• Platypus viewing, curtain fig tree, and rainforest walks for wildlife viewing!

*Self drive option and no accommodation*

This option is for locals or those with a car who do not want to do the overnight stay with us at the "On the Wallaby" hostel. Included in this price is the level 1 course, and lunch on the first day. You can join us for the walks, and platypus viewing but no dinner, breakfast or transport provided.