Who we are

We are surfers, freedivers and ocean people, probably much like yourself.

Freedive Rote is a beach-based ocean centre in Nemberala, Rote Island, built around a simple idea: helping people feel more calm, confident and connected in the water.

Our connection to the ocean has been shaped by many years spent surfing and sailing throughout Indonesia and Papua. Freediving became a natural extension of that relationship, and for more than 15 years we have been coaching, teaching and exploring the underwater world.

Our journey

Our journey includes co-founding Apneista Freediving & Yoga in Amed, Bali, along with Above Below, an expedition company running freediving trips and liveaboards to Raja Ampat, the Banda Sea, North Sumatra, Komodo, Tonga and Baja Mexico.

A freediver swimming with sea lions over a rocky seabed
An instructor guiding a student through a weighted breath-hold in the pool

For surfers

More than teaching freediving

Freedive Rote is not just about teaching freediving. As surfers ourselves, we know how much the skills and awareness developed through freediving can help build confidence in the surf.

We offer surf survival, breath-hold training, ocean awareness and nervous system regulation to help surfers stay calmer, feel more prepared and build confidence when things get challenging, whether that is a hold-down, a bigger wave or simply learning to stay relaxed under pressure.

Breath, awareness, presence

Meditation and mindfulness are also central to our approach. A long-standing Vipassana practice has shaped the way we teach, with an emphasis on breath, awareness, relaxation and the connection between body and mind.

For us, freediving is not simply about going deeper or holding your breath longer. It is about learning to become calm, present and comfortable in the ocean.

A freediver in white fins gliding alongside a manta ray over a dark reef

Stillness in motion.

Whether you are learning to freedive, looking to improve your surf survival skills, or simply wanting to feel more relaxed and at home in the water, we combine 15+ years of coaching experience, practical ocean knowledge, modern training techniques and a mindful approach to help you progress at your own pace.