Freediving Vanuatu Heading
Xande Wheldon swimming in the reef of Vanuatu

Discover the underwater world of Vanuatu

Learn to Freedive in Paradise

Blue Hole Freediving

The blue holes of Santo are a fantastic option for beginners, offering calm, crystal-clear freshwater and a relaxed environment to build confidence in freediving. With a maximum depth of around 18 metres, they provide the perfect setting to practise breathing, relaxation, equalisation and technique while enjoying a truly unique Vanuatu experience.

A vibrant blue cenote surrounded by lush green tropical plants and trees.
A peaceful scene of a turquoise river surrounded by lush green trees, with a small wooden dock extending over the water on the right side. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a serene natural setting.
Xande in one of the blue holes in vanuatu
An image of the Vanuatu blue holes

Reef Freediving in Ambuie Bay

Discover reef freediving in the crystal-clear waters of Ambuie Bay, Aore Island. Explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life while developing your breath-hold and freediving skills in a beautiful, relaxed environment. A great option for both beginners and experienced freedivers.

Underwater view of a coral reef with various coral formations and a small turtle swimming nearby.
Tropical landscape with clear turquoise water, a lush green forest along the shoreline in Ambuie Bay Aore Island
Aerial view of the ocean with a coral reef on the left and deep blue water on the right, with a boat floating in the water.
Xande diving in the reefs of Vanuatu

Meet Your Instructor

Xande Wheldon

Xande Wheldon Bio photo for freediving instructor introduction

Growing up in Far North Queensland on the Great Barrier Reef, Xande has been in and around the ocean from a very young age. He started out with a passion for spearfishing, which led him to focus on improving his breath-hold and discovering a love for freediving. Today, Xande is a certified freediving instructor who loves sharing his passion for the ocean with others. He’ll make sure you feel comfortable, confident and supported throughout your course, helping you get the most out of your freediving experience in Vanuatu.

Xande Wheldon with a coral trout he speared with the hand spear
A flyer promoting a Vanuatu freediving course with icons representing vibrant reefs, blue holes, tropical paradise, and unforgettable experiences.
A printed list titled 'You'll Learn the Foundations of Freediving' The list includes topics like breathing techniques, equalization, safety procedures, and confidence building.

Solwota Freediving Retreat - What to Expect in 2026

  • Scenic landscape with a mountain range in the background, a lake in the middle, and grassy fields in the foreground under cloudy skies.

    More Than a Course. A Complete Island Adventure.

    Leave the busy world behind and immerse yourself in one of the South Pacific's most untouched destinations. Our small-group retreats combine professional freediving instruction, unforgettable island adventures, authentic Vanuatu culture, and beachfront living—all from our private retreat on beautiful Aore Island.

    Whether you're discovering freediving for the first time or chasing your next adventure, Solwota is where lifelong memories begin.

  • Snow-capped mountains under a cloudy sky with green hills and a small modern building at the base.

    Stay in Tropical Island Bungalows

    Wake beneath towering rain trees in our handcrafted island-inspired bungalows, just moments from the ocean. Designed to blend naturally with the surrounding landscape, every bungalow offers a peaceful place to relax after a day of adventure.

  • Modern building with vertical wooden slats and a large window, set against a mountainous landscape with grassy terrain in the foreground.

    Become a Certified Freediver

    Learn to freedive with experienced instructor Xande, who will guide you through every step of your journey. Throughout the retreat you'll complete your internationally recognised Wave 1 Freediving Certification, learning breathing techniques, safety procedures, equalisation, and confidence in the water—all in warm tropical conditions.

    No previous experience is required.

  • A modern wooden house overlooking a lake with mountains in the background, during sunset or sunrise.

    Discover the Best of Vanuatu

    Our retreat extends far beyond the classroom. We'll take you to some of Vanuatu's most spectacular natural attractions, including: Crystal-clear Blue Holes, Stunning coral reefs around Aore and Santo, Millennium Cave, Hidden beaches and island escapes, Incredible snorkelling and freediving locations, Local villages and authentic cultural experiences.

    Every day offers something new to explore.

  • A modern house on a hillside with rolling green fields and mountains in the background.

    Small Groups. Personal Experience.

    Keeping our retreats small allows us to provide personalised coaching, relaxed schedules, and genuine connections. You'll never feel like just another student.

    From your first breath hold to your final farewell, Xande and the Solwota team are there to make your experience unforgettable.

  • drone footage of aore island dugong in the bay

    Dive in Paradise

    The waters surrounding Aore Island are home to vibrant coral gardens, turtles, reef fish, and exceptional visibility. Throughout the retreat you'll gain confidence while exploring some of the South Pacific's most beautiful underwater environments.

    It's the perfect place to slow down, disconnect, and experience the ocean as it was meant to be.

Follow The Build

Pre-Bookings Now Available

Our Freediving program is launching soon and we are now taking expressions of interest and pre-bookings.

Spaces will be limited, so if you would like to join us for a Discover Freediving Experience or a Wave 1 Course get in touch with us to reserve your space.

Tell us your preferred dates, number of people and which course your interested in, and we will get back to you with availability and details.

Triphibian Adventures Logo, business partnered with Solwota Retreat Aore island
Triphibian Adventures Logo, business partnered with Solwota Retreat Aore island
Text that reads 'Freediving Vanuatu' in bold, black letters.
Solwota free diving Aore Island Vanuatu logo
Aerial view of a tropical beach with clear water, reefs, and lush green island in Vanuatu, with a boat in the water and text promoting travel to Vanuatu.