Led by an Instructor Trainer
A professional who trains and develops freediving instructors guides every program.
Orenda Freediving & Island Cruises
Freediving courses and island cruises in Koh Tao
Small groups, real ocean training led by an Instructor Trainer, and relaxed days at sea aboard our sailing boat. Molchanovs and Apnea Total, for first breaths to instructor level.
Free underwater video on every trip and course. We reply within 24h.
Professional freediving training in Koh Tao, Thailand
Orenda Freediving & Island Cruises offers professional freediving training in Koh Tao, Thailand, and relaxed island sailing experiences for people who want meaningful time in the ocean. We invite you to experience the water from the deck of our sailing boat, SV Freedom Fargo. All training is led by an Instructor Trainer. From focused training sessions to relaxed days sailing and exploring the island, every experience is designed to feel personal, unhurried, and grounded. No freediving experience is required to join our sailing trips. Everyone is welcome.
- Freediving courses (beginner to instructor level)
- Freediving coaching and training sessions
- Sunset sailing cruises
- Private sailing charters, half and full day
- Freediving and sailing combo days
- Ocean retreats and multi-day experiences
- Free video footage on all trips and courses
What makes Orenda different
We believe freediving is more than technique alone. Our programs are shaped by years of coaching experience and an approach that combines performance, awareness, and real ocean experience.
Personalised coaching for all levels
From your first breath-hold through to instructor, tailored to your goals.
Breathwork and body awareness
Practices that build calm, control, and consistency in and out of the water.
Training from our own sailing boat
The only freediving operation on Koh Tao offering regular training from a sailing vessel, with access to quiet sites and real ocean conditions.
Shore-based dives too
Prefer a gradual, boat-free introduction? We have you covered.
A supportive community
Focused on long-term progression, not pressure.
Find your course or cruise
From 3,000 THB Discover Freediving
Reserve your course
From 7,500 THB Level 1
Reserve your course
From 1,500 THB Coaching & Training
Reserve your course
From 2,500 THB Freediving Cruises
Book your spot
From 1,500 THB Sunset & Private Charters
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Coming soon 22,900 THB Ocean Retreats & Liveaboards
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The origin of Orenda
Orenda refers to the energy within all living things, the idea that intention, focus, and inner strength can influence the world around us. This idea shapes how we approach freediving.
Orenda is a concept from the Iroquois peoples. Freediving is not only about depth. It is about presence, calm, and trust. It invites you to slow your breath, listen to your body, and move with the ocean rather than against it. Life at sea deepens this. Our sailing trips let you spend time immersed in the rhythm of the ocean, diving, snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on deck.
Freediving as a path to personal growth
- Calm your nervous system and slow your heart rate
- Read your body and understand your emotional state
- Develop confidence, patience, and self-trust
- Make clear decisions under stress
- Let go of comparison and focus on your journey
Orenda Freediving in pictures
A look beneath the surface and across the deck. Every course and cruise includes free video footage, so you leave with more than memories.
What our guests say
Rated 5.0 on Google, 35 reviews from our guests and students.
Training with Nikki was one of the most meaningful experiences of my freediving journey. She helped me realize that depth is not about force, it is about relaxation, awareness, and trust. That shift changed everything.
Did my Level 1 Molchanovs with Nikki. Freediving is mostly a mind game, all about awareness, presence and self control, and for that you need to feel safe and calm. Nikki provided exactly that, combined with professional guidance. Progress felt huge for me in just three days.
Trust is a huge part of learning this sport, and with Nikki that trust was immediate. I always felt safe and supported underwater. One of my favorite things was that I never felt like just another number chasing a certification. She genuinely cares about teaching freediving the right way.
It was a magical sunset cruise. The snorkeling spot was full of underwater life and a pleasure to freedive. Everyone on board was incredibly friendly and full of good energy, and on the way back we witnessed the most stunning sunset. Truly unforgettable.
If I had to describe the course in one word it would be transformative. I did my Level 1 freediving course with Nikki and she is amazing, so knowledgeable, easy-going, kind and supportive. Just by watching you underwater she notices what is causing an issue. For me it was a mental blockage, and she tailored the exercises to help me break through it. 10 out of 10, if you have the chance to dive with Orenda, you should.
I waited to write this until after a session with another coach for comparison. I have worked with four instructors so far, all good, but Nikki very easily stands out, she is levels above. Three days of coaching and I learned a ton and made way more progress than I expected. She easily helped me break through a depth plateau that others could not. She is also personable, genuine and just cool to hang out with.
Absolutely fantastic experience on this sunset cruise. My partner and I went on the tour led by Nikki and it was perfect from start to finish. The boat was comfortable and well-maintained, with plenty of space to relax and take in the stunning views of Koh Tao. Nikki was an incredible guide, knowledgeable, friendly and professional. Highly recommend, the best cruise on Koh Tao.
An 11 out of 10 experience. I did an advanced freediving course, Molchanovs Wave 2, and it was hands down the best diving course I have ever done. Nikki is an amazing instructor, so experienced and skilled, and her approach makes you feel comfortable and safe at all times. Learning to freedive from an old proper sailing boat is next level fun. My only regret is not finding Orenda sooner.
Beginner questions, answered
Is freediving safe?
Yes, when taught properly. All training is led by an Instructor Trainer in small groups, with safety as the foundation of every session. You always dive with a trained buddy and clear protocols.
What if I panic underwater?
It is completely normal to feel nervous at first. We teach relaxation and breathing techniques step by step, in shallow water, so you build calm and confidence before going deeper. You move at your own pace.
Do I need to be fit or a strong swimmer?
You need basic comfort in the water, but you do not need to be an athlete. Freediving is about relaxation, not force. Many of our students are complete beginners.
Is there a minimum age, and can children join?
Our sailing cruises welcome everyone, including families. For freediving courses, please contact us with the ages in your group and we will advise the best option.
What is included and what should I bring?
Courses and trips include the necessary equipment and free underwater video. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and water. We share full details once you book.
How do I book and how fast do you reply?
Send us a message with your preferred course or cruise and dates, by the contact form or WhatsApp. We usually reply within 24 hours.
What happens if the weather is bad?
All courses and boat trips are subject to weather and tide conditions, and safety always comes first. We check the forecast in advance and may adjust the schedule so you get the best and safest experience on the water. Dive sites are chosen daily based on weather and sea conditions to keep every session calm and enjoyable.
Do I need insurance?
We recommend personal travel and health insurance, and many policies cover diving activities, so check your plan. For retreats, travel insurance covering freediving is required and all participants complete a short medical form.
Book your ocean experience
Small groups. Personal attention. Deep transformation. Boat-based freediving courses and coaching, delivered around Koh Tao.