Apnea Total or Molchanovs: Which Freediving Course is Right for You?

Orenda teaches two internationally recognised freediving systems, and one of the most common questions we get is which one to choose. The honest answer: both are excellent. Your choice usually comes down to your goals and how you like to learn.

Here is a clear comparison of Apnea Total and Molchanovs, how each course is structured, and which path tends to suit beginners, depth-focused divers, and future instructors.

Two systems, one shared foundation

Both systems teach the same core skills: relaxation, breathing, equalization, finning technique, and rescue. Both put safety first and progress you gradually. Both are respected worldwide, so a certification from either is recognised at freediving centres around the globe. You are not choosing between good and bad. You are choosing a style.

Molchanovs: the Wave progression

Molchanovs is built around a "Wave" progression, designed for long-term development. Wave 1 is your foundation (3 days at Orenda, 10,900 THB). Wave 2 takes you to 24 to 30 m with deeper relaxation and freefall (4 days, 14,900 THB). Wave 3 moves toward a semi-professional level with mouthfill equalization and FRC diving (6 to 7 days, 18,900 THB).

If you see freediving as a long journey and you like a structured, progressive curriculum with strong community and lots of educational material, Molchanovs is a natural fit.

Apnea Total: clear, focused levels

Apnea Total moves through focused levels from beginner to instructor. The Freediver Level 1 is a 2-day certification to 20 m (7,500 THB). Advanced Level 2 takes you to 30 m (3 days, 10,900 THB). There is also a dedicated Static Apnea Clinic for breath-hold work (1 day, 3,000 THB).

If you want an efficient, well-defined path and clear milestones at each level, Apnea Total suits you well.

Which one for you?

• Total beginner: either works. Start with a Discover session if you are unsure, then choose Level 1 in whichever system appeals.
• Depth-focused: both take you deep. Molchanovs Wave 3 and the Apnea Total Master path both reach advanced depths.
• Future instructor: both offer instructor courses. We also run crossovers if you are already certified in another agency and want to add a system.

Crossovers between systems are available for certified divers, so your choice today does not lock you in forever.

Still not sure? Ask us

The best way to choose is to tell us your goals, your experience, and how much time you have. We will point you to the pathway that fits, with no pressure. Message us and we will help you decide before you book.