AIDA, Molchanovs, SSI Freediving, and PADI Freediver are the four agencies you'll see across Anilao. All four are legitimate and internationally recognised — none is "better" in any official sense. They differ mostly in course structure, teaching philosophy, and how they progress depth and theory. Here's how to tell them apart and pick a path.
Quick comparison
| Agency | Entry course | Approx. entry depth* | Known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| AIDA | AIDA 2 | ~20 m | The original competitive-freediving body; widely recognised, depth-focused progression |
| Molchanovs | Wave 1 | ~20 m | Modern, structured curriculum built around the "Wave" levels; strong theory and technique focus |
| SSI Freediving | Level 1 | ~20 m | Digital materials and a flexible, modular path; large dive-industry footprint |
| PADI Freediver | PADI Freediver | ~16 m | Most familiar brand to scuba divers; approachable, well-distributed courses |
*Depths are approximate certification targets and vary by program and instructor — confirm exact figures with the school before booking.
AIDA
AIDA is the oldest freediving body and the one most associated with competition and records. Its courses (AIDA 1–4) progress depth steadily, with a strong emphasis on the discipline of depth diving. If you're aiming toward deeper personal targets or eventually competition, AIDA is a natural home.
Molchanovs
Molchanovs uses a "Wave" system (Wave 1, 2, 3) with a detailed, modern curriculum that many students find the most structured — lots of dry training, theory, and technique work alongside water sessions. It's grown quickly and is popular with instructors who like a methodical syllabus.
SSI Freediving & PADI Freediver
SSI and PADI both come from the broader dive industry, so their materials are polished and their certifications are widely recognised by dive operators. SSI Freediving is modular and digital-first; PADI Freediver is often the most comfortable starting point for people who already dive scuba. Both teach the same fundamentals — relaxation, equalization, technique, and safety.
How to choose
For most beginners, the agency matters far less than the instructor. All four teach you to relax, equalize, and dive safely with a buddy. Pick the school whose instructor you trust and whose schedule and language fit you — then worry about the badge. Read how to choose and verify a freediving instructor, see how the levels stack up in Freediving Course Levels Explained, and browse freediving schools in Anilao to compare what each one offers.