Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles Introduces Freediving Experiences with National Record-Holder

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September 3, 2025 - Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles Resort is launching a new series of freediving experiences in partnership with Sophie Walsh (née Perolari), Seychelles’ first certified freediving instructor and a national record-holder. Sophie recently set three national records at the AIDA July Blue Freediving Competition in Egypt, achieving a personal best of 206 feet. As the founder of Freediving Seychelles, she is passionate about opening up the underwater world to a wider audience.

The new packages at Avani+ Barbarons invite guests to experience freediving in a safe and inspiring environment, whether through introductory pool-based sessions or open-ocean dives. A highlight of the program is a full-day excursion by boat to Beau Vallon, where participants can practice freediving at two spectacular dive sites, Baie Ternay Marine Park and Lilo't Island. Tailored for small groups, the experience includes equipment, training and also the option to earn an internationally recognized AIDA Level 1 Certificate. For younger water babies, Avani+ Barbarons also offers youth-focused courses, starting from age seven, blending water safety with confidence-building underwater games and the chance to gain a Dolphin Freediving Certificate.

Sophie Walsh commented: “Freediving is about much more than depth, it’s about stillness, connection and discovering what the body and mind are capable of when working in harmony with the ocean. I’m delighted to bring these experiences to Avani+ Barbarons and to share this unique way of exploring Seychelles with guests of all ages.”

Set against the turquoise waters of Mahé, the freediving experiences offer guests the chance to connect with nature while discovering a new skill. Available year-round, the packages add a distinctive and enriching dimension to the Avani+ Barbarons experience.

From September 1, 2025, guests can book their freediving experience directly with Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles from USD 125 for adults and USD 65 for children. For stays, special opening rates start from USD 460 per night, based on two adults sharing a Garden View Balcony Room on a bed and breakfast basis, inclusive of taxes and service charge. Offer valid for stays until March 31, 2026.

For more information or to book, please visit www.avanihotels.com/en/seychelles-barbarons, email reservations.vbar@avanihotels.com, or call +248 467 3000.

Designed for today’s traveler, Avani offers stylish rooms, connected social spaces and both relaxed and on-the-go dining that is locally inspired. Balance is at the center of everything Avani does, providing guests with the right measure of service, fun and privacy. Launched in 2011 and now with over 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature with a focus on smart design, upbeat service and good value.

Avani is part of global hospitality group Minor Hotels and a member of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty program.

Visit avanihotels.com for more information, and connect with Avani on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Minor Hotels is a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 640* hotels, resorts and branded residences across 57 countries. The group crafts innovative and insightful experiences through its hotel brands including Anantara, Elewana Collection, The Wolseley Hotels, Tivoli, Minor Reserve Collection, NH Collection, nhow, Avani, Colbert Collection, NH, Oaks, and iStay, as well as a diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, travel experiences, and spa and wellness brands. With over four decades of expertise, Minor Hotels builds stronger brands, fosters lasting partnerships, and drives business success by always focusing on what matters most to our guests, team members and partners.

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