Home / Sports / Swiss Diver Shatters World Record for Breath-Holding Under Icy Lake
Swiss Diver Shatters World Record for Breath-Holding Under Icy Lake
13 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Waldemar Bruderer, Swiss freediver, broke world record for holding breath under ice
- Dove 56 meters (184 ft) in freezing -1°C waters of Lake Sils in Switzerland
- Completed the dive in 2 minutes 47 seconds, 4 meters deeper than previous record
On February 2025, Swiss freediver Waldemar Bruderer achieved an extraordinary feat by breaking the world record for holding his breath while diving under ice. Bruderer, a freediving instructor, plunged 56 meters (184 ft) into the frigid waters of Lake Sils in Graubünden, Switzerland, where the temperature was a chilling -1°C.
The previous record, set in 2023 by Czech freediver David Vencl, stood at 52 meters (171 ft). Bruderer's dive, which took 2 minutes and 47 seconds to complete, surpassed Vencl's record by 4 meters, showcasing his exceptional skills and endurance.
Bruderer, who is passionate about connecting with nature in its purest form, said the allure of the crystal-clear underwater world and the challenge of the extreme environment captivated him. By minimizing the use of equipment, he felt more connected to the elements and could truly appreciate the majestic landscapes beneath the ice.
