Swiss Diver Shatters World Record for Breath-Holding Under Icy Lake

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.

The dive, which has only recently been recorded on the Guinness World Records site, is not just a personal achievement for Bruderer. He hopes that his record-breaking feat will raise awareness about the impact of climate change and the importance of protecting the world's glaciers, which he has witnessed firsthand in his home country of Switzerland.