Meet the instructor

Marcela Avila Lopez

Meet Marcela, the dynamic force behind Aluna Freediving School and the visionary founder of Lunamar for the Planet, a non-profit charity organization protecting the oceans . A passionate Wellness Coach and an SSI Advanced Open Water Scuba, Yoga, Breathwork, and Dance instructor, Marcela’s aquatic journey began in her youth as a competitive swimmer, evolving into a lifelong passion. Her global odyssey started at just 19, leading to her instructing SCUBA diving across exotic locales like Thailand, Bali, the Philippines, and the Caribbean. In 2011, she ventured into the mesmerizing world of freediving with Apnea Total in Koh Tao, Thailand and later established Aluna Freediving. Her dedication to teaching has taken her from Indonesia to Canada, US, Mexico, and aboard super yachts spanning the US, Mexico, Bahamas, and the Caribbean. Marcela’s illustrious career, while predominantly focused on education and leading the #OceanWarriorsProject with Lunamar for the Planet, also boasts remarkable achievements in competitive freediving, including two consecutive appearances on Team Colombia at the CMAS World Championships 2022 & 2023, six depth national records, two pool national records, a gold and two silver medals at the Aida Canada Pool Freediving National Championships in 2017, and a bronze medal at the Caribbean Cup in 2022. Experience the passion and expertise of a true water-world enthusiast!