Two new freediving retreats will take place in the Maldives this September, combining breathwork, ocean activities and marine conservation experiences in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Eleven time freediving world record holder and ocean conservationist Hanli Prinsloo will lead both programs, beginning with a three-night Family Freediving Retreat at Avani+ Fares Maldives from September 7 to 10.
Designed for parents and children, the program introduces freediving through breathwork, floating, snorkelling, gentle duck dives and underwater games, with the emphasis on building confidence rather than depth or competition.
The retreat will also launch the resort’s Ocean Aware Month, which includes coral conservation and planting workshops, underwater photography sessions, beach clean ups and PADI speciality courses.
Avani+ Fares will mark World Manta Day on September 17 with marine art workshops and snorkelling excursions to Hanifaru Bay, known for seasonal manta ray gatherings.
Ms Prinsloo will then lead the four-night Into the Blue retreat at NH Collection Maldives Reethi from September 14 to 18.
Open to guests aged 16 and above who are comfortable swimming, the program combines yoga, meditation and guided breathing with house reef snorkelling, rope freediving and drift dives. Beginners and experienced freedivers can participate while progressing at their own pace.
“Both retreats are about building confidence in the ocean and understanding why this remarkable environment deserves our care,” Ms Prinsloo said.
The Family Freediving Retreat starts from $US3,160 (approx. $AU4,400) per person based on single occupancy, including accommodation, full board, return seaplane transfers and retreat sessions.
Into the Blue starts from $US4,333 (approx. $AU6,000)per adult and includes four nights’ accommodation, full board, return seaplane transfers and the complete retreat program.
