Questions guests actually ask

Yes. Most guests join solo. Groups are small and the atmosphere is welcoming without forcing connection.

No. Many retreats suit beginners, and activities are adapted to your level and comfort.

You can pause, rest or skip an activity at any moment. There is no pressure to continue.

Yes. Freediving is never required. A scuba experience can be arranged through trusted local dive centres.

Yes. Private retreats for couples, friends or small groups may be arranged on request, depending on destination and availability.

Trusted local professionals: certified instructors, experienced guides and destination partners.

No. Nature is unpredictable. Ocean Calling works in the best seasons with experienced local guides, but never controls the outcome.

No. Animals are never touched, chased or approached actively. Encounters stay passive, calm and respectful.

Where diving or freediving near marine mammals is restricted, encounters are from the surface only. Respectful snorkelling may be possible if local rules allow.

Activities may be adapted, delayed or replaced for safety. If you are sensitive to motion, take seasickness medication before boat trips.

Reef-safe sunscreen only. Mineral-based, without oxybenzone or octinoxate. In some places you apply it on land before entering the water.

Ocean Calling does not ask for your health clearance or medical details, so please don’t send them to us. For freediving or scuba, your local dive partner may check that you are fit to dive with you directly, sometimes with a “fit to dive” form signed by a doctor, depending on your health history and the dive centre. This matters most with asthma, heart or breathing conditions, sinus problems or recent surgery. For snorkelling only it is usually not required. Try the “Is this retreat right for me?” page first.

For freediving or scuba, asthma may need a doctor’s OK, checked directly with the local dive partner.

No scuba or freediving while pregnant. Snorkelling may be possible in some cases. Speak with your doctor first.

The ocean is a wild place. Guides explain how to behave in the water, and you are told in advance about seasonal stingers.

It depends on destination, nationality and season. Check official travel health guidance and speak to a doctor or travel clinic.

Comprehensive travel insurance is required for every guest, with cover for water sports and emergency evacuation. Your dive or freediving partner may also ask to see proof of it before you get in the water. Ocean Calling does not check your policy, so please have it in place before you travel.

Ideally: trip cancellation, medical care, lost belongings, water activities and emergency evacuation where relevant.

You do. Choose the policy that suits your trip, with cover for water sports and emergency evacuation. If you are not sure what to look for, ask Rocío.

In many destinations, yes. Local operators may require participation forms, medical declarations or waivers.

Deposits are non-refundable. You may request a one-time transfer to another Ocean Calling retreat within 12 months, in the same category and subject to availability, with written notice at least 60 days before the start (policy updated 9 September 2026). Cancellations within 60 days are non-refundable. See the full policy.

No. You arrange your own flights.

Before booking you can share your interests and comfort level. Once the itinerary is confirmed with local partners, it is final.

Unless clearly stated, meals, activity and park fees, personal expenses, upgrades and on-site payments to local providers.

In temples, villages and family homes, be respectful. Speak softly, remove shoes when asked and cover shoulders and knees where needed.

Yes. Small groups, thoughtful pacing and trusted local partners. Travel still has an environmental cost, and Ocean Calling keeps learning how to improve.

No. Your personal time is private, but it must not affect safety, morning activities or group comfort.