🌺 5-Day Ocean Retreat in Moalboal: Sardine Run, Turtles & Living Reef Statues
Ethical Freediving Adventure in the Philippines
CHF1800.00CHF1600.00
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Discover one of the Philippines’ most remarkable freediving experiences
A small-group ethical freediving retreat centred around the legendary Moalboal sardine run, resident sea turtles, and unique underwater statues that support reef regeneration. Designed for beginners and curious explorers, this experience allows you to build breath-hold confidence, feel calm in the water, and develop a deeper connection with the ocean — while prioritising respectful wildlife encounters and minimal disturbance to marine ecosystems.
Why this retreat stands out
Experience the famous Moalboal sardine run, where millions of fish move in synchronised formations just metres from shore.
Earn your Freediving Level 1 certification in warm, clear conditions ideal for beginners learning breath control and underwater confidence.
Explore distinctive underwater statues in Moalboal and nearby Alegria, including reef structures created to help discourage destructive fishing and support coral growth.
Swim alongside resident sea turtles in shallow reef environments known for consistent sightings.
Join a small group limited to 4 guests, allowing a calm, personalised learning experience with minimal environmental impact.
Stay in a carefully selected eco accommodation close to the ocean, allowing easy access to the water without long transfers.
Receive professionally filmed underwater videos, capturing your experience in the sardine run, reef environments, and underwater sites.
Included: 5 days guided introduction to freediving
Optional: official certification available for an additional fee
Participants have access to all guided ocean experiences, including the underwater statues in Alegria, the sardine run, and turtle reef encounters.
Day 1 — Arrival in Moalboal
Private transfer from Cebu Airport (CEB) to your eco accommodation in Moalboal. Welcome dinner and time to settle in near the ocean.
Day 2 — Introduction to freediving
Foundations of breath awareness, relaxation techniques, safety principles, and confined water practice. First open water session in warm, clear conditions.
Day 3 — Introduction to freediving
Depth practice, equalisation guidance, and confidence building in a calm and supportive environment. Small group format allows a personalised pace.
Day 4 — The Five Guardians (Alegria)
Excursion to Alegria to explore the Five Guardians underwater statues — submerged structures created to support reef regeneration and discourage destructive fishing practices. Afternoon time to rest or optional massage.
Day 5 — Sardine run & turtles
Guided ocean sessions alongside the famous Moalboal sardine run and visits to turtle habitats along the reef. Final time in the water before departure or onward travel.
4 nights accommodation in a private room at a carefully selected eco stay in Moalboal (or similar)
Small group limited to 4 guests for a calm, low-impact experience
Introduction to freediving skills and ocean confidence development
All standard freediving equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, weights)
Guided experiences at the sardine run, sea turtle reef, and underwater reef regeneration sites in Moalboal and Alegria
Professional underwater videos
Private driver for 5 days, including airport transfers and all scheduled activities
Full support from retreat host and experienced local professionals throughout the stay
Optional add-ons
Freediving Level 1 certification
Freediving Level 2 certification
Scuba diving beginner certification
Lunch and dinner
Additional freediving sessions
Additional scuba dives
Extra underwater video sessions
Relaxation massage
Extra nights accommodation
• International flights
• Travel insurance (required)
• Optional equipment upgrades
• Personal expenses
• Additional spa treatments or activities not listed
• Additional meals/drinks beyond scheduled
• Tips for guides and instructors
• Extra dives or additional certifications not included in program
Mornings begin gently with breakfast at the hotel.
Daily breakfast is included, offering fresh fruits, eggs, local dishes, coffee, and tea, allowing everyone to ease into the day feeling nourished and relaxed.
Lunches and dinners are not included but can be pre-ordered in advance as a paid add-on, offering flexibility depending on individual preferences.
Pre-ordering meals allows you to fully relax and enjoy the retreat without needing to plan where to eat each day.
Optional catering features fresh local ingredients, seasonal vegetables, traditional Filipino flavours, rice dishes, and tropical fruits. Gluten-free and vegan/vegetarian options are available.
Water, coffee, and tea are included during breakfast. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not included, however guests are welcome to purchase additional drinks if they wish.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed (animals are always encountered in their natural habitat and are never controlled or staged)