Do I need to be a yogi or have a lot of experience with yoga to attend?

No. You do not. This is a mindfulness AND yoga retreat. There will be plenty of yoga offered, with various styles and modifications to accommodate all levels and participants involved. 

What types of yoga will be offered?

The following are styles of yoga you’ll see on the schedule on any given day. Vinyasa- Vinyasa flow is a dynamic and creative style of yoga that links together postures with breath. The word "vinyasa" means "connection" or "linking," and refers to the way the breath is synchronized with the movement. Vinyasa flow is often described as a "dance" or "flow" because of its fluid and graceful nature. Ashtanga- Ashtanga yoga is a vigorous and challenging style of yoga that emphasizes a set sequence of postures where students hold the poses for 5 breaths. It is known for its physical intensity and its focus on breath and alignment. A great class to learn the poses and practice form. Yin- Yin yoga is a slow-paced, seated style of yoga that emphasizes holding poses for an extended period of time, typically 3-5 minutes. This prolonged holding uses gravity allowing for deep stretching of the connective tissues, such as fascia and ligaments.  Restorative- Restorative yoga is a gentle and supportive style of yoga that emphasizes deep relaxation and stress reduction. Unlike other styles of yoga that focus on physical strength and flexibility, restorative yoga uses props such as blankets, blocks, and straps to support the body in comfortable and deeply relaxing poses.

Do I have to participate in everything?

No. You absolutely do not. I encourage as much participation as possible to get the most out of this retreat and I will carefully curate a schedule that allows PLENTY of down time (aka rest and relaxation/vacation time), but this is YOUR retreat. We all have different stories and different needs, those needs are met by YOU taking inventory and a break when needed. I do ask that if you choose to not participate, please be mindful of the mood/vibe that is being set and allow those guests that are participating to enjoy their experience.

How rigid is the schedule?

Not very. This is island time. There will be some offered activities amidst your yoga and mindfulness journeys that you likely won’t want to miss. This will require us to be on an island on a certain day. Otherwise we’ll let our experienced captain be our tropical tour guide!  He’ll have us docked in little isolated coves of beauty that you could never imagine! You’ll experience swimming with turtles, hiking lush trails to a stunning meditation session, exploring gorgeous beaches, experiencing local culture and more.The ULTIMATE in mindfulness practice, being in the moment! This type of travel calls for fluidity of schedule. Packing your days to capacity isn’t part of this week. This isn’t your large cruise ship trip. Sit back, relax and enjoy yourself! 

What might a typical day look like?

 Imagine rising with the sun and making your way to the deck for sunrise group meditation followed by some morning yoga. After yoga, settle in for some quiet journaling or reflective time while our seasoned chef prepares a delicious breakfast to fuel us for our morning mindfulness session, followed by free time where we can swing off the ship's rope swing or swim the crystal clear waters alongside our beautiful ship, Vela. After morning play time, enjoy a delicious prepared lunch then its land ho! as we make our way to the island aboard the dinghy and hike to a breathtaking peak for more mindfulness as we meditate and soak in the amazing view. Rest and relaxation after our hike is best served on a gorgeous beach with the sand between our toes, or maybe find a nice stroll along the waves as they roll in. Making our way back to Vela, we’ll settle in and find ourselves sharing stress reduction techniques or maybe a group discussion. Time to freshen up! Retreat to your cabin for some recharging then resurface for some evening camaraderie, relaxing with yet another chef prepared meal and beverages followed by Yin under the stars. Imagine doing this. Every. Day. Pinch me!

Is the retreat all inclusive?

 Aside from your flight and tipping, Yes. All meals, alcohol, non-alcoholic drinks, and snorkeling gear is included. Tipping is strongly encouraged. The suggested gratuities for the crew’s six-night sailings are $275 per person. Gratuities are payable ONLY by credit card at the end of your cruise. No cash is accepted onboard. Tipping is also encouraged for any guide-led excursion if you participate. Information on how guide tips will be accepted will be communicated closer and prior to the retreat. 

Are diet restrictions accommodated?

Gluten free, dairy free and vegetarian diets can be accommodated. Please inform us of any diet restrictions or allergies as you book your retreat. Unfortunately, vegan diets CANNOT be accommodated. The ship utilizes locally sourced and readily accessible, fresh food that supports the local economy. 

Is there WIFI and cellular service available on the ship?

Wifi on Vela is a no. You’ll likely be able to find connection at a bar or restaurant when on land. Most cell phone carriers provide international roaming service. Call your provider to ask about international service plans. Your phone will have a signal most of the time. Remember, you’re on a mindfulness retreat! A great opportunity to be off the grid and work on yourself! 

Any questions not covered?

Call or text +1 770.846.4245. We’re here for you and have ALL the answers! We’ll also have scheduled video calls for meet and greet opportunities amongst the guests and crew where we’ll cover things such as what to pack, how we’ll stay in touch, travel logistics/plans and more! Rest assured, you’re choosing to travel with a growing company that has been serving vacationers in the islands since 2008! You’re in great, knowledgeable, experienced hands.