There is something about the ocean that invites us to slow down, breathe deeper and experience the world differently.
This September, NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort invites guests to discover that feeling through Into the Blue, an immersive five-day ocean retreat led by world-renowned freediver and ocean advocate Hanli Prinsloo. Taking place from 14–18 September 2026, the retreat brings together freediving, breathwork, yoga, meditation and manta encounters for a meaningful journey beneath the surface of the Maldives.
Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the experience is designed for anyone looking to develop a deeper connection with the ocean, whether stepping into freediving for the first time or building on existing experience.
A Retreat Designed Around the Ocean
More than a freediving programme, Into the Blue is an invitation to become more present in the water.
With Hanli’s guidance, each day combines movement, breath and time beneath the surface. Guests will learn techniques designed to build comfort and confidence in the ocean while discovering the power of slowing down and becoming more aware of every breath and movement.
The intimate format, limited to just 12 participants, allows for a more personal and connected retreat experience.
Five Days of Breath, Water and Discovery
The journey begins with Arrive and Exhale, giving guests the opportunity to settle into island life and meet Hanli in an intimate setting before the retreat gets underway.
Mornings are dedicated to yoga, breathwork, meditation and lung stretching, creating a calm foundation for the day’s activities. These practices help participants prepare both physically and mentally for time in the water.
As the retreat moves beneath the surface, guests can experience house reef snorkelling, rope freediving sessions and drift dives, developing greater confidence while becoming more comfortable moving through the ocean.
One of the highlights is an unforgettable encounter at Hanifaru Bay, one of the Maldives’ most remarkable marine environments. Here, guests can experience the famous manta gatherings while practising the awareness and calm developed throughout the retreat.
Evenings provide time to unwind and reflect, allowing guests to carry the stillness of the ocean into the final moments of each day.
A Meaningful Part of Ocean Awareness Month
Into the Blue also forms part of Ocean Awareness Month at NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort, celebrating the extraordinary marine ecosystem surrounding the island and highlighting the importance of protecting it.
Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort provides a natural setting for guests to learn, explore and develop a greater appreciation for the ocean. Through experiences such as this retreat, ocean exploration becomes not only an adventure, but also an opportunity to understand the responsibility we share in preserving marine environments for generations to come.
Who Can Join?
The retreat is open to complete beginners as well as experienced freedivers. Participants should be able to swim, while good water confidence is an advantage.
- Ages 16 and above
- Suitable for beginners and experienced freedivers
- Swimming ability required
- Maximum of 12 participants
- Small-group coaching for a more personalised experience
What Guests Can Expect
Throughout the five-day experience, participants will enjoy:
- Daily yoga, breathwork and meditation led by Hanli Prinsloo
- Intimate small-group freediving coaching
- House reef snorkelling
- Rope freediving sessions
- Drift dives
- A manta experience at Hanifaru Bay
- Time to rest, reflect and reconnect with the ocean
Retreat Details
Dates: 14–18 September 2026
Duration: 4 nights / 5 days
Resort: NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort
Location: Baa Atoll, Maldives
Setting: Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Group Size: Maximum 12 guests
For five days, Into the Blue offers a different way to experience the Maldives — not simply by looking out across the ocean, but by learning to breathe with it, move through it and appreciate the world beneath its surface.
At NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort, the journey is as much about discovering the ocean as it is about discovering a calmer, more connected way to experience it.