Explore the wisdom of whales.
12-14 September, 2025
Would you like the opportunity to swim alongside humpback whales, fur seals, and common dolphins in Jervis Bay, NSW? Join us on this 2-night experiential Whale-ness Ocean Retreat!
Explore the wisdom of whales as you develop your connection to ocean and self under the nurturing guidance of Salty Tribe’s founder, Shannon, and partner in ocean crime Consuelo and other marine experts. In a safe and supportive community of women, dedicate time away for your wellness and connect with your inner wisdom as you learn about the wonderful world of whales, engage in breathwork and mind-body practices, and share the sea with incredible marine life.
You will have the opportunity to:
Swim with the magnificent Humpback Whales during their annual migration along Australia’s east coast
Snorkel in the Jervis Bay Marine Park
Improve your breath hold ability and freediving skills with an intro to freediving course
Learn about whales and explore your relationship to them
Encounter marine life such as whales, Australian Fur Seals, rays and kelp forests of the Great Southern Reef
Engage in ocean breathwork and mind-body practices
Learn practical ways to connect with your inner wisdom through listening to the wisdom of the ocean and whales.
Who is this retreat for?
You identify as a woman of any adult age, and value nature and personal growth. You are looking to take time out for you to connect more deeply with the ocean and ignite your adventurous spirit!
You have a desire to:
Take time out for your wellbeing (mental, emotional, physical, spiritual and earth) through connection with nature
Learn more about the ocean and marine life, and be open to getting up close and personal with these beauties of the sea
Feel greater connection and/or comfort in the ocean, and in yourself
Be part of a wholesome community of women
Be challenged to delve into deeper levels of self awareness
All adults and abilities are welcome! We value diversity in all forms. We encourage you to join regardless of whether you are a seasoned water woman, or are new to igniting your inner water woman.
*Your swimming ability: you must have a reasonable level of swimming ability and be able to swim unassisted for a distance of 200m to participate in the whale swim. If you have any doubt about your current ability, please reach out to Shannon to check your suitability for this retreat.
The details
LOCATION:
Jervis Bay is a coastal paradise less than 3 hours drive south of Sydney. It’s aquamarine waters, white sand and wildlife encounters make it the perfect destination to connect with nature and soak up the salt and sun.
ACCOMMODATION:
Our architecturally designed coastal retreat is located in Vincentia - a short stroll to Orion’s Beach. Enjoy multiple living areas, spacious rooms, and a plunge pool! Whether you opt for a private Queen bedroom to yourself or a shared room, your senses will be invigorated by the scenery and salty air.
What previous participants are saying about their experience on Salty Tribe retreats.
The whaleness retreat was a deeply immersive experience. It gave me opportunities to learn about and connect in an ecologically sensitive and ethical way with these beautiful creatures and the ocean, as well as being able to work through limiting self beliefs. Shannon takes great care to ensure physical and emotionall safety as well as nurturing, fun AND adventure.
-Jennifer Parke
INCLUSIONS:
Two nights of stylish beach house accommodation at Jervis Bay
All wholesome meals and snacks
All workshops and activities aligned with the Salty Tribe’s 3 C’s model:
Private 6 hour boat charter to see, swim and hear the Humpback Whales and play with seals in the Jervis bay Marine Park
Freediving session with the experienced crew at Woebegone Freedive
Sunrise swims
Ocean breathwork
Ocean mindfulness sessions
Marine education sessions
Learn tools to connect with your inner wisdom
Journaling and self reflection activities
Transportation from Sydney and while at the retreat
*price does not include transportation to the retreat which can be arranged at an additional cost
**water activities and whale trip/sightings dependent on whale & weather conditions.
COST:
12-14 September, 2025
There are a range of bedroom arrangements depending on your budget. Shared and private rooms available with prices ranging between $1899 - $2649.
$500 deposit required to confirm your place.
*Payment plans available*
**Limited to 10 spots** 6 spots left!
*prices above based on if bringing your own snorkel/freedive equipment. If you need to hire gear we can arrange this for an additional $100.
**Once your deposit is paid we will send you an email with Terms & Conditions document to sign and return.
Read more about The Salty Tribe here.
THE ITINERARY:
Day 1: welcome dinner and meeting our tribe. Arrive at our beach home in Jervis Bay, soak up the salty air while connecting with fellow Salty Tribe ocean enthusiasts. Be guided through ocean-mind body practices to help you connect with your body and the stunning surroundings of Jervis Bay and get ready for an intro to freediving session and welcome dinner to prepare you for your weekend of salty nourishment.
*transfers from Sydney airport can be arranged in addition to the retreat
Day 2: meet wisdom through the eyes of whales! You will have the opportunity to swim alongside humpback whales, fur seals and dolphins on our personal eco-friendly boat charter of Jervis Bay with local ocean experts. Experience “whale radio”, a live stream of whale song between snorkels, explore the Jervis Bay Marine Park and take in the stunning surroundings of the coast (you will be in awe by the cliffs and caves alone!) Learn about whales and the ocean in engaging ways to explore your connection with them, increase your knowledge of marine life and tune into your inner wisdom through the eyes of a whale.
Day 3: start the day with movement and mindfulness at sunrise, an ocean dip, and coastal walk. You will also be guided on a snorkelling adventure in the Jervis Bay Marine Park to meet the marine life that call these waters home and grow your comfort in the ocean. Enjoy a shared brunch together and finish with reflections and connections with our salty tribe before making your way home.
Meet Shannon, your Salty Guide
Hello! I am the proud founder of The Salty Tribe, where I am passionate about helping women foster a deep connection, boost their confidence, and nurture their care for the underwater world.
With over a decade of experience as a snorkel and dive instructor, educator, conservationist, and more recently as a certified results coach, people I have guided say I have a knack for creating a safe and comfortable environment for them to explore the ocean. But let's not forget, sharks are the true guides!
Sharks have truly transformed my life. From swimming with Great Whites, Bull Sharks, Reef Sharks, Hammerheads, to Whale Sharks around the globe, they have revealed to me the beauty that lies beneath the veil of fear that often surrounds them. One significant moment occurred when I faced anxiety and a panic attack 30 meters below the ocean's surface.
Confronting my own challenges and doubts, I began to embrace and confront my fear which taught me practical ways to manage anxiety and fear. The sharks became catalysts for rediscovering my strength and self-love, which I thought I had lost during that anxious period.
I am thrilled to guide you on a journey where sharks have the power to rock your world too! I firmly believe they are some of the most incredible teachers when it comes to fear and serve as indicators of our planet's well-being.
For more details about my qualifications explore here.
I am so grateful to introduce my fellow ocean mermaid Consu who together we will be your ocean guides for this retreat!
Meet Consu, your salty co-leader
Consuelo’s professional journey reflects her deep-rooted passion for the great outdoors and her commitment to fostering connections between people and nature.
She is experienced in conducting ecological monitoring, science communication, and leading environmental education projects on a variety of topics. Motivated by a desire to increase environmental awareness and share the wonders of nature with others, Consuelo has pursued a path of environmental education and completed a Master’s degree in Environment at the University of Melbourne.
Consu proudly identifies as a marine enthusiast, captivated by the ocean's vast wonders and the profound impact of ocean experiences on our collective well-being. Currently, she channels her passion into community engagement roles within conservation non-profits while also contributing to the Surf Therapy initiatives along the Surf Coast and The Salty Tribe’s Women to Water events.
