Rooted in connection. Guided by collaboration. Created for lasting impact.
Expeditions into the soul
Meet one of the most ancient creatures on Earth -
Humpback Whales
French Polynesia | Secret Island | 10th-16th October 2026
This intimate experience were 6 of us will embark on a life-changing journey together - where ancient mountains meet crystal-clear waters and humpback whales sing beneath the surface - we gather as women, artists, and visionaries to create, remember, and rise together.
Imagine stepping into a world where you swim alongside humpback whales within shallow coral gardens, eyes locked, the whole world disappears - feeling their graceful essence move through you. As the first light of dawn blesses us across the horizon, we move together in sunrise movement sessions, awakening the body, opening the senses, and tuning to the rhythm of the island. Later, we gather for creative visioning session, shaping the day’s inspiration into stories that carry its magic forward.
When evening comes, we settle into reflection sessions, letting the experiences settle into our hearts, and as the sky ignites with sunset, we step onto our private beach for empowerment shoots, capturing the luminous energy of the moment, the connection between us, and the transformative spirit of this secluded island paradise. Together, we step into the ocean with reverence and curiosity, witnessing the grace and intelligence of these magnificent creatures as mirrors of our own feminine power.
Fine Art Prints
Our Ethos;
Conservation & Reciprocity:
It is one of our main priorities that our presence on the land is rooted in reciprocity rather than extraction. We travel consciously, ensuring that we give back to the places and people who welcome us. This includes supporting the native communities of each region, contributing to local initiatives, creating sustainable job opportunities, and directing a portion of our profits towards animal protection and environmental preservation. In doing so, we honour both the cultural and ecological integrity of the land, fostering a relationship of mutual respect and care.
Curated Luxury & Intentionality:
Each journey is designed with intentionality to both the practical and subtle layers that shape our un-forgettable journey. We choose accommodations that are both luxurious and environmentally responsible, creating a space that supports rest, clarity, and connection to the land. Before travelling, we gather online to meet one another, set intentions, and begin forming the community that holds us through the journey.
Every element - from the rhythm of the days to the spaces we visit and the integration that follows - is considered with care. This is travel with purpose: rooted in presence, guided by awareness, and shaped by a dialogue between people, place, and spirit.
Community & Collaboration:
We wanted to craft journeys that not only inspire but also invite reflection on how we can make a positive impact in the world. Each journey we are calling in a gathering of kindred spirits - artists, entrepreneurs, environmentalist’s, and visionaries - united by a shared commitment to purposeful creation and conscious living. Together, we co-create spaces of belonging and inspiration, where there is time to brainstorm, vision, and collaborate, exploring how our individual gifts can become a collective force for a positive catalyst of change in the word.
Practical Learning & Skills:
Depending on the retreat - participants will gain tangible skills and experiential knowledge including:Photography, videography, and storytelling
Business, mentorship, and social media marketing
Creative and artistic practices
Scientific and conservation knowledge (biology, ecology, wildlife, regenerative practices)
Indigenous wisdom and traditional practices
Physical and embodied skills, such as free diving, movement, or other experiential exercises
Your Magical Experience..
🐋 French Polynesia | 10th-16th September 2026
🐋 7 Days | 6 Nights | 5 Guests
🐋 4-day private boat charter to immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters with humpback whales
🐋 Sunrise movement sessions & evening reflection sessions for body, mind, and spirit alignment
🐋 Creative editing classes and empowerment photoshoots at sunset on our private beach
🐋 Guided support throughout for both creative and energetic experiences
🐋 All meals and refreshments included onboard and onshore
🐋 Luxurious eco-friendly accommodations throughout the journey + Airport Transfers
🐋 Starting from GBP £5,000 | With a £1,000 Deposit
Secure your spot..
At Soulfocus Travels, our ethos is rooted in purposeful exploration, conscious creation, and connection - crafting journeys that honour the land, support community, and inspire transformation. Each experience is designed to awaken creativity, deepen presence, and remind us of our responsibility to travel with heart and awareness.
Schedule a 15-minute call to ask any questions and to meet each-other!
Always dreamt of swimming alongside Humpback Whales? - you are in the right place!
SECURE YOUR SPACE BY EMAILING BELOW
Our Location;
We’re on a very small island - home to only about 2,000 people! It takes around an hour to drive all the way around. Accommodation here is quite limited, but we’re lucky to have found one of the best places on the island, tucked right on our own private beach. We’ll be sharing this beautiful spot with a few other guests, and our family will have a lovely suite all to ourselves. You’ll have your own room (which you’ll share with a new whale friend!) and your own private bathroom and cozy living area to unwind in.
EXPLORE ART AS A VOICE OF SELF-EXPRESSION, && SOULFUL CONNECTION
‘‘After over 10 years as a professional photographer, 9 years of solo travel, 5 years hosting retreats, I realised the power of crafting journeys that ignite our deepest potential and awaken the soul. These experiences merge unique encounters with nature, authentic collaboration, and lovingly curated workshops for personal and professional growth, all held within wellness practices and a profound respect for the cultures, & communities whom land we are upon.’’.
‘‘The result is a transformative, cohesive journey that sparks inspiration, fuels creativity, and leaves a lasting impact on both heart and world.’’
Meet Phoebe Maria,
Phoebe Maria is an internationally recognised visual artist and facilitator whose work lives at the intersection of women’s empowerment, indigenous wisdom, and environmental preservation. Her creative practice bridges the worlds of culture, ecology, and consciousness-amplifying diverse voices, honouring ancestral traditions, and revealing the intricate connection between humanity and the natural world. Over the past decade, she has dedicated her career to documenting remote communities, sacred ceremonies, and wildlife with a distinctive sensitivity and depth. Her work, featured in Condé Nast, reflects a profound commitment to authenticity, cultural integrity, and purposeful visual expression.
Alongside her artistic work, Phoebe leads transformative retreats and immersive programs that empower women, awaken creativity, and deepen understanding of indigenous heritage and ecological awareness. Through her lens and facilitation, she crafts experiences that inspire reflection, elevate consciousness, and celebrate collaboration, culture, and the living intelligence of the Earth.
also..
CERTIFIED AS..
Who is this for?
This is more than a photography excursion - it’s an immersive retreat designed for those who seek depth, shift-perspective, and meaningful connection. Guided by the presence of whales and the untamed rhythm of the Pacific, this journey invites participants to engage with nature as both muse and mirror - a space to reflect, create, and expand one’s understanding of our place within the living world.
It’s for those who value thought, creativity, and purpose - photographers, writers, innovators, and explorers who want to be part of a collective inquiry into how art, community, and conscious action can shape a more harmonious future. Together, we’ll exchange ideas, nurture curiosity, and imagine how our individual and shared expressions can contribute to positive change.
FAQs
-
Whale encounters & guided ocean experiences - 4 full days on the water with an expert local guide, giving us multiple opportunities to swim alongside humpback whales in their natural environment.
All accommodation & nourishing meals – six nights beach front accomodation with wholesome, locally inspired meals prepared with care.
Photography & storytelling guidance - personalised mentorship tailored to your level, whether you’re using a camera, a phone, or simply choosing to be fully present without taking photos at all.
Creative & reflective workshops – sessions designed to deepen your connection with nature, refine your visual storytelling, and explore new ways of seeing.
Community gatherings – sunrise movement, evening circles, shared reflections, and meaningful conversations with each-other aimed towards sharing our passion for the ocean, creativity, and making a positive impact.
Curated photo gallery from the retreat – a shared online gallery featuring professional photographs captured throughout the journey, so you can relive and share the experience.
Airport transfers – return transfers between the local Airport and the retreat accommodation.
-
International flights – travel to and from French Polynesia (Tahiti & Rurutu).
Travel insurance – including coverage for medical, evacuation, and activity-related incidents.
Personal equipment – such as cameras, snorkels, wetsuits, fins, or masks.
Alcoholic beverages.
Tips & gratuities – for guides, crew, or retreat facilitators (entirely at your discretion).
Visa or entry fees – if applicable depending on your country of origin.
-
Whether you come with a background in freediving or simply a love for being in the water, this experience welcomes everyone - no prior experience is needed. And when it comes to photography, it truly doesn’t matter if you’re shooting on a phone, a professional camera, or simply choosing to be fully present without taking photos at all. I’ll meet you exactly where you are, offering guidance and inspiration that supports your own way of seeing, feeling, and connecting with the beauty around you.
-
To join the retreat, you’ll first need to book a flight to Papeete (PPT) on the main island of Tahiti.
Our final destination is one of the outer islands in French Polynesia, roughly 2.5 hours from Tahiti. The retreat’s arrival and departure dates will align with the local flight schedule, and you should plan for around £480 for this additional round-trip flight.
Once you’ve secured your spot on the retreat, we’ll guide you through booking the local flight to ensure everything is seamless.
Please note: The local flight will depart PPT in the morning on your arrival day and return you to PPT in the afternoonon your departure day. Full details, including the exact location and step-by-step flight guidance, will be included in your retreat guide.
-
You’ll be staying in a serene and beautiful family-run village nestled on the ocean’s edge, it features traditional coral‑stone bungalows, a tranquil swimming pool, a spacious lounge and terrace, and direct access to the beach - the perfect balance of comfort, charm, and connection to nature.
Room Setup
Guests will share a room in the bungalows, fostering a sense of intimacy and community.
You can choose between a double bed or a single bed in your shared space.
Private rooms are not available, as the island is very small with limited accommodations
The Experience
Staying together allows you to fully immerse yourself in the retreat’s spirit of connection, collaboration, and shared adventure. From sunrise to sunset, you’ll be surrounded by the island’s natural beauty, the soothing rhythm of the ocean, and the presence of the whales.
-
Yes - when done responsibly and with expert guidance, swimming with humpback whales is safe. On this retreat, all whale encounters are led by experienced local guides who grew up with whales and know Tham and the waters intimately.
We follow safety guidelines and local regulations: keeping a respectful distance, approaching whales calmly, and only entering the water when conditions are safe for both you and the whales.
While whales are gentle giants, they are still wild animals, so attentiveness, respect, and following the guide’s instructions are essential. With these precautions, guests often describe it as a transformative, awe-inspiring experience.
-
A moderate level of fitness will help you get the most from the retreat. We move relatively quickly when we are getting in and out of the ocean to ensure beautiful interactions - we will also be swimming and exploring the ocean, so feeling comfortable in the water is key.
-
While the island is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales, it’s important to remember that these are wild animals in their natural environment, so sightings can never be guaranteed.
That said, our team brings extensive experience and deep knowledge of the area, and we’ll do everything we can to ensure your time on the water is truly unforgettable. With four full days at sea, the chances of seeing whales are very high - giving you multiple opportunities to witness these incredible animals in their natural environment.
-
Weather
French Polynesia, a stunning archipelago in the South Pacific, enjoys a tropical climate shaped by the south-east trade winds. May to October brings slightly cooler, drier conditions - perfect for exploring, whale watching, and ocean adventures. Temperatures are fairly consistent year-round, and sunshine is abundant.
The sea is warm, clear, and inviting, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and connecting with the ocean. Rainfall can be heavy at times, but usually passes quickly, leaving the skies bright and the air fresh.
Currency
The local currency is the Pacific franc (XPF). Most businesses accept major credit cards, but smaller vendors often deal in cash only. There is an ATM on the island to make accessing cash easy and convenient.
Visas
Citizens from the US, UK, and EU/EEA countries do not need a visa to visit French Polynesia.
If your country is not listed, please check visa requirements before your trip to ensure a smooth arrival.
Step into an extraordinary adventure in remote, untouched waters of French Polynesia. This intimate whale retreat offers a rare chance to swim alongside humpback whales in warm, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches. With only five guests, the experience is personal, immersive, and designed to foster connection — with the whales, the ocean, and your fellow travellers.
From July to October, humpback whales migrate thousands of kilometres to French Polynesia to mate, give birth, and nurture their calves. During our retreat, you may witness the youngest whales learning to navigate the water, playful calves swimming beside their mothers, and awe-inspiring displays like breaching and tail slapping. Each encounter is unique, guided by the rhythm of these magnificent animals.
This retreat is more than photography — it’s a full immersion in connection, creativity, and adventure. Whether you are a seasoned photographer, a casual shooter, or simply someone drawn to nature, you’ll have opportunities to capture unforgettable moments, guided with personalised attention to help you grow your creative vision.
Swimming with Whales
You don’t need prior freediving experience — the retreat is accessible for all. We stay at the surface, occasionally dipping just below to observe calmly. Our expert local guide leads every encounter, teaching you to read whale behaviour, approach safely, and create authentic, life-changing connections.
Humpbacks are intelligent, playful, and aware. Every interaction is unique. Adults can reach 45 feet (15 meters), calves around 15 feet (4.5 meters), and all encounters are on their terms. We follow strict guidelines, keeping groups small, moving calmly, and letting the whales approach us. Even if a whale doesn’t appear, the retreat offers rich experiences: ocean adventures, island exploration, and deep community connection.
Photography & Learning
Each day, you’ll receive hands-on guidance to elevate your creative vision:
Master composition, lighting, and storytelling in wildlife and landscape photography
Learn to anticipate movement and capture emotion in every shot
Receive support in editing and curating your images to reflect your style
Access personalised feedback, whether using a phone, camera, or simply observing
Develop confidence and skills to tell meaningful stories through your photography
Beyond photography, the retreat includes intentional circles and reflection sessions, designed to help you process your experiences, connect with yourself and others, and integrate the lessons and inspiration from each day.
Accommodation
You’ll be staying in shared bungalows, with the choice of a single bed or double bed. Private rooms are not available due to the intimate scale of the area, but shared accommodation fosters community, connection, and a sense of belonging.
Practical Details
Dates: 10th – 16th August 2026
Group Size: 5 guests
Pricing:
£5,000 – single bed in shared bungalow
£5,500 – double bed in shared bungalow
Deposit: £1,000 AUD to secure your spot
Discount: Returning guests receive £200 AUD off
Payment Plan: Monthly or quarterly instalments available
What’s Included
Four full days on the water swimming with humpback whales with an expert local guide
Snorkelling and kayak hire for exploring lagoons and swimming with rays and turtles
6 nights accommodation in shared bungalows
All meals on retreat days and nourishing snacks on excursions
Personalised photography tuition and hands-on workshops
Cultural and whale education from our expert team
Circles and reflection sessions to deepen connection and integration
Curated photo gallery from the retreat
Fitness Level
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. You’ll be boarding and exiting boats, swimming, and spending time in the ocean, so being comfortable in the water will enhance your experience. The retreat is accessible for all, but basic mobility ensures you can fully enjoy every adventure.
What’s Not Included
International flights to French Polynesia
Local flights to the retreat location
Breakfast & dinner for 5 out of 6 nights
Additional activities outside of the retreat itinerary
This retreat is an immersive, transformative experience, offering connection with whales, the ocean, and a small, like-minded community. It’s designed for those who want to explore, create, and connect deeply, leaving with memories, images, and stories that will stay with them for a lifetime.
Soulfocus Travels in French Polynesia!
SECURE YOUR SPACE BY EMAILING BELOW
Join the family..
