Top 10 Questions You Should Ask Before Booking a Marine Wildlife Retreat

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sharing the ocean with wild dolphins, sea turtles, or manta rays. But not all marine retreats are created equal and knowing what to look for can make the difference between a meaningful, ethical experience and a disappointing one.

Whether it’s your first time snorkeling, freediving, or swimming in open water, choosing the right retreat ensures you’re safe, supported, and truly connected to nature. Here are the top 10 questions you should ask before booking a marine wildlife retreat, and how Bianca Roams Expeditions make each answer easy.

1. Is the Retreat Eco-Friendly and Ethical?

This should always be your first question. Responsible retreats put marine life first — no chasing, touching, or feeding wildlife. Look for programs that teach respectful observation and limit group sizes to minimize impact.

At Bianca Roams, we follow strict “leave no trace” principles and collaborate with local conservation groups to ensure every encounter benefits the ocean.

2. Are Guides Certified and Experienced?

Safety and knowledge matter, especially for first-time swimmers or snorkelers. Certified guides don’t just know the water, they know how to help you stay calm, confident, and safe around wildlife.

Each Bianca Roams expedition is led by ocean professionals, from freediving instructors to marine biologists, so you can explore with full trust and peace of mind.

3. What Level of Swimming or Diving Experience Do I Need?

If you’re new to the ocean, look for retreats that welcome all levels. The best programs offer pre-trip guidance, gear fitting, and beginner sessions.

Our expeditions are designed for everyone from first-time snorkelers to certified freedivers. You’ll always be supported in and out of the water.

4. How Close Will I Get to Marine Animals?

Wildlife encounters should happen on their terms. Ethical retreats let animals approach naturally, without intrusion.

With Bianca Roams, you’ll learn to blend into the water calmly — letting dolphins, turtles, and rays come close if they choose. These moments of quiet connection often become the most powerful memories.

5. What Kind of Accommodation and Meals Are Included?

Comfort matters, especially after a long day in the ocean. Ask if your stay includes nourishing meals, sustainable lodging, and space to unwind.

Our expeditions offer cozy island stays, locally prepared meals, and time to rest because connecting with nature also means caring for yourself.

6. How Many People Are in Each Group?

Smaller groups mean safer dives and deeper connections. Large tours can feel rushed and stressful, especially for beginners.

That’s why Bianca Roams expeditions are intentionally small and intimate allowing for personalized attention, relaxed pacing, and real community.

7. What’s the Daily Schedule Like?

A good retreat should balance ocean time with rest, exploration, and reflection. Overpacked schedules can lead to exhaustion or overwhelm.

Our days usually start with morning movement or breathwork, followed by gentle ocean sessions, island adventures, and sunset downtime the perfect flow between adventure and calm.

8. Is the Retreat Suitable for Solo Travelers?

Many ocean travelers go solo seeking connection through shared experiences. Ask if your retreat welcomes individuals and creates a safe, supportive atmosphere.

Bianca Roams expeditions are community-focused. Most of our guests come alone and leave with lifelong friends. You’ll instantly feel at home, even thousands of miles from it.

9. What’s Included (and What’s Not)?

Before booking, check what’s covered such as gear, transfers, meals, and guided sessions. Transparency helps you plan your budget and avoid surprises.

Our retreats always list clear inclusions upfront, from equipment to daily activities, so all you need to focus on is showing up and breathing in that first ocean morning.

10. How Does This Experience Help Me Grow?

The best marine wildlife retreats are more than a vacation, they’re a reset. They teach patience, awareness, and connection.

At Bianca Roams, each expedition blends mindful travel, ocean education, and community helping you return home grounded, inspired, and a little more in love with the sea.

Ready to Experience It for Yourself?

If you’re new to swimming, snorkeling, or diving, there’s no better way to start than with an expert-led experience that’s built on safety, respect, and awe.

Join our next Bahamas Marine Wildlife Expedition – January 2026 (Jan 14–18 or Jan 18–22) and discover what it feels like to meet the ocean on its own terms.

✨ Learn, breathe, and explore — safely, ethically, and with heart.
👉 See expedition details here.