Retreat Packing List + Tips Guide 🐋
Aloha team! We put this guide together so you can feel totally ready, comfortable, and excited for the adventure ahead!
🤿 Snorkelling Gear — Required
Dive Mask: A high-quality, anti-fog mask is a must. Choose one that fits snugly and comfortably — black-framed masks are great for reducing surface glare.
Snorkel: Go for a dry-top snorkel if possible, or one with a splash guard to prevent seawater from getting in as you surface and breathe. It makes your time in the water so much more relaxed and enjoyable!
Fins: Long fins give you more power in the open ocean, but if you're new to them, opt for medium-length. Avoid stiff plastic ones if you can — flexibility is key for comfort.
Wetsuit (2-3mm, full-body recommended): While the water in Mo’orea is tropical, it can feel cooler after multiple swims. A full suit offers warmth, sun protection, and keeps you comfy during long sessions in the water.
*Top Tip: Practice Before You Arrive*
We highly recommend trying out your snorkel gear in a pool or the ocean before arriving in Mo’orea. Make sure your mask fits well, your snorkel feels comfortable, and you’re confident swimming with your fins. The last thing you want is to be distracted by gear issues when you could be focused on the magic of swimming with whales! Don’t worry — once you’re here, we’ll support you with any adjustments. Kelley is a certified PADI Divemaster and will be on hand to help with fit checks and gear tweaks during our swim days.
Need gear suggestions? Shoot us an email — we’re happy to recommend our favourite brands!
Optional but Highly Recommended 🕶️
● Reef-Safe Sunscreen (SPF 30–50+): Protect your skin and the ocean. Choose mineral-based, reef-friendly formulas.
● Polarized Sunglasses: Helps reduce glare on the water — easier to spot whales!
● Hat/Cap: Shade that lovely face from the intense midday sun.
● Lip Balm with SPF: Your lips will thank you.
● Aloe Vera or After-Sun Lotion: Perfect for soothing post-ocean skin.
● Lightweight Windbreaker/Boat Jacket: Boat rides can be breezy, especially after your swim. Neoprene zip-ups are amazing, but any windbreaker works!
Clothing Suggestions 🩴
● A hoodie or sweatshirt: Nights can be surprisingly cool in August.
● Lightweight long pants: Great for evenings, excursions, or dinner.
● Poncho Towel or Changing Towel: Stay warm between swims (but remember, boats get wet — avoid thick cotton towels).
● Flip-Flops or Crocs: Easy on/off for hopping in and out of the boat.
● Dry Bag (5–10L): Keep valuables dry and sand-free while on the boat.
Ocean & Travel Essentials 🌊
● Seasickness Relief: Dramamine or Gravol — even if you don’t usually get motion sick, the open ocean can surprise you. Ginger chews also help.
● Power Bank / Portable Charger: Limited charging on the boat — bring your own!
● Plug Adapter (Type E + Type B): For French Polynesia sockets.
● Reusable Water Bottle: Hydration is key (and eco-friendly too!).
● Snacks: Bring your favourites, especially if you have dietary needs. Think protein bars,
trail mix, or dried fruit.
● Lightweight Day Backpack: For land excursions and exploring the island.
Camera & Filming Gear Tips 📸
● GoPro: Use a short pole handle — head straps don’t work in the water and long poles aren’t permitted during swims as they may disturb the safe distance between us and the whales.
● Underwater Housing: New iPhones/Samsungs in proper housings work great!
● Compact cameras with underwater housing (like Olympus TG-6) are also fantastic
options if you’re wanting high-quality footage.
Final Packing Tip 🌺
Bring a sense of openness and adventure! Mo’orea and the whales will meet you with their own kind of magic — and we promise, it’s unlike anything you’ve felt before.