I CREATED THE MALDIVES THAT WILL CHANGE YOU FOREVER
”From birth, man carries the weight of gravity on his shoulders. He is bolted to earth. But man has only to sink beneath the surface and he is free.“
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
Signature Ocean Retreat
October 7–17
Dhigurah Island
Indian Ocean
Diving from zero (age 10+)
Swimming & snorkeling techniques
Whale sharks & manta rays
Professional team
Signature chef cuisine
Welcoming atmosphere (alcohol-free)
Photo & video, massage, nutritionist
Space is limited
DARIA KHARCHENKO — FOUNDER OF THE PROJECT, EVENT PRODUCER, SCUBA & FREEDIVING INSTRUCTOR
”I am absolutely unhappy out of the water. It is like being in heaven and then being cast down to earth.“
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
In international tourism since 2013
In professional scuba diving since 2016 (PADI IDC Staff Instructor)
Event producer across Russia, Maldives, Mexico, Greece, and Indonesia
5,000+ scuba dives across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans
10 years living in tropical destinations
Languages: Russian, English, Spanish, Greek
A signature retreat means a truly personal approach:
– I teach my guests to swim from zero
– I personally guide both adults and children underwater
– I ensure your safety at every step
– I create an environment where you feel seen, supported, and understood
DARIA KHARCHENKO — FOUNDER OF THE PROJECT, EVENT PRODUCER, SCUBA & FREEDIVING INSTRUCTOR
”I am absolutely unhappy out of the water. It is like being in heaven and then being cast down to earth.“
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
In international tourism since 2013
In professional scuba diving since 2016 (PADI IDC Staff Instructor)
Event producer across Russia, Maldives, Mexico, Greece, and Indonesia
5,000+ scuba dives across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans
10 years living in tropical destinations
Languages: Russian, English, Spanish, Greek
A signature retreat means a truly personal approach:
– I teach my guests to swim from zero
– I personally guide both adults and children underwater
– I ensure your safety at every step
– I create an environment where you feel seen, supported, and understood
About me
I’m a scuba diving instructor, an event producer, and someone who after 12 years of living internationally feels equally at home both underwater and on land.
I’ve worked in five countries, speak multiple languages, and know how to adapt to different cultures while building genuine connections with people from all walks of life.
The ocean has taught me responsibility, calmness, and precision. Life on land has taught me how to create, organize, and lead — from managing teams and complex projects to designing fully curated experiences from start to finish.
Over the years, I’ve developed strong communication skills, the ability to truly listen, guide, and support others — and to bring structure and clarity even in constantly changing environments across different countries and cultures.
But what truly connects every chapter of my journey is my love for people, travel, and the ocean.
And it’s this love that inspires me to create experiences, spaces, and journeys where people can feel confident, free, and genuinely happy.
I’ve worked in five countries, speak multiple languages, and know how to adapt to different cultures while building genuine connections with people from all walks of life.
The ocean has taught me responsibility, calmness, and precision. Life on land has taught me how to create, organize, and lead — from managing teams and complex projects to designing fully curated experiences from start to finish.
Over the years, I’ve developed strong communication skills, the ability to truly listen, guide, and support others — and to bring structure and clarity even in constantly changing environments across different countries and cultures.
But what truly connects every chapter of my journey is my love for people, travel, and the ocean.
And it’s this love that inspires me to create experiences, spaces, and journeys where people can feel confident, free, and genuinely happy.
Full support in a group chat
Personalized guidance on flight selection
Scuba diving insurance
Beginner-friendly swimming training
Snorkeling practice before the main program
Freediving masterclass for advanced guests
Sunrises & sunsets
Morning runs
Island bike rides
Night swims under the stars
Marine ecology workshop
Musical evenings
Maldivian Boduberu drum show
Sandbank experience
Day at a luxury resort
Picnic on a deserted island
Scuba diving from zero + PRO-level courses
3 guided dives (up to 12 meters)
1 instructor + 1 dive master per group of 4 beginners
Snorkeling with whale sharks & reef sharks
Swimming with manta rays & sea turtles
Coral reef snorkeling
Round-trip transfer from the airport to the island (1–1.5 hours by speedboat)
“Body & Soul” massage
Photo & video (drone, land & underwater)
Signature chef-crafted menu
“The happiness of the bee and the dolphin is to exist. For man it is to know that and to wonder at it.”
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
PROGRAM
“The best way to observe a fish is to become a fish.”
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
DAY IV
OCTOBER 10
DEPTH
Golden sunrise
6:00
Motivational run
6:15
Crystal-clear swim
7:00
Nourishing breakfast
8:00
Dive I – Whale Sharks
9:30
Warm lunch
13:00
Post-dive debrief
14:00
Sunset photoshoot
17:00
Refined dinner
19:00
Musical evening
20:30
Deep sleep
22:00
Program
„And let us remember too that life, in its exuberance, always succeeds in overflowing the narrow limits within which man thinks he can confine it.“
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
Professionally designed
SAFETY & EXPERTISE
Scuba diving insurance
HIGH STANDARDS
Trusted professionals
EXPERT TEAM
Assistance with travel insurance
FULL SUPPORT
Daria’s 5,000+ dives underwater
EXPERIENCE
Individual approach
PERSONAL GUIDANCE
Multilingual international instructors
RELIABILITY
Swimming training from zero
STRUCTURE
Certified equipment
QUALITY CONTROL
Alcohol-free ocean retreat
RESPONSIBLE APPROACH
PADI Dive Center (Professional Association of Diving Instructors, since 1966)
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
Internet
4G / 5G
Electricity
220–240V
Beaches
White coral sand
Ocean
Indian
Climate
Tropical
Heritage
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Language
Dhivehi
Currency
Maldivian Rufiyaa
Religion
Islam
Time Zone
GMT+5
Airport
Velana Airport
Flights
Direct available
Visa
Not required
Capital
Malé
THE REAL MALDIVES
THE HEART OF THE MALDIVES
These islands are grouped into 26 atolls, with only about 200 inhabited. The rest remain untouched, home to private resorts or completely uninhabited — preserving the raw beauty of this unique destination.
The Maldives are made up of around 1,100 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean — the country’s greatest natural treasure.
WORLD-CLASS DIVING
Here life naturally slows down and the presence of the ocean is felt in every moment.
It’s considered one of the best places in the world for diving and snorkeling, thanks to calm conditions, exceptional visibility, and constant access to the underwater world.
The Maldives are home to some of the clearest waters on Earth, vibrant coral reefs, and year-round encounters with incredible marine life — whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles.
DHIGURAH ISLAND
We intentionally choose a local island instead of a resort.
For us freedom of movement, flexibility, and independence matter more than strict hotel rules, schedules, and layers of management.
For us freedom of movement, flexibility, and independence matter more than strict hotel rules, schedules, and layers of management.
A local island with one of the longest beaches in the Maldives and access to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots.
LEVEL OF CARE & TASTE
This allows us to offer a truly personalized experience — giving attention to every guest and creating a signature culinary journey with our private chef. It’s a level of care and flavor that simply isn’t possible in traditional resorts.
NATURE & OCEAN
Crystal-clear water
Coral reefs
Sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks
Ideal conditions for first dives
Coral reefs
Sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks
Ideal conditions for first dives
ISLAND ATMOSPHERE
Safe
Welcoming
Quiet, lush jungle
No loud parties
Respectful local culture
Welcoming
Quiet, lush jungle
No loud parties
Respectful local culture
WHY IT’S PERFECT FOR US
Stunning white-sand beaches
Gentle entry into the ocean
Snorkeling right from the shore
Frequent whale shark encounters
Well-developed diving infrastructure
Gentle entry into the ocean
Snorkeling right from the shore
Frequent whale shark encounters
Well-developed diving infrastructure
This is where safety, untouched nature, and the feeling of the real Maldives come together.
PRICING
If for any reason the destination becomes unavailable, or if you decide not to join at least one month before the retreat, your deposit will be fully refunded. We want you to book your Maldives experience with ease, confidence, and a sense of joyful anticipation.
“Sometimes we are lucky enough to know that our lives have been changed, to discard the old, embrace the new, and run headlong down an immutable course.”
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
Shower gel, shampoo, conditioner
Towels (+ beach towels)
Safe, hairdryer, kettle, iron
Group drone filming
Group underwater filming
Personal photoshoot
Massage session
Bicycle rentals
Swimming lesson
Water activity program
Chef-prepared meals
24/7 team care
Guest house accommodation
Round-trip airport transfer
Full online support
All packages include
Nutritionist consultation
Personal drone filming
Resort water activities
Personal photoshoot
Personal underwater filming
Scuba diving courses
Private freediving lessons
Massage sessions
Private swimming lessons
Life is full of surprises but we can promise these value-added services provided
GUEST REVIEWS
Maldives
October 18-28, 2025
October 18-28, 2025
Denis V.
Anna A.
Katerina M.
Irina B.
“If we were logical, the future would be bleak, indeed. But we are more than logical. We are human beings, and we have faith, and we have hope, and we can work”
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
GUEST REVIEWS
NAME
Daria Astro
DATE
7/10/2026
SEAT
1A
FLIGHT
MALDIVES
Getting closer to your Dream Journey day by day!
Your ticket to the Maldives
BOARDING PASS 7OC2026
Gate 1
Maldives
October 18-28, 2025
October 18-28, 2025
Нина С.
Алексей Б.
Муза М.
“If we were logical, the future would be bleak, indeed. But we are more than logical. We are human beings, and we have faith, and we have hope, and we can work”
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
GUEST REVIEWS
“If we were logical, the future would be bleak, indeed. But we are more than logical. We are human beings, and we have faith, and we have hope, and we can work”
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
Денис В.
Анна А.
NAME
Daria Astro
DATE
7/10/2026
SEAT
1A
FLIGHT
MALDIVES
Getting closer to your Dream Journey day by day!
Your ticket to the Maldives
BOARDING PASS 7OC2026
Gate 1
Катерина М.
Нина С.
Алексей Б.
Муза М.
Ирина Б.
Maldives
October 18-28, 2025
October 18-28, 2025
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
"No aquarium, no tank in marine land, however spacious it may be, can begin to duplicate the conditions of the sea. And no dolphin who inhabits one of those aquariums or one of those marine lands can be considered normal."
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
You can book our Maldives retreat online. All questions are handled by phone or through any messenger that is convenient for you (WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram, Instagram).
You submit a request. We get in touch with you and discuss all the details of the trip. You send us your passport information so we can prepare the agreement. We send it to you. You make a 50% deposit. We reserve your retreat spot for you. We help you choose and/or purchase the best flight tickets. We add you to the retreat group chat before the journey begins. And we stay in touch with you throughout the process.
You submit a request. We get in touch with you and discuss all the details of the trip. You send us your passport information so we can prepare the agreement. We send it to you. You make a 50% deposit. We reserve your retreat spot for you. We help you choose and/or purchase the best flight tickets. We add you to the retreat group chat before the journey begins. And we stay in touch with you throughout the process.
Yes. Your spot is secured with a 50% deposit. The remaining balance can be paid in installments according to an agreed schedule, no later than one month before the retreat begins. All terms are discussed and confirmed in advance.
We will help you find the best flight option for your route. We meet you at Velana International Airport, also known as Malé Airport.
Yes, absolutely. You can join the retreat without scuba diving and enjoy snorkeling only. This is still a full experience: the ocean, sharks, manta rays, turtles — all from the surface, in a comfortable and relaxed format.
Yes. Knowing how to swim is not required to join our retreat. We teach swimming from scratch so that you can enjoy the water with a mask and snorkel (wearing a flotation vest that keeps you on the surface). For scuba diving, however, it is important that you feel comfortable being in the water.
Yes, we do refund the deposit, but the refund terms depend on the timing of the cancellation. All refund conditions are discussed in detail before booking and clearly stated in advance, with no hidden terms.
The price includes accommodation, meals, transfers, the retreat program, dives, and full team support. Flights and personal expenses are not included. You will receive the full detailed list before booking.
This is very rare, but anything can happen in life. In that case, we always have solutions — we will either wait for you or suggest ways for you to catch up with the group, depending on the situation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We accept international payments. N26, Revolut, PayPal. We choose the most convenient one individually, depending on your country of residence and your available payment methods.
Yes. We advise you on the best routes and travel dates so your journey is smooth and convenient. Flight tickets are purchased by the participant independently.
We recommend arriving on the start date of the retreat — on the morning or afternoon of October 7. If it is more convenient for you to arrive earlier or leave later, this can be arranged individually.
We send recommended flights and time windows in advance after your retreat booking. This helps you plan your travel without stress or unnecessary waiting.
The price includes round-trip speedboat transfers between the airport and the island during the retreat dates. All transport details are shared with you in advance.
You need a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Within 96 hours before departure to the Maldives, each guest must complete an online immigration declaration. It is required only for entry; no form is required when leaving. No visa is required to enter the Maldives.
A standard travel medical insurance policy covering active leisure activities is required. We send you recommendations for arranging it in advance. We also arrange a separate scuba diving insurance policy for you ahead of time.
For the ocean and activities:
- A rash guard (a long-sleeve lycra/neoprene top OR a regular cotton shirt) — essential so you do not get sunburned in the water or under the sun
- Swimwear (2–3 sets are best)
- Mask and snorkel (optional, if you already have your own comfortable set)
- Light towels — a small towel is convenient to bring on the boat; beach towels will be provided at the guesthouse
- A dry bag (very convenient for bringing your phone on the boat without worrying about dropping it in the water)
- A waterproof phone case
- Sunscreen (SPF 30–50)
- After-sun cream or spray (aloe vera, panthenol)
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Light summer outfits (shorts, tank tops, skirts, sundresses)
- Bright outfits for photoshoots
- A hoodie or sweatshirt (airplanes are always very cold because of air conditioning)
- Beach flip-flops
- Light sandals
- Sneakers, best for travel day and the airport
- Notebook and pen (for insights and notes)
- A book to read under a palm tree
- A wonderful mood
Accommodation is arranged in advance. Shared accommodation with a roommate or single accommodation is available upon request and subject to availability. All details are discussed individually before the trip.
The accommodation is very comfortable. Rooms have either two single beds or one double bed. There is air conditioning and a fan, a kettle, dishes, a safe, an iron, an ironing board, a hair dryer, towels, and all essential personal care products.
Our guesthouse is located on the second beach line. The beach is about 100 meters away — a calm one-minute walk. This location allows for peace, comfort, and privacy, while the ocean is always close by.
Full meals prepared by the chef are included. Individual preferences can also be accommodated, including vegetarian meals.
Yes. The island has mobile service and internet. The speed is sufficient for communication, work, and messaging apps.
Panic is a normal reaction, and we are prepared for it. Dives are done gradually, with no pressure and no rush. The instructor is always nearby, monitoring your breathing and condition. At the slightest sign of discomfort, the dive is calmly stopped — with no stress and no “you have to keep going.”
This trip is exactly for you. We begin at the surface, in shallow water, and with snorkeling. No one dives deeper than they feel comfortable. You choose your own pace and depth — this is not an exam, but a safe introduction to the ocean..
Yes. Always. For each group of guests (3–4 people), there is 1 instructor and 1 divemaster. You are never left alone underwater, not for a single second. I personally supervise the process and stay in the water with the groups.
You give the signal, and the dive is stopped immediately. The instructor helps you calmly ascend, restore your breathing, and leave the water. No sudden movements, no pressure, and no “finish it since you started.”
The Maldives is one of the safest places in the world for diving. The sharks here are reef sharks — they are not aggressive, do not attack people, and do not pose a danger. All dives take place in proven locations under the supervision of professionals.
In more than 5,000 dives, I have never had a critical incident. Safety is built on professionalism, training, proper preparation, a calm pace, discipline, and attention to every participant. That is exactly why we work only with a trusted team and never overload the program.
The basic scuba diving skills are learned within one hour (briefing + shallow-water practice). During the retreat, you will calmly and gradually go through the training and complete your first confident dives under the guidance of an instructor.
Yes. If you would like, you can complete PADI Open Water international certification within 3 days. All details and requirements are discussed in advance so that you feel prepared and confident.
That is absolutely normal. You can stop diving at any time and continue participating in the retreat without pressure — enjoying the ocean, snorkeling, rest, the atmosphere, and the full program.
The program includes 3 dives, if underwater conditions allow. This is enough to safely and comfortably get acquainted with scuba diving and enjoy a full first experience.
Depth depends on your level of preparation. For beginners, the maximum is 12 meters. No one dives deeper than they feel comfortable with or beyond what is allowed by training standards. The actual depth also depends on the dive site — it may be 8 meters, it may be 10, but 12 meters is the maximum.
No. Scuba diving does not require special physical training. What matters more is calmness, willingness, and readiness to follow the instructor.
The minimum age according to scuba diving standards is 10 years old. There is no upper age limit — it depends on your health condition, which is discussed individually.
Adults, conscious travelers, and people who value quality, safety, and meaning. Women, men, and families join our retreats. People come for the experience, the ocean, and genuine connection — not for spending time at the bar.
It is a calm, rich format without chaos. There is movement, emotion, music, and dancing, but no late-night partying or overload. Everything happens in a comfortable rhythm, with respect for personal space.
No. The entire retreat is alcohol-free. This is important for safety, physical state, quality of diving, the general well-being of participants, and also because of the laws of the Maldives as a Muslim country.
Yes. The program includes morning movement, live communication, and evening conversations. Everything happens naturally, with no pressure and no obligations.
Yes. Every participant has their own space and the freedom to move at their own pace. You can socialize, or you can spend time alone with yourself.
Yes. Laundry service is available at the guesthouse.
Yes. The Maldives is a Muslim country, while also being tourism-oriented. Tourists are treated calmly and kindly as long as they follow basic rules of respect for local culture.
The rules are simple. In public places on local islands, modest clothing, respectful behavior, and respect for local traditions are recommended. On tourist beaches and boats, the rules are more relaxed.
Swimwear is allowed on tourist beaches (bikini beaches) and during ocean activities. Away from the beach, on local islands, women are recommended to cover their shoulders, stomach, and thighs — this is a matter of respect for the culture, not a strict prohibition.
Tourists are treated kindly and with respect. The Maldives is a country with a highly developed tourism industry, where guest safety and comfort are a priority.
Yes, absolutely. The Maldives is a safe country, and the retreat format includes constant support, a group environment, and care.
Yes, in most cases you can. It is important to let us know about your health in advance so that we can take it into account when planning the program. Each case is considered individually.
That is not a problem. You simply continue taking your medication as usual. The important thing is to bring enough medication with you for the entire trip.
Yes. Basic medical care is available on the island. If necessary, there is also the option of being referred to a larger medical center.
You will take away an experience that stays with you forever. New skills, confidence in the water, a calm state of mind, vivid memories, and the feeling that you did something meaningful for yourself — along with meeting new people.
Yes. The retreat is also perfect for those who simply want to relax, change their surroundings, and spend time by the ocean. There is no mandatory “inner work” here — everyone takes exactly what they need from the experience.
This is not a mass-market tour, but a small signature format. You receive personal attention, professional underwater support, a thoughtfully designed program, genuine connection, and a professional team — things that standard tourist trips simply do not offer.
PROFESSIONAL TEAM
"If I were to express the meaning of my life in a few words, I would write: I dreamed of liberating man from the bonds of Earth—of inventing the means to enable him to break free from the boundaries established by nature."
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
PROFESSIONAL TEAM
"If I were to express the meaning of my life in a few words, I would write: I dreamed of liberating man from the bonds of Earth—of inventing the means to enable him to break free from the boundaries established by nature."
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
PROFESSIONAL TEAM
"If I were to express the meaning of my life in a few words, I would write: I dreamed of liberating man from the bonds of Earth—of inventing the means to enable him to break free from the boundaries established by nature."
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
TIME FOR THE OCEAN. TIME FOR THE MALDIVES
"When one man, for whatever reason, has the opportunity to lead an extraordinary life, he has no right to keep it to himself"
Jacques-Yves Cousteau
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