Trip Dates: June 8-12, 2026
Trip Leader: Shev
Scuba MAR Maids Dive School Training Retreat
Instead of a dive vacation, we hosted a five-day Dive Training Retreat focused on building confidence, skills, and independence underwater.
It was also a milestone for our community. This was our very first coed training retreat, welcoming both Scuba MAR Maids and our first “MAR Men” to learn alongside one another.
Over five days, divers challenged themselves, learned new skills, and proved that continuing your dive education can be every bit as fun as a vacation.
A Retreat Built Around Learning
Each morning, the group headed into the jungles surrounding Tulum to train in different cenotes.
Each cenote offered something different, allowing students to practice skills in a variety of environments while surrounded by one of the most beautiful underwater landscapes in the world.
For Rescue students, it meant realistic scenarios and problem solving.
For Advanced students, it meant expanding their comfort zone.
For Open Water students, it meant beginning their diving journey somewhere truly unforgettable, where many other divers will never see!
Beyond the Certification
One thing that makes our retreats different is what happens after the dives.
Every afternoon, the group came together for workshops designed to make everyone stronger, safer, and more independent divers.
This retreat included:
- Basic scuba gear maintenance
- Diver responsibility and safety
These sessions gave divers practical knowledge they can use long after the trip is over.
Understanding how equipment works, recognizing potential problems before they become emergencies, and taking ownership of your own diving are all part of becoming a confident diver.
Because great divers are built both underwater and on the surface.
Best Part of the Day
Once the training wrapped up each afternoon, it was time to relax.
Ice cream quickly became a daily tradition.
Then everyone gathered around the pool to cool off, chat about the day’s dives, and enjoy a slower pace before dinner.
These quiet afternoons became just as valuable as the training itself.
Friendships grew, stories were shared, and confidence continued to build outside the classroom.
Exploring Tulum Together
Evenings were reserved for exploring one of our favourite parts of Tulum: the food.
One night the group enjoyed a mini food tour through Las Palmas, sampling a variety of local favourites.
Another evening featured a traditional Mexican dinner at La Ponderosa, where everyone gathered around a long table to celebrate another successful day of training.
As always, some of the best conversations happened over great food.
Ending on a High Note
The retreat wrapped up with a rooftop celebration overlooking Tulum.
After days of learning, practicing, and challenging themselves, the group celebrated their accomplishments together with dinner, certificates, and a private karaoke party.
It was the perfect ending to a week that was equal parts education, adventure, and fun.
Why We Created These Retreats
The retreat wrapped up with a rooftop celebration overlooking Tulum.
After days of learning, practicing, and challenging themselves, the group celebrated their accomplishments together with dinner, certificates, and a private karaoke party.
It was the perfect ending to a week that was equal parts education, adventure, and fun.
