Have you ever thought what it would be like to live on the sea?
This is your invitation to give it a shot with other likeminded women!
Join us January 30 - February 6, 2027 for a 8-day, 7-night Reading Retreat in beautiful Maldives, where we’ll be living aboard a beautiful boat and island hopping through some of the most stunning waters in the world. This extended retreat gives you even more time to settle in, unwind, and fully embrace the rhythm of life at sea, with nothing on your agenda but reading, exploring, and enjoying where you are.
What to Expect
On our private boat, you’ll be cared for with:
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Comfortable accommodations on a liveaboard boat, surrounded by endless ocean views
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Chef-prepared meals served onboard throughout the trip
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Airport transfers to and from Malé International Airport
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A welcoming retreat host to take care of all the details
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Daily opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, island visits, and exploring local culture
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Uninterrupted reading time on deck, cozy corners to unwind, and plenty of space to relax
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A book exchange to spark new reads and conversations
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Small group size — up to 12 women — so you can form meaningful connections
Our flexible itinerary is designed to balance relaxation and adventure. You choose how much (or how little) you want to do.
Is This Retreat for You?
This trip is thoughtfully created for women travelers who want:
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To slow down and unwind in a beautiful, warm location
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To dive into their TBR pile or discover new favorite reads
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To connect with a supportive group of book-loving women
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A hassle-free travel experience with expert planning and care
Whether you’re a solo traveler, coming with friends, or part of a book club, this retreat offers space to read, relax, and recharge at your own pace.
Pricing & Booking
Our retreats are priced based on room type. Some guests choose a private room for their own space and comfort, but a double occupancy room is always available for those open to sharing.
Standard Bunk Room:
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Private: $4,400
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Shared: $2,360 per person
Secure your spot with a 40% deposit.
Full balance due by November 22, 2026.
Deposits are non-refundable.
Retreat will be confirmed once 80% of spots are filled. If minimum numbers are not met, deposits can be refunded or applied to a future trip.
It's recommended to not book your flight until the retreat has been confirmed.
View ship & island images here!
Location & Accommodation
The Maldives offers a completely different kind of escape, where life slows down to the rhythm of the ocean and each day unfolds out on the water.
You’ll stay aboard a beautiful liveaboard boat, featuring:
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Comfortable guest cabins with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and thoughtfully designed spaces to relax
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Open-air decks and shaded lounge areas perfect for reading, sunbathing, and taking in endless ocean views
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Easy access to crystal-clear water for swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping throughout the trip
The entire boat is exclusively for our group, creating a private, intimate experience at sea
What's Included
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Professional retreat host & on-site support
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7 nights accommodation on the boat
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All meals, water, coffee and tea
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Round-trip airport transportation (MLE airport)
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Welcome bag and book exchange
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4 included optional group activities such as snorkeling, coral restoration and relaxing at a five star resort
What's Not Included
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Flights to and from Maldives
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Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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Off-site meals and drinks
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Tips for drivers, captain and deck crew, tour operators, and chefs
Sample Itinerary
(subject to change)
Day 1
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Arrival and group transfer from MLE Airport (meet at 2:30 pm for transfer)
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Boat check-in & welcome gift
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Tour and introductions with a group book exchange
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 3
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Breakfast
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Optional coral restoration
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Lunch on ship
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Relaxation and reading time
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 5
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Breakfast
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Day relaxing & enjoying a 5-star beach resort
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Chef-prepared dinner on the ship and evening at leisure
Day 7
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Breakfast
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Optional morning yoga
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Island hopping
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Group activity on ship
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Reading and relaxation time
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Chef-prepared dinner on the ship and evening at lesiure
Day 2
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Breakfast
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Island hopping
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Snorkeling
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Lunch on ship
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Relaxation and reading time
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 4
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Breakfast
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Optional morning yoga
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Island hopping
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Snorkeling
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Lunch on ship
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Reading and relaxation time
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 6
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Breakfast
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Island hopping
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Reading and relaxation time
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Chef-prepared dinner on the ship and evening at leisure
Day 8
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Breakfast
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Morning to enjoy the ship while we return to the marina
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Departure transfer to the airport at 11:00 am
Getting There
Fly into Velana International Airport (MLE), in Male, Maldives. Plan to arrive by 2:15 pm on January 30th to join the group shuttle departing at 2:30 pm. The marina is approximately a 1.25-hour drive from the airport.
If your arrival plans differ, please let us know. You may need to arrange your own transport.
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Lightweight, breathable clothing and swimwear
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A light sweater or jacket for breezy evenings on the water
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Water shoes for rocky shores and easy ocean access
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Snorkel gear if you prefer to use your own (equipment will also be provided onboard)
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Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen
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Your favorite books (and an eager reading spirit!)
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A book you enjoyed to exchange during dinner on night 1!
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Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
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Any medications or personal essentials
Towels, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryers, eye masks, and earplugs will be provided. A full packing list will be provided prior to departure.
And be sure to have extra room in your luggage for your gift bag and other bookish goodies!
What to Bring
Money & Spending
Most places in the Maldives accept both USD and credit cards—Visa and Mastercard are recommended. It’s also a good idea to carry around $50 USD in cash for small purchases or emergencies. You’re welcome to bring Maldivian Rufiyaa if you prefer, but there are ATMs at the airport where you can withdraw local currency once you arrive.
Group travel with Slow Travel Co. is all about ease and connection. Your Retreat Host will handle all logistics and coordination during the trip, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your experience. If you have questions or need help at any time, your host is just a message away!
Traveling as Part of a Group
Meal Plan & Dietary Restrictions
Each day begins with a light continental breakfast, and dinners are prepared by our private chef. Some lunches will be provided on our daytime excursions, but not all. If you have dietary restrictions, follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, or have severe allergies, please notify us at reservations@slowtravelco.com at least 30 days before departure so we can accommodate you.
All rooms are double occupancy with bunk beds. Unless you’re traveling with a friend or partner, we’ll pair you with a fellow retreat attendee. Occasionally, rooms with two beds are available, but this can’t be guaranteed. If you prefer privacy, you can upgrade to a single room for an additional fee.
To ensure a comfortable stay, please be considerate of your roommate regarding cleanliness and noise. Earplugs and eye masks will be provided. Travelers who use a CPAP machine or are aware of snoring may want to consider a single room upgrade.
Shared Rooms & Accommodations
Getting to Know the Group
Before the retreat, we’ll set up a private WhatsApp group so you can connect with your fellow travelers. Feel free to chat, share excitement, or arrange virtual meetups ahead of time!
Your Retreat Host is an experienced traveler and will manage all aspects of the trip — from planning to on-site coordination. She is your primary contact for questions or support before and during the retreat. After booking, expect a friendly welcome email with more details like packing tips and travel info.
Please note, your Retreat Host is not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you feel unwell, she can help direct you to local healthcare providers.
Your Group Leader & Support
Safety
While we take every precaution to ensure safe activities and excursions, please remember your own responsibility for personal safety. Avoid going out alone at night and follow all safety recommendations.
Travel insurance is required for this retreat. If you need recommendations on reliable providers, just reach out. We’re happy to help!
Travel Insurance
Medical & Health Requirements
All travelers must have valid medical insurance
before departure.
Late January through early February in the Maldives is one of the most beautiful times of year, with warm, sunny days and calm seas. Temperatures typically range from around 77°F (25°C) at night to 86°F (30°C) during the day, with low humidity and minimal rainfall. Expect plenty of sunshine and ideal conditions for being out on the water. Be sure to check the local forecast before packing so you can bring clothing suited for warm days and breezy evenings at sea.
Climate & What to Expect
House Guidelines
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Please be respectful of your roommate and fellow guests.
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No visitors or guests allowed at the villa without prior approval from the Retreat Host and your roommate.
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Help us keep the space safe and welcoming for everyone.
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No smoking.
