Merfolk Getaway Philippines – Turtles, Whale Sharks and Special Guest Mermaid Celine
Dauin, Negros Oriental, May 13 – May 20, 2028
The Merfolk Getaway Philippines invites merpeople from around the world to experience an unforgettable week of ocean magic. Dive into crystal-clear waters and swim alongside gentle whale sharks, graceful sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs. Create breathtaking underwater memories while connecting with a welcoming community that shares your passion for the sea.
As a special highlight, Mermaid Celine from the Netherlands will join us as our exclusive guest. Furthermore, she will host an inspiring workshop designed especially for this magical retreat. Throughout the week, you’ll stay at the award-winning luxury Atmosphere Resort in Dauin, on Negros Oriental. From there, we’ll explore some of the Philippines’ most spectacular underwater destinations together.
Merfolk Getaway Highlights
Luxury Resort Stay: Relax for seven nights at the award-winning Atmosphere Resort in Dauin during your unforgettable Merfolk Getaway in the Philippines.
Professional Mermaid Coaching: Develop your mermaiding, freediving, and underwater modelling skills with expert guidance throughout this unique mermaid trip.
Exclusive Special Guest: Meet Mermaid Celine from the Netherlands, an internationally recognised professional mermaid, performer, and instructor.
Mermaid Fantasy Makeup Workshop: Learn how to create magical mermaid looks with Mermaid Celine using professional makeup, biodegradable glitter, face gems, shells, pearls, and fantasy accessories.
Colourful Coral Reef Photoshoots: Create breathtaking underwater images while exploring vibrant coral reefs filled with tropical marine life.
Swim with Sea Turtles: Experience unforgettable encounters with graceful sea turtles in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful marine sanctuaries.
Whale Shark Adventure: Swim alongside gentle whale sharks during an unforgettable excursion included in your Merpeople adventure.
Professional Underwater Photography: Capture stunning underwater photos and cinematic videos that preserve the magic of your Merfolk Getaway Philippines forever.
Global Merfolk Community: Connect with mermaids and mermen from around the world and build lifelong friendships through shared adventures and unforgettable experiences.
Optional Scuba Diving: Add guided scuba dives to discover even more colourful reefs and fascinating marine life around Negros Oriental.
Safety Always Comes First: Enjoy every adventure with confidence as our experienced team prioritises safety during every activity and photoshoot.
What to expect at a Merfolk Getaway
Watch videos from previous Mermaid Retreats around the world. Although 2028 marks our very first Merfolk Getaway in the Philippines, these videos will nevertheless give you an excellent insight into what you can expect. Above all, they’ll showcase the atmosphere, adventures, friendships, underwater photoshoots, and unforgettable experiences that make every Mermaid Week so special.
What’s Included in Your Mermaid Trip?
Pre-Trip Consultation – Receive personal guidance from the Mermaid Week team about wardrobe, hair, and makeup for underwater modeling. You’ll know exactly how to prepare for your dream retreat.
Airport Transfers – Enjoy a smooth and hassle-free journey to and from the resort. Airport transfers between Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport (DGT) and Atmosphere Resort are included in your Merfolk Getaway package.
Accommodation – Spend seven unforgettable nights at the luxury Atmosphere Resort in Dauin. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Philippines’ spectacular underwater world.
Complimentary Wi-Fi – Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout the resort.
Refreshments – Enjoy complimentary filtered drinking water throughout the resort, plus fresh fruit, tea, and coffee in your room.
Meals – Start each day with a buffet and à la carte breakfast. Plus, share one memorable beach BBQ dinner with the group.
Daily Activities – Enjoy a varied program throughout the week, featuring mermaiding sessions, underwater photoshoots, ocean adventures, and exciting excursions.
Mermaid Fantasy Makeup Workshop – Elevate your mermaid transformation with Mermaid Celine as you design a breathtaking fantasy look using professional makeup, biodegradable glitter, sparkling face gems, pearls, shells, and carefully selected accessories.
Safety Support – Our qualified and certified team ensures the highest level of safety throughout all water activities so you can relax and enjoy every moment.
Professional Group Photo Shoots – Take part in multiple underwater, resort, and on-location group photo shoots throughout the week. Afterwards, you’ll receive at least six professionally edited group photos, carefully selected by our team.
Dedicated Individual Photo Shoots – Enjoy two exclusive individual photoshoots in stunning locations. After the retreat, you’ll receive access to your online gallery, where you can choose four professionally edited individual photos.
Unforgettable Excursions – Explore the incredible beauty of the Philippines with excursions to Apo Island’s colourful coral reefs, the famous whale sharks of Oslob, and the refreshing natural jungle pools of Forest Camp.
Marine Park Fees – All marine park and environmental fees for the included excursions are covered in your retreat package.
Cinematic Highlight Video – Relive the magic of your Mermaid Retreat with a professionally edited highlight video featuring the week’s most unforgettable moments. The video will also be published on our YouTube channel, giving you a beautiful keepsake to share with friends and family.
Not Included
International Flights – Return flights to and from Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport (DGT), Philippines, are not included.
Scuba Diving – Optional dive packages, scuba courses, and rental equipment are available at an additional cost. Please see the “optional extras” section below for details.
Travel Insurance – Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended and not included.
Meals & Beverages – Lunches, dinners (except the included Beach BBQ), drinks, and all food not listed under “included” are at your own expense.
Photography Extras – Additional individual photos and extra photo shoots are available at an additional cost.
Videography Extras – Personalised video packages, including individual highlight videos and special themed shoots, are available at an additional cost.
Who is the MerFolk Getaway suitable for?
To join the Merfolk Getaway Philippines, you should already have basic mermaiding experience and feel confident swimming in open water. Although you don’t need an official mermaid certification, you must be able to swim safely in your tail. In addition, good swimming skills and a reasonable level of fitness are important, as mermaiding can be physically demanding. Furthermore, previous snorkeling or freediving experience is highly recommended.
Scuba diving certification is not required. However, certified divers are welcome to book optional dive trips and discover even more of the Philippines’ spectacular underwater world.
Throughout the retreat, our experienced team will always prioritise your safety during every activity, photoshoot, and ocean adventure. At the same time, we encourage you to listen to your body and participate at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Above all, we welcome kind, supportive, and open-minded people who enjoy creativity, connection, and shared adventures. Together, we’ll create a positive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, encouraged, and included.
Whether you’re young or young at heart, people of all ages, body types, backgrounds, and genders are welcome. However, participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Meet our Team
Since 2013 we have been turning ocean dreams into reality through international Mermaid Weeks and underwater adventures around the world. Over the years, we’ve received recognition and awards, but what truly fills our hearts is the laughter, friendship, and deep connection that grow within our community. Our team is passionate, kind, and full of humor, creating a safe and inspiring space where everyone is welcome and supported.
Kat
With over a decade as a professional mermaid, underwater stuntwoman, and instructor trainer, Mermaid Kat brings her deep love for the ocean to every retreat she leads. Since making her childhood dream come true in 2012, she has performed internationally in films, TV commercials, and music videos, inspiring thousands to reconnect with their own inner magic. As a passionate and heart-centered mentor, Kat creates a warm, supportive space where participants feel safe to explore, express, and grow. Through her gentle guidance, laughter, and embodied ocean wisdom, she helps others fulfil their mermaid dreams and discover freedom, confidence, and joy beneath the waves.
Ian
Ian Gray is Kat’s husband and one of our talented underwater photographers. An award-winning artist behind the lens, he has been part of our international retreats since 2013, capturing the magic of mermaids in some of the world’s most breathtaking locations. With his calm and encouraging energy, he creates a relaxed atmosphere that helps participants feel confident and free in front of the camera. Ian loves working with people and witnessing their transformation throughout the retreat — seeing them grow, open up, and rediscover their light beneath the surface. His imagery reflects that journey, telling stories of beauty, freedom, and connection with the sea.
Melli
Melli joined Mermaid Week in 2022 and quickly became part of our family. She films all the behind-the-scenes and highlight footage during our trips, ensuring that every moment is beautifully preserved. Melli is also a swimming teacher and Mermaid Instructor at the Mermaid Kat Academy in Germany. With her kind, patient energy, she helps participants feel at ease both in front of the camera and in the water.
Jens
Jens has been part of Mermaid Week since 2021 and has become an irreplaceable member of our team. He is one of our underwater photographers, creating breathtaking portraits and cinematic moments beneath the surface. Jens also accompanies Mermaid Kat Academy courses in Germany as an underwater photographer, capturing the magic of mermaids in their natural element.
Jens and Melli Drygalla are the creative duo behind Visionsea.de. They capture the beauty of our Mermaid Weeks on land, underwater, and even from the air. Both are professional photographers, videographers, certified divers, and trained lifeguards, combining safety, creativity, and heart in everything they do. Together, Jens and Melli create a stunning highlight film of each retreat, which will be published on our YouTube channel. Everyone will appear in the video, capturing the shared memories of our magical week. In addition, participants can book personalized video options for a unique film featuring their own underwater journey.
Meet Our Special Guest – Mermaid Celine
We’re incredibly excited to welcome Mermaid Celine as our Special Guest during the Merfolk Getaway Philippines! Originally from Belgium and now based in the Netherlands, Celine is an internationally recognised professional mermaid, underwater performer, instructor, and talented fantasy artist.
As a very special highlight, Celine will host an exclusive Mermaid Fantasy Makeup Workshop. She’ll teach you how to create breathtaking, fantasy-inspired mermaid looks. She’ll also bring professional makeup, biodegradable glitter, pearls, face gems, shells, and magical accessories. Therefore, you can create an extraordinary look before your photoshoots.
Whether you imagine an ocean queen, mystical sea siren, or sparkling fantasy mermaid, Celine will help bring your vision to life.
Your luxury home during the Merfolk Getaway
During the Merfolk Getaway Philippines, you’ll stay at the beautiful Atmosphere Resort in Dauin, one of the Philippines’ premier luxury beach resorts. Nestled between lush tropical gardens and the ocean, it’s the perfect place to relax after unforgettable days in the water.
Our group will stay in spacious, air-conditioned suites designed for comfort and relaxation. Every room offers modern amenities, stylish interiors, and everything you need to feel at home throughout the week.
Between adventures, unwind by the swimming pools, stroll through the tropical gardens, book a spa treatment, or simply relax with ocean views. The resort also offers excellent restaurants, a beachfront yoga platform, and a welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements the Merfolk Getaway Philippines.
Pick your favourite room
Deluxe Suite
The Deluxe Suites combine tropical charm with modern comfort, featuring stylish furnishings, air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a private terrace overlooking the lush gardens. Choose between a king bed or twin beds, with the option to add a third bed, making them ideal for couples, friends, or small groups.
Premium Suite
The Premium Suite offers even more space and luxury. Relax in stylish surroundings with elegant furnishings and a private terrace overlooking the lush tropical gardens. An additional bed can be added, allowing the suite to accommodate up to three guests.
Penthouse
Experience the ultimate luxury in the Penthouse, the most spacious accommodation available during the Merfolk Getaway Philippines. Featuring two beautifully appointed bedrooms, two modern bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a generous living and dining area, and a large private terrace, it offers plenty of space to relax between adventures. The Penthouse is the perfect choice for friends travelling together or for solo travellers who look forward to sharing this unforgettable experience with fellow merfolk. Spend your evenings chatting about the day’s adventures, planning tomorrow’s photoshoots, or simply enjoying the tropical atmosphere together in your own private retreat.
Pricing – Mermaid Retreat Philippines
All prices are per person, per week, and are based on the accommodation and participation option you select. Every accommodation option includes seven nights’ accommodation and daily breakfast. Additional meals, activities, excursions, workshops, photoshoots, and photography depend on your selected participation option.
Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend booking early, as previous retreats have sold out quickly. To calculate your total price, simply add the price of your accommodation to your chosen participation option.
A USD 1,000 deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your place. The remaining balance is due by 31st December 2026.
Why not extend your stay for another week? Join our Model Portfolio Retreat from 20–27 May 2028, or simply enjoy another week to relax and explore the beautiful Philippines at your own pace.
First – Choose Your Room
Deluxe Suite:
Single occupancy rate in Deluxe Suite – USD 3,000
Double occupancy rate per person in Deluxe Suite – USD 1,900
Triple occupancy rate per person in Deluxe Suite – USD 1,600
Premium Suite:
Single occupancy rate in Premium Suite – USD 3,200
Double occupancy rate per person in Premium Suite – USD 2,100
Triple occupancy rate per person in Premium Suite – USD 1,700
Penthouse:
Double occupancy rate per person in Penthouse – USD 2,350
Triple occupancy rate per person in Penthouse – USD 1,850
Quadruple occupancy rate per person in Penthouse – USD 1,650
Second – Choose Your Participation
Merfolk Retreat – USD 1,800
Includes all mermaid-related activities, excursions, workshops, photoshoots, and photography as listed under the “What’s Included” section.
Companion Adventure – USD 900
Perfect for accompanying partners, friends, or family members who would like to enjoy the adventure, excursions, and group activities without participating in the mermaid workshops or photoshoots.
Accommodation Only – No Retreat Activities
Ideal for companions who prefer not to participate in the Merfolk Getaway activities or excursions. Instead, enjoy Atmosphere Resort at your own pace, book optional scuba dives or dive courses, indulge in a spa treatment, go snorkeling, or explore the local area.
You’re excited to join this adventure but can’t pay the full deposit right now?
No problem! Simply get in touch with us, and we’ll arrange a payment plan that works for everyone.
Special offer!
Experience Two Unforgettable Retreats and Save!
Join us for two unforgettable weeks! Experience Mermaid Week (13–20 May 2028) followed by the Model Portfolio Retreat (20–27 May 2028) and save USD 200 when you book both retreats together.
Please note that your preferred room occupancy is a request and depends on the final group composition. While we’ll do our best to accommodate your preference, room assignments are based on availability, participant numbers, and gender. For example, if only one male participant books shared accommodation while all other participants are female, we cannot assign mixed-gender rooms.
If your requested room occupancy cannot be accommodated, we may need to assign you to a different occupancy option. In this case, the accommodation price will be adjusted accordingly. We will always discuss any necessary changes with you before confirming your booking.
Optional Extras
We also offer a variety of optional extras to make your experience even more special. From personal photo and video shoots to exclusive certifications and unique underwater sessions, you can choose any add-ons that suit your interests. Below you can see some of the additional options available. A few weeks before the retreat, we’ll reach out to see if you’d like to book any of these—there’s no need to decide or pay for them now.
Mermaid Portrait Session
Step into your mermaid tail for a dedicated 30-minute portrait session at Atmosphere Resort, along the beach, or at another picturesque location. This is the perfect opportunity to add beautiful above-water mermaid images to your collection.
Shoot – USD 150 (includes one edited photo)
Extra Open Water Photo Session
Add another dedicated underwater portrait session in open water and create even more breathtaking images in the Philippines’ crystal-clear ocean among colourful coral reefs and tropical marine life.
Shoot – USD 200 (includes one edited photo)
Individual Drone Photo Shoot
Capture your mermaid magic from above with an individual drone shoot at one of the Philippines’ most beautiful locations. Our professional drone team will film you above crystal-clear water, colourful coral reefs, and stunning tropical scenery, creating unforgettable memories of your Merfolk Getaway Philippines.
Drone Photo Shoot – USD 150 (includes one edited photo) | Drone Video Shoot – USD 200 (includes a one-minute professionally edited film)
Underwater Night Shoot
Experience the magic of an illuminated underwater photoshoot. Surrounded by beautifully placed lights beneath the surface, you can pose in your mermaid tail or another stunning outfit, such as a flowing dress, creating truly unique and atmospheric images.
Underwater Night Shoot – USD 250 (includes one edited photo)
Individual Videos
Bring your mermaid journey to life with a personal video created just for you. From short highlight reels to full storylined films, several options will be available to match your vision. Details and booking options will be shared a few weeks before the retreat.
Individual Videos – starting at USD 250
Additional Retouched Images
Your retreat package includes four professionally retouched individual photos and six group photos. If you’d like even more of your favourite images to receive the same premium, detailed retouching, you can order additional retouched photos.
Additional Retouched Images – USD 60 per photo
Underwater Model Workshop Online Course
Prepare for your retreat in the best possible way with the Underwater Model Workshop Online Course by Mermaid Kat. Learn posing, breath control, and safety techniques from home so you can feel confident and ready once you dive in.
Underwater Model Workshop Online Course – created by Mermaid Kat
SSI Mermaid Certification
Turn your mermaid passion into an official achievement with the SSI Mermaid Certification. Learn essential mermaiding skills, safety techniques, and how to move gracefully in your tail. Once certified, you can upgrade to the SSI Ocean Mermaid level to expand your confidence and experience in open water.
SSI Mermaid Certificate – USD 175 | SSI Ocean Mermaid Certificate – USD 175 | Both Certificates – USD 325
Scuba Diving Packages
Optional scuba diving packages are available for certified divers who wish to explore even more of the Philippines’ spectacular underwater world. All dive packages include tanks, weights, professional dive guide services, and daytime marine sanctuary fees. Scuba equipment rental is available at an additional cost. Dive course rates are available upon request.
5 Dive Package – USD 360 | 10 Dive Package – USD 650
Spa Packages
Different spa treatments and wellness packages are available at Atmosphere Resort. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage, facial, body treatment, or one of the resort’s signature spa experiences during your stay.
Different treatment and packages available at the resort
Frequently asked Questions
How to Get There?
To join the retreat, please book your international flights to either Manila (MNL) or Cebu City (CEB) in the Philippines.
From there, you’ll need to book a domestic flight to Dumaguete Airport (DGT). Two airlines operate this route:
Dumaguete Airport is approximately 45–60 minutes from Atmosphere Resort, and complimentary airport transfers are included in your retreat package.
If you’re flying via Manila, we recommend arriving one day before the retreat begins, as most international flights from Europe and Australia arrive in the evening, making a same-day connection to Dumaguete difficult. A convenient option is to stay overnight at the Belmont Hotel Manila, located within walking distance of Terminal 3, before taking a morning flight to Dumaguete.
Please book your domestic flight so that you arrive at Dumaguete Airport (DGT) no later than 1:00 pm on the first day of the retreat, allowing enough time for your transfer to Atmosphere Resort, check-in, and our welcome activities.
If you’re travelling via Cebu City, same-day connections to Dumaguete are generally easier, provided your domestic flight arrives in Dumaguete before 1:00 pm.
If you need assistance planning your journey, Atmosphere Resort is happy to advise you on domestic flights, recommend hotels in Manila, and arrange an optional Meet & Greet Service at Manila Airport to assist with terminal transfers or transfers between the airport and your hotel. However, all flights and accommodation must be booked directly by you or your travel agent.
When and where are we meeting?
The retreat officially begins on 13 May 2028 at 4:00 pm. To ensure you arrive at the resort in time for check-in and our welcome activities, please plan to arrive at Dumaguete Airport (DGT) or the Dumaguete Ferry Terminal no later than 1:00 pm on 13 May 2028.
Do I need a visa for the Philippines?
For many nationalities, no visa is required in advance to enter the Philippines for short tourist stays. However, entry requirements vary depending on your nationality.
Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and that you have proof of onward travel, such as a return or onward flight ticket.
We also recommend completing the Philippine eTravel registration online before your departure. Most travellers must register within 72 hours before arrival, and airlines may ask to see your eTravel QR code before check-in.
Please check the latest entry requirements for your nationality before travelling, as visa regulations and immigration requirements can change.
Do you offer Mermaid Certification?
The retreat itself doesn’t include any formal training or certification. However, you can complete your SSI Mermaid Course for an additional USD 175 during the trip.
Once you’ve earned your SSI Mermaid Certification, you can also upgrade to the SSI Ocean Mermaid Course for an additional USD 175.
If you’d like to do both certifications, the total cost is USD 325.
What kind of fitness level do I need to have?
We’ll be spending several hours in the water each day, which can be physically demanding. A good general fitness level is important to make the most of your experience and to ensure you can move comfortably and safely in the ocean.
We’ll always have surface support and buoyancy devices available for you to rest when needed, but overall, being in good shape will help you enjoy the retreat more fully and with ease.
Do you provide mermaid tails?
No, we don’t provide mermaid tails — you’ll need to bring your own. Please make sure your tail fits you well and that you feel comfortable and confident swimming in it before the retreat.
If your tail is new, please practice getting in and out of it safely before the retreat to make sure you’re fully prepared and confident in the water.
How can I transport my mermaid tail?
If you’re bringing a fabric tail, it will most likely fit into your regular suitcase.
For silicone tails with a large fluke, we recommend using the Mares Cruise Backpack. This spacious dive bag is perfect for transporting big tails safely and comfortably.
Please make sure to check your baggage weight allowance before your flight. You may need to add a sports equipment bag or purchase extra baggage allowance in advance — it’s usually much cheaper to arrange this before you arrive at the airport.
Can I also shoot in other outfits?
Yes, absolutely! Feel free to bring additional outfits, such as flowing dresses, skirts, or accessories that complement your mermaid look.
If you’re joining us for the following week’s Model Portfolio Retreat, we’ll also bring a beautiful selection of designer gowns for participants to wear during the fashion photoshoots. Many guests choose to combine both retreats for the ultimate two-week photography adventure.
Do you cater to special diets?
Yes, absolutely. We’re happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special dietary needs. A few weeks before the trip, we’ll send out a form asking about your dietary preferences and requirements to make sure everyone is well catered for during the retreat.
How are the rooms equipped?
You can choose between a Deluxe Suite, Premium Suite, or the luxurious Penthouse, depending on your preferred level of comfort and space.
All room types feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, premium amenities, and your choice of a California king bed or twin-bed setup.
The Deluxe Suite offers stylish comfort, while the Premium Suite provides even more space and luxury. For the ultimate experience, the Penthouse features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large private terrace.
Do I need to bring my own towels?
No, it’s not necessary to bring towels. Shower and beach towels are provided for your convenience.
Can I stay longer?
Yes! You’re welcome to stay for a second week from 20–27 May 2028. Join our Model Portfolio Retreat, or simply extend your holiday and explore the Philippines at your own pace. Please see the room rates above.
Is it possible to have a room for myself?
Yes. Single occupancy is available in different room categories. Please see the single occupancy rates above.
What happens if I have to cancel my trip?
All retreat bookings become 100% non-refundable once the deposit has been paid and your spot is reserved.
However, your spot can be transferred to another participant:
• You may sell your spot to someone else directly, or
• We can offer your spot to someone on our waitlist (if available).
If your booking is successfully transferred, there will be a USD 250 admin and rebooking fee.
If we are the ones transferring your spot to someone from our waitlist, you will receive your payment back minus the USD 250 fee once the new participant has paid for the booking.
Please note that a refund is only possible after the spot has been successfully transferred.
Please refer to the full cancellation policy below.
Can you organise airfare?
No, we don’t organise flights. All participants are responsible for booking their own airfare.
We recommend flying to Dumaguete Airport (DGT), either directly or via Cebu City. Once you arrive at Dumaguete Airport or the Dumaguete Ferry Terminal, we’ll take care of your transfer to Atmosphere Resort, so you can relax and enjoy your Merfolk Getaway from the moment you arrive.
For when should I book my return flight?
Check-out is at 12:00 pm (noon) on 20 May 2028, or on 27 May 2028 if you’ve extended your stay for another week. You’re welcome to check out earlier if your travel plans require it.
We recommend booking a domestic flight from Dumaguete to Manila that allows at least 4–6 hours between your arrival in Manila and your international departure. If both flights use the same terminal, 3–4 hours is generally sufficient. This allows plenty of time for baggage collection, check-in, and any unexpected delays.
Complimentary transfers to Dumaguete Airport (DGT) are included, and your exact transfer time will be arranged closer to your departure date.
What kind of experience is required?
Participants must be strong and confident swimmers who feel comfortable in the ocean. You should have some experience in mermaiding and ideally in snorkelling as well.
It’s important that you can equalise your ears and hold your breath for at least one minute while staying calm and relaxed underwater.
Experience in freediving or scuba diving is not required but highly recommended, as these skills will help you make the most of this unique underwater experience and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the location even more.
How should I prepare for the retreat?
Mermaiding can be physically demanding and even risky without proper preparation, so we highly recommend practicing swimming in a mermaid tail regularly before joining the retreat. Please also practice equalising your ears, relaxation, and breath-hold control.
To support your preparation, Mermaid Kat has created the Underwater Modelling Workshop Online Course, which helps you train these important skills and get ready for your underwater photo and video shoots.
While it’s not required to complete a freediving or scuba diving course beforehand, we highly recommend it. These skills will help you feel more confident and allow you to enjoy the magic of the underwater world even more deeply.
Are photos with marine life guaranteed?
The Philippines is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, making it one of the world’s best destinations for unforgettable wildlife encounters. During our visit to Oslob, you’ll have an extremely high chance of swimming with the famous whale sharks. Throughout the week, we’ll also visit vibrant coral reefs and popular turtle habitats, where our experienced local guides maximise your chances of encountering sea turtles and a stunning variety of tropical marine life. While nature always follows her own rhythm, every excursion is carefully planned to give you the best possible experience.
Is there WI-FI available?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.
Are all retreat activities mandatory?
Of course not! This is your holiday, and we want you to enjoy it at your own pace. You’re free to participate in as many or as few activities as you like, whether you’d prefer to join every adventure or simply relax by the pool or at the spa.
The only mandatory activity is the first water session, as it allows our team to assess everyone’s swimming ability and water confidence. This helps us ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants throughout the retreat.
Will I receive trip details beforehand?
Yes! About two months before the retreat, we’ll create a WhatsApp group with all participants and team members. This is where we’ll share important trip details, answer any final questions, and give everyone the chance to meet and get to know each other before we set off on our ocean adventure.
Don’t worry — we want you to arrive fully relaxed and not stressed. The retreat experience begins long before you travel, and our goal is to make sure you feel supported and well-prepared every step of the way.
What kind of food can we expect?
Atmosphere Resort is renowned for its outstanding cuisine. Each morning, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet and à la carte breakfast featuring fresh tropical fruit, eggs cooked to order, pastries, cereals, Filipino specialties, and healthy options.
On days when we leave the resort early for an excursion, the resort will prepare a take-away breakfast so you won’t miss the most important meal of the day.
Lunches and dinners are entirely your choice. You can dine at the resort’s excellent restaurants, or explore the nearby cafés, local restaurants, and markets for an authentic taste of the Philippines. During the week, we’ll also come together for a memorable Beach BBQ dinner by the ocean.
Whether you prefer healthy meals, fresh seafood, international cuisine, or local Filipino dishes, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to suit your taste. Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements can also be catered for—just let us know in advance.
Can I bring a not-merperson friend?
Absolutely! Non-merfolk are very welcome to join the Merfolk Getaway Philippines.
They can choose between our Companion Adventure package, which includes the group activities and excursions (excluding the workshops and photoshoots), or simply book Accommodation Only and enjoy a relaxing holiday at Atmosphere Resort.
Accommodation-only guests can spend their time however they wish, whether that’s booking optional scuba dives or dive courses, snorkeling, visiting the award-winning spa, exploring the local area, or simply enjoying the resort at their own pace.
What is the water temperature?
The water temperature in May is typically between 28–30°C (82–86°F). That means you’ll enjoy warm, comfortable conditions for mermaiding, snorkeling, freediving, and underwater photoshoots throughout the week.
Most participants find a 3 mm wetsuit ideal for longer sessions in the water, while others are perfectly comfortable in a rash guard or swimwear, depending on their personal preference and how easily they get cold. If you’re planning to join optional scuba dives, the dive centre can also advise you on the best exposure protection.
Do you accept payment plans?
You’re excited to join this adventure but can’t pay the full deposit right now?
No problem! Simply get in touch with us at info@mermaid-week.com, and we’ll arrange a payment plan that works for everyone.
Do I need insurance?
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, personal belongings, and adventure activities.
If you plan to join any optional scuba dives or scuba courses, please ensure your insurance also covers scuba diving. The dive centre will advise you if proof of dive insurance is required.
As the Merfolk Getaway Philippines is non-refundable, we also highly recommend purchasing “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) insurance, if available in your country. It provides additional flexibility should your travel plans unexpectedly change.
What about alcohol?
Alcohol is readily available at Atmosphere Resort and can be purchased from the resort’s restaurants and bars. You’ll also find bars, restaurants, and shops nearby.
For everyone’s safety, mermaiding, snorkeling, freediving, scuba diving, and underwater photoshoots are not permitted after consuming alcohol or while under the influence of a hangover. Alcohol can impair judgement, reduce breath-hold performance, and significantly increase the risk of accidents in the water.
If our team believes that a participant is not fit to enter the water, they may be asked to sit out an activity. This policy is in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone throughout this Merfolk trip.
Payment & Cancellation Policy
A non-refundable deposit of USD 1,000 per person is required to secure your place on the Merfolk Getaway Philippines. The remaining balance is due by 31 December 2026. If you would prefer to spread the cost over multiple payments, interest-free payment plans are available upon request.
As the Merfolk Getaway Philippines is a small-group retreat with limited availability and significant upfront planning costs, all payments are non-refundable.
If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your booking to another participant, subject to our approval.
If your place is filled by another participant, either through our waiting list or by a replacement arranged by you, we will refund your payments, less a USD 250 administration fee, any non-recoverable payment processing fees, and any additional costs arising from the transfer. These may include, for example, accommodation price differences caused by changes in room occupancy or room-sharing arrangements, accommodation upgrades required due to the final group composition or gender distribution, or any other reasonable administrative or operational costs incurred as a result of the transfer.
If no suitable replacement can be found, no refund will be issued. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) cover if available in your country. This provides the greatest flexibility should your travel plans unexpectedly change.
Circumstances Beyond Our Control
In the unlikely event that the Merfolk Getaway Philippines has to be cancelled, postponed, or significantly modified due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control—including, but not limited to, natural disasters, extreme weather, pandemics, government restrictions, political instability, supplier cancellations, transportation disruptions, or other force majeure events—we reserve the right to modify the itinerary, substitute activities or accommodation of a similar standard, postpone the retreat, or cancel it if necessary. Any refunds will be limited to funds recoverable from our suppliers and any amounts not already committed to unrecoverable costs incurred in organising the retreat.