As coaches, consultants, and thought leaders, you know the power of transformation. You guide your clients through powerful shifts, helping them unlock their potential and achieve their goals. But what if you could amplify that transformation by creating immersive, in-person experiences? That’s where retreats come in. And at Untethered Voyages, we believe that a retreat at sea offers a truly unique and unforgettable setting.

But a beautiful location is just the beginning. The heart of a successful retreat lies in the activities you design. These experiences are what truly engage your attendees, cultivate deeper connections, and solidify the impact of your work. So, how do you create retreat activities that are not only engaging but also transformative? Let’s dive in.

Crafting Engaging Workshops: More Than Just Information Sharing

Workshops are often a core component of retreats, but they shouldn’t simply replicate online learning. Think of them as opportunities for experiential learning, deep dives, and collaborative exploration. Here are some tips for creating truly engaging workshops:

• Make it interactive: Ditch the long lectures. Incorporate activities, group discussions, and hands-on exercises that encourage active participation. Think breakout sessions, case studies, role-playing, and even movement-based activities to keep energy levels high.

• Focus on transformation, not just information: While sharing valuable content is important, the goal is to facilitate transformation. Design workshops that encourage self-reflection, introspection, and practical application of the concepts.

• Theme your workshops: Tie your workshops to the overall theme of your retreat. And make sure they reflect the things that make you and your programs unique. This creates a cohesive and immersive experience for your attendees. For example, if your retreat focuses on leadership, you could have workshops on communication skills, strategic thinking, and team building.

• Incorporate different learning styles: People learn in different ways. Include a variety of activities that cater to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners. Use visuals, incorporate discussions, and include hands-on activities to engage everyone.

• Create a safe and supportive space: Encourage open communication and vulnerability by establishing clear guidelines for respectful interaction. Create a space where attendees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences.

Building a Thriving Community: Beyond the Classroom

Retreats are powerful opportunities to build a strong sense of community among your attendees. These connections often last long after the retreat is over, creating a valuable network for your clients. Here are some tips for nurturing a thriving community:

• Start with intention: Set the tone from the very beginning by emphasizing the importance of community and connection. Clearly communicate your intention to create a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Design meaningful icebreakers: Skip the generic introductions. Opt for icebreakers that encourage deeper connection and vulnerability. Consider activities like guided questions or participating in a shared creative project.

• Incorporate shared experiences: Plan activities that encourage interaction and collaboration. This could include group meals, community-building games, shared excursions, or even volunteer projects. Shared experiences create lasting memories and develop a sense of camaraderie.

• Create space for informal connection: Don’t over-schedule every minute of the retreat. Allow for downtime and unstructured time for attendees to connect organically. Encourage them to explore the ship, relax by the pool, or simply enjoy each other’s company.

• Facilitate peer-to-peer learning: Encourage attendees to share their expertise and support one another. This could involve peer coaching sessions, mastermind groups, or informal discussions.

Social Activities: Adding Fun and Relaxation

While workshops and community-building exercises are essential, don’t forget the importance of fun and relaxation! Social activities provide opportunities for your attendees to unwind, connect on a more personal level, and create lasting memories. Here are some ideas for social activities:

• Welcome reception: Kick off the retreat with a welcome reception to allow attendees to meet and mingle in a relaxed setting. If you’re hosting a retreat at sea, we don’t recommend that you combine this with the sailaway party, as they’re usually pretty loud and busy. Make a time and space for your group to connect before or after.

• Group meals: Shared meals are a great way to cultivate connection and create a sense of community. Consider themed dinners, space at a chef’s table, or even cooking classes.

• Excursions and outings: Explore the local area with group excursions and outings. This could include sightseeing tours, nature hikes, cultural experiences, volunteering, or even a fun night out. Work with your retreat coordinator (or cruise contact) to book a custom excursion designed specifically for your group. Bonus points if you can tie it into the theme of the retreat!

• Onboard activities (for cruise retreats): Leverage the amenities of a cruise ship, such as pools, hot tubs, live music, and themed parties. These provide natural opportunities for socializing and having fun.

• Closing ceremony: End the retreat with a closing ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of the group and set intentions for the future.

Creating a Retreat at Sea: The Untethered Voyages Difference

At Untethered Voyages, we specialize in creating unforgettable cruise retreats for coaches, consultants, and thought leaders. We understand the unique power of a retreat at sea to create a truly transformative experience. The combination of stunning destinations, luxurious amenities, and a captive audience provides the perfect backdrop for deep connection, immersive learning, and lasting impact.

We handle the logistics of planning your retreat, from ship selection and itinerary development and onsite support (by request only). This allows you to focus on what you do best: connecting with your clients and facilitating their transformation.

By carefully designing your retreat activities, you can create an experience that is not only engaging but also transformative. Remember to focus on interactive workshops, community-building exercises, and fun social activities. And if you’re considering a retreat at sea, we’re here to help you create an unforgettable voyage.Head over to our website and complete our Cruise Retreat Planning Form, or simply shoot us an email at hello@untetheredvoyages.com. Let's chat about how we can create a retreat that cultivates lasting connections and sets sail for success!