Explore famous Shipwreck Beach. Between swimming and eating delicious food,
discover millennia of Greek history.
A swim retreat on Zakynthos Island, Greece
Summer 2017

Join Water World Swim in the summer waters off Greece! We'll be staying at the relaxing Wild Fig Retreat on 20 acres of fresh air, vineyards, Ionian Sea views, and farm roads. In the day, you'll swim 3-5km daily in transparent waters, explore Navagio Beach, famous for a beached shipwreck, relax in mineral baths, go snorkeling and bird watching, and tour the beautiful and ancient sites on Zakynthos. You'll have the chance to do some yoga every morning with Loukia Pikis.

Don't forget about local wine, cheese, olive oil, and local ingredients in all your meals! Share them with your family and friends by bringing everyone - including non-swimmers - along for a summer retreat.

Let us know your questions or that you're interested by using the form at the bottom!

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Stay at Kostas's Wild Fig Retreat.

Swim with Coach Pedro on this trip.

At a Glance

SUMMER 2017 (TBA)
STARTING AT $1,150 PER PERSON
ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS TRAVEL
SMALL GROUP - UP TO 16 PEOPLE
DAILY SWIMS, YOGA, & TOURS
WIFI AVAILABLE
CULINARY TOURS
BIRDWATCHING

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RETREAT OPTIONS
Couples, close friends, and families have two options - a private suite with a kitchenette & terrace (double bed plus optional single cot) or a private bungalow tent (double bed plus optional single cot). The bungalow is much like a cozy yurt, but guests are to use the communal bathroom.

Those traveling alone will make new friends by staying in a bungalow tent, outfitted with six cots and will also use the communal bathroom. It will be warm in the summer and you'll sleep to the sounds of nature in a luxury "camp" setting!

Have a friend, spouse, or partner who wants to join? Bring them with! Even if they are not swimmers, they're bound to have a blast!

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Trip overview and details

Pricing

Subject to change at this time

  • Starting at $1,150 per person (up to $1,550 per person)
  • $650.00 non-refundable deposit required at sign up to reserve spot

Package includes:

  • Transportation on Zakynthos Island, including to and from the airport and the retreat
  • Accommodation - 8 nights at the Wild Fig Retreat
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the retreat every day
  • Yoga, pool access, wifi, tours, guides, coaches, snorkeling, kayaking, swimming

Package does not include:

  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended for any trip)
  • Airfare
  • Outside of itinerary meals or souvenirs
  • Parachuting, deep sea fishing, and formal bird watching activities
  • Anything not specified
  • Credit Card usage fees

Temperatures
Water temperatures are expected to be around 26ºC ( 78ºF) to 28ºC (82ºF). Leave the wetsuit at home!

Currency and Language
The currency in Greece is the Euro. The majority of people in tourist offices and hotels speak English but our hosts at the retreat are fluent in Greek.

Swimming Distances
Swim distances will range from approximately 1.5k to 4k, depending on the current and weather conditions. You can return to the escort boat to rest at any time, or forego a swim.

Group Size 
Water World Swim is committed to minimizing our impact on wildlife and the environment. We have small groups, a maximum of 16 people with at least two certified, experienced open water swim coaches, two local swim guides, and local boat pilots that practice responsible tourism. The swim groups are organized based on speed and ability.

Essential Equipment
In addition to normal daily clothes you will need to bring the following:

  • Swimsuit (2)              
  • Walking shoes
  • Swimming goggles (2) *             
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Towel                                           
  • Sun Hat and Sunglasses
  • Waterproof sun block                 
  • Small backpack
  • Water bottle

 Please note that Water World Swim will supply swim caps.

*Try to bring at least 1 clear lens and 1 tinted lens for different light conditions. We recommend one clear goggle, one smoke, and one blue or yellow. Goggles are light, and you can never bring too many back-ups of your favorite pair.

Optional Equipment
These items are optional. However, we do recommend that you bring them to give you more comfort options:

  • Wetsuit
  • Swim aids as zoomers or fins
  • Snorkel and mask
  • Rash vest to protect you from the sun.
  • Body Glide
  • Neoprene cap, if your head gets cold easily

Walking Conditions
Most walks will be on recognized paths and tracks. Some walks may be over trails, or uneven terrain.

Detailed itinerary coming soon!

Detailed flight recommendations coming soon! We will say this though - we recommend staying to explore Athens for a few days before or after your Zakynthos adventure with us!

Marine Life Disclaimer
Swimming in the Mediterranean is a rare experience, but you need to be aware of potential challenges. You may see marine life that can cause harm. We will minimize potential challenges and will brief you on how to responsibly interact with marine life. Our escort boats are equipped to treat the most common minor issues. However, it is your responsibility to contact us prior to booking if you suffer from Anaphylaxis or other medical conditions and allergies. You should seek medical attention if you develop any infection following contact with the above. We recommend that you purchase Travel Insurance.

Disclaimer
The safety of our swimmers, and environmental responsibility are the two priorities for Water World Swim. For safety reasons we rely on decent weather conditions during all swim crossings. Open water swimming requires an inherent degree of flexibility. The planned itinerary may change. This adds to the uniqueness of each tour!

I'm a swimmer, but my friend/spouse/partner is not. Can they still come? Is there a price difference for them?
Non-swimming attendees are more than welcome to join us! They have as good a time as swimmers do. They are encouraged to travel with you. The price does not change for non-swimmer guests.

I have very particular dietary restrictions. Can they be accommodated?
Yes! In your registration form, mark your needs in the dietary section. We are more than happy to accommodate.

Can I bring swim aids or my own equipment?
If you have favorite flippers, snorkels, swim paddles, or other aids/tools, you are welcome to bring them. We will also have some on hand if you'd like to try.

I am coming on this trip alone. Will I have to share a room with a stranger?
On this trip, yes. The center is a communal retreat. Our travelers have become lifelong friends!

What currency is used in Greece?
The Euro. Cash is good to have but credit cards are accepted in most places.

Are towns on Zakythos safe to walk around at night?
Yes, very safe and peaceful!

Which hotel are we staying on Zakynthos?
The hotel is a wellness retreat called Wild Fig. With 20 acres of pristine Mediterranean scenery and views, it's going to be peaceful but convenient to where all the action is!

What about WiFi and cell service?
The retreat has free wifi. There is also cell service.

Will we be able to snorkel in the same locations we are swimming in?
Yes! Snorkeling will always be available when we head to water. Kayaking will be optional too.

Do we need insect repellent?
We recommend bringing some! Mediterranean summers can be buzzy.

What do we wear in the water?
In addition to your swimsuit, you might want to consider a wetsuit if you like having the option or you’re more comfortable in one. However, the water is very warm in the 80s, so it is not necessary and you may overheat. We do recommend a rash guard - it is basically a long-sleeve top often worn by surfers and other boarders to prevent chafing as they lay on boards. However, it is also excellent as sun protection, and will serve you well as you will be in the peak of summer. You can get one at any sports store - Sports Basement, sports Authority, Big 5, etc - even Target and Walmart may have some.

What do we wear to dinner?
Greece is pretty casual. No need to fret over suiting up! Something light and casual is fine.

Who is coming on this trip?
Once the trip is full, we will have a video chat to answer questions and say hello. You will all be copied in on emails and have the chance to see the names and hometowns of fellow adventurers. Coach Mike and Coach Pedro will be there.

Water World Swim respects the natural environment of Greece. We are committed to social and environmental responsibility and practices that minimize our presence and impact to sea life and the natural habitat.

eco-friendly
Let us know you're interested!
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