Panama Aerial + Sail Retreat
Bocas Del Toro, Panama
Due to an EXCITING change in venue, we will not be offering this retreat in 2024.
Stay tuned for our 2025 announcement!
A magical island getaway on Panama’s Caribbean Coast
If you’re an aerial enthusiast who’s craving time to get away, train new skills, and experience new cultures – we invite you to join us for 8 days of deep immersion in the pristine nature of the Caribbean jungle. With time to focus on your own skills and artistry, you’ll come home with a renewed passion for your aerial practice along with lifelong connections.
Join your new circus family and invigorate your skills in paradise! This unique retreat experience is curated by Paper Doll Militia & CircAsana and takes place on YOUnicorn Island in Bocas del Toro, Panama.
Air – Aerial Classes on a Sailboat and Outdoor Rigs
Earth – Partner Acrobatics + Handstands
Water – Mermaiding and Snorkeling in the Ocean
Fire – The Spark of Creativity
Winding jungle paths lead you to the island’s picture perfect beaches where we have our freestanding rigs and ocean-front yoga deck. Keep your eyes open and stay alert to see all the unique plant and animal life as we make our way down to class.
You may spot some monkeys, brightly colored birds, insects, and teeny tiny red frogs….what this area is named after!
If you’re extra lucky, you’ll spot a sleepy sloth high up in the trees taking his afternoon nap.
Take some shade under the palm trees and sun shades, sipping fresh coconut water and get ready for aerial class on the beach!
Stroll down to the gorgeous marina if you’re in the boat group for this session (we rotate for each workshop). where we’ll board the incredible 65’ sailboat equipped with all our aerial equipment and mats for an exhilarating experience you’ll never forget.
Aerial and Acrobatics Workshops
We welcome people of all levels who have some experience with aerial arts and acrobatics.
We know it can be daunting to join a retreat without knowing how you’ll match up with the other retreaters in terms of experience and skill level. Will it be too challenging? Not challenging enough?
This retreat was intentionally designed using a small group structure, to accommodate aerialists of all levels. We have 3 workshop groups that will rotate between the boat, our beach rigs, and the yoga shala. You’ll be placed in a group that is similar to your aerial level*. Our instructors are highly skilled at tailoring the workshops to each level accordingly, and we keep the student to teacher at 6:1, creating an intimate and personalized experience.
*While we are able to accommodate a broad range of levels, including beginners, the retreat includes 2x daily aerial and/or acrobatics workshops, therefore we discourage attending the retreat if you have never taken circus classes before.
Aerial Workshops
Our aerial classes take place on Sling & Lyra in Week 1 and Silks and Sling in Week 2.
The classes focus on exploration, creativity, and cultivating a deeper understanding of the material. At the end of the week, you’ll be taking home so much aerial candy…fun new skills, innovative sequences, and invaluable technique tips. Our instructors specialize in finding those tiny but mighty adjustments that will take your aerial practice to the next level. Not to mention how strong you’ll feel after a full week of aerialing every day. (except for the mid-week rest day!)
Acro & Handstanding Workshops
The acro and handstanding classes are specifically designed for aerialists, with a focus on using flexibility, upper body strength and aerial hammocks to create beautiful shapes. We had a number of students achieve their first handstands during these sessions, and some even surprised themselves with pressing to handstand!
These classes also include a restorative component, to relax and rejuvenate your body for the perfect balance for your traincation.
We Value Safety
We appreciate the trust you’ve put in us to create this once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we know that the foundations of an amazing retreat is your health and safety. We do all the legwork so that you can completely relax and de-stress. Here are some of the ways we strive to create a safe container for this retreat:
- Safe drinking water provided for the entirety of your stay
- Crash mats for all our classes, with the exception of when the aerial point is over the water (from the sailboat)
- Structural engineer approval for the freestanding rigs
- Diligent inspection and maintenance practices for all aerial equipment and hardware
- Vetted and trusted boat drivers for our transportation around the island
Aerial on a sailboat? Tell me more
All aboard the ROCKWELL; a 65’ sailboat that’s been rigged just for our specialty aerial classes.
With one aerial point ON the boat, and the other one suspended over the water, you have plenty of options for shaping your class experience.
You might want to focus on learning the material on the boat, with hands on spotting, and stay dry for a little while. Or, maybe you want to go out over the water in your bathing suit so you can jump in after your turn. (Most people choose to do a little of both).
We have a shade structure on the boat for when you’re watching the instructor demo, or cheering on your friends. Grab a buddy to take a video or some epic photos while you twirl and hang over the gorgeous blue water in the dazzling sunlight.
Oh, and keep your eyes out for dolphins, they may make a special appearance.
Throughout the week, you’ll alternate between morning boat classes and evening boat classes. In the morning classes, taking a dip in the water is extremely refreshing. In the evening classes, the sunset over the water is especially breathtaking.
For those of you who are more susceptible to motion sickness, aerial classes on a boat may sound….well, like not a lot of fun. We assure you, the location that we anchor the boat has very calm waters. The boat is not moving while we have classes, and it is much more stable than you may think. We’ve had folks join us with varying degrees of motion sickness. There are tricks you can try (one of our participants swears by motion sickness bracelets like these). We also provide Dramamine and ginger chews to anyone who needs them!
The great thing about the aerial sailing experience is that it happens all week long. This is not a one-and-done novelty experience. You get an entire week to revel in it….the salty sea air blowing gently while you dance suspended in the most magical of places.
There’s something magical about traveling out of your comfort zone and into great beauty. An experience like this opens you to possibilities that you never could have imagined.
What will I experience on this Retreat?
Our workshop schedule balances relaxation time with ample time for learning new skills and training hard.
In addition to the classes, we have 2 aerial rigs set up on the beach for open play time, accessible to you any time you want some extra airtime.
We have free time in the afternoon each day, and a rest day mid-week.
Use this time to relax by the poolside in the palm-tree garden, explore endless beautiful bays, snorkel with starfish and savor the serene, Caribbean vistas.
Gear up for a group excursion on the final day of the retreat, where we explore all the unique ecology that the island has to offer.
Mermazing Moments
Have you ever wanted to be a mermaid? (or merperson! Gender inclusive merfolk over here at this retreat 😉 ) We offer a special class on how to swim with a tail! Fins and tails provided, and you are welcome to bring your own if you have it.
Meals
Catered meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our chef sources local seafood and veggies to create colorful and balanced dishes.
Dietary restrictions? We got you covered. Our delicious, healthy meals are prepared to cater to a variety of dietary needs.
Nightlife and culture
We’ll take a trip into Bocas Town (a 15-min boat ride from our retreat location) for a night out on the town at one of our favorite local restaurants. Experience the vibrant Panamanian Island culture with delicious cuisine, time to stroll the streets for evening shopping, and live music!
Ignite your spirit with the power of the sun, soar through the salty ocean air and sail into the sunset.
What are the highlights?
Flying in Paradise
The number 1 highlight of this special retreat is the exhilarating feeling of being suspended off the side of the sailboat over the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. Both exciting and serene, this experience is a bucket list item for sure.
The vibrancy of the Jungle
You know those “jungle sounds” tracks that people play to help to relax? Being at Red Frog Beach is the real life version of that. In our yoga shala, we will be warming up and practicing yoga with the jungle as our backdrop. Don’t be surprised if some of the (mostly) friendly monkeys come to pay us a visit during our classes.
Our epic photoshoot!
Experiences are there to savor, and nothing can compare to being truly present in the moment. But it sure is nice to have some stunning photos to bring home to show all your muggle friends. This is why we dedicate an entire afternoon to a photoshoot on the boat with a professional photographer. Added bonus – the photoshoot is SUPER fun
Friends for Life
Make friends for life with other aerial adventurers. Our retreats are all about creating conscious community. We value collaboration, not competition. We encourage you to show up with an open mind and an open heart and see what magic we can co-create with one another.
The Magic of the Caribbean
The water here is indescribably magical. The temperature is downright perfect, and the clear blue color makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a postcard (or instagram travel reel?). Daily dips in the ocean are definitely top on our list of retreat highlights.
Schedule
Sample schedule:
Those who know us, know we love to pack it in. All of our workshops are optional, so we leave it up to you to find the perfect balance of training hard and relaxing or exploring the island.
Want more information on our FULL itinerary, including outings, excursions, and additional activities? Request a sample itinerary here.
Cost
2023 pricing
We have several pricing options to help fit your budget. There are limited spaces for each of these options. They are first come, first serve.
| Room | Early Bird Price | Full Price |
Tell me more about where we’re staying….
We’ll be hunkering down at Red Frog Beach, which is on the Island of Bastimentos, a part of the group of islands called Bocas Del Toro.
Red Frog Beach is very remote, and is surrounded by luscious green jungle, with crystal clear Caribbean beaches.
You’ll feel like you’re deep in the jungle with all the beautiful plant and animal life that surrounds our cozy accommodations.
Our venue offers a range of accommodation options, from comfortable 4-bed dorms (with AC) and budget friendly privates, to jungle facing standard rooms and deluxe bungalows.
Even though all your meals and coffee/tea is provided by the retreat, you are welcome to utilize the restaurant/bar at any point during your stay to purchase a tasty mid-afternoon snack or late night cocktail.
The restaurant features live music and other fun activities occasionally throughout the week. (trivia anyone??)
There is also a spacious co-work area, complete with speedy WiFi, in case you need to check any emails while you’re here.
Accomodation
Our venue offers a range of accommodation options. All housing options come with hot water, AC, and WiFi.
Bunk with a Buddy
Interested in sharing a private room with a fellow retreater? We have discounts available for bed buddies who register together, email Retreatsaerial@gmail.com to inquire.
Significant Other Policy
Couples / SO / Friends (not attending workshops) are welcome to join. The cost is $600 for the week, and includes all meals, accommodation (sharing with you) and excursions, as well as access to the pool, co-work space and WiFi. Please double check bed size when choosing your accommodation package
Return Retreaters!
If you have come to one of our retreats before, you are in the family. Take an additional $200 off your total price this year. This includes any Paper Doll Militia Retreat or CircAsana Retreat.
Price Includes
All meals, classes, RT transportation from Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro, excursions, and drinks on sangria night.
Additional Costs
Massages, alcohol (other than on sangria night), shopping / gifts, and extra activities (including transportation as required). We also highly recommend that you purchase an individual travel insurance policy.
Payment Methods
Payment options specific to your currency will be provided to you upon registration. We accept a range of payment methods including bank transfer, checks, and Wise. We can accommodate most major currencies from around the world.
Insurance
We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance that includes medical insurance. Check with your health care provider to see if you are covered for international travel.For more information on travel insurance click here.
Reservation & Travel
Registrations is open!
Get your spot early, these retreats will likely sell out
Week 1 is SOLD OUT
How to Reserve Your Spot
Fill out the Registration Form. As soon as we have your registration details, we will provide you with the best way to pay, depending on which currency you are paying with. We accept payment forms from all over the world. Payment in full is due to confirm your place. We will keep in close communication with you once you have registered to answer any more questions, provide you with a full packing list and let you know of any essentials you should know or bring.
Cancellation Policy
Please take a moment to review the cancellation policies for this retreat.
Panama Here I come!
For the fastest and most direct route, fly into Panama City Airport (PTY), take a 30min taxi to Albrook Gelabert Airport (PAC), then a 1-hr direct flight to Bocas del Toro with Air Panama.
For a more economic but time consuming route, fly into San Jose (SJO) and take a Caribe Shuttle to Bocas del Toro (approx. 10 hrs, departing San Jose around 6am, arriving around 4pm – includes lunch).
Arrival and Departure Days:
Week 1: Sling, Lyra, Acro & Aerial Yoga
Week 1 arrival day: September 30th, 2023
Workshop days: Oct 1st – 6th, 2023
Departure day: October 7th, 2023
Week 2: Silks, Sling, Acro & Aerial Yoga
Week 2 arrival day: October 8th, 2023
Workshop days: Oct 9th – 14th, 2023
Departure day: October 15th, 2023
Arrival day information:
From the Bocas Airport or Caribe Shuttle arrival pier in Bocas, take a 5 minute walk to Selina Bocas. See reception to ask for your complimentary boat taxi ticket to Red Frog (let them know you are part of the retreat). Relax at the restaurant or bar (WiFi is available) until the next boat over to Red Frog.
Boat taxi times from Selina Bocas (Isla Colon) to Red Frog are: 7am, 10am, 12:30pm, 3:30pm and 6:30pm. If your itinerary does not line up with the scheduled boat taxi times, we will arrange a private taxi.
When you arrive at Red Frog Resort dock, someone will meet you to drive you up to our location.
Departure day information:
Our final meal together will be breakfast on departure day. We will then have time to pack our bags before checkout at 11am. You are welcome to leave your bags with reception if you plan to stay onsite beyond that time
Boat taxi times from Red Frog back to Selina Bocas (Isla Colon) are: 7.40am, 10.30am, 1pm, 4.30pm and 7pm.
