Solwota offers unforgettable ocean experiences on Aore Island Vanuatu, including guided snorkelling tours, professional free diving courses, and peaceful retreat-style accommodation. Immerse yourself in pristine reefs, learn new skills with experienced instructors, and unwind in a truly remote island setting.
Live by the tide, breathe with the ocean.
What We Offer
Solwota offers ocean based tours around the pristine reefs of Aore Island, taking you to some of the area’s most vibrant and untouched marine environments. Our tours are relaxed, small-group experiences led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the ocean and sharing its beauty.
We’ll also be launching professional freediving courses from September, giving you the opportunity to learn breath-hold diving in a safe, supportive, and world-class setting. At the same time, we’re in the process of building our on-site accommodation, with immersive ocean retreats set to be available by the end of 2026 as well—combining island living, freediving, and connection to the sea.
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Half Day Snorkelling Tour - Aore Island
Explore the vibrant reefs of Aore Island on a half-day snorkelling adventure designed for all skill levels. Cruise to a selection of hand-picked spots around Aore Island, where crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life make every stop unique.
Led by a qualified apnea dive guide, you’ll feel safe and supported whether you’re a first-time snorkeller or more experienced in the water. Expect colourful coral gardens, tropical fish, and the chance to truly connect with the ocean at your own pace.
A relaxed, fun experience in some of the best reef systems around Santo and Aore Island —perfect for anyone wanting to discover what lies beneath the surface.
Spearfishing Tours
Explore the waters surrounding Aore Island on a guided spearfishing adventure tailored to your experience level and target species. Choose from half-day or full-day tours as you hunt everything from reef fish like coral trout to powerful dogtooth tuna at selected offshore spots.
Each trip is customised to suit your capabilities, goals, and preferred style of fishing — whether you’re chasing your first reef fish or looking for blue water action. Along the way, experience pristine reefs, crystal-clear water, and incredible marine life unique to Vanuatu.
Half-day and full-day tours available, with lunch options for extended trips. To tailor a tour to your specific needs, send us an email or give us a call to book.
Design Your Own Island Adventure
Staying in Santo or Aore and have something special in mind? We’re all about creating unique ocean experiences to suit you. Whether it’s a private snorkelling trip, a custom sunset cruise, or something more adventurous, we’re happy to work with you to make it happen.
Get in touch below and let us know what you’re dreaming of — we’ll do our best to bring it to life.
Solwota Freediving Retreat - What to Expect in 2026
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More Than a Course. A Complete Island Adventure.
Leave the busy world behind and immerse yourself in one of the South Pacific's most untouched destinations. Our small-group retreats combine professional freediving instruction, unforgettable island adventures, authentic Vanuatu culture, and beachfront living—all from our private retreat on beautiful Aore Island.
Whether you're discovering freediving for the first time or chasing your next adventure, Solwota is where lifelong memories begin.
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Stay in Tropical Island Bungalows
Wake beneath towering rain trees in our handcrafted island-inspired bungalows, just moments from the ocean. Designed to blend naturally with the surrounding landscape, every bungalow offers a peaceful place to relax after a day of adventure.
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Become a Certified Freediver
Learn to freedive with experienced instructor Xande, who will guide you through every step of your journey. Throughout the retreat you'll complete your internationally recognised Wave 1 Freediving Certification, learning breathing techniques, safety procedures, equalisation, and confidence in the water—all in warm tropical conditions.
No previous experience is required.
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Discover the Best of Vanuatu
Our retreat extends far beyond the classroom. We'll take you to some of Vanuatu's most spectacular natural attractions, including: Crystal-clear Blue Holes, Stunning coral reefs around Aore and Santo, Millennium Cave, Hidden beaches and island escapes, Incredible snorkelling and freediving locations, Local villages and authentic cultural experiences.
Every day offers something new to explore.
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Small Groups. Personal Experience.
Keeping our retreats small allows us to provide personalised coaching, relaxed schedules, and genuine connections. You'll never feel like just another student.
From your first breath hold to your final farewell, Xande and the Solwota team are there to make your experience unforgettable.
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Dive in Paradise
The waters surrounding Aore Island are home to vibrant coral gardens, turtles, reef fish, and exceptional visibility. Throughout the retreat you'll gain confidence while exploring some of the South Pacific's most beautiful underwater environments.
It's the perfect place to slow down, disconnect, and experience the ocean as it was meant to be.
Need a hand? We are happy to help.
