It’s often touted that we have only explored 5% of the Earth’s oceans, the great blue expanse remains a vast mystery and looks likely to stay that way, however, that certainly has not stopped people from trying. Freediving world champion Arthur Guérin-Boëri has spent the last 14 years heading below the waves, exploring the depths without using breathing equipment. Now, those looking for a glimpse into both his lifestyle and the ocean depths can join him for half a day of freediving. The ‘World of Silence’ experience from Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, will allow guests to dip their toes into the world of freediving, with an introduction that is accessible to all.
Born in Nice in 1984, Guérin-Boëri understands the waters that lap up next to Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel better than most. Having discovered freediving in 2010, he went on to set eight world records and win five world championships, these statistics make him the most decorated French freediver in history.
The experience begins at the tranquil waters of Passable Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, situated only a short distance east of Anantara Plaza Nice. Here, starting on dry land, guests will practice some of the most important elements of freediving, learning to understand breathwork and relaxation techniques. These methods are a vital aspect of freediving, helping divers conserve oxygen to allow for both longer and deeper dives before having to return to the surface.
These breathing techniques also convey a sense of mindfulness. There is actually quite a strong link between freediving and relaxation, and while these techniques will certainly help participants with their diving, they can also translate to life above the water.
“Although breath-holding is an important aspect of the experience, it’s just one element of freediving,” said Guérin-Boëri. “For me, it’s mostly about connecting with the ocean’s heartbeat. As divers gain confidence to venture deeper and stay submerged for longer periods, they seamlessly blend into the underwater environment, creating truly magical encounters with marine life while minimizing their impact.”
After practicing the breathwork and relaxation techniques, guests head below the waves with Guérin-Boëri and experience the blissful silence of the ocean. Here, Guérin-Boëri’s guidance will help participants practice their newly learned skills in a safe environment.
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Heading back onto dry land, after the adrenaline rush of their first freediving experience, guests can visit Anantara Plaza Nice’s spa for the Oceanic Bliss Ritual. Here Thalion’s sea-inspired products are used in a multi-sensory treatment, comprised of a fragrant scrub, tailored massage and a body mask with minerals, vitamins and amino acids.
Those looking to experience the half-day ‘World of Silence’ freediving experience can do so at Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, with pricing starting from $1563 per person and $1898 for 2 people. There are also group dives of up to four people available. The Oceanic Bliss Spa treatment is an additional $246 per person.
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Where to stay
For those undertaking Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel’s ‘World of Silence’ freediving experience, we recommend booking the hotel’s Albert 1st Suite. As the largest and most luxurious suite at Anantara Plaza, the Albert 1st Suite offers guests an expansive space that stretches over 1,170 sq ft. Perched on the hotel’s highest floor, the abode provides immaculate sea views – the ideal accompaniment to a freediving-centered trip – in addition to an aerial vantage of the pleasure gardens that sit just in front of the hotel, also named after Albert I of Belgium.
Decorated exquisitely with belle-epoch style furniture, the separate living and dining areas are adorned with silk wallpaper and Italian walnut flooring. This suite would provide the ideal sanctuary for guests heading to the hotel to practice the art of freediving.
Rooms at Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel start from $390 per night.
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