In an Australian first, Celebrity Cruises will play host to an exciting lifestyle event that will bring together people committed to – or wanting to learn more about – the health benefits of a plant-based lifestyle.
Devised by Australian woman Paige Renshaw, who overcame Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and depression through major lifestyle change, The Whole Connection takes place on the magnificent Celebrity Solstice, during a 9-night South Pacific voyage in October 2018.
“The beauty of this health retreat is that it offers participants the perks of a luxury cruise, while allowing them to take part in life-changing workshops, classes and meals with world-renowned medical, nutritional and wellness experts,” Paige said.
Among the guest speakers are: Dr Michael Klaper, a US-based clinician of more than 40 years and advocate of plant-based nutrition in preventative medicine; NZ-based health coach, Jason Shon Bennett, who transformed his life from debilitating illness through plant-based lifestyle change; and ‘The Kitchen Coach’ Ashley Jubinville, whose passion is to help people make gradual nutrition changes into their lifestyle.
Retreat guests will have access to all the normal facilities and events provided by Celebrity Cruises, as well as private daily group workshops, cooking classes, yoga, pilates and meditation, not to mention a separate dining space featuring a specially-developed plant-based menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Cameron Mannix, BDM of Celebrity Cruises, Australia and New Zealand, said the company was thrilled to offer guests the opportunity to sail on this unique healthy lifestyle retreat at sea.
“Celebrity Cruises is recognised for its variety of health and wellness options across its fleet of ships, like Blu – our famous clean cuisine restaurant and world-renowned Canyon Ranch Spa. The Whole Connection retreat complements our modern luxury mantra perfectly,” he said.
The cruise departs Sydney on October 20, stopping at Noumea, Mystery Island, Isle of Pines and Loyalty Island, where participants can take part in cruise-operated or independently-organised shore excursions.
Paige believes this unique concept will appeal to a range of people, from committed vegans to those dipping their toes into lifestyle change, because it differs from other health retreats where people are often isolated in one location.
“We understand some people might want to travel with a partner or friend who may not choose to participate in the retreat. So we have introduced a special ‘non-participant’ fee, which allows a companion to eat the specially-prepared meals with us and attend two workshops of their choice.
“We’ve also had interest from families. If one parent wants to join our retreat, they are able to spend time with their family, particularly during the shore excursions. They may even choose to join us for some meals, then have others with their family. No-one is tied to us the whole time.”
SOURCE: Celebrity Cruises