Marion McRae

Heal at sea: movement, mind, ocean.

Australia Western Australia paid

Escape the everyday aboard the elegant 65-foot ketch Starsand with Marion McRae's Movement Solutions, offering unique sailing retreats off the coast of Western Australia. These voyages blend evidence-informed physiotherapy, somatic education, and mindfulness, moving healing out of the clinic and into the restorative power of the ocean. Led by physiotherapist Marion McRae, participants can expect to reconnect with balance, breath, and emotional awareness, learning tools for nervous system regulation and lasting wellbeing. It's a chance to unwind tension, rebuild trust in your body, and rediscover ease, all while surrounded by turquoise waters and ocean air. The vessel itself becomes a moving sanctuary, fostering deep reconnection with self and nature.

Highlights

Retreats conducted entirely at sea aboard a 65-foot ketch
Integrates physiotherapy and somatic education with mindfulness
Led by physiotherapist Marion McRae
Focus on nervous system regulation and embodied learning
Fresh, wholesome meals with local produce and seafood

Good for

those seeking unique healing environmentsindividuals interested in somatic practicespeople recovering from physical tensionmindfulness practitionersnature lovers

Setting

These retreats unfold entirely at sea, departing from Port Geographe Marina in Busselton, Western Australia. The elegant 65-foot ketch, Starsand, provides a unique and moving sanctuary. Guests are surrounded by the vast turquoise waters and refreshing ocean air, creating an immersive natural environment for healing and reconnection.

The practice

These retreats don't adhere to a single traditional lineage but instead blend movement science, mindfulness, and embodied learning. The focus is on practical tools for nervous system regulation and fostering a deeper connection with one's body and breath. Participants engage in sessions designed to unwind tension and build physical and emotional resilience.

A typical day

While the exact daily schedule varies by voyage, days typically involve sunrise movement and meditation sessions on the spacious teak deck. Group sessions are also held on deck, with shaded lounges and an open galley inviting rest and connection throughout the day. Evenings likely involve communal meals and opportunities for reflection.

Accommodation

Guests stay aboard the Starsand, with options for cozy shared cabins or VIP ensuite comfort below deck. The vessel is designed to offer both communal spaces for connection and private areas for rest.

What to bring

Pack light clothing suitable for warm weather, especially during the warmer months of January, February, and December. Sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable attire for movement sessions are recommended. Consider non-slip shoes for being on deck.

Address Port Geographe Marina, 21 Spinnaker Boulevard, Busselton, 6280, Western Australia, Australia.

How to get there

The retreat departs from Port Geographe Marina, 21 Spinnaker Boulevard, Busselton, Western Australia. From Perth, take the Kwinana Freeway south to Bunbury, then follow Bussell Highway toward Busselton, turning left onto Layman Road to reach the marina.

Nearest airport: Wiluna Airport (WUN) (175 km)

The nearest international airport is Perth Airport (PER). The nearest regional airport is Busselton Margaret River Airport (BQB), with direct flights from Melbourne and Sydney. Specific transfer services from these airports are not detailed, but public transport and car hire are options.

Public transport: South West Coach Lines runs daily buses from Perth Airport and Perth CBD to Busselton. From Busselton central, the marina is a short 10-minute taxi or rideshare trip.

Languages

English

How to book

Booking information is not specified in the provided data.

Pricing

Pricing starts from USD30, but further details on what this includes or the full cost structure are not provided.

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: May, Oct, Jun

Avoid: Feb, Mar, Jan

Western Australia experiences a warm climate, with average annual temperatures around 24.2°C. The warmest months are typically January, February, and December, while July, June, and August are cooler. The driest months include May, October, and June, contrasting with the wetter periods of February, March, and January.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food is served on the retreat?

The retreats offer fresh, wholesome meals prepared with local produce and seafood. They can accommodate various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, with prior notice.

How do I get to the departure point?

The retreat departs from Port Geographe Marina in Busselton, Western Australia. You can fly into Perth Airport (PER) or Busselton Margaret River Airport (BQB), drive from Perth (approx. 2.5 hours), or take a South West Coach Lines bus from Perth to Busselton, followed by a short taxi ride.

What should I bring for a sailing retreat?

Given the warm climate of Western Australia, especially from January to February and December, light clothing is advisable. Consider swimwear, sun protection, and comfortable attire for movement sessions. A light jacket might be useful for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces. As the retreat is at sea, practical, non-slip footwear is also recommended.

Is this retreat suitable for beginners in meditation or movement practices?

Yes, the retreats are designed to help participants reconnect with balance and breath, offering tools for nervous system regulation. The blend of movement science, mindfulness, and embodied learning is accessible, aiming to help people unwind tension and rebuild trust in their bodies regardless of prior experience.