Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Deep Sea Valkyries and our PTSD counseling retreats for veterans and first responders. Here you’ll find answers about eligibility, the application process, and what to expect during a Voyage.

About Valkyrie Voyages

  • A Valkyrie Voyage is a clinical PTSD counseling retreat for Veterans and first responders, held on a live-aboard vessel in the Bahamas. Participants take part in daily trauma-focused counseling sessions led by a licensed counselor (a Marine combat veteran) and a military chaplain with decades of service. The program combines clinical therapy, moral injury recovery, and scuba diving to support healing of mind, body, and soul.

  •  Voyages are one week long.

  • As combat Veterans, we’ve experienced the healing power of diving firsthand. Scuba diving provides:

    • Weightlessness and freedom from physical pain

    • Stress relief and peace under water

    • Camaraderie and trust through shared experiences

    • A powerful way for Veterans and first responders to reconnect with themselves and others

Participation & Expectations

  •  Every participant agrees to a Code of Conduct. Expectations include:

    • Attending all group or small group counseling sessions

    • Respecting fellow participants, counselors, and crew

    • Contributing positively to a safe and supportive environment

  • Yes, a basic ability to swim is required to complete scuba certification:

    • Swim 200 meters without stopping (no time limit, any stroke)

    • Float for 10 minutes unassisted

    • Be prepared for dive scenarios, including currents and drift dives

  •  No prior certification is required. If selected, Deep Sea Valkyries will:

    • Arrange training with a local dive shop before the retreat

    • Cover or coordinate training costs when possible with partners like Patriots for Disabled Divers (PFDD)

    • Require certification to be completed within the timeframe provided

  •  Yes; for those in the greater Phoenix area, we will provide open water dive training to those selected as part of your selection process (if required). We certify through the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) and your certification is recognized worldwide as a recreational scuba diver. If a participant is outside the Phoenix area and not certified prior to applying, we will arrange for you to conduct training with a local dive shop prior to your travel.

  • Unfortunately no. Due to the size and safety requirements of our live-aboard vessels, service animals cannot be accommodated. All participants must be able to travel and live onboard independently.

  • Our Voyages are limited to veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers. Dual military or first responder couples may apply, but selection is not guaranteed for both applicants.

Eligibility & Applications

  • The application process begins online when the submission window opens November 11 – December 31. Applicants should complete the form thoroughly. A review board selects participants in January, and dive training for uncertified participants takes place in spring.

    Timeline Overview

    • Dec 1 – Applications open

    • Dec 31 – Applications close

    • Early Jan – Applications reviewed & board selection

    • Mid Jan – Selections & notifications sent

    • Spring – Dive training & travel prep

    • Veterans of all eras with combat or humanitarian deployments

    • First Responders (local < federal)

    • Dual military couples may apply, but both must meet eligibility requirements

    • Must be physically able to complete scuba dive certification and participate in all counseling sessions

  • Currently, our Voyages are co-ed due to limited female applicants. Female participants are bunked with female staff and often joined by female crew members.

  • Our retreats are designed specifically for combat-related PTSD. At this time, we are not able to include MST-focused sessions due to the group dynamic and time constraints. We absolutely recognize the impact of MST and can provide referrals to programs that specialize in MST counseling.

    • Applications are reviewed by a 7-person selection board

    • Veterans must submit a redacted DD214 (Member-4)

    • Considerations include ability to safely participate and benefit from counseling/dive training

    • Medical information may be requested to ensure participant safety

  • No. If you are not selected in one year, you must submit a new application the following year during the submission window.

Logistics & Travel

  •  Each participant receives:

    • Airport transfers (to/from Lynden Pindling International Airport - NAS, Nassau)

    • Lodging aboard the live-aboard vessel

    • All meals, snacks, and drinks

    • Dive equipment, air fills, and weights

    • Park fees, taxes, and crew gratuities

    • Approximately 30 hours of trauma counseling

  • Participants are responsible for:

    • Round-trip airfare to Nassau

    • Passport fees

    • Required DAN dive/travel insurance

    • Personal items, clothing, medications

    • Meals during travel to/from Nassau

    • Souvenirs, personal purchases

    • Costs due to misconduct or falsification

  • Each retreat includes a detailed packing list. Generally, bring:

    • Light clothing & swimwear

    • Hygiene items & personal medications

    • Passport, travel documents, and required dive forms

    • A positive attitude and sense of adventure!

  • Yes, some conditions may prevent participation for safety reasons, such as:

    • Inability to climb ladders on vessels

    • Seizure disorders

    • Failure to meet dive medical requirements
      Applicants may be asked to provide a medical statement and dive physical before training.

  • No. CBD and marijuana remain illegal to travel with internationally. Bahamas customs strictly prohibit these substances.

  • No. Our retreats are specifically designed for those with combat-related PTSD. However, participants must be honest in their applications. Failure to disclose accurate information may result in removal from the program.

  • As of September 20, 2022, COVID-19 testing is no longer required for travelers entering the Bahamas. Restrictions may change. For the most up-to-date information, visit https://www.bahamas.com/travelupdates.