Our Docker Captains community gathered for an offsite in Istanbul, and the experience was exceptional from start to finish. Wanting to create a meaningful space for connection, learning, and inspiration, we turned to Surf Office to help us organize and manage the retreat. Surf Office supported us in every possible way. I barely had to think about logistics because they were always responsive, incredibly kind, and consistently proactive. They took care of the hotel, transportation, and activities, offering multiple options and showing great flexibility with last-minute changes. Thanks to them, I could focus fully on the content of the offsite, knowing everything else was completely handled. Our entire community left happy and energized. There was truly no barrier or friction at any point. I would 100 percent recommend Surf Office to any company or team considering an offsite.
- Eva Bojorges, Community at Docker
Docker is a platform that helps developers build, share, and run containerized applications, used by millions of developers worldwide. To bring their Docker Captains community together in person, they chose Istanbul for a four-day offsite. Sara, our Surf Office retreat planner, coordinated the schedule, accommodation, and all pre-event logistics.
The group arrived on October 27th. Hotel check-ins, room allocations and meeting arrangements were prepared in advance, with on-site support from Asli to welcome the Captains and oversee room setups, AV checks, and last-minute adjustments. A relaxed evening reception gave everyone time to reconnect at the start of the retreat.
The following days blended breakfast, working sessions, and informal conversations. Meeting rooms were set up in different layouts throughout the retreat, with equipment ready ahead of each session. A photographer and videographer captured key moments while meals and coffee breaks provided time for more casual interactions.
The highlight of the offsite was the Bosphorus dinner cruise. The boat, timing and menu were arranged in advance, and the group enjoyed an evening on the water with views of Istanbul’s illuminated skyline. The cruise created a relaxed setting for deeper conversations and time together outside the structured sessions.
On the final morning, coordinated check-outs closed the retreat smoothly. The Docker Captains left Istanbul with strengthened connections, new ideas, and a shared experience that felt effortless from start to finish.
