
Lilas Hampe
RealStep
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad by the idea of experiencing something completely different from my everyday routine. The thought of waking up just steps a...
Read Full Interview



ActionQuest Summer Adventure Programs
47
Living aboard sailing yachts in small groups of 11 to 13 teenagers of similar ages, ActionQuest students discover the British Virgin Islands, lea...
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
12
IVHQ volunteers participating on the Coastline Conservation and Education project have the opportunity to contribute to a long-term goal of keeping the coastlines and beaches in New Zealand clean and beautiful. Volunteers will present educational seminars in local schools and businesses about the im
See All 3 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
51
Volunteer at one of the largest & most successful wildlife rehabilitation/release centers in Africa! Participants on this project work with a range of animals; anything from chimpanzees to baby cheetahs. Experience beautiful Zimbabwe all while making a positive impact on the delicate African ecosyst
See All 3 ProgramsSeamester Study Abroad at Sea
51
Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real out
See All 11 ProgramsGapforce
21
This Gapforce program is an action-packed, six-week tour combining travel and adventure with volunteering on Australia's famed East Coast. Your journey begins in the awesome city of Sydney before heading north to Brisbane via the legendary Byron Bay. You will spend two weeks volunteering on an envir
Travel For Teens
4
Pack your sense of adventure this summer and explore Croatia, one of Europe’s hottest off-the-beaten-path destinations! You’ll experience the very best this country has to offer—from the breathtaking Krka Waterfalls in the north to the incredible walled city of Dubrovnik in the south. What better wa
Pacific Discovery
24
Journey through Hawaii, Fiji, and New Zealand on a 10-week adventure that blends exploration, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Surf volcanic coastlines, hike through lush rainforests, and volunteer on conservation projects that protect Polynesian ecosystems and honor Indigenous traditions.
Westcoast Connection
1
This is truly the ultimate West Coast teenage road trip! The program begins in San Francisco and Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Then, cruise down the coast and fall in love with the beaches of Santa Barbara and the most famous hotspots in LA and San Diego. Next, it takes you into the American So
See All 2 ProgramsGIVE Volunteers Growth International Volunteer Excursions
39
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime on our GIVE Tanzania Excursion! Soak up the incredible sights, culture, and wildlife of both the mainland and Zanzibar Island! Give’s Tanzania Excursion takes you from the tropical oasis of Zanzibar Island to the wild plains of mainland Tanzania. Work alongside
GoBeyond Student Travel
8
This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language sk
See All 3 ProgramsGo Abroad China Ltd.
23
Go Abroad China’s High School Chinese Language Immersion Program is designed for international students aged 13–18 who want to learn Chinese in China while experiencing authentic Chinese culture in a safe and supportive environment. Students can choose from University Chinese Language Programs, Sm
World Unite!
0
A dhow is a traditional Arab sailing vessel with one or more lateen sails. It is primarily used to carry items along the coasts of the Arabian Peninsula, Pakistan, India, and East Africa. The term "dhow" does not refer to just one type of ship but to a whole family of vessels, ranging from small bo
Luderitz Blue School
2
Do you love the ocean — and want to share that passion with the next generation? At Luderitz Blue School, Namibia's only IOC-UNESCO Blue School, ocean literacy isn't a subject — it's a way of life. As an intern, you'll become part of a unique school community where every week brings beach clean-ups,
Putney Student Travel
0
Journey through the South Pacific on an immersive adventure that spans Fiji’s coral-rich waters, New Zealand’s alpine landscapes, and Australia’s rugged Outback and iconic reefs. Begin in a coastal Fijian village, where you experience island traditions and explore waterfalls. Head to New Zealand to
MAXIMO NIVEL
59
If you’ve been craving an adventure that combines meaningful service with unforgettable experiences, the Volunteer Adventure program in Costa Rica is the perfect fit! Spend 2 weeks exploring one of the most beautiful countries in Latin America while dividing your time between volunteering and adven
Global Work & Travel
0
Explore Greece over 8 unforgettable days across Athens, Santorini and Mykonos, built for 18–35ish travellers who want island life, history, food and social travel without planning every detail themselves. Start in Athens with the Acropolis, historic neighbourhoods and Greek street food before headin
Spanish Gap Year
0
Meaningful, curriculum-aligned travel brings Spanish language and culture to life for your students. Our fully guided School Tours are tailored to each group’s needs, with round-trip airport transfers, full-board homestay or dorm accommodations, and Spanish lessons matched to proficiency levels. A
Intercultura Costa Rica
6
Ready for the ultimate summer in Costa Rica? Our Teen Summer Adventure Camp is a chance to improve your Spanish while exploring tropical beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and some of the most incredible places on the planet. After your fun, active Spanish classes (both in the city and at our amaz
Gama Travel and Tour Agency
0
30-Day Rwanda Academic & Professional Tour: The 30-Day Rwanda Academic & Professional Tour, organized by Gama Travel & Tour Agency in Rwanda – the Land of a Thousand Hills – offers international students, professors, and university staff an immersive academic and experiential learning program. This
Warriors Academy
121
Are you looking for an adventure gap year in South Africa? Then look no further than the Warriors Academy. Our gap year program is the perfect combination of travel, fun, adventure, and self-development. How is our program structured? Our Gap Year program is structured to include four 7-week Quest
The world is truly your oyster (and you might see a few of those along the way) when it comes to choosing a destination for adventure sailing! Of course, some seas make for far better sailing than others, so it’s important to consider the climate and conditions (and perhaps the time of year you wish to travel), before locking in sailing adventure vacations.
As a continent playing home to the sheltered waters of the Mediterranean and a great diversity of cultures and languages, Europe offers world sailing opportunities a plenty. A popular choice here is Croatia. Explore a great blend of stunning beaches, snorkeling, and awe-inspiring waterfalls and lagoons, which are all nicely contrasted with the culture of the UNESCO world heritage sites, home to a range of well-preserved historical architecture and a vibrant city life.
On the other side of the pond, you could lose yourself as you explore the untouched corners of the Caribbean. Picture this: you, sipping rum cocktails and watching the sun go down over perfect turquoise oceans, without another visitor in sight (apart from your shipmates of course!). On these jerk-y sailing adventures, check out the laid-back reggae nightlife in Jamaica, hike volcanoes in the Lesser Antilles, and scuba dive with some world-famous marine life, such as the world’s largest fish, the whale shark!
In another corner of the globe, Australia offers great opportunities for sailing adventure holidays, and is home to the world’s largest barrier reef– the underwater life might be even better than that on top! Visit cosmopolitan cities, such as Brisbane and Sydney, interspaced with time to take it easy and hit the waves on your surfboard in Byron Bay. So many travelers peruse the Aussie coast by road, but you can have the best of life on land and at sea by doing adventure sailing instead! Due to their proximity, you could also couple this adventure with a visit to the even more exotic waters of Fiji or Thailand, balancing sailing adventure trips with different cultures and experiences.
With opportunities as broad as the oceans themselves, you can certainly find something to “wet” your appetite. Most sailing adventures are ideal for solo travelers as they adjoin you with a group of like-minded individuals; if none of your friends are wise enough to join you on adventure sailing holidays, you don’t need to worry about going the distance alone. Programs vary in structure and content: Those looking to take it easy and see the world can opt for a sightseeing-focused adventure. Even more opportunities are available to maximize the experience, coupling it with opportunities for personal development or volunteering.
It could be as simple as learning how to sail and becoming qualified so that you are ready for the next adventure and clocking up some nautical miles to store in your dry-bag en-route. On the other hand, you might want to try scuba diving so that you can enjoy what’s under your boat just as much as the view from the deck. This licence will allow you to dive anywhere in the world, opening up even more world sailing opportunities to experience life below the surface. If, however, you prefer to keep your head above water, you can learn fishing to do more than just watch the waves. After all, eating something you caught yourself will always taste sweet!
Other programs might also include opportunities for language learning as you travel around a certain area, immersing you more deeply into the cultures you are experiencing along the way. Volunteering allows you to give something back to help preserve the beautiful ocean you are enjoying so much. Conservation-focused programs assist with protecting the marine environment, and will also help to educate you about the problems faced.
Careful planning makes for a smooth ride, so think carefully about the time of year you wish to travel and where you wish to set sail. It might not only be that the climate affects conditions at sea, but also that there are certain times of year that are best for seeing certain species of marine life and suchlike. You don’t want to land in Mexico in October to realize you just missed the sea turtles if they are high on your list of priorities!
Pack wisely, as you may be living in basic conditions with limited space to unpack; make sure that your things are well organized and easy to grab (you just need your swimsuit anyways, right?!). Equally, don’t forget to pack plenty of the essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent for your sailing adventures, as these items might be harder to pick up en-route. Think about how long you will be at sea between stops when deciding how much of certain things to take. You’ll most likely be doing laundry by hand, so don’t take anything world sailing that you’d be devastated to ruin.
Consider your budget carefully when booking sailing adventures, taking into account what is included in the overall cost of the expedition and what you will have to cover for yourself along the way. You don’t want to find yourself short of spending money for those must-do adventures along the way of your international yacht charter. Consider creating a customizable FundMyTravel campaign to get those funds started!
Watching the sun go down after another day of exploration by sea, the benefits of joining a sailing adventure are not hard to imagine and stretch far beyond developing a great tan. Sailing adventures allow you to travel from a unique perspective, seeing things in a way that few others do. The ocean makes up around 70 per cent of the globe’s surface, meaning that by land, much of it lies uncovered. You’ll explore areas of the world that few have visited before you. There really is no better feeling than staring down the beach and finding not so much as another footstep in the sand.
Of course, every picture of perfection takes work to complete, and you, just the same, will have to work hard whilst on board. It may not all be plain sailing (pun intended), and you may come across tough weathers and conditions that force you to change course—the ocean is unpredictable after all. Smooth seas never made a skilled sailor! Living conditions will be basic, and you might not always have access to the luxuries you are afforded back home. However, it will be easy to forget the small things as you focus on the bigger picture and enjoy the opportunity you have.
By now you’re probably already packing your snorkel for a sea-bound sailing adventure vacation. You’ll be able to tailor the style of your trip to meet your preferences and will have opportunities to include some really exciting skill development and volunteering into the itinerary. Voyage into the unknown and sail ahead for this truly unique adventure!
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
It was one of the best decisions I have ever made and would recommend to anyone! So much fun and could take part in an array or activities including sky diving and hiking. I’ve learnt so much and met so many amazing people!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
I had an amazing time and I Genuinly had the best time ever ! All the staff were so kind and fun and they made the trip so much fun for all of us! Every day we did such cool activities and we were never bored - all the places we stayed were so nice and South Africa is such an amazing country, if I could do it again I would !



Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
What an amazing adventure trip! Rowena, Divan and Brett were all fantastic and made the experience so special. Full of excitement, fun and unforgettable memories, it was truly an incredible adventure!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors was really great and i had an amazing week where i met amazing people, pushed myself and had the best time. My favorite activities included volounteering at a crèche, meeting elephants, skydiving and hiking. Thank you!

Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Best week of my life instructors were incredible every moment was so special would do it all over again if I had the option. Never a dull moment, the whole team was so special and kind. The activities made the experience insane !
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
The staff were all so friendly and encouraging, I loved meeting lots of new people and i loved all the activities especially the sky diving. The food was all delicious especially the traditional south african ones
Program: Caribbean Scuba and Sailing Voyage
Broadreach is the best thing to do during your summer. I think that my biggest concern when going on my trip was that I might not have any friends on my boat and that was not the case at ALL. The diving is insane and every day is just nonstop fun. By being away from the world with just a couple of kids your age you will be best friends with everyone on that boat. You dive together, you sail together, you cook together, eat together, clean together, and you become a family. I had the best time of my life and there is really nothing like it.
Program: St. Martin & the Leeward Islands: Advanced Scuba & Sailing
This 12-day Broadreach voyage was hands-down the most elective, life-changing adventure I’ve ever had. From the second you step onto the catamaran in St. Martin, you aren't treated like a tourist—you are part of a real crew, hoisting sails and navigating the Leeward Islands. The diving is absolutely world-class; dropping into the deep blue at Saba to explore legendary underwater pinnacles like Diamond Rock felt like entering another planet. Over just 12 days, the growth you experience is wild, taking you all the way through your PADI Advanced and Rescue Diver certifications with instructors who are incredibly professional, encouraging, and safe. But what really makes this trip unbeatable is the liveaboard lifestyle—waking up to Caribbean sunrises, cooking together on deck, and stargazing every night with a group of strangers who instantly become your lifelong best friends. If you want cool summer that gets action packed this trip is for you.
The Croatia island hopping trip for travel for teens was incredible! I loved spending a week living on the boat. Not only did it bring everyone to get supper close it also allowed us to go to so many different islands. It was amazing to have slow morons on the boat but in the afternoon or evening being able to explore a new town I learned so much.


Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
This program is extremely well organized in terms of activities and trips, all accommodations are of high quality and safe. Activities are extremely safe, and promote self growth, as well as give a thrilling experience. The base camp is beautiful and nature filled. 10/10.👍

Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Doing MAI is so worth it I learnt even more this year than I did last year. Being in a leading position taught me patients and how to deal with many different people and personalities. Each adventure made me closer with each person whether they were facilitators or students
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
My experience at Warriors Academy has been one of the best experiences of my life. When I first arrived, I knew I was going to do a lot of activities and meet new people, but I never expected to leave with so many memories, friendships, and lessons that would change the way I look at life. Warriors has taught me so much about myself. I have learned to push myself out of my comfort zone, face my fears, and try things I never thought I would be able to do. From hiking mountains and rafting rivers to abseiling, swimming, and taking part in different challenges, every activity taught me something new. There were times when things were difficult, but those moments helped me realise that I am capable of more than I sometimes believe. One of the biggest things I will take away from Warriors is the people I have met. The friendships I have made mean more to me than words can explain. The people on the farm have become like a family to me, and I will always be grateful for the role they have played in my life. I have met people I look up to, people who have challenged me to become better, and people who have made me laugh even when things were tough. The memories we have made together are something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. The staff and instructors have also played a massive role in my journey. They have helped me learn new skills, overcome challenges, and understand the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and leadership. They have shown me that growth does not always happen when things are easy, but often when we are uncomfortable and have to push through challenges. Warriors has also helped me appreciate the small things in life. Spending time around the fire, having conversations with friends, enjoying the outdoors, and laughing together are moments I will miss more than I can explain. Sometimes, it is the simplest moments that become the best memories. Looking back, I can honestly say that I did not leave Warriors as the same person who arrived. I have grown in confidence, learned more about who I am, and gained a better understanding of the person I want to become. I still have a lot to learn, but Warriors has given me a strong foundation to keep growing. Leaving is not easy because I am leaving behind people and a place that have become such a big part of my life. However, I know that the purpose of this journey was never to stay comfortable forever, but to grow and take what I have learned into the world. I will forever be thankful for my time at Warriors Academy. The experiences, friendships, lessons, and memories will always have a special place in my heart. Warriors was more than just a gap year. It was a chapter of my life that helped shape the man I am becoming, and I will never forget it.
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
The MAI program at Warriors Academy was an incredible experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally. I gained valuable qualifications, developed my leadership and guiding skills, and discovered just how much I’m capable of. The program challenged me in ways I never expected, while giving me the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience amazing adventures. I’m so grateful for the skills, friendships, and memories I’ve gained, and I would highly recommend MAI to anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to challenge themselves!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Completing the Fourth Quest at Warriors Academy was the ultimate capstone to my journey. As the final quest, it focused heavily on bringing everything we had learned together—stepping up into true leadership, taking ownership, and pushing past mental limits. From high-adrenaline outdoor adventures to deep personal reflection, every single day challenged me to move far beyond my comfort zone
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors changed my life in so many ways. it gives you opportunities that you never thought would come your way, and connections with people you never thought could be so special. I absolutely recommend this program for everyone.
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
When i first arrived i had no clue what to expect since i signed up very late. I began the first week thinking the quest would never and but every day i started to enjoy the things more and i made a lot of new friends. I had the tike of my life with amazing activities!! Today is my last day here and honestly, i wished it would last longer. I had an amazing time and i would definitely reccomend it!!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
It is an amazing program the people and the staff are amazing they will always make sure that you are safe and if there is a problem they are always there to help What i learned while at Warriors i insane i learned about myself and how to work with others
Program: St. Lucia: Advanced Scuba Voyage
Oh man, where do I begin? Broadreach has given me some of the most incredible experiences, memories, and skills in my life while being able to explore so many new places across the world! I got to try a whole lot of new food, give back to the communities across the world with service projects, see new life, gain new skills diving and sailing, and make lots of new friends and memories along the way! I remember one memory fondly where one of our instructors was able to make a lemon float mid-air using an air tank during some downtime, and its still one of the most bizarre but fun memories I have! I hope I can go back to sail with Broadreach again some day!
Program: Caribbean Scuba and Sailing Voyage
EXTREMELY FUN EXPERIENCE!! In summer of 2024, I did the 12 day Snorkeling + Sailing trip and it was an incredibly unforgettable experience. I especially enjoyed visiting the various islands included in my itinerary, cooking meals for the rest of the crew, and just having a fun, relaxing time! Highly recommend this for anyone looking for a fun time for their teen! I’m going next summer too! Edit 1: In summer of 2025, I attended the 12 day Scuba Diving and Sailing trip and it was (once again) spectacular. I was skeptical about scuba diving at first, but the instructors on my boat made sure myself and all of my other crew mates feel properly prepared and accommodated for the activity. I really enjoyed everything from the previous trip and ESPECIALLY recommend doing the scuba route which is truly unforgettable (we literally had a shark swim with us in Saba!). Yes, of course I still highly recommend Broadreach. To Broadreach: sorry, you're stuck with me (I'm gonna keep coming back :) Edit 2: Summer 2026 I attended the 17 day sailing and scuba adventures as part of the first program from June 14 to July 1st. When I tell you, this was my favorite Broadreach trip (so far) I mean it!!!!!!! 17 days was a much more laid-back experience and now that I am in high school it was so nice to have more chill, laid back students and instructors. We scuba dive so much and the certifications we got were well worthwhile. We did community service on Statia and Saba and overall had the time of our lives!! Don’t worry, Broadreach, I will be coming back :).
Program: 4-Day Luxury Galapagos Cruise Aboard the Elite Catamaran
Since the booking procesos, everything was smooth, my travel Advisor was the greatest, being in Galápagos in this catamaran changed my way of traveling form now on. I highly recomend this amazing trip.
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Lilas Hampe
RealStep
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad by the idea of experiencing something completely different from my everyday routine. The thought of waking up just steps a...
Read Full Interview
Olivia Haan 2018
Travel For Teens
AlumniI have been abroad a few times now but I was very drawn to China based on its history and culture. I have been to Thailand before but wanted to explor...
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Carmen Ruiz Ricca
Worldwide Friends Iceland
AlumniI have always loved travelling around, so when I came across this program I thought it was such a great way to get to know this thrilling country.
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Savannah Petrelli
Travel For Teens
AlumniEver since I was young, I had an urge to travel. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel in their lifetime. Being able to see an...
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Rachel Lyon
The Real Uganda
AlumniMy passion to work with children in childcare and my desire to travel whilst also volunteering
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Daan de Kraay
Nullarbor Traveller
AlumniI wanted to see the world and explore to see how Australia looked. I've heard many many stories about this country and they were all true!
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Kimberley Maessen
Nullarbor Traveller
AlumniI always enjoyed traveling and exploring new countries, which was also the main reason for choosing to study tourism.
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Blake Powel
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
AlumniI love to travel and, specifically traveling abroad, as a way to broaden my cultural awareness. As I am usually traveling with friends or family, I wa...
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Ashley Allen
Travel For Teens
AlumniUltimately my love for adventure, cultural exploration, and stories. I wanted to experience life abroad before I went to university that would allow m...
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Michaela Rubenstein
University Studies Abroad Consortium
AlumniMy parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...
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Ivanya Johnson
Broadreach
AlumniMy Mom found Broadreach for me; she knew that I loved adventure, meeting new people, and learning more about the world we live in. Each year I choose ...
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Dallas Fawson
Discover Corps
AlumniThis contrast can be seen in the beautiful church facade in San Andrés Xecul; though it is a Catholic church, it was constructed by Mayan slaves, and ...
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Matthew Ambrogi
Where There Be Dragons
AlumniFirst off, it wasn't an easy decision. But, for me, it was something I had to do. I was in my freshman year of college, working so hard everyday for a...
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Natalie Craun
Global Leadership Adventures
AlumniI wanted to discover what life was like in a developing country, step outside of my comfort zone, and sharpen my social and leadership skills.
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Sydney Harned 2014
Broadreach
AlumniI’d always had a hunch that I wanted to go on to get my Divemaster certification, and after diving the past two summers with broadreach I knew that Sc...
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Sydney Harned 2011
Broadreach
AlumniI’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...
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Sally Short
Tropical Research and Conservation Centre
AlumniI love to Travel and I love to dive, The UK is too cold!!!
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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