Experiential Learning
“Your program rekindled an energy within Tal that has been dormant for a long time. He was delighted with the whole experience which in and of itself is quite unusual for any teenager!”
-Chaille Hutcheson, Houston, TX
Your hand is on the wheel. You’re far from home and everything that is familiar. But, you’re discovering instincts you never knew you had – like how to sense the direction of the wind, how to level your gaze on the horizon, and how to stand steady on the rolling deck. You can’t learn these things by simply reading about them.
Every year, students and parents tell us what a positive impact Sail Caribbean has had on their lives. Upon returning home, they notice new maturity, self-reliance, and glowing self-confidence. These transformations are not a matter of chance; they result from positive learning experiences involving direct, hands-on experiences that are well-designed and facilitated. This is experiential learning at Sail Caribbean. Over our 28 years, we have developed proactive approaches to guiding such personal growth. Whether living aboard large sailboats with 11 crewmates and learning to sail, or sharing a beachside dormitory and doing valuable marine research, these are the perfect stages for these experiences, where it is our goal to empower and inspire you!
Experiential learning initiatives are integrated into every Sail Caribbean program. From the moment you arrive, we'll involve you in all aspects of each activity, first giving you the information you need to take charge, and then letting you do it. After a thorough safety briefing and a few demonstrations, it's you and your crewmates who'll chart the course, toss the line, take the helm, steer your 50' yacht out of the slip, and then set the sails. You need not fear mistakes—our staff will always watch your back. You'll look forward to being Skipper of the Day, competently leading your crew across the sea and safely into harbor. This isn't just another summer trip—it's a voyage of real accomplishment.
While 'students at the wheel' is the most obvious example of our learning philosophy, there's much more than handling the boats. Our True Course initiative is designed to foster personal growth, self-reliance, and leadership. You'll get hands-on experience with leadership roles and responsibilities, develop important individual and teamwork skills, and reflect on these newfound skills during evening boat meetings. Sail Caribbean staff are trained to facilitate this learning, explain concepts and create opportunities to apply and test your skills. Learn more about True Course…
Besides learning respect for others, you'll also learn respect for the sea through our environmental education curriculum. Sailing in the Caribbean over 28 years, we have always tried to minimize our impact on the environment by teaching students to respect and care for the areas in which we sail, dive, and play. Our own environmental education program, SCOPE (Sail Caribbean's Ocean Preservation Education), was developed over many years and we are pleased to now combine that program with the internationally recognized Leave No Trace protocols. Learn more about LNT…
Whether you are learning to sail, navigate, or cook dinner for 12, the key to personal growth is that your learning experiences be positive ones. Sail Caribbean programs are designed to provide just the right balance of freedom and structure. You will feel confident as you meet each challenge, and you'll be amazed at what you accomplish as an individual and as a team member. This journey of personal growth happens so naturally that you may not notice at first, but your 'can do' attitude will rise to the surface. You'll be more ready to meet each daily challenge long after you leave the Caribbean.