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Young Adults

Maine to Bahamas – Leadership Semester

Broaden your horizons with this 80-day expedition exploring Maine’s coastal and forest ecosystems and the subtropical seas of the Bahamas.

Scholarships

Learn about scholarship opportunities.

Savings Plan

Use a 529 College Savings Plan.

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Multiple Destinations

A group of hikers is making their way up a rocky mountain trail. The hikers are wearing backpacks and hiking gear. The sky is cloudy and the landscape is green and mountainous. The man in the foreground is smiling and looking at the camera. He has a very large backpack.
The image shows three people wearing helmets and climbing on a rocky cliff face. They are attached to a safety cable with carabiners. The person in the foreground is smiling and looking at the camera. The background includes trees and a cloudy sky. It appears they are enjoying a Via Ferrata activity.
The image shows a group of scuba divers exploring an underwater cave. The divers are silhouetted against the bright light coming from the cave entrance. The water is clear and blue, and there are many bubbles rising to the surface. The cave walls are rocky and covered in marine life.
CB20 Course Overview

About This Course

Activity

  • The image shows a blue outline of a hiking backpack against a black background. The backpack is fully packed, with a sleeping bag or similar item strapped to the top. It has multiple compartments and straps, suggesting it's designed for carrying a substantial amount of gear. The style is simple and graphic, resembling an icon or a line drawing. Backpacking
  • The image shows a blue drawing of a kayak and a paddle on a black background. The kayak is depicted with visible seating and a rounded shape. The paddle is positioned diagonally below the kayak, suggesting a sense of readiness for paddling. The drawing style is simple, resembling a sketch, with clear lines defining the shapes of the kayak and paddle. Kayaking
  • The image shows a stylized, blue drawing of a foot and ankle, possibly representing a ballet dancer's foot in a pointe shoe. The foot is positioned vertically, with the toes pointing downwards. The drawing has a simple, almost cartoonish style, with thick lines outlining the shape of the foot and shoe. The background is black, which makes the blue drawing stand out. The image could be used to represent dance, movement, or elegance. Rock Climbing
  • The image shows a simple, cartoon-style drawing of a sailboat. The sailboat is depicted in blue against a black background. It has a triangular sail, a hull, and a small flag at the top of the mast. The drawing is basic, with thick lines and minimal detail, giving it a childlike or sketch-like appearance. The overall impression is that of a quick, hand-drawn illustration of a sailboat. Sailing
  • The image shows a blue outline of a scuba mask against a black background. The mask appears to be floating in the center of the frame. The outline is somewhat rough, giving it a stylized or sketched appearance. The details of the mask, such as the lenses, frame, and straps, are visible in the blue lines. The overall impression is simple and graphic. Scuba Diving
  • The image shows a stylized, blue-outlined graphic against a black background. Two hands are cupped together, as if holding or presenting something delicate. Above the hands, there are three leaf-like shapes, suggesting a plant or nature. The overall impression is one of care, growth, or environmental stewardship. The simplicity of the design and the use of a single color give it a clean and modern look. Service Projects

Setting & Location

  • The image shows a dark background with blue, pixelated shapes clustered in the lower-left and upper-left areas. These shapes might represent landmasses or abstract forms, with some resembling islands or coastlines. The pixelated style gives the image a retro or digital aesthetic, and the contrast between the blue and black creates a stark visual effect. Coastal
  • The image shows a simple, cartoon-style drawing of two mountains. The mountains are depicted with triangular shapes and jagged peaks, suggesting a rugged terrain. Dashed lines adorn the sides of the mountains, possibly representing snow or rocky textures. The drawing is done in a single color, giving it a minimalist and somewhat childlike appearance. The overall impression is one of a basic, almost iconic representation of mountains. Mountains
  • airplane Course Start Location: Portland, Maine
  • airplane Course End Location: Nassau, Bahamas

Students Can Earn

  • PADI Open Water Diver

  • Wilderness Advanced First Aid

Session Details

1 session are available for this course

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What You'll Learn

Outward Bound’s Semester courses combine memory-making adventure with lessons that last a lifetime. You’ll enrich and expand the way you see yourself, the world, and what’s possible. And with itineraries that span the globe, these expeditions are far more than stamps in a passport; they are life-affirming learning opportunities. 

The image shows two people hiking in a forest. The person in the foreground is a woman with a large backpack, smiling at the camera. She is standing on a rocky outcrop with a log bridge. Another person with a backpack is climbing the log bridge behind her. The background is filled with trees and foliage.

What You'll Do

Learn to sail, navigate, and live aboard a traditional open sailboat; backpack rugged mountains; climb granite cliffs; explore tropical habitats by sea kayak, and adventure coral reefs and turquoise waters. Earn Wilderness First Aid and PADI Scuba certifications while building outdoor and leadership skills.

Where You'll Be

Start your adventure sailing the rugged Maine coast, where granite cliffs and hidden coves meet the sea. Then head into the forests of northern New England to take in spectacular summit views. Finally, travel to the turquoise waters and coral reefs of the Bahamas & experience its vibrant ecosystem and culture.

A man wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a life vest is on a yellow kayak in the ocean. He is smiling and giving a shaka sign with his right hand. The water is clear and blue-green, and there is an island in the background. The sky is blue with some clouds. The man appears to be enjoying a sunny day on the water.

Why It Matters

This extended Outward Bound experience is an opportunity to learn, practice, and repeat skills that help you navigate course and life. Discover your unique leadership style, how to engage with your crew toward shared goals, and make memories that will shape who you continue to become as your next chapter unfolds.

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CB11 Scrolling Bullets

Semester Expeditions

What if your Gap Year launches you into an exciting future with confidence, new skills, and incredible stories to share?

Educational Approach

Backcountry skills that last.

The goal of our Gap Year expeditions is to help you develop the confidence, knowledge, and integrity essential for effective leadership. Whether you are learning how to safely tie in on belay, deciding as a group how to navigate through new terrain, or setting up your campsite for the evening, you’ll be honing and practicing skills for life.

Expanding perspective.

An Outward Bound course is more than an outdoor adventure – it’s a unique opportunity to learn skills that will help you navigate life beyond the trail: leadership, teamwork, and self-reflection will set you up for success well into your future.

We believe in you.

Our Semester courses are tough. And worth every blister and bug bite because you’re tough, too. You’ll discover that as you explore awesome backcountry, forge lifelong connections with your crew, and gain hands-on leadership training.

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Life on Course

Sail, hike, dive, and paddle your way from the coast of Maine to the turquoise waters of the Bahamas on an 80-day journey that will change how you see the world—and yourself.

Begin your journey by exploring the Maine coast on a 30-foot open sailboat, backpacking rugged Appalachian trails, and summiting rocky peaks with breathtaking views. You’ll continue your adventure in the Bahamas, navigating the turquoise waters by sea kayak and diving among its coral reefs. On this 80-day expedition, you’ll build confidence, leadership, and wilderness travel skills while forming lifelong bonds and discovering what you’re truly capable of. Every step challenges you to grow—and when it’s over, you’ll return home with unforgettable memories and tools that will serve you for life.

The image shows a group of people on a boat, possibly a small sailboat or fishing vessel, in foggy conditions. They appear to be eating or preparing food, with some wearing life jackets. The boat is surrounded by calm water, and other boats are visible in the distance through the fog. The overall scene suggests a peaceful, overcast day on the water.
A group of hikers with large backpacks are walking along a narrow, rocky path next to a lake. The path is covered with fallen branches and debris. The lake is calm and reflects the surrounding trees and sky. The sky is cloudy and overcast. The hikers are wearing a variety of clothing, including hiking boots, pants, and jackets. The backpacks are various colors and sizes.
Two people in scuba gear are posing for a photo. They are on a boat, with water and land visible in the background. Both divers are wearing black wetsuits and scuba equipment, including masks and tanks. The person on the left is smiling broadly, while the person on the right has a more subtle smile. The sky is overcast.
The image shows a group of people kayaking in a clear, turquoise sea, as seen from inside a cave. The cave's opening frames the kayakers and the horizon, creating a picturesque view. The water is calm, and the sky is visible in the distance. One person is standing in the water near the cave entrance, holding a paddle.

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CB39 Table Feature

Sample Itinerary

Here’s an example of what your course itinerary might look like. The actual plan will depend on permits, weather, group skills, and instructor evaluation.

Swipe on table below to view more.

80-Day Course

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Day 1 Course start, Wheeler Bay, Maine; Meet your group
Day 2-4 Course Orientation; expedition packout
Day 5-23 Sailing expedition on Maine’s coast
Day 24-25 Expedition returns to base; clean-up
Day 26-29 Wilderness Advanced First Aid at the Wheeler Bay base camp
Day 30 Backpack expedition packout
Day 31-53 Backpacking, rock climbing, Service Project, and Solo
Day 54 Clean up, de-issue, gear repair
Day 55 Fly to the Bahamas
Day 56-60 Sea Kayak training, Scuba certification, Expedition prep
Day 61-77 Sea Kayak Expedition
Day 78-79 Kayak and gear clean, Course end
Day 80 Fly back to U.S.
CB27 Pull Quotes
The image shows three hikers on a rocky mountain trail. They are equipped with large backpacks, suggesting a multi-day trip. The background features a scenic view of mountains partially obscured by clouds or fog, creating a sense of depth and altitude. The sky is clear and blue, indicating good weather conditions for hiking.

There is something about sleeping together in tents or sleeping under the stars in the middle of the ocean that brings people together…I gained so much from this program and cannot recommend it highly enough.

Jack

CB17 FAQs

FAQs

I don't have a lot of outdoor experience—can I still be successful?

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Absolutely. Your motivation to learn new skills and work with others is just as important as what you already know. Many of our students have never spent an extended period of time in the wilderness. From the moment you arrive, your instructors will teach you and your group the skills necessary to be safe and successful.

What gear will I need?

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After enrollment, your Course Advisor will be in touch to provide you with a link to your Course Page, where you will find a list of required clothing specific to your course – including items such as footwear, clothing, and other personal equipment.

Outward Bound will provide technical gear that includes expedition items like sleeping bags, sleeping pads, tents/tarps, packs, and cooking gear.

Can I bring my phone or tablet on course?

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This course is a technology-free adventure! Although you may travel to and from your course with your cell phones, iPods, tablets, and laptops, once you arrive, everything will be stored in a locked area in your luggage until course end.

Although some students are hesitant about this at first, many reflect on their experience as a well-needed break from screens and social media. It means more time to be present with nature—and your crewmates too.

What does the cost of the course cover?

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The total cost includes all tuition and fees for the course. Tuition covers the cost of food, instruction, permits, technical gear, and equipment while on course. Courses going to Costa Rica and the Bahamas also include on-call international insurance (more information provided after enrollment).

Not included in this total cost are personal expenses such as clothing, health & travel insurance, airfare, and baggage fees.

Can I earn college credit from this course?

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Yes! Academic credit is available for Outward Bound courses by transferring credit through our partner colleges or by arranging your own independent study. Click here for more information about receiving academic credit.

Can I use my 529 Plan or college fund to pay for this?

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Thanks to Outward Bound’s partnership with Western State Colorado University, we can accept 529 College Savings Plan through their Extended Studies program, and anyone can register. You do not have to be a current Western State Colorado University student to take advantage of this opportunity. Please click here for more information about accepting 529 College Savings Plans.

What types of training do Instructors receive?

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Outward Bound Instructors receive regular training in the outdoor activities and environments in which we run our courses. New Instructors receive extensive training in teaching and facilitation, risk management, judgment, decision making, conflict resolution and emergency procedures. After completing initial training, instructors work directly under experienced staff before being promoted to a Lead Instructor position. Lead Instructors receive continuing training and professional development annually.
Click here to learn more about instructor training and development on our Safety & Risk Management page.

How is safety managed on course?

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Outward Bound courses take place outdoors and include activities that present risks that can be managed but not eliminated. Running our courses safely is central to our educational goals and our safety record is excellent. Our instructors not only identify and reduce risks but also teach students to assess and address hazards with preparation and care, rather than fear and avoidance. Students and their families participate in our safety systems by familiarizing students with the course description prior to the course and by filling out our application and medical forms completely. We regularly review our safety training systems with our peers and other industry experts and continually seek to create or adopt the most effective practices. Every course is equipped with the ability to get help in an emergency.
For more information, click here to visit our Safety & Risk Management page.

Can I use an Americorps Award to pay for a course?

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Thanks to Outward Bound’s partnership with Western Colorado University, we can accept AmeriCorps Education Awards through their Extended Studies program. You do not have to be a current Western Colorado University student—anyone can register. Click here to learn more and reach out to [email protected] or (970) 943-2885 with any questions.

THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE. THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE. THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE. THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE.
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