For over 40 years, we’ve been proud to deliver wilderness expeditions for our nation’s veterans. Customized specifically for veterans and active-duty servicemen and women, these expeditions are designed to help ease the often difficult transition home by drawing on the healing benefits of the wilderness, teamwork, and challenge.
Tuition-Free Expeditions for Veterans
Since 1983, the Hurricane Island Outward Bound Veterans Program has supported thousands of service members as they navigate the transition from military service to civilian life.
Through teamwork, meaningful challenge, and time in the natural world—an experience that often feels both familiar and restorative—our wilderness programs create space for healing, skill building, and deep connection with fellow veterans.
Thanks to the generous support of our donors, these courses are available tuition and travel-expense free to any veteran or active duty service member.
Our Veterans Expeditions are designed to be both physically demanding and deeply meaningful—bringing together former service members who are ready to challenge themselves and reconnect with the camaraderie that defined their time in uniform. In a supportive team environment, participants push their limits, reflect on their experiences, and rediscover strength, purpose, and belonging alongside fellow veterans.
Rediscover teamwork and shared mission through meaningful challenge alongside fellow veterans who understand the journey.
Strengthen yourself physically and emotionally, building confidence that extends far beyond the expedition.
Gain practical tools for integrating back into civilian life, translating the values of service and commitment into leadership at home and in your community.
Speak openly in a trusted environment, forging deep bonds through shared experience and purposeful adventure in the outdoors.
A Transformative Experience
Reintegrating into civilian life can be challenging, but our expeditions help veterans build lasting resilience, self-confidence, and meaningful connections.
Participants report improved mental health, reduced anxiety and depression, stronger social bonds, and a renewed commitment to self-discovery and seeking support.
The expedition may only last a week, but the strength of the experience lasts a lifetime.
This program has helped me be part of a group of friends in the first time in many years. My support network has grown by nine trusted individuals. In just one week we went from strangers to friends to a team that could anticipate each other’s actions on the sailboat. I have never seen anything like it!
Who qualifies for Veterans courses?
Veterans and active-duty service members; eligibility criteria and funding details can vary by School and may relate to deployment history.
Do I need outdoor experience?
No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn and contribute to a crew.
What expenses are covered?
Tuition is covered; many courses also cover travel for veterans with combat-area deployment.
Why the $50 commitment fee?
It reduces last-minute cancellations and keeps more seats open. Waivers are available.
Can I bring a group of friends I served with?
Yes—via Custom Programs. These are separate from the fully funded Veterans program.
Challenge, Connection, and a Fresh Start
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