British Virgin Islands

Rebuilding Island Life

A small archipelago in the heart of the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands sustained a direct hit from Hurricane Irma in the fall of 2017. Few people get to see this place beyond its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters but you’ll spend 2-3 weeks working directly with the local population to rebuild the communities left bruised by the storm. Live onboard a 50-foot sail yacht with Preserving Paradise students to respond directly to local needs and show the people of the Caribbean that they have not been forgotten.

  • Days
  • Service
  • Students
  • Age
  • Availability
  • Tuition (USD)
Upcoming Session Information

Our upcoming dates and costs for this journey are not yet published. Check back, or give us a call (+1.941.924.2115) to discuss our future offerings.

Focus

  • Humanitarian Support
  • Infrastructure Development
  • Environmental Conservation
  • Wildlife Stewardship

Adventure

  • Cultural Exploration
  • Hiking & Walking Tours
  • Water Sports

Environment

  • Urban
  • Rural
  • Ocean

The Journey

Your Adventure Starts Here
British Virgin Islands Summer Program Live Boats
More About the BVI

Welcome to the British Virgin Islands!

Our journey begins! Students have the option of flying to St. Thomas (STT) in the USVI, or students can fly independently and directly to Tortola (EIS) in the BVI. For students flying via STT, GoBeyond’s professional staff meet them and assist with the transfer to Tortola then on to our comfortable and clean floating home. For those flying via EIS, students are met by an airport representative. Students spend the day preparing for life aboard and getting to know one another while the sun sets behind the dock.

Live Aboard Sail Program Bvi

Itinerary Activities

First Day On the Water

After a morning briefing from GoBeyond directors and staff, the student leader of the day will take our monohull or catamaran off the dock and set sail across the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Students get acquainted with the BVI waters by snorkeling the infamous caves of Norman Island. After the student chefs of the day serve dinner to the crew, we’ll begin our training for the necessary construction skills for the projects ahead.

Community Relief Program Teens Construction
Virgin Gorda

As the second largest island in the chain, Virgin Gorda is sometimes left to its own devices in terms of services and infrastructure. Here you’ll work with community organizations to make sure that future generations enjoy a more sustainable and efficient island.

Teen Volunteer Relief Summer Program
Virgin Gorda
(cont.)

A safe place for students to learn, interact, and grow should be one of the first steps on the path to recovery. You’ll continue GoBeyond’s work at local schools to make sure that the children have a place to go that is clean, comfortable, and fun.

Visit The Bvi The Baths Teen Program
Virgin Gorda
(cont.)

After a busy morning of service, you’ll take the rest of the day to explore one of the Caribbean’s most iconic ladnmarks. Climb, leap, crawl, and wade through the spectacular rock formations of The Baths and top it all off with some time on a beach that has to be seen to be believed.

Save Turtles Summer Camp High School Teens
Virgin Gorda
(cont.)

In such a small country, the people, environment, and wildlife overlap in meaningful ways every single day. Our service efforts include projects that aim to understand a major storm’s effect on such a country. Virgin Gorda’s eastern shore acts as an ideal venue to work with GoBeyond’s ongoing turtle tag and release efforts.

Volunteer Hurricane Relief Caribbean

Journey Focus

Picking Up the Pieces and Helping to Rebuild

On September 6th, 2017, Hurricane Irma made landfall in the territory and damaged much of the infrastructure across the islands. After the storm passed, the people of the islands emerged determined to rebuild their country and have asked for all the help they can get in the process. Add to that a convoluted history of colonialism as well as an ever-expanding economic reliance on tourism, and you have an ecosystem and culture at a pivotal fork in the road.

As a home base for GoBeyond, we want to help our neighbors and friends continue to rebuild. We’ll travel across the population centers of the BVI to help wherever we can, with projects focusing on areas that are less likely to receive attention from government and relief organizations over the next few years. In addition to the human interests, the natural environment of the BVI was heavily damaged in the storm. We’ll partner with international research efforts that are helping it to bounce back and become even more resilient.

There is no shortage of confusion or uncertainty in the BVI right now; as the wants and needs of the people on the ground change, our resolve to lend a helping hand will remain constant.

Learn More
Fun Service Program Virgin Islands Relief

Adventure Focus

Work Hard, Play Hard

There’s an immense amount of satisfaction to be gained in seeing a project through from beginning to end but all work and no play is bound to diminish that good feeling. We’ll break apart the hard work with snorkeling, hiking, swimming, and just messing around on the beach.

Consruction Project Volunteer High School

Itinerary Activities

Rebuild, Revitalize, Repeat

Underneath the rubble lies a world of opportunity. With many wooden homes and buildings being marked as complete losses, the process of rebuilding gives us the chance to make things better than they were before. Woodwork, painting, pouring concrete, and clearing ground are all needs for the foreseeable future. During our high school service trip to the British Virgin Islands, we’ll lend our hearts, hands, and focus to ensure that no corners are cut and that the structures of the BVI will be better suited for the next generation.

The rugged Caribbean terrain makes any development or cleanup effort more difficult than it should be, but many hands make light work. You and your team will gain tangible results from the work you put in. You’ll be able to step away at the end of the day surprised by how much you got done and what you’re capable of.

Virgin Islands Summer Camp Service Sail
Anegada

The remote beaches of Anegada’s northern shore are rarely visited by anyone. Students will collectively hike the entire beach in search of turtle nests and unique items that have washed ashore from the storm. Previous GoBeyond groups have found messages in bottles, entire boats, and even products from China..

Hurricane Relief Teen Program
Anegada
(cont.)

Being 20 miles from the main archipelago, Anegada experienced less devastation than the rest of the BVI. That same isolation means that clean up and recovery has come slow. We’ll lend a hand to get the communities back up and running.

Turtle Tag Hurricane Relief Summer Program
Anegada
(cont.)

The fragile environment and small population of this remote island creates a genuine need for as much scientific assesment as possible. The shallow waters that surround the island create one of the only venues in the world in which researchers can catch turtles “rodeo style.”

Volunteer Rebuild Jost Van Dyke Foxy
Jost Van Dyke

As an Island on the outskirts of the BVI, Jost van Dyke relies heavily on visitors to support its residents. The Jost van Dyke Preservation Society was founded so that the people living on the small island could take ownership of their culture, identity, land, environment, and future.

Student Hurricane Relief Program
Jost Van Dyke
(cont.)

One of the primary aims of the JVDPS is to empower the youth of the island to take ownership of their home and learn the skills it would take to improve the island or rebuild if necessary. Now is their chance to show what they’ve learned and teach you a thing or two as you work together rebuilding Jost’s world-famous attractions.

Rebuild After Hurricane Teen Volunteer Program
Jost Van Dyke
(cont.)

As the third most populated island in the territory, Jost van Dyke has fewer resources than others and often has to fend for itself. We’ll do what needs to be done to get the coastal businesses back up and running and help JVD back on its way to being a world renowned destination.

Hurricane Irma Reconstruction Trip
Hurricane Irma Relief Trip
Virgin Gorda Hurricane Relief Trip
Teen Construction Program Volunteer
Tag Turtles Bvi Summer Camp
Students Rebuild School After Hurricane Maria
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“Looking back at the end of the day after working on a playground or painting a wall, I felt a sense of accomplishment that is a rare and precious feeling. I found myself caught up in the work - totally absorbed with digging a trench or removing that last piece of wire. But walking away and seeing what we as a group had done always amazed me... I changed mentally and physically and learned valuable lessons I will carry with me through my life.”
Elise B.
Amazing Life Changing Summer Program High School

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Closing Activities

The last days are always so hard! Who would have thought that what was a group of strangers in an unfamiliar country could so quickly feel like home? The humanitarian trip to the British Virgin Islands comes full circle and ends on the dock where it all began. Students enjoy one final barbecue the night before departing with an often tearful goodbye. Without fail, there is a mix of emotions – there is excitement to return home; there is sadness to leave. On the final day of the high school service trip, students are transferred to the airport by our professional staff, checked in, then travel on to their respective homes and families. Yet the journey continues for each individual in undefinable ways. The lessons we learn and the personal growth we gain through GoBeyond BVI are things we can never forget.

By Peyton M.

Full Circle

We awoke already underway, sailing from the gorgeous secluded part of Guana Island where the mandatory fun day went down…

Read More
By Lara P.

Farm Life

This morning I was delighted to come upstairs to be presented with pancakes made by Charlotte and G-ball. It was…

Read More
By Felipe R.

Rebuilding Anegada’s School

We started out the day with a fresh breakfast right next to the dingy full of tools ready to be…

Read More
By Samuel B.

Full Day of Turtle Tagging

The day started off with the entire Go Beyond group meeting at the Anegada Reef Hotel. Once everyone had their…

Read More
By Jaden M.

Our Last Day in the Park

Captains log, stardate 72618. Life aboard the BVI Pineapple has become more familiar than it was the day before, which…

Read More

Trip Logs

British Virgin Islands Summer Program Live Boats
More About the BVI

Welcome to the British Virgin Islands!

Our journey begins! Students have the option of flying to St. Thomas (STT) in the USVI, or students can fly independently and directly to Tortola (EIS) in the BVI. For students flying via STT, GoBeyond’s professional staff meet them and assist with the transfer to Tortola then on to our comfortable and clean floating home. For those flying via EIS, students are met by an airport representative. Students spend the day preparing for life aboard and getting to know one another while the sun sets behind the dock.

Live Aboard Sail Program Bvi

Itinerary Activities

First Day On the Water

After a morning briefing from GoBeyond directors and staff, the student leader of the day will take our monohull or catamaran off the dock and set sail across the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Students get acquainted with the BVI waters by snorkeling the infamous caves of Norman Island. After the student chefs of the day serve dinner to the crew, we’ll begin our training for the necessary construction skills for the projects ahead.

Volunteer Hurricane Relief Caribbean

Journey Focus

Picking Up the Pieces and Helping to Rebuild

On September 6th, 2017, Hurricane Irma made landfall in the territory and damaged much of the infrastructure across the islands. After the storm passed, the people of the islands emerged determined to rebuild their country and have asked for all the help they can get in the process. Add to that a convoluted history of colonialism as well as an ever-expanding economic reliance on tourism, and you have an ecosystem and culture at a pivotal fork in the road.

As a home base for GoBeyond, we want to help our neighbors and friends continue to rebuild. We’ll travel across the population centers of the BVI to help wherever we can, with projects focusing on areas that are less likely to receive attention from government and relief organizations over the next few years. In addition to the human interests, the natural environment of the BVI was heavily damaged in the storm. We’ll partner with international research efforts that are helping it to bounce back and become even more resilient.

There is no shortage of confusion or uncertainty in the BVI right now; as the wants and needs of the people on the ground change, our resolve to lend a helping hand will remain constant.

Learn More
Community Relief Program Teens Construction
Virgin Gorda

As the second largest island in the chain, Virgin Gorda is sometimes left to its own devices in terms of services and infrastructure. Here you’ll work with community organizations to make sure that future generations enjoy a more sustainable and efficient island.

Teen Volunteer Relief Summer Program
Virgin Gorda
(cont.)

A safe place for students to learn, interact, and grow should be one of the first steps on the path to recovery. You’ll continue GoBeyond’s work at local schools to make sure that the children have a place to go that is clean, comfortable, and fun.

Visit The Bvi The Baths Teen Program
Virgin Gorda
(cont.)

After a busy morning of service, you’ll take the rest of the day to explore one of the Caribbean’s most iconic ladnmarks. Climb, leap, crawl, and wade through the spectacular rock formations of The Baths and top it all off with some time on a beach that has to be seen to be believed.

Save Turtles Summer Camp High School Teens
Virgin Gorda
(cont.)

In such a small country, the people, environment, and wildlife overlap in meaningful ways every single day. Our service efforts include projects that aim to understand a major storm’s effect on such a country. Virgin Gorda’s eastern shore acts as an ideal venue to work with GoBeyond’s ongoing turtle tag and release efforts.

Fun Service Program Virgin Islands Relief

Adventure Focus

Work Hard, Play Hard

There’s an immense amount of satisfaction to be gained in seeing a project through from beginning to end but all work and no play is bound to diminish that good feeling. We’ll break apart the hard work with snorkeling, hiking, swimming, and just messing around on the beach.

Consruction Project Volunteer High School

Itinerary Activities

Rebuild, Revitalize, Repeat

Underneath the rubble lies a world of opportunity. With many wooden homes and buildings being marked as complete losses, the process of rebuilding gives us the chance to make things better than they were before. Woodwork, painting, pouring concrete, and clearing ground are all needs for the foreseeable future. During our high school service trip to the British Virgin Islands, we’ll lend our hearts, hands, and focus to ensure that no corners are cut and that the structures of the BVI will be better suited for the next generation.

The rugged Caribbean terrain makes any development or cleanup effort more difficult than it should be, but many hands make light work. You and your team will gain tangible results from the work you put in. You’ll be able to step away at the end of the day surprised by how much you got done and what you’re capable of.

Virgin Islands Summer Camp Service Sail
Anegada

The remote beaches of Anegada’s northern shore are rarely visited by anyone. Students will collectively hike the entire beach in search of turtle nests and unique items that have washed ashore from the storm. Previous GoBeyond groups have found messages in bottles, entire boats, and even products from China..

Hurricane Relief Teen Program
Anegada
(cont.)

Being 20 miles from the main archipelago, Anegada experienced less devastation than the rest of the BVI. That same isolation means that clean up and recovery has come slow. We’ll lend a hand to get the communities back up and running.

Turtle Tag Hurricane Relief Summer Program
Anegada
(cont.)

The fragile environment and small population of this remote island creates a genuine need for as much scientific assesment as possible. The shallow waters that surround the island create one of the only venues in the world in which researchers can catch turtles “rodeo style.”

Get Our Free Catalog

Volunteer Rebuild Jost Van Dyke Foxy
Jost Van Dyke

As an Island on the outskirts of the BVI, Jost van Dyke relies heavily on visitors to support its residents. The Jost van Dyke Preservation Society was founded so that the people living on the small island could take ownership of their culture, identity, land, environment, and future.

Student Hurricane Relief Program
Jost Van Dyke
(cont.)

One of the primary aims of the JVDPS is to empower the youth of the island to take ownership of their home and learn the skills it would take to improve the island or rebuild if necessary. Now is their chance to show what they’ve learned and teach you a thing or two as you work together rebuilding Jost’s world-famous attractions.

Rebuild After Hurricane Teen Volunteer Program
Jost Van Dyke
(cont.)

As the third most populated island in the territory, Jost van Dyke has fewer resources than others and often has to fend for itself. We’ll do what needs to be done to get the coastal businesses back up and running and help JVD back on its way to being a world renowned destination.

“Looking back at the end of the day after working on a playground or painting a wall, I felt a sense of accomplishment that is a rare and precious feeling. I found myself caught up in the work - totally absorbed with digging a trench or removing that last piece of wire. But walking away and seeing what we as a group had done always amazed me... I changed mentally and physically and learned valuable lessons I will carry with me through my life.”
Elise B.
Amazing Life Changing Summer Program High School
Hurricane Irma Reconstruction Trip
Hurricane Irma Relief Trip
Virgin Gorda Hurricane Relief Trip
Teen Construction Program Volunteer
Tag Turtles Bvi Summer Camp
Students Rebuild School After Hurricane Maria

"*" indicates required fields

Chat With GoBeyond Alumni

Enter your email below, and we'll send you some alumni references
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Closing Activities

The last days are always so hard! Who would have thought that what was a group of strangers in an unfamiliar country could so quickly feel like home? The humanitarian trip to the British Virgin Islands comes full circle and ends on the dock where it all began. Students enjoy one final barbecue the night before departing with an often tearful goodbye. Without fail, there is a mix of emotions – there is excitement to return home; there is sadness to leave. On the final day of the high school service trip, students are transferred to the airport by our professional staff, checked in, then travel on to their respective homes and families. Yet the journey continues for each individual in undefinable ways. The lessons we learn and the personal growth we gain through GoBeyond BVI are things we can never forget.

By Peyton M.

Full Circle

We awoke already underway, sailing from the gorgeous secluded part of Guana Island where the mandatory fun day went down…

Read More
By Lara P.

Farm Life

This morning I was delighted to come upstairs to be presented with pancakes made by Charlotte and G-ball. It was…

Read More
By Felipe R.

Rebuilding Anegada’s School

We started out the day with a fresh breakfast right next to the dingy full of tools ready to be…

Read More
By Samuel B.

Full Day of Turtle Tagging

The day started off with the entire Go Beyond group meeting at the Anegada Reef Hotel. Once everyone had their…

Read More
By Jaden M.

Our Last Day in the Park

Captains log, stardate 72618. Life aboard the BVI Pineapple has become more familiar than it was the day before, which…

Read More

Trip Logs

“Brynn loved her experience! She grew as a person doing something outside of her comfort zone. She bonded with the other students, loved helping the BVI community and having fun.”
Keara M. - Hillsborough, CA
“I've lived something amazing here, something I was not expecting. I made a lot of friends and I learned so much about life and myself. You offered me the opportunity to feel useful, of making a difference in people's lives, of giving hope. I'm so thankful for everything. I've grown a lot and realized a dream. Thank you!”
Clemence C. - Paris
“Stefan came home very happy with the work he did, the experiences he had, the friends he made and shared his knowledge of the situation in the BVI with us and his concern and compassion. He definitely grew as a person.”
Stephanie V. - Falls Church, VA
“Alyssa had an amazing time. The process was easy and the communication was fantastic. Alyssa seemed to work hard and at the same time have a lot of fun. She has been non-stop talking about her friends she made and the crew she adored.”
Kirk R. - Kodiak, AK
“My trip with GoBeyond was the most impactful experience of my entire life and I want my friends and family to have it as well!”
Elana F. - Englewood, CO

Need More Information?

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Affiliates

GoBeyond is a proud supporter of local, national, and international service organizations around the world.

During their high school service trip to the British Virgin Islands, our students have the opportunity to work closely with local people, on projects where the need is authentic and the results are long-lasting. After the humanitarian trip is over, we provide much needed financial help with direct donations, which helps fund projects in an ongoing way. Consider your impact…join GoBeyond this summer and make a difference!

  • bvi-npt-affiliate-logo

    BVI National Parks Trust

    The mission of the BVI National Parks Trust is to preserve and manage designated natural and cultural areas in order to improve the quality of life in the British Virgin Islands.

  • association-reef-keepers-affiliate-logo

    Association of Reef Keepers

    The Association of Reef Keepers seeks to manage the natural resources of the British Virgin Islands in a sustainable manner. It was formed specifically to address the growing environmental stresses that the British Virgin Islands are experiencing.

  • Jost Van Dykes Preservation Society

    Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society

    The JVDPS is a British Virgin Islands not-for-profit organization, dedicated to the preservation of the island of Jost Van Dyke – its land, the surrounding sea, its living creatures, and its culture through conservation, cultivation, education, and research.

  • visar-affiliate-logo

    Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR)

    VISAR is a voluntary organization dedicated to saving life at sea. It is the officially recognized search and rescue service in the British Virgin Islands, where it provides 24-hour cover every day of the year in close cooperation with the Royal British Virgin Islands police, fire and ambulance services.

Need To Know

Is this journey right for me?

Whether you’ve been sailing your entire life or you’re a landlocked lubber, you’ll become accustomed to life aboard quicker than you think. Between the service work, raising sails, and even washing dishes, everything you do becomes a mini-adventure as you live alongside the rest of your crew. Completing 70-100 hours of community service over the span of 2-3 weeks makes this trip better suited to those students who don’t mind rolling up their sleeves and getting involved. If you like the idea of challenging yourself by breaking ground on an adventurous and meaningful program then this is the humanitarian trip for you.

What's the group like?

There’s really no rigid mold that GoBeyond participants are cut from. Since our students come from different backgrounds all over the world, the groups end up being naturally diverse. Everyone arrives with different goals, expectations, hopes, and fears but they quickly find common ground and begin to bond. The GoBeyond environment allows team members to connect quickly and become closer friends than anyone would expect. Many students report leaving feeling as though they had known their fellow students much longer than they actually had.

Our philosophy revolves around small group sizes that are still large enough to foster a sense of community. For this humanitarian trip, we can have a maximum of 14 students. The high school service trip to the British Virgin Islands does not require any previous experience, skills, or language fluency – only a willingness to get involved and appreciate each incredible adventure.

Who are the staff?

GoBeyond is proud to attract and recruit the best in our field. Our summer staff consists of avid world travelers, highly qualified professionals, and fun and experienced facilitators and educators. All members of our team are dynamic, multi-talented, and passionate individuals with a devotion and commitment to the safety and experience of our students.

The average age of our summer staff is 26. Staff skills are journey specific, such as holding a maritime license in the BVIs or having a background in childcare for China. All staff are First Aid and CPR certified, and many hold advanced training certificates such as Wilderness First Responder or Emergency Medical Technician. Along with local guides and our community service partners, the ratio of staff to students is approximately 1:5. This enables close interaction and individualized attention during the journey.

Learn More About Our Staff

What do I need to bring?

GoBeyond students are responsible for carrying their luggage from place to place. As such, we recommend that you keep things simple and avoid over packing. Students are given the opportunity to do laundry once on the trip, so there’s no need to pack several weeks’ worth of clothing.

Our hope is that families will have minimal purchases prior to the trip, so we’ve compiled our packing lists in a way that you’ll find most of what you need in your closet at home. Around mid to late March, we make available our Pre-Trip Packet to enrolled students, which contains a detailed packing list for this year’s journey. If you’d like to see last year’s packing list as an example, you can download it here.

Download Sample Packing List

During the Rebuilding Island Life trip, students will need approximately $735 USD in cash. This cash is used for two purposes…

“Travel and Reserve Cash” ($435) is held in safekeeping by our staff during the journey. Its intended use is for anticipated travel needs to and from the journey destination and for any unanticipated emergency costs that might arise such as doctor’s visits. Any leftover cash at the end of the journey is returned to the student.

GoBeyond will pay all major journey costs while traveling and working, but there will also be opportunities for students to spend money on personal items. For a student’s personal “Spending Cash” ($300-$350), the most common expenses include local cuisine, souvenirs, and snacks. Based on our past experience, some students will spend less and some will spend more than our recommendation above. Judge this amount by the spending habits of your student. Please set up boundaries for its use, as GoBeyond cannot be responsible for monitoring student spending. If you are concerned about loss or theft, students can give staff their spending cash to be put into safekeeping/drawn later.

Where do we stay?

GoBeyond utilizes clean, comfortable, and safe accommodations during our trips – we aim for an authentic stay in the places we go, which rarely equates to luxury. In the British Virgin Islands, students spend their entire stay onboard a ~50’ sail yacht. Each student is designated a cabin down below with up to 5 other students of the same sex. While there is bunk space in each cabin, many students prefer to sleep under the stars by stringing up a hammock or sleeping on the ship’s trampoline.

The tight-knit community that results from living onboard a yacht is a huge part of the experience for this journey. Student shipmates will rotate through responsibilities while learning to clean, care for, and even steer their floating home. Everyone comes to rely on one another over the course of a few short weeks, and students are often surprised at how much they have learned about life at sea – no matter what their experience level might have been coming into it.

Call into our office to hear more about life aboard!

What do we eat?

We strive to provide meals that meet the fundamental needs of all members of our team, yet when considering our experience, it is important to remember that there are natural limitations when provisioning in remote places and cooking for a large group on board a small yacht.

We understand that each individual has personal preferences and that some students have specific dietary restrictions or limitations. While we strive to accommodate these as best we can, our meals maybe a little different from what you are used to at home. We design our menu around meals that are simple to prepare, quick to clean up, suit the majority of teenager’s palates, and deliver the calories needed for long, busy days on the water.

Mealtime is often a highlight of each day! Students prepare all of the meals with help from the staff using a combination of packaged and canned goods we import from the US and fresh produce we pick up locally about every four days. While we mostly eat all meals onboard the vessel, occasionally, students have the option to eat at a restaurant during shore time.

After enrollment, we ask families to inform us of all dietary restrictions and allergies. We can accommodate vegetarians, and vegans, as well as those with various food allergies. However, if you have a severe allergy or specific dietary expectations, please call our office before enrolling.

Nitty Gritty

Flights
Are flights included in the tuition?

Since students join us from all over the world, the cost of transportation to and from the destination country is not included in the program tuition.

Who should we contact to book travel?

Helping to coordinate our students’ travel is of vital importance – and a mammoth task! For this reason, we strongly suggest that all families start by contacting our travel coordinator, Leah Hernandez of TRC Travel Center (T: +1.281.528.7727 or 800.329.9000 • E: [email protected]). Even if you are not originating in the U.S., Leah will be able to provide options and guidance.

When should I book flights?

We suggest you wait until March 20th, and here’s why. The quality of the experience is in large part defined by the makeup of the student team, and unfortunately we can’t determine the status of a specific journey or session until we receive the appropriate number of enrollments to guarantee a great experience (which is typically no fewer than six). Therefore, unless you select a ticket fare type or flight insurance policy that allows flexibility for date modifications, refunds, or credits, we suggest that families wait until after March 20th to book their international flights.

What is the preferred itinerary?

Students have the option of flying to Beef Island (EIS), though our recommended route is to St. Thomas (STT).

Does GoBeyond provide support on travel days?

Yes. We understand that travel days can be stressful for both parents and students, so no matter what time of the day or night, our office team actively monitors and supports our participants during travel. We require students to travel with a mobile phone with domestic data capability so we can monitor their progress and communicate directly if necessary.

For students flying via STT, GoBeyond arranges for an airport representative to assist with the transfer to Tortola via ferry. After arrival in Tortola, students are met at the ferry dock by more of GoBeyond’s professional staff, then collectively continue onto a taxi that takes them to the boats.

For more information on airport assistance, please contact our office. We will be glad to let you know what type of support we typically offer for your journey (specific plans will only be available nearer the travel date).

Can I leave a program a day or two early or arrive a day or two late?

We understand that commitments at home may necessitate a student wanting to arrive or depart from our program on days other than our standard published dates. Each scenario is unique, and while we accommodate these requests when we can, we need to plan appropriately so that we know those additional staff resources are in place to ensure a safe, well-coordinated travel experience. We don’t charge extra tuition for accommodating non-standard travel, yet we do require that parents cover the direct costs associated with any additional staff travel, off-site accommodation, and meals. Please use this form to initiate a formal request for us to consider your non-standard travel wishes and a representative will contact you to discuss possibilities.

Travel Docs & Vaccinations
Travel Docs & Visas

All students traveling to the BVI need to have a passport which is valid for a minimum of three months after the date of departure from the BVI. Visitors from certain countries other than the US, UK and Canada may require visas.

For the most up-to-date and thorough information, please visit travel.state.gov. Students traveling on non-U.S. passports should verify passport and visa requirements for your nationality by contacting your local British embassy or consulate or the nearest BVI Tourist Board Office.

One important point to mention is that most students joining us in the BVI do so by flying via St. Thomas, which is part of the US Virgin Islands. This means that those students not flying on a US or Canadian passport need to consider whether they need to apply for a U.S. visa or ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Please call us with any questions.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement

We do not currently require proof of vaccination in order to enroll.

Other Immunizations

For visiting the BVI, the CDC recommends that all travelers are up-to-date on routine vaccinations that most of us had as children (measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine.

That said, we understand that families have varying opinions on vaccinations. Some greatly desire the precaution; others prefer to avoid possible side effects of certain medications. Coupled with the fact that each student has unique medical considerations known best by his or her doctor, GoBeyond does not supply medical advice. For this reason, we recommend that all families refer back to the expertise of the CDC from time to time (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel), their health care providers, and/or a travel clinic to gain the most up to date information.

Itinerary
Living in the moment

Though the fundamentals of our journeys do not change, specific journey logistics evolve over time. It is typical for our community service partners to not choose our project areas until late spring/early summer, thus the final touches to our itineraries are not always set until then. The journey overview portions on this page should give all families a basic understanding of the kinds of activities we do on the journey. We also suggest last year’s Trip Updates if you need more descriptions. For the most up-to-date information on our expected itineraries, feel free to Contact our office.

With that in mind, we encourage all participants to “live in the moment” while on the journey. Travel, even on organized trips, requires flexibility and a willingness to accept adversity and change. Your journey country may not be as efficient, orderly, and/or timely as you are used to. We hope you’ll take the bumps in stride, and enjoy the adventure!

Service Hours
Service Hours, Letters & Awards

After the completion of summer, all students (U.S. and non-U.S. students alike) receive a GoBeyond service letter reflecting their participation on the journey.* The GoBeyond service letter describes the type of service work performed, the number of hours awarded, and is printed and signed on our letterhead. Typically, our letter is accepted by most high schools/colleges as proof of community service participation. If your school needs a specific form signed or evaluation filled out, please make sure to bring this on the trip so a staff member can assist you.

President's Volunteer Service AwardPresident’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) – In addition, GoBeyond is a certifying organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award. The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation established the award program as a way to thank and honor individuals who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service. GoBeyond is able to award the PVSA to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who qualify based on his/her age and the number of service hours accrued during the journey (14-15 year olds need 50+ hours, 16-18 year olds need 100+ hours). Please note that GoBeyond does not make the rules regarding who is eligible for the PVSA. Eligibility criteria is set by the governmental agency and, at this point in time, non-U.S. citizens/permanent residents are not eligible to receive the award. 

Learn More About The PVSA

* Note: Presence alone does not necessarily earn students the community service hours. GoBeyond reserves the right to deduct hours due to non-participation and/or early dismissal. Participants who work hard and participate in all journey activities will receive the full number of service hours available for their program.

Tuition
GOBEYOND TUITION FEES COVER THE FOLLOWING:
  • All in-country journey accommodation, meals, and ground transportation
  • Full-time service adventure staff, local guides, and tips
  • All group activities including service projects and materials, sight-seeing trips, and educational excursions
  • Physical and monetary donations to our partner organizations
  • One certificate of the President’s Volunteer Service Award (U.S. citizens and permanent residents only) upon successful completion of the journey
GOBEYOND TUITION FEES DO NOT COVER THE FOLLOWING:
  • Air transportation, including in-country flights, are not included since our students come from all over the world
  • Required emergency evacuation insurance & International SOS and MedAire Membership ($85 for 21-day programs & $60 for 14-day programs) LEARN MORE >
  • Medical insurance, and optional trip cancellation insurance
  • Fees associated with obtaining passports, visas, vaccinations airport taxes & baggage fees
  • Personal spending money
OUR 5-8 WEEK Journeys

Any consecutive programs may be joined to form one extended course. In the interim between programs, students stay with staff. The total cost is determined by combining the cost of each program and subtracting the 5% extended course discount.  This discount also applies toward any trips adjoining our sister program, ActionQuest. ActionQuest and/or GoBeyond enrollment for any consecutive programs in the same summer will be considered as a single extended program in the event of withdrawal or dismissal from the trip at any time.

Financial Aid
Every year, GoBeyond awards a number of partial tuition scholarships

The financial aid budget is determined by the GoBeyond Directors and is allocated from the organization’s operating budget. Eligibility is based on a number of factors, including financial need, past academic performance, community involvement, and promise of success on the journey.

As students come from all over the world, flight and travel costs are not included at any scholarship level, nor spending money and other additional costs associated with traveling abroad (vaccinations, doctor visits, visas, etc.). If you know that you are unable to fund your experience without financial assistance, then please visit our Financial Aid pages for more information and the application.

  • Flights
  • Travel Docs & Vaccinations
  • Itinerary
  • Service Hours
  • Tuition
  • Financial Aid
  • Are flights included in the tuition?

    Since students join us from all over the world, the cost of transportation to and from the destination country is not included in the program tuition.

    Who should we contact to book travel?

    Helping to coordinate our students’ travel is of vital importance – and a mammoth task! For this reason, we strongly suggest that all families start by contacting our travel coordinator, Leah Hernandez of TRC Travel Center (T: +1.281.528.7727 or 800.329.9000 • E: [email protected]). Even if you are not originating in the U.S., Leah will be able to provide options and guidance.

    When should I book flights?

    We suggest you wait until March 20th, and here’s why. The quality of the experience is in large part defined by the makeup of the student team, and unfortunately we can’t determine the status of a specific journey or session until we receive the appropriate number of enrollments to guarantee a great experience (which is typically no fewer than six). Therefore, unless you select a ticket fare type or flight insurance policy that allows flexibility for date modifications, refunds, or credits, we suggest that families wait until after March 20th to book their international flights.

    What is the preferred itinerary?

    Students have the option of flying to Beef Island (EIS), though our recommended route is to St. Thomas (STT).

    Does GoBeyond provide support on travel days?

    Yes. We understand that travel days can be stressful for both parents and students, so no matter what time of the day or night, our office team actively monitors and supports our participants during travel. We require students to travel with a mobile phone with domestic data capability so we can monitor their progress and communicate directly if necessary.

    For students flying via STT, GoBeyond arranges for an airport representative to assist with the transfer to Tortola via ferry. After arrival in Tortola, students are met at the ferry dock by more of GoBeyond’s professional staff, then collectively continue onto a taxi that takes them to the boats.

    For more information on airport assistance, please contact our office. We will be glad to let you know what type of support we typically offer for your journey (specific plans will only be available nearer the travel date).

    Can I leave a program a day or two early or arrive a day or two late?

    We understand that commitments at home may necessitate a student wanting to arrive or depart from our program on days other than our standard published dates. Each scenario is unique, and while we accommodate these requests when we can, we need to plan appropriately so that we know those additional staff resources are in place to ensure a safe, well-coordinated travel experience. We don’t charge extra tuition for accommodating non-standard travel, yet we do require that parents cover the direct costs associated with any additional staff travel, off-site accommodation, and meals. Please use this form to initiate a formal request for us to consider your non-standard travel wishes and a representative will contact you to discuss possibilities.

  • Travel Docs & Visas

    All students traveling to the BVI need to have a passport which is valid for a minimum of three months after the date of departure from the BVI. Visitors from certain countries other than the US, UK and Canada may require visas.

    For the most up-to-date and thorough information, please visit travel.state.gov. Students traveling on non-U.S. passports should verify passport and visa requirements for your nationality by contacting your local British embassy or consulate or the nearest BVI Tourist Board Office.

    One important point to mention is that most students joining us in the BVI do so by flying via St. Thomas, which is part of the US Virgin Islands. This means that those students not flying on a US or Canadian passport need to consider whether they need to apply for a U.S. visa or ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Please call us with any questions.

    COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement

    We do not currently require proof of vaccination in order to enroll.

    Other Immunizations

    For visiting the BVI, the CDC recommends that all travelers are up-to-date on routine vaccinations that most of us had as children (measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine.

    That said, we understand that families have varying opinions on vaccinations. Some greatly desire the precaution; others prefer to avoid possible side effects of certain medications. Coupled with the fact that each student has unique medical considerations known best by his or her doctor, GoBeyond does not supply medical advice. For this reason, we recommend that all families refer back to the expertise of the CDC from time to time (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel), their health care providers, and/or a travel clinic to gain the most up to date information.

  • Living in the moment

    Though the fundamentals of our journeys do not change, specific journey logistics evolve over time. It is typical for our community service partners to not choose our project areas until late spring/early summer, thus the final touches to our itineraries are not always set until then. The journey overview portions on this page should give all families a basic understanding of the kinds of activities we do on the journey. We also suggest last year’s Trip Updates if you need more descriptions. For the most up-to-date information on our expected itineraries, feel free to Contact our office.

    With that in mind, we encourage all participants to “live in the moment” while on the journey. Travel, even on organized trips, requires flexibility and a willingness to accept adversity and change. Your journey country may not be as efficient, orderly, and/or timely as you are used to. We hope you’ll take the bumps in stride, and enjoy the adventure!

  • Service Hours, Letters & Awards

    After the completion of summer, all students (U.S. and non-U.S. students alike) receive a GoBeyond service letter reflecting their participation on the journey.* The GoBeyond service letter describes the type of service work performed, the number of hours awarded, and is printed and signed on our letterhead. Typically, our letter is accepted by most high schools/colleges as proof of community service participation. If your school needs a specific form signed or evaluation filled out, please make sure to bring this on the trip so a staff member can assist you.

    President's Volunteer Service AwardPresident’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) – In addition, GoBeyond is a certifying organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award. The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation established the award program as a way to thank and honor individuals who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service. GoBeyond is able to award the PVSA to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who qualify based on his/her age and the number of service hours accrued during the journey (14-15 year olds need 50+ hours, 16-18 year olds need 100+ hours). Please note that GoBeyond does not make the rules regarding who is eligible for the PVSA. Eligibility criteria is set by the governmental agency and, at this point in time, non-U.S. citizens/permanent residents are not eligible to receive the award. 

    Learn More About The PVSA

    * Note: Presence alone does not necessarily earn students the community service hours. GoBeyond reserves the right to deduct hours due to non-participation and/or early dismissal. Participants who work hard and participate in all journey activities will receive the full number of service hours available for their program.

  • GOBEYOND TUITION FEES COVER THE FOLLOWING:
    • All in-country journey accommodation, meals, and ground transportation
    • Full-time service adventure staff, local guides, and tips
    • All group activities including service projects and materials, sight-seeing trips, and educational excursions
    • Physical and monetary donations to our partner organizations
    • One certificate of the President’s Volunteer Service Award (U.S. citizens and permanent residents only) upon successful completion of the journey
    GOBEYOND TUITION FEES DO NOT COVER THE FOLLOWING:
    • Air transportation, including in-country flights, are not included since our students come from all over the world
    • Required emergency evacuation insurance & International SOS and MedAire Membership ($85 for 21-day programs & $60 for 14-day programs) LEARN MORE >
    • Medical insurance, and optional trip cancellation insurance
    • Fees associated with obtaining passports, visas, vaccinations airport taxes & baggage fees
    • Personal spending money
    OUR 5-8 WEEK Journeys

    Any consecutive programs may be joined to form one extended course. In the interim between programs, students stay with staff. The total cost is determined by combining the cost of each program and subtracting the 5% extended course discount.  This discount also applies toward any trips adjoining our sister program, ActionQuest. ActionQuest and/or GoBeyond enrollment for any consecutive programs in the same summer will be considered as a single extended program in the event of withdrawal or dismissal from the trip at any time.

  • Every year, GoBeyond awards a number of partial tuition scholarships

    The financial aid budget is determined by the GoBeyond Directors and is allocated from the organization’s operating budget. Eligibility is based on a number of factors, including financial need, past academic performance, community involvement, and promise of success on the journey.

    As students come from all over the world, flight and travel costs are not included at any scholarship level, nor spending money and other additional costs associated with traveling abroad (vaccinations, doctor visits, visas, etc.). If you know that you are unable to fund your experience without financial assistance, then please visit our Financial Aid pages for more information and the application.

FeaturedJourneys

View All Programs
Turtle tag program in the British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands

Preserving Paradise

Find out why they call them “nature’s little secrets.” Live onboard a boat and sail through the BVIs while earning 80-100 hours of community service. You’ll gain hands-on experience with scientific research by tagging sea turtles, reforesting mangroves, and restoring coastlines in this adventure of a lifetime.

View Details
Turtle tag program in the British Virgin Islands
2025 Sessions
Jun 15 - Jul 5
21 Days
$7,370
Jul 7 - Jul 27
21 Days
$7,370
Jul 29 - Aug 14
17 Days
$6,670
Costa Rica Community Service Camp Mission For Teens
Costa Rica

Pura Vida Experience

¡Pura Vida! Earn 50 service hours while blazing a trail through the stunning Costa Rican countryside. Build, explore, eat, repeat in this fast paced and meaningful survey of Central America’s landscapes and communities.

View Details
Costa Rica Community Service Camp Mission For Teens
Upcoming Sessions

Our upcoming dates and costs for this journey are not yet published. Check back, or give us a call (+1.941.924.2115) to discuss our future offerings.

GoBeyond Inspiring Iceland
Iceland

Inspiring Iceland

Everyone is kind in the land of fire and ice. Earn 30 hours of community service restoring and protecting the other-worldly environment of Iceland. You’ll explore some of the world’s most unique natural wonders and get to know this one-of-a-kind culture in the land of the midnight sun.

 View Details
GoBeyond Inspiring Iceland
2025 Sessions
Jul 7 - Jul 22
16 Days
$6,670