Adventures in Leadership: Bahamas!
Join us for the ultimate Leadership Course...
in The Bahamas!
Hone your leadership skills, develop your cultural competence, experience the people and culture of The Bahamas, and enjoy a week sailing the family islands on an authentic tall-ship!
in The Bahamas!
Hone your leadership skills, develop your cultural competence, experience the people and culture of The Bahamas, and enjoy a week sailing the family islands on an authentic tall-ship!
What's Included
Academics
Credits
Contact Hours: 50
U.S. Semester Credits: 3
U.S. Quarter Units: 5
Important Dates for 2026 Offerings
Q&A Session: TBD
Priority Applications Due: May 30, 2025
Virtual Class Sessions: Tuesday evenings 11/4, 11/11, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/30
*active attendance in all virtual sessions is required.
Travel Dates:
Winter I
Arrival in Nassau: Monday, January 5
Departure from Nassau: Friday, January 16
Winter II
Arrival in Nassau: Monday, January 12
Departure from Nassau: Friday, January 23
Academic Information
Adventures in Leadership: Bahamas leverages a mix of online and experiential learning focusing on leadership development, cultural competence, team building, and sailorship. The course features sailing in the Bahamas aboard a tall ship. The goal of the course is to elevate students’ ability to form and work in teams, apply leadership skills in a new environment, increase cultural competence, learn about sailing & scuba, and experience life at sea. The journey begins with virtual, synchronous and asynchronous instruction on team building, communication, conflict resolution, the technical aspects of sailing and scuba, and the history and culture of The Bahamas. We will then spend our first week abroad in Nassau, Bahamas where we spend five days immersed in the culture and history of The Bahamas, followed by six days at sea exploring the Bahamas out islands and for those who choose, life below water.
This course does not require experience, or even interest, in scuba. The scuba component is offered as an option for those wishing to develop scuba skills or enjoy their existing scuba certification.
Primary Instructor
Dr. Chad Cardani-Trollinger
Contact Hours: 50
U.S. Semester Credits: 3
U.S. Quarter Units: 5
Important Dates for 2026 Offerings
Q&A Session: TBD
Priority Applications Due: May 30, 2025
Virtual Class Sessions: Tuesday evenings 11/4, 11/11, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/30
*active attendance in all virtual sessions is required.
Travel Dates:
Winter I
Arrival in Nassau: Monday, January 5
Departure from Nassau: Friday, January 16
Winter II
Arrival in Nassau: Monday, January 12
Departure from Nassau: Friday, January 23
Academic Information
Adventures in Leadership: Bahamas leverages a mix of online and experiential learning focusing on leadership development, cultural competence, team building, and sailorship. The course features sailing in the Bahamas aboard a tall ship. The goal of the course is to elevate students’ ability to form and work in teams, apply leadership skills in a new environment, increase cultural competence, learn about sailing & scuba, and experience life at sea. The journey begins with virtual, synchronous and asynchronous instruction on team building, communication, conflict resolution, the technical aspects of sailing and scuba, and the history and culture of The Bahamas. We will then spend our first week abroad in Nassau, Bahamas where we spend five days immersed in the culture and history of The Bahamas, followed by six days at sea exploring the Bahamas out islands and for those who choose, life below water.
This course does not require experience, or even interest, in scuba. The scuba component is offered as an option for those wishing to develop scuba skills or enjoy their existing scuba certification.
Primary Instructor
Dr. Chad Cardani-Trollinger
Itinerary
Pre-departure Experience
Our journey together kicks off with get-to-know-you activities, learning a new leadership model, exploring the history and culture of The Bahamas, and learning about the history of sailing and tall ships. Our pre-departure classes are held on Tuesdays, November 4, 11, 18, 25, December 2 and 30. *Active participation in the pre-depature experience is required for all travelers.
11/04/2025Week 1 - Nassau, Bahamas!
Join us for a transformative short-term study abroad experience in Nassau, Bahamas, where we will immerse ourselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of the islands. Through visits to local NGOs and the University of the Bahamas, we will gain firsthand insight into social issues, community development, and higher education in the region. Exploring historical landmarks and cultural sites will deepen our understanding of the Bahamas' heritage, while a visit to the iconic Atlantis Aquaventure water park will provide a well-earned opportunity for relaxation and fun. This program offers the perfect balance of academic exploration, cultural engagement, and adventure in a stunning tropical setting. 2026 Week 1 Dates Winter I: January 5 - January 11 Winter II: January 12 - January 16
01/05/2026Week 2 - Where will we be?
While at sea, under the guidance of the Captain and crew, we’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through the Bahama Family Islands! Students will take an active role in planning our route, collaborating to decide where we’ll go and how we’ll get there—always respecting the power of Mother Nature. Along the way, you will have the chance to explore the crystal-clear waters firsthand with an optional introduction to scuba diving or by making the most of their existing scuba certification. This hands-on adventure blends exploration, teamwork, and the thrill of discovery in one of the most breathtaking marine environments in the world! 2026 Week 2 Dates Winter I: January 11 - January 16 Winter II: January 18 - January 23
01/12/2026Priority Application Submissions are due in...
Apply today!
F.A.Q
Why consider a short-term travel experience?
A short-term travel experience is an incredible way to expand your perspective and gain insight into the world around you. You will meet new people, engage with a new culture, and learn new skills. All of these dimensions help you learn more about who you are, what you value, and how you can live your very best life while also making the world a better place.
What's the best way to book my air travel?
Participants are responsible for booking their own air travel to Nassau through the airline of their choice. Students participating in Winter I should arrive in Nassau by 4 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026, and depart any time after 9 a.m. on January 16, 2026. Students participating in Winter II should arrive by 4 p.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, and depart any time after 9 a.m. on January 23, 2026.
It is important to note - while student health insurance is included in the trip fee, this does not include travel insurance. We strongly encourage participants to purchase travel protection when booking their airfare. Please note that The Academic (R)Evolution is not responsible for missed or delayed flights, and refunds will not be issued due to travel disruptions.
It is important to note - while student health insurance is included in the trip fee, this does not include travel insurance. We strongly encourage participants to purchase travel protection when booking their airfare. Please note that The Academic (R)Evolution is not responsible for missed or delayed flights, and refunds will not be issued due to travel disruptions.
What are the costs associated with this class?
The course fee includes the following:
-Leadership education
-All educational materials, textbooks, inventories and other class related materials
-Entry fees for all required experiences
-All meals
-All housing
-All transportation while on-island
-Private ship charter
-Student medical insurance
-Certificate of Completion
Students are responsible for round trip airfare that:
Arrives in Nassau before 4 p.m. on January 5, 2026 for Winter I, or before 4 p.m. on January 12, 2026 for Winter II.
Departs Nassau after 9 a.m. on January 16, 2026 for Winter I, or before 9 a.m. on January 26, 2026 for Winter II.
Additional expenses are largely dependent on each student, and include items such as snacks outside of scheduled meals, gifts and keepsakes, excursions outside of those included in class, and meals/transportation/entry fees that are outside of the pre-planned course accommodations.
While student medical insurance is included in the cost of the trip, we strongly encourage students to add trip cancellation insurance when booking their airfare.
-Leadership education
-All educational materials, textbooks, inventories and other class related materials
-Entry fees for all required experiences
-All meals
-All housing
-All transportation while on-island
-Private ship charter
-Student medical insurance
-Certificate of Completion
Students are responsible for round trip airfare that:
Arrives in Nassau before 4 p.m. on January 5, 2026 for Winter I, or before 4 p.m. on January 12, 2026 for Winter II.
Departs Nassau after 9 a.m. on January 16, 2026 for Winter I, or before 9 a.m. on January 26, 2026 for Winter II.
Additional expenses are largely dependent on each student, and include items such as snacks outside of scheduled meals, gifts and keepsakes, excursions outside of those included in class, and meals/transportation/entry fees that are outside of the pre-planned course accommodations.
While student medical insurance is included in the cost of the trip, we strongly encourage students to add trip cancellation insurance when booking their airfare.
Do I have to pay for the entire trip up front?
The balance remaining after the application credit is applied can be paid up-front, or according to the following schedule:
Total cost of trip: $3,550
Students accepted to the course will receive a custom payment link in their welcome email, along with the "perfect packing list," a link to share with friends and family wishing to help pay for the trip, and the contact information and special code to access the services of our travel partner.
Remember, students are responsible for round trip airfare that:
Arrives in Nassau (NAS) on January 9, 2022 before 2 p.m. ET
Departs Nassau (NAS) on January 21, 2022 after 2 p.m. ET
We encourage students to book air travel through CTP to access our special rates that include travel insurance. Booking through other sources will require proof of independent travel insurance.
Total cost of trip: $3,550
| Deposit | Date Due | Amount Due | Balance |
| Application Deposit | March 14, 2022 | 50.00 | 3,500.00 |
| Acceptance Deposit | 10 days after acceptance | 1,500.00 | 2,000.00 |
| Deposit 3 | May 20, 2022 | 1,500.00 | 500.00 |
| Final deposit | July 1, 2022 | 500.00 | 0 |
Students accepted to the course will receive a custom payment link in their welcome email, along with the "perfect packing list," a link to share with friends and family wishing to help pay for the trip, and the contact information and special code to access the services of our travel partner.
Remember, students are responsible for round trip airfare that:
Arrives in Nassau (NAS) on January 9, 2022 before 2 p.m. ET
Departs Nassau (NAS) on January 21, 2022 after 2 p.m. ET
We encourage students to book air travel through CTP to access our special rates that include travel insurance. Booking through other sources will require proof of independent travel insurance.
What is the refund policy for this class?
Refund Policy
This policy applies to all cancellations, regardless of reason. Your request to withdraw and receive a refund must be made in writing. The application deposit is non-refundable.
Should you choose to cancel your enrollment for any reason:
If ILS is required to cancel the program while it is already running, we will work to recover any costs that have been paid on your behalf and return them to you.
Students who are asked to leave the trip for any reason will forfeit all funds.
This policy applies to all cancellations, regardless of reason. Your request to withdraw and receive a refund must be made in writing. The application deposit is non-refundable.
Should you choose to cancel your enrollment for any reason:
- 1-5 days after confirmation deposit - ILS retains $500
- 6-15 days after confirmation deposit AND before July 1, 2022 - ILS retains $1,500
- 16+ days AND before September 1, 2022 - ILS retains $2,500
- After November 2, 2022 - all funds are retained by ILS.
If ILS is required to cancel the program while it is already running, we will work to recover any costs that have been paid on your behalf and return them to you.
Students who are asked to leave the trip for any reason will forfeit all funds.
Can I help my student pay for this class?
You sure can! Students accepted to the class will receive an email and link detailing ways friends and loved ones can support their enrollment.
How will I know what to pack?
Students enrolled in the trip will receive a "Perfect Packing List" in their welcome packet that details what to take (and what not to take) on the trip.
Due to very tight quarters while on the ship, students are limited to ONE carryon sized, soft-sided duffel and ONE backpack. Many think there is no way they can get everything they need in just a carry-on and backpack, but trust us, it's possible!
Due to very tight quarters while on the ship, students are limited to ONE carryon sized, soft-sided duffel and ONE backpack. Many think there is no way they can get everything they need in just a carry-on and backpack, but trust us, it's possible!
What kind of coursework is involved in this class?
To meet the needs and learning preferences of the widest range of students, the course has been designed to present learning opportunities in a variety of formats.
During the first week, students will actively participate in workshop style modules in a virtual environment - both synchronous and asynchronous. We will leverage various activities, expert lectures, videos, assessments and assignments as we develop our leadership capacity, language of leadership, historic understanding, and cultural competence. Knowledge will be demonstrated through various deliverables, including written documents, virtual and live presentations, and the creation of digital assets (think powerpoint/keynote/prezi's, info graphics, videos, cartoons, etc).
Once we depart for The Bahama's, we will leverage daily class meetings, active reflection, and journaling, as we immerse ourselves in Bahamian culture and develop our own cultural competence and personal leadership capacity.
During the first week, students will actively participate in workshop style modules in a virtual environment - both synchronous and asynchronous. We will leverage various activities, expert lectures, videos, assessments and assignments as we develop our leadership capacity, language of leadership, historic understanding, and cultural competence. Knowledge will be demonstrated through various deliverables, including written documents, virtual and live presentations, and the creation of digital assets (think powerpoint/keynote/prezi's, info graphics, videos, cartoons, etc).
Once we depart for The Bahama's, we will leverage daily class meetings, active reflection, and journaling, as we immerse ourselves in Bahamian culture and develop our own cultural competence and personal leadership capacity.
How do I get college credit for this class?
We have two ways for students to receive credit for this course. Many colleges are happy to accept our "credit worksheet" and the final grade report from our faculty as proof of completion. The students home institution will then issue credit for an elective or independent study class.
Our strategic partnership with an accredited university allows credit to be awarded by our partner institution and transferred in to the students home university. The fee for the 3 credits is $500 and is non-refundable.
Our strategic partnership with an accredited university allows credit to be awarded by our partner institution and transferred in to the students home university. The fee for the 3 credits is $500 and is non-refundable.
Do I need a passport?
While The Bahamas is a visa-free destination, U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas. The passport should have an expiration date after 7/1/2026.
A copy of your valid U.S. passport will be required to be uploaded prior to departure. If you do not currently possess a valid U.S. passport with an expiration date after 7/1/2026, please begin the application process right away.
Take me to the U.S. State Departments passport page!
A copy of your valid U.S. passport will be required to be uploaded prior to departure. If you do not currently possess a valid U.S. passport with an expiration date after 7/1/2026, please begin the application process right away.
Take me to the U.S. State Departments passport page!
Will I need a computer or internet access?
Yes. In order to participate in the pre-departure meetings, participants will need a computer (laptop or desktop; tablets and phones can not provide the technology needed to fully participate) and reliable high-speed internet access.
While we are abroad, we encourage students to leave their computers/laptops at home. We also encourage students to do their best to "disconnect" from their devices and fully immerse themselves in the class experience.
*Our course facilitators have communication devices, and direct access to US and Bahamian authorities for emergency situations. While at sea and under the direction of the Captain and crew, both internet and phone access are limited and undependable. The Captain and crew have continuous access to ship-to-shore communication equipment should an emergency situation arise.
Friends and family members should consider participants unavailable while we are at sea.
While we are abroad, we encourage students to leave their computers/laptops at home. We also encourage students to do their best to "disconnect" from their devices and fully immerse themselves in the class experience.
*Our course facilitators have communication devices, and direct access to US and Bahamian authorities for emergency situations. While at sea and under the direction of the Captain and crew, both internet and phone access are limited and undependable. The Captain and crew have continuous access to ship-to-shore communication equipment should an emergency situation arise.
Friends and family members should consider participants unavailable while we are at sea.
Will my phone work while abroad?
Your mobile devices will most likely work while we are in Nassau. Roaming fees may apply, and we encourage you to verify costs with your carrier prior to departure.
While in Nassau, students will have access to free wi-fi while at the hotel and at some tourist locations.
Although mobile services may work, we encourage students to disconnect while abroad and allow themselves to be fully immersed in the cultural activities and exploration.
There is no cellular coverage while at sea. The captain has access to emergency communication equipment should an emergency arise while at sea.
While in Nassau, students will have access to free wi-fi while at the hotel and at some tourist locations.
Although mobile services may work, we encourage students to disconnect while abroad and allow themselves to be fully immersed in the cultural activities and exploration.
There is no cellular coverage while at sea. The captain has access to emergency communication equipment should an emergency arise while at sea.
Testimonials
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Info session notification request
I'm interested! Please let me know when the virtual information session will be held. I understand that I will have the opportunity to talk with the instructors as well as former participants!