The Transformative Power of Experiential Learning at Sea
What if learning wasn't confined to traditional settings? What if there were places where knowledge and experience collide, sparking growth and innovation. That’s the power of experiential learning, and group cruises are the perfect platform to unlock its potential.
Our own experience at a recent travel industry event, Fora Travel's Day of Learning, showcased the power of experiential learning. In addition to hotel site tours, were immersed in a mix of lectures, discussions, and hands-on workshops. The opportunity to learn from industry peers and tackle real-world challenges in a collaborative environment was invaluable. And while you, our readers, are (probably) not travel coaches, you can definitely still use this framework and the unique environment of a cruise ship to support your community’s learning initiatives.
When you blend fun, learning, and a lot of relaxation, programs (retreats, bootcamps, masterminds, and workshops) at sea, you offer a unique way to elevate your coaching or consulting business. Your clients can disconnect from their day-to-day distractions and connect, learn, and grow together on a luxurious ship, making both relationships and memories that will last a lifetime.
The Power of Hands-On Learning
Experiential learning is all about diving in and doing. By actively engaging in real-world, hands-on experiences, your clients can:
Deepen their understanding by connecting with information on a personal level; making it stick.
Develop practical skills by applying new skills to real-world challenges and watching them flourish.
Spark creativity and innovation by embracing new perspectives and generating fresh ideas.
Build lasting relationships by connecting with like-minded individuals and strengthing a supportive community.
Creating an Unforgettable Cruise Experience
To create a truly amazing retreat at sea, consider these tips:
Choose your ship and itinerary wisely: Select a ship and itinerary that vibes with your group's energy. A balance of sea days and port days is key – think relaxation meets exploration. And the onboard amenities and activities can make or break your experience.
Design engaging activities: Plan a mix of workshops, community-building exercises, cultural excursions, and mindfulness activities.
Cultivate a strong community: Create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and connecting with others.
Measure and improve: Use surveys and feedback to assess the effectiveness of your program and identify areas for improvement. Focus on the overall experience, but also ask questions about learning and development, networking and community, and organization and logistics.
When you carefully and thoughtfully plan and deliver your retreat at sea, you’ll create a transformative experience that your clients will rave about for a long time!
The Untethered Voyages crew understands the challenges (and benefits!) of creating impactful experiences at sea, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Let’s work together to design a cruise retreat that aligns with your goals, elevates your brand, and leaves a lasting impression on your clients. Fill out our Cruise Planning Form to get started.
