Your First 24 Hours on a Broadreach Caribbean Trip: What to Expect
By: Bethany Remington, Broadreach HQ May 6, 2025 High School Adventures, Middle School, Scuba, Sailing
It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous before your Broadreach trip — especially if it’s your first time traveling solo or living on a boat. You’re probably wondering: What happens when I land? Who will I meet? What’s the first day actually like? Knowing what to expect can go a long way toward easing those nerves and helping you feel more confident and excited. While every trip is a little different depending on your arrival time, this outline gives you a solid idea of what your first 24 hours in the Caribbean with Broadreach will look like — from touchdown in St. Martin to your first swim, sail, and sunset at sea.
Your Caribbean Adventure Begins at the Airport
As soon as you land at the airport in St. Martin, the adventure kicks off. Keep an eye out for other Broadreachers wearing their signature t-shirts — your future boatmates might be just a few steps ahead of you in the customs line! After you collect your bag and pass through immigration, one of our Caribbean base staff will be waiting just outside to welcome you.
Arriving at “The Pad”
From the airport, you and other students on the same flight will head to our St. Martin base, known as “The Pad.” Here, you’ll store your bags, get fitted for your snorkeling or scuba gear, and make a quick call home to let your family know you’ve arrived safely.
You can refill your water bottle, grab a bite to eat, and — if there’s time — hit the beach while you wait for the rest of your group to arrive. It’s a fun and relaxed way to start connecting with your fellow students.
First Night: Meet Your Instructors and Board Your Boat
After a welcome cookout dinner at The Pad, you’ll meet your instructors and officially board your Broadreach boat — your floating home for the next 12 to 17 days. You’ll get a quick tour, learn how to use the “head” (that’s a boat toilet!), and figure out where to store your gear. Then it’s time to wind down and rest up for the adventures ahead.
Morning at the Beach: Games, Orientation, and Sunshine
The next day begins with a swim to shore for some fun icebreaker games and an orientation at the beach! You’ll learn more about what Broadreach is all about and start bonding with your group through laughter and shared goals.
First Sail and Splash
After breakfast on the boat, it’s time for your first sailing lesson and journey to a new part of St. Martin. Once anchored, you’ll eat lunch, dive into the water for snorkeling or swimming, and possibly start your scuba training or, if you’re already scuba certified, go on a refresher dive, depending on your itinerary.
One Day In, and Already Lifelong Memories
Just 24 hours in, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you’ve formed connections. You’ve shared meals, laughed at icebreakers, swum in turquoise waters, and started learning skills you never imagined. It’s only the beginning — but the memories are already piling up.
Ready to make your first 24 hours unforgettable? Explore our Caribbean Programs or schedule a call with our team to find the perfect fit for your adventure.
Embarking on a Broadreach adventure outside of the Caribbean and wondering what the first day will be like? Check out our post about the first 24 hours of a non-Caribbean Broadreach adventure!
