Looking Ahead to Summer 2022
By: Broadreach HQ January 21, 2022 High School Adventures, Middle School, Parents, Scuba, Sailing, Marine Biology, Vet Medicine, Wildlife Conservation
Broadreach’s pod-based adventures are well-suited to facing the challenges of the pandemic.
As we enter the third year of COVID disruptions, we’re more excited than ever for another summer of adventure with Broadreach! After months of planning and preparing risk management protocols, we were thrilled to run programs smoothly last summer with no positive COVID cases on program. As summer 2022 quickly approaches, we look forward to providing a much-needed outlet for fun and exploration for our students – while also maintaining health and safety protocols.
We’ve always believed that limiting group sizes to 12 students encourages optimal group dynamics. A group of 8 – 12 students is large enough to keep things interesting with different perspectives and personalities but small enough to foster a close, family-like environment. Luckily, our limited group sizes also help us mitigate COVID risks. Our small units act as ‘pods’ or ‘bubbles’, helping to limit the spread of COVID by limiting exposure to people outside the group. Prior to joining the pod on program, we ask students to observe a precautionary period to minimize potential exposure. Students and staff will also need to provide proof of a negative COVID-test in the days before departure, as well as proof of vaccination against COVID-19.
Because of the nature of our trips, we’ve been able to preserve much of our pre-COVID activities and itineraries. Our Caribbean liveaboard adventures take place in naturally isolated living environments, and many of the activities done on all our adventures take place outdoors. However, we have made adaptations to limit the risk of exposure, such as avoiding overcrowded environments. If necessary, we may also adjust itineraries on program, depending on local conditions and requirements at the time. In addition, we require students and staff wear face masks when near others who are not part of our group, as well as anytime required by local guidelines or Broadreach community partners.
Broadreach will manage arrangements for COVID testing while students are on program. This includes testing before returning (per home country requirements), for transit between program locations, or for students who present symptoms. More than ever, we encourage families to purchase trip insurance, particularly Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. CFAR insurance allows families to recover as many costs as possible in case of trip cancellation or interruption due to COVID – or any other reason.
As departure dates get closer, look out for updates on specific entry requirements, safety procedures, and adaptations. Our friendly HQ staff is always available to answer questions and discuss concerns, and you can find more details on our COVID protocols on our website. We can’t wait for another summer of in-person exploration and adventure!
