Ten Thousand Islands Sea Kayaking for Adults
Reconnect with yourself and nature in the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.
On this expedition, you will paddle through lush mangrove tunnels in a land of contrasts: where tropical and semi-tropical climates, land and sea, and salt and freshwater meet. Work with your crew to read tide charts, explore unique ecosystems, and enjoy cooking and setting up camp on sandy white beaches under the stars. Each day will bring new discoveries as you paddle to different areas. You will learn what makes the Ten Thousand Islands renowned worldwide, uncover the unique biodiversity of the region, and find out how to contribute to its preservation.
Our adult courses are thoughtfully designed to foster personal growth and connection. Led by experienced instructors, you'll engage in meaningful discussions and reflective activities that explore your past experiences, current journey, and future aspirations. These courses are perfect for those navigating a life transition, seeking a fresh perspective, or wanting to discover that they are capable of more than they thought possible.
Please note: Outward Bound sea kayaks are designed to fit participants up to 6 feet tall, 275 lbs, and size 12 in men’s shoes. If you exceed these measurements, our sea kayaks may not be suitable for you.
Thank you for considering the North Carolina Outward Bound School. Stay up to date by reviewing their Tropical Storm Helene Response & Updates.
UPCOMING COURSES
Course # NEAK-2522
Age 18 and up
Days 6
Cost $2,170
Dates 12/29/2025 - 1/3/2026
APPLY NOW
This means a course has several open spots and is actively processing applications.
Course # NERK-2621
Age 30 and up
Days 6
Cost $2,170
Dates 2/16/2026 - 2/21/2026
APPLY NOW
This means a course has several open spots and is actively processing applications.
Course # NEAK-2621
Age 18 and up
Days 6
Cost $2,170
Dates 3/10/2026 - 3/15/2026
APPLY NOW
This means a course has several open spots and is actively processing applications.
APPLY NOW
This means a course has several open spots and is actively processing applications.
APPLY NOW – Almost Full
This means there are three or fewer currently available spots left on a course. To secure your spot click Apply Now to begin an application!
JOIN WAITLIST
Once a course has reached capacity, three waitlist positions become available. To join a course’s waitlist, click “Join Waitlist” to begin the application process. A $500 deposit is required. This $500 deposit includes a $150 non-refundable application fee and a $350 tuition payment. The $350 tuition payment is refundable only if you cancel your waitlist application or if an open position does not become available. If a position does become available, the applicant will be applied to the open position and the Application and Cancellation Policies of the Regional Outward Bound School will be followed, including forfeiture of the $500 deposit if you cancel 90 days or less prior to the course start date.
Waitlist applicants are encouraged to complete all required admissions documents while awaiting an open position. Positions may become available up to two weeks prior to the course start date. Applicants may only apply to one course. We recommend applying to a course with open positions instead of a course that is accepting waitlist applications. If you have questions, please call 866-467-7651 to speak with one of our Admissions Advisors.
CALL TO APPLY
This means a course is very close to its start date. Although it is unlikely to secure a spot this late, you can call the National Admissions office at 866-467-7651 to discuss your options.
COURSE IS FULL
When a course has reached maximum capacity, meaning all spots and the three waitlist spots are occupied, a course will read “Course Is Full.” This means applications are no longer being accepted.
CLOSED
As a course nears its start date, the availability status may read “Closed.” In this event, a course roster has been finalized and applications are no longer being accepted or processed.
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In fielding a lot of questions along the lines of, ‘Why on Earth would you want to do something like that?’ I was able to answer easily…’for the experience. While the brain craves order and finds comfort in patterns, it’s critical and healthy to throw ourselves for a loop every now and again, lest we find ourselves in a rut.’ I once read that the only difference between a rut and a grave is its depth. A rather ominous warning, don’t you think? These kinds of experiences provide time and space to see what’s working, what might need some tweaking and what needs eliminating. It is most excellent time spent getting to ‘know thyself.’
Participants will navigate the Florida Everglades, transporting all their gear in the hull of their sea kayak. Both single and tandem kayaks will be used, giving students the chance to experience each type. Depending on the wind and weather, the level of difficulty will vary from day to day. Working as a crew, participants will learn marine expedition risk assessment and management, route planning, navigation, paddle stroke techniques, kayak-based rescues, and equipment care. Once on land, they will practice backcountry cooking and Leave No Trace camping before settling in for the night.
A little more than halfway through course, students will participate in a reflection period called Solo. During this time, Instructors assign students their individual spaces within a designated area. These sites are secluded and within hearing distance of other group members and Instructors for safety. Students will are given all the necessary gear, food, water, and skills to enjoy this time alone. Solo is a great opportunity for students to relax, recharge, and reflect on their course after having long days of strenuous group activities. They also know the location of their Instructors should they need to contact them for any reason. Instructors will be monitoring students closely during this experience.
Everglades National Park, Florida
The Florida Everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and the third-largest national park in the lower 48 states. The aquatic preserve is home to various wild creatures and exotic plant life. More than 350 species of birds, 300 species of fresh and saltwater fish, 40 species of mammals, and 50 reptile species live within it. Because of this, it is one of only three locations in the world to show up on the following lists, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a World Heritage Site.
The Everglades are mild and pleasant from December through April, with low humidity and clear skies. Temperatures reach average highs of 88 degrees and lows of 54 degrees. Strong cold fronts may occasionally create near-freezing conditions, but such events are rare in this subtropical climate. These regions are the ancestral lands of the Calusa, Miccosukee, and Seminole nations.
Course Stories
In fielding a lot of questions along the lines of, ‘Why on Earth would you want to do something like that?’ I was able to answer easily…’for the experience. While the brain craves order and finds comfort in patterns, it’s critical and healthy to throw ourselves for a loop every now and again, lest we find ourselves in a rut.’ I once read that the only difference between a rut and a grave is its depth. A rather ominous warning, don’t you think? These kinds of experiences provide time and space to see what’s working, what might need some tweaking and what needs eliminating. It is most excellent time spent getting to ‘know thyself.’
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Getting Started
If you are ready to enroll on a course click the enroll button next to the course you wish to select or you can enroll over the phone by speaking with one of our Customer Success Specialists (toll-free) at 866-467-7651.
To secure your spot on a course you must submit an enrollment form and $500 deposit that is applied toward the total cost of the course and includes a $150 non-refundable enrollment processing fee.