Gap Year Programs in Caribbean

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

Global dental healthcare with International Medical Aid's (IMA) Dental Internships for pre-dental undergraduates, dental students, dentists, and dental hygienists, offers an extraordinary chance to work in some of the world's most underserved regions—East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Under the mentorship of professionals, interns delve into the complexities of dental care, from public health education to community hygiene clinics, addressing dire needs where dental services are scarce. IMA, founded at Johns Hopkins University, is a not-for-profit dedicated to not just providing care but enhancing the communities we serve. We forge ethical, sustainable initiatives focused on preventing disease at its source, going beyond the conventional internship. With comprehensive support, local guidance, extensive safety training, and structured housing, interns enjoy a secure environment to grow and learn. Our program includes everything from AADSAS statement reviews to personalized admissions counseling, aiding your journey to dental school. Experience an internship and become a part of a global movement towards better dental health with IMA.

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Are you interested in learning Spanish? Study at our school/hostel in the heart of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take morning language lessons from Monday to Friday. In the afternoons, enjoy dance classes and cultural excursions. We also have weekend trips to the beach and a two-night/three-day road trip to Viñales. This is a busy program and offers the possibility of immersion into Cuban life—past and present—and the opportunity to understand what makes this amazing country so special. Our programs are for participants 18+, but we also welcome minors accompanied by an adult. Accommodation is in our licensed Casa Particulare, where you’ll share a dorm room with other students. You could also stay in a private room with an en suite bathroom for an extra fee. Couples, friends, and family who book a program together are automatically upgraded to a private room. Breakfast and lunch are included, as well as activities such as group discussion/planning meetings and impromptu social gatherings. Airport transfers can be arranged on request. Our programs comply with travel restrictions for US citizens. Feel free to contact us for more information!

Embark on an unforgettable six-week adventure that delves into the Caribbean's vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history. This program is designed for young travelers (17-22) seeking a unique blend of cultural immersion, community engagement, and thrilling outdoor experiences. Uncover Santo Domingo's rich past, connect with local communities by contributing to rebuilding communities impacted by natural disasters, and immerse yourself in Dominican culture by experiencing the warmth and hospitality of local families through homestays. Hike through lush trails, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and witness the breathtaking waterfalls cascading through the El Yunque Rainforest. Beyond sightseeing and exploration, this program offers the opportunity to develop valuable life skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication. Immerse yourself in local customs and traditions to gain a deeper cultural understanding. Step outside your comfort zone to experience personal growth and develop a sense of independence. Plus, build lifelong friendships with like-minded people from around the world.

Join our 6-week program on Andros Island in the Bahamas and stay on a beachfront property with a stunning view of crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Here, you’ll earn PADI Scuba certifications while gaining lifetime friendships. Become more passionate about marine science and propel your future career with international experience. Take marine-based science classes, earn internationally recognized certifications, and volunteer with local Bahamian organizations. International Field Studies has spent the past 20 years refining the Forfar Marine Science Program in collaboration with partner universities. This ensures we can provide the best experience possible on Andros Island, impressing universities and employers. Plus, you gain life skills that are applicable for the rest of your life! Interested in this amazing program? We encourage you to contact us today as spots fill up fast.

Sail Racing Academy offers tailor-made gap year programs that cater to all interests. From one month to one year and from cruising to racing in the UK, the Mediterranean, or the Caribbean, we have it all. Our experienced skippers are happy to work alongside you to help you gain experience and qualifications. We aim to find the perfect balance between practical hands-on experience, theory, and fun. You will be an active part of our team. During regattas, when not sailing, there is always a fully packed schedule of social events. This is a great time to have fun, as well as get to know other sailors and develop your network. Between regattas, there is always plenty to do with maintenance, repairs, and cleaning. It’s a good time to learn about the mechanics of sailing. Plus, get to see and enjoy the beauty of each location where the yacht anchors.

Be part of a transformative program for college-age students looking to further their leadership skills and teamwork abilities through the challenge of open ocean sailing. This is a prerequisite for any student hoping to qualify for Sail Caribbean’s Mate-in-Training program. It includes: Hands-on advanced sailing and seamanship training Leadership development in an experiential learning environment Exploration of the Leeward Islands Plan and execute an overnight sailing passage as a crew Optional PADI Discover Scuba course or Recreational Diving for those already certified We offer ASA certifications 101-106; take up to 3 courses per program depending on your certification level. Successful Echo completion qualifies you to participate in Sail Caribbean’s exclusive Mate-in-Training program, which provides hands-on experience working and training alongside our summer staff. It is like an internship at sea for rising college sophomores (or gap year equivalent). It allows you to shadow and be mentored by our staff, directly impacting your personal growth. Applicants must have completed the Echo program before being eligible.