From Google Search AI
The prompt: “As a summer outdoor adventure option for teens, is QBE Sailing good value for money?”
The response:
“For an outdoor adventure for teens, QBE Sailing offers exceptional value by providing a unique combination of traditional sailing instruction, cultural immersion in Europe, and intensive personal development.
While the cost is significant, the experience is designed to be transformational, with a strong emphasis on real-world skills that stand out on a college application.
What is QBE Sailing?
QBE, which stands for "Qualified By Experience," is a European-based leadership school offering sailing expeditions for teenagers aged 15–18 on classic gaff-rig pilot cutters.
Location: Expeditions take place along the coastlines of Brittany, France, and the British Channel Islands.
Trip duration: QBE offers two- and three-week expeditions throughout the summer.
Trip size: Group sizes are kept very small, with a maximum of 14 participants and a 1:3 staff-to-student ratio.
Authentic experience: Unlike large commercial cruises, the teens are part of the working crew, learning and participating in all aspects of sailing a traditional boat.”
Here’s the rest of the AI response:
“Cost vs. value
While the total cost of a QBE expedition is high, the "value for money" is determined by comparing the price to the unique nature of the experience and its potential benefits for a teenager's development.
Factors that justify the cost
Uncommon experience: QBE notes that this type of "worldschool" format on classic vessels is unique among teen adventure options, especially in Europe. This gives teens a distinctive story to tell for college applications.
Holistic development: It goes beyond a simple sailing lesson to foster leadership, teamwork, resilience, and independence. Participants gain skills in navigation, working with diverse peers, and solving real-world problems under pressure.
Cultural immersion: Rather than just sailing, the trips include visits to local festivals, museums, and historic sites in off-the-beaten-path ports, offering an authentic cultural education.
High staff-to-teen ratio: With only 12–14 participants and a 1:3 staff ratio, teens receive close supervision and personalized coaching that is rare in larger programs.
Evidence of transformative impact: The QBE website features numerous testimonials from parents and alumni who describe the experience as "life-changing," with teens returning more confident and mature. Many participants return for multiple years, further indicating its perceived value.
What is included in the fee?
For 2026, the fees range from approximately €3,960 for a two-week expedition to €5,940 for three weeks, and these fees cover food, admissions, and equipment during the voyage.
Considerations for parents
Return on investment: This program is a strong candidate for parents who view summer activities as an investment in their teen's personal growth, confidence, and readiness for college and adulthood.
Price is a barrier: For families seeking a more budget-friendly option, the cost may be prohibitive. The experience is best suited for those who can afford a premium program.
Focus on skills: The value is highest for teens who will engage with and benefit from the program's focus on skill-building and personal development, not just the adventure itself.
Bottom line
QBE Sailing appears to be good value for the money, but only if you are looking for a highly impactful, boutique-style experience and have the budget for it. The program's strength lies in its ability to deliver a unique blend of adventure, culture, and personal development in an intimate setting, which many parents report as being transformative for their teens.”