Join us in Brittany next summer for an epic coming-of-age adventure: a unique live-aboard sailing camp, organized in part by our campers.
It’s so-o-o much more than a sailing course. It’s a singular adventure outside of time where young adults find the inspiration to learn and become lifelong changemakers.
Ranked among the top-five key “teen-adventure-sailing” options by Perplexity—and the only one in Europe: "Their unique ‘worldschool’ format and old-school sailing instruction on classic vessels make them a leader for teens seeking epic sailing adventures in Europe.”
Click or tap here to read what various chatbots have to say about QBE sailing expeditions.
Consider: In August 2025, eight of twelve crew members returned for their second, third, or fourth QBE expedition. That should say it all—if you want a place, apply now!
“—Just wanted to say a huge thank you again for providing such an amazing, unique and absolutely cool experience! I wasn’t sure what to expect when I stumbled upon this program online but decided it looked perfect for my teenage girl. [She] set off on the three-week sailing expedition, but within a week was begging to stay on for a second expedition.
She loved everything about what wound up being seven weeks at sea ... sailing, sleeping and cooking aboard, exploring the marina towns and festivals, the change-over week and especially new friends and mentors from all over the world. To say she enjoyed it and that it was life changing would be an understatement!
I love hearing all the stories that just keep coming! She will definitely be back next year! ...I’m happy to provide references to any parent considering this program for their teenager.
Thank you again!!””
The QBE European Leadership School (ELS), known for its signature classic boats, serves up impact sailing adventures for high-school students (14–18) along the culturally rich French and British coastlines. Each unique micro-camp (just 12–14 places) emphasizes instruction in traditional sailing, cultural discovery, marine coastal ecology, and team-success coaching.
Our head-turning gaff-rig pilot cutters, authentically constructed by a master boatwright, are unmistakably “old-school chic.” Our frequent destinations are right out of a coffee-table book. And each expedition is largely organized by a (very) small international group of crew members who take ownership of practically all everyday tasks, including navigating, helping prepare meals, and taking turns at the wheel.
The staff–to-student ratio is 1:3. Instruction is in English.
Since 2023, we have welcomed crew members from the UK, France, the United States, Italy, Germany, Poland, Ireland, Norway, Greece, Switzerland, Canada, Turkey/Portugal, Brazil, Croatia, China, Angola, and New Zealand.
QBE: One of Europe’s best overnight sailing camps for teens.
“QBE is renowned for transformative experiences and high student satisfaction””
ABOUT US
QBE is an internationally acclaimed experiential-learning initiative founded by a group of adventure sport enthusiasts who, once upon a time, all found themselves at the same legendary Swiss boarding school—a place where outdoor and cultural expeditions were not just encouraged but required. Skiing, mountaineering, cycling, and sailing always seemed to be the favorite outdoor options.
Years later, when one of the school’s former expedition masters came across two classic pilot cutters for sale, he saw an opportunity: to recreate and expand one of the school’s most transformative experiences—blue-water sailing—so that young people from a broader range of backgrounds could benefit.
At QBE, we believe that challenging outdoor adventures, like small-yacht sailing at sea, can be nothing short of magic for teenagers. These kinds of experiences boost self-esteem, inspire independence, and build lifelong skills—especially when participants are trusted to make real decisions as part of a small team. That’s why so many top schools around the world now incorporate expeditionary learning into their curriculum.
And when it comes to adventure, nothing quite compares to slicing through the waves on a traditional sailing vessel—except perhaps the satisfaction of pulling into harbor after a challenging day at sea. Unlike wilderness treks, our expeditions also offer exposure to rich authentic European culture: lively ports, local cuisine, and centuries of history in every seaside destination.
“Expeditionary education is often associated with adventure education, outdoor education, environmental education or experiential education and refers specifically to learning associated with exploration and journey-based experiences or expeditions within these fields. Usually involving elements of challenge, adventure and leadership, expeditionary education can take place in a variety of settings...””
Crew members return home changed. Confident. Energized. Proud of what they’ve accomplished… because they have accomplished something impressive—together.
And that confidence doesn’t end at the quai. Self-esteem is a powerful driver of academic and career success, as well. You’ll be amazed by the difference a few weeks of world-class adventure can make in a young person’s life trajectory.
A crowd gathers to watch a QBE crew member pipe us into port,
QBE expeditions (2–3 weeks) take place in June, July, and August.
You may never have imagined sending your son or daughter on a sailing expedition along the French coast. But wherever you live, it’s worth considering. This really is much more than some serene summer camp. It’s a dynamic, life-elevating journey—where no one spends time on the margins. In fact, every crew member plays a vital role.
You can read an English translation of a recent Bateaux.com article about QBE’s unique “learning by doing” philosophy here.
Get in touch. Or come visit us. We’d love to share more about what makes QBE’s unique maritime expeditions so unforgettable. References available upon request.
“Thank you! Thank you for everything! That was a life-changing trip and he hopes to return next year!”
”
From a Perplexity query (October 2025):
To see what other AI chatbots have to say, click or tap on the image, above.
All major credit cards accepted, so you can pay securely and with confidence.
life-elevating adventure • expert sailing instruction • NEW GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES
No sailing experience necessary | Transportation assistance available | Safety record: Impeccable