TESTIMONIALS
TESTIMONIALS
port location
Galveston, Texas
Departure
Monday
July 21, 2025 at 4:00pm
return
Saturday
July 26, 2025 at 7:00am
ship
Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas
GEA at Sea in the Caribbean 2025
After a decade of planning trips (on land) and taking educators all over the world in search for happy classrooms,
GEA is setting sail for the first time ever. GEA at SEA (Gee-A at See-A) aims to share all we have learned about happy classrooms around the globe in a conference style learning space and since this is GEA, we could not host a conference without some type of travel too! So, our maiden voyage of GEA at SEA will be a five night Western Carribean Cruise taking off from Galveston, Texas in July 2025. Our time together will be filled with cultural exploration (while ported) and professional learning (while at sea), what a perfect combination!
Day 1
Welcome Reception
+ Set Sail
Day 2
Learning + Cruising
Day 3
Puerto Costa
Maya, Mexico
Day 4
Cozumel, Mexico
Day 5
Learning + Cruising
Cruising with us this summer will allow you to be part of the first cohort of CEO’s of Happy Classrooms! Together we will be diving into the GEA Happiness Framework, which has been built out of years of our learning from traveling with educators across the globe. You will join the conversation and work alongside our leadership team to expand on the formula of: Verve, Empowerment, Tranquility and Belonging, for happiness in our learning spaces as well as choose from many other learning opportunities during our two days at sea.
We will share a more detailed plan of keynote speakers and breakout sessions in January as we are still solidifying some of our guests! We hope to have some sessions led by YOU as well – if you are interested in leading a session or speaking please let us know in your application!
Discover the Details of
Your Next Journey
gea at sea
main program
At GEA we believe that investment into teacher and school wellbeing cultivates happy classrooms. Join us in July as we bring together educators and leaders across the country to explore innovative approaches that cultivate happiness and well-being in classrooms. Our learning will include hands-on workshops, choice break-out sessions, and collaborative spaces where you can connect, exchange ideas, learn from each other and find ways to transform your own classroom or school.
Puerto Costa Maya offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Visitors can explore Mayan ruins like Chacchoben, showcasing ancient architecture amidst lush jungles. The area features pristine beaches with turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling and diving in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. The vibrant port includes attractions like an aviary and the traditional Danza de los Voladores performance. With eco-tourism at its core, Costa Maya provides an authentic experience of local culture and history, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
Puerta Costa Maya
Cozumel, Mexico, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning coral reefs and world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore vibrant marine life at sites like Palancar Reef and El Cielo, perfect for swimming alongside stingrays and colorful fish. The island also offers white sand beaches, such as Playa Mia, and the lush landscapes of Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. For adventure seekers, jeep tours reveal the island's natural beauty, while local cuisine at the Mercado Municipal provides an authentic taste of Mexico. Cozumel is ideal for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Cozumel
Join the Adventure: Cruise Pricing Tailored for You!
Cruise pricing varies based on your cabin selection. Check out the full price details below.
promenade
$972.13
Double
$1729.13
Single
Please note, all rates are per person. Pricing includes taxes, fees, port expenses, and gratuities.
More info on cabins here: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-ships/mariner-of-the-seas/rooms
Snorkeling Excursion in the AM
$60
Historical Tour
in the PM
$75
Puerto Costa
Maya add-ons
coming soon
Intended Outcomes of GEA at SEA 2025
GEA at SEA equips educators with strategies to foster happiness in classrooms, enhancing students' emotional well-being. Happier students are more engaged, leading to better academic performance. Participants will gain practical tools to create joyful, inclusive environments that transform classroom dynamics.
Cultural
Immersion
Educators would have the opportunity to experience Mexican culture firsthand, visiting historical sites like Mayan ruins and exploring local markets, which will enhance their global perspective and inform their teaching practices.
Networking and Collaboration
The cruise environment would provide ample opportunities for educators to connect with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, fostering professional relationships and potential collaborations.
Balanced Learning Experience
Attendees would benefit from a unique blend of professional development and relaxation, with structured learning sessions during sea days and opportunities for exploration and leisure during port visits, creating a well-rounded educational experience
Stories from the Global Classroom
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
who
EVERYONE! We hope that all interested educators and leaders apply to join us on the cruise. We also encourage you to bring along your family and friends! Family and friends are welcome to join you on the cruise and enjoy the ship while you connect with other educators and leaders. The GEA at Sea conference sessions are designed for participants of college age and above.
(Note: for every conference attendee that you refer to us you will receive $50 off your registration)
when & where
Port Location: Galveston, Texas
Departure: Monday July 21, 2025 at 4:00pm
Return: Saturday July 26, 2025 at 7:00am
Ship: Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas
price
Conference Registration: $300 (only billed from those cruise goers who will attend the conference). This fee will include the conference during our 2 days at sea, as well as a reception and final farewell “GEA Happy Hour” reception.
Professional Learning
Following GEA at SEA, all conference attendees will receive a certificate of completion for the clocked hours of learning attended (conference attendees will have an opportunity to earn up to 16 hours). Additionally, GEA is happy to work with your school administration or local professional development committee to ensure our learning together counts towards your professional licensure.
APPLICATION TIMELINE
Early bird special: November 30th
Priority consideration: January 15th
Final deadline: March 1st (if spaces are still available)
Zoom interviews will be held starting early-December and through mid March and all selection decisions will be made by March 15th. A program deposit of $300 for each leg of the program will be due upon acceptance.
The GEA pledges:
Our Commitment to You
At GEA, we believe happiness is not just an idea but something to be experienced. That’s why every program we offer is designed with special touches to create moments of connection, relaxation, and empowerment for our valued teachers. Here’s what’s included to ensure your well-being is prioritized throughout the experience:
Every full travel program includes:
A complimentary toast (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) during our 'GEA Happy Hour' before the welcome dinner, cultivating a space of belonging.
A Michelin Star meal (or similar level), offering a moment to connect with our senses and enjoy world-class cuisine.
A rejuvenating spa experience, providing moments of calm and relaxation.
An adventure challenge, empowering us by testing the boundaries of the familiar.
Quick Links
Explore the program curriculum, designed to enhance your learning journey and give you context to the region’s culture and history as well as the education system.
Take a look at the frameworks we employ that add more substance to your reflective experience.
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GEA will be doing everything to help our participants feel secure and comfortable. There are also many ways you can personally manage a safe and happy travel experience and GEA will help remind you along the way.