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Best Buddies Travel is opening new doors for people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to explore the world together. With staff-led support, intentional programming, and a focus on inclusion, independence, and friendship, these trips are designed to make travel more accessible, meaningful, and fun.

In 2026, Best Buddies Travel is offering two exciting experiences: a youth-focused Miami & Royal Caribbean cruise and an all-ages adventure to Boston and Hyannis Port. Both trips combine structured support with unforgettable memories, giving participants the chance to build confidence, social skills, and lasting friendships while discovering new places.

Miami & Royal Caribbean Youth Cruise (Ages 16–22)
If you’re looking for something big, fun, and totally unforgettable next summer, the Miami & Royal Caribbean Youth Cruise might be the perfect fit. This trip is designed specifically for youth and young adult buddy pairs who are ready for both adventure and personal growth.

Trip Overview
Miami & Royal Caribbean Youth Cruise
June 7 – 12, 2026
5 Nights / 6 Days
Sailing out of Miami, FL
Ages 16–22 | Buddy Pairs
Cost: $2,500 per person (does not include travel to Miami, FL)

The trip begins with time in Miami, followed by a cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas. Travelers will enjoy group activities, onboard entertainment, dinners, excursions, and plenty of time to relax, have fun, and connect with friends. The experience is structured with safety and support in mind, making it a strong option for families and students who want a life-changing travel opportunity in an inclusive environment.

Best Buddies Travel trips are designed to help participants build confidence, independence, social skills, and friendships while traveling with a supportive group and experienced staff. Students will travel as buddy pairs. If a current match can’t attend, there are others excited to be paired, so interested students don’t have to miss out.

Spots are limited, and interest forms are now open for those who want to learn more or reserve a place. Families can also get questions answered during an upcoming Parent Interest Night on April 14, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET.

Boston & Hyannis Port Trip (All Ages)
The Boston & Hyannis Port trip offers a different kind of experience, blending city exploration with coastal charm and the energy of a major Best Buddies event. This all-ages journey invites travelers to explore historic Boston and then head to Hyannis Port for an unforgettable Challenge weekend.

Trip Overview
Boston & Hyannis Port Trip
May 28 – June 1, 2026
4 Nights / 5 Days
Sightseeing plus the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port
All ages welcome
Cost: $2,500 (does not include travel to Boston, MA)

The trip kicks off in Boston with sightseeing, iconic attractions, and group dinners that give travelers the chance to get to know one another. From there, the group heads to Hyannis Port for the Best Buddies Challenge weekend — a jam-packed, inspiring event filled with community, celebration, and connection.

In Hyannis Port, participants will:

Cheer on cyclists during the Challenge ride
Join the Opening Ceremonies and Lobster Clambake
Celebrate at the finish line with a musical performance
Bond with new friends through group activities on Cape Cod
The Best Buddies Travel Program is an inclusive, staff-led initiative that brings people with and without IDD together to explore the world while building independence, confidence, and lifelong friendships. Each experience includes life skills and travel training, guided support, and meaningful connection before, during, and after the journey.

Participants also take part in six weeks of pre-trip programming designed to build travel skills, social connections, and confidence for individuals both with and without IDD. Interest forms are now open for the Boston & Hyannis Port trip, and space is limited. The team expects this trip to fill quickly and encourages anyone interested to submit an interest form to receive next steps and additional information.

Why Best Buddies Travel?
Both 2026 trips reflect a larger vision for Best Buddies Travel: expanding inclusion, independence, and opportunity through thoughtfully designed travel experiences. Each journey is built around connection, support, and shared adventure—because everyone deserves the opportunity to explore the world together.

Best Buddies Travel focuses on:

Creating inclusive travel experiences for people with and without IDD
Building independence and confidence through real-world travel skills
Supporting participants with experienced staff and structured programming
Fostering friendships that last long after the trip ends
To learn more about Best Buddies Travel, explore current opportunities, or complete an interest form for an upcoming trip, visit bestbuddies.org/travel.

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Best Buddies Travel Launches Two Exciting Summer 2026 Experiences

As summer 2026 approaches, Best Buddies Travel is inviting participants to get ready for two unforgettable experiences designed to bring people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) together through adventure, friendship, and personal growth. These upcoming trips offer the perfect opportunity to explore new places, build confidence, and create lasting memories in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Kick Off Summer with the Boston & Hyannis Port Experience

Taking place May 28 – June 1, 2026, the Boston & Hyannis Port Trip is the perfect way to kick off the summer season. This four-night, five-day experience welcomes participants of all ages and combines the rich history of Boston with the excitement and energy of the Best Buddies Challenge weekend in Hyannis Port.

Travelers will begin their journey exploring the historic streets of Boston, visiting iconic landmarks, and enjoying group dinners that bring everyone together. The experience then transitions to Hyannis Port, where participants will be part of one of Best Buddies’ most inspiring signature events.

Throughout the Challenge weekend, participants will cheer on cyclists during the ride, take part in Opening Ceremonies and the Lobster Clambake, celebrate at the finish line with a lively musical performance, and spend time connecting with peers through group activities on Cape Cod. The combination of cultural exploration and community celebration makes this trip both meaningful and unforgettable.

Set Sail on the Miami & Royal Caribbean Youth Cruise

Just days later, from June 7 – 12, 2026, Best Buddies Travel will head to Miami for an exciting five-night, six-day Youth Cruise experience designed specifically for participants ages 16–22 traveling as buddy pairs.

The adventure begins in Miami before boarding Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, where participants will experience everything from onboard entertainment and group dinners to exciting excursions and time to relax with friends. The cruise environment provides a unique setting for building independence while enjoying a fun, structured, and fully supported experience.

This trip is ideal for youth and young adults who are eager to travel, gain new experiences, and strengthen friendships. With guidance from experienced Best Buddies staff, participants will have the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones while feeling supported every step of the way.

More Than Just a Trip

Both of these summer 2026 experiences are designed with intention, offering more than just travel. Participants take part in structured programming that helps build real-world skills such as communication, confidence, and independence. From the moment they begin preparing for their trip to the final day of travel, participants are supported by a community that values inclusion and connection.

Whether exploring Boston, celebrating at the Best Buddies Challenge, or cruising through the Caribbean, these experiences highlight what makes Best Buddies Travel so special: bringing people together, creating opportunities for growth, and proving that everyone deserves the chance to explore the world.

Spots for both trips are limited and expected to fill quickly. Individuals and families interested in participating are encouraged to complete an interest form and connect with the Best Buddies Travel team to learn more about next steps.

To learn more about these upcoming trips and future travel opportunities, visit bestbuddies.org/travel.