Trading their landlocked Texas life for the open ocean, a family of five has transformed a sailboat into a floating classroom, offering their children a unique global education.
Renee Whitaker, a homeschooling mother, decided to take "real-world learning" to the next level. In 2016, the family sold their home and purchased a sailboat, embarking on a journey that has now spanned seven years and nearly two circumnavigations.
"My children engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds, encountering various languages and cultures," Whitaker shared. "It's a truly international education."
Initially, the children needed time to adjust to their unconventional lifestyle. "It wasn't instant love," Whitaker admitted. "However, as time has passed, they've grown to embrace this life, finding joy in the constant adventure."
While the family's eldest daughter remained in Texas, four of the Whitaker children initially joined the voyage. Since then, one daughter has pursued college, leaving three children, aged 16, 17, and 20, continuing the seafaring adventure, with two still being homeschooled.
The Whitakers are part of a growing community of "boat families." Platforms like Kids4Sail, in partnership with NoForeignLand, connect over 7,000 families worldwide, facilitating meetups, resource sharing, and a sense of community on the open water.
"They relish the excitement of arriving in a new country, eager to discover the local language and currency," Whitaker explained.
Whitaker utilizes a blend of traditional textbooks and online resources, tailoring the curriculum to her children's interests. "Our homeschooling objective isn't about memorizing facts for tests," she stated. "It's about nurturing their passions and equipping them with the skills to pursue those passions as livelihoods."
Inspired by the family's YouTube channel, "Sailing Zatara," Whitaker's youngest son has developed a keen interest in video production and social media marketing. The 17-year-old has launched his own YouTube channel, incorporating advertising to generate revenue. His educational focus now includes business management, covering topics like financial planning, loans, and real estate.
Whitaker emphasizes the value of "real-world learning." During a recent stay in Greece, the family explored museums and delved into the region's history, fostering a natural learning environment.
Addressing criticisms about socialization, Whitaker points to the vibrant community of boat families and the diverse interactions her children experience during their travels. She believes this far surpasses the limited social opportunities offered in traditional classroom settings.
From swimming with sharks off the Australian coast to cave diving near Fiji and bungee jumping in Africa, the family's adventures provide invaluable learning experiences. Their recent six-month exploration of the Red Sea and Middle East included connecting with other boat families and engaging in sports with local children.
"These experiences are irreplaceable," Whitaker affirmed. "It's a type of education that a traditional school simply cannot offer."
