| How do we sign up?
Please contact Outward Bound Professional and they will be happy to assist you. They can be reached by phone at 617-328-3900 ext. 103 or ext. 114, or by e-mail at obprofessional@thompsonisland.org.
 Can Outward Bound Professional programs be conducted at any site?
Yes. Programs can be scheduled in virtually any location and at any time of year. Outward Bound wilderness base camps, conference centers, office buildings or other client-specific locations can be utilized. Depending on the location and time of year, we generally create weather contingency plans with our clients that include inclement weather clothing or indoor options.
What does a program include?
After getting to know a bit about your organization and its needs, we will design a prgram specifically for your group. Programs run between one and five days in length, and may include the following elements: - teambuilding initiatives
- challenge elements
- high ropes
- low ropes
- sailing
- rock-climbing
- camping or dormitory accommodation
- catered meals
- a course as part of a conference on the island
What is a typical day like?
Here is a sample schedule: | 8:30 |
Meet at the EDIC dock in South Boston and board the ferry for a 25-minute ride to Thompson Island |
| 9:00 |
Welcome, tone setting for the program |
| 9:30-12:30 |
Small group initiatives and challenges on the low ropes course |
| 12:30 |
Trek lunches (sandwiches, fruit, drink, snack) |
| 1:00 – 3:30 |
High ropes course, climbing wall or Alpine Tower |
| 3:30 – 4:00 |
Discussion groups |
| 4:00 – 4:30 |
Solo |
| 4:30 – 5:00 |
Debriefing |
| 5:00 |
Depart Thompson Island |
 Can we come at any time of year? What if it's rainy or cold?
We do run courses year-round, and have indoor spaces to accommodate groups in any kind of weather. Take the photo tour to see our indoor climbing wall and classroom spaces, as well as our outdoor elements.
What about organizations whose members vary greatly in their fitness levels and comfort in the outdoors?
Our customized programs combine aspects of both a conference room setting and wilderness environment. Our clients vary in age, gender, and physical capabilities. A successful program requires teamwork, effective communication and commitment, not physical strength or endurance. We custom design every program to ensure that everyone can participate in some manner.  Should we bring equipment or special clothes? What if we don't own any?
Before your course, we’ll send you more detailed information about what you can expect and how best to prepare. Don't worry about equipment—we have an entire logistics department that can outfit your group with everything you'll need, including fleeces, down jackets, water bottles, rain jackets and rain pants, tents, sleeping bags and more! We use only durable, high-quality gear that is thoroughly washed and prepped between uses. We recommend you bring your own footwear, though—hiking boots or sneakers are best.
I have two or three people interested in coming, but I can’t get a big group together. Do you have anything for us?
We can create a custom course, but need a minimum of 8 participants. We do offer specialty courses for which you can sign up as individuals—groups of two or three friends might enjoy our women’s weekends or parent/child courses. If these don’t work for you, please call and see if something can be arranged. What are the fees for an Outward Bound Professional program?
The cost of program will vary dependent upon your group size, objectives, and unique design needs. Our prices are competitive with other professional development trainers and consultants. Please call 617-328-3900 ext. 103 or ext. 114 to talk to one our Account Managers, or e-mail obprofessional@thompsonisland.org. |
