2026 Behavioral Health Mini-Conference at Sea

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida - Often called the 'Venice of America,' Fort Lauderdale offers a surprisingly sophisticated and relaxed alternative to its more frenetic neighbors. The city's identity is defined by the 165 miles of inland waterways that weave through it, and the best way to appreciate this is from the water itself. We highly recommend hopping on the Water Taxi for a leisurely tour; it’s not just transportation, but an experience, offering front-row views of stunning mansions, mega-yachts, and lush tropical landscaping. For a taste of the city's vibrant heart, head to Las Olas Boulevard. This is the city's elegant main artery, lined with independent boutiques, intriguing art galleries, and a fantastic selection of restaurants, from casual sidewalk cafes to upscale dining rooms perfect for a memorable meal. It’s an ideal place for a sophisticated stroll and some people-watching. Of course, the beach is a major draw. The beautifully redesigned Fort Lauderdale Beach offers wide stretches of clean sand, a palm-fringed promenade, and a more laid-back atmosphere than you might expect. If you have a bit more time and an adventurous spirit, the Florida Everglades are just a short drive away. An airboat tour through this unique 'River of Grass' is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into a wild ecosystem teeming with alligators, wading birds, and other wildlife. It’s an accessible yet authentic taste of natural Florida that provides a perfect contrast to the city's polished charm.

At Sea - Cruising -

Oranjestad, Aruba - Aruba presents a unique Caribbean landscape, trading lush jungle for an arid, desert-like beauty of cacti, rock formations, and its iconic, wind-swept divi-divi trees. The cruise port docks directly in the capital, Oranjestad, a clean and walkable city defined by its brightly colored Dutch colonial architecture. A complimentary open-air trolley makes a convenient loop through the main downtown area, which is filled with high-end retailers and local boutiques. While the city is charming, Aruba’s primary draw is its magnificent coastline. A short taxi or bus ride north of the port reveals two of the Caribbean’s most celebrated beaches. Eagle Beach is a vast expanse of pristine white sand, consistently ranked among the world's best, offering a more tranquil atmosphere. Adjacent Palm Beach is livelier, lined with resorts, beach bars, and a full spectrum of water sports. For those seeking an alternative to the beach, the island’s interior offers a compelling look at its rugged terrain. A visit to Arikok National Park showcases a dramatic coastline and caves with ancient Arawak petroglyphs. Closer to the port, the Casibari Rock Formations provide an easily accessible opportunity to climb among massive tonalite boulders for panoramic island views. Aruba offers a polished and safe environment, balancing world-class beach relaxation with accessible and distinctive natural scenery.

Willemstad, Curacao - Willemstad is not just another Caribbean port; its historic core is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a cultural depth that rewards exploration. The city is bisected by St. Anna Bay, and the two sides, Punda and Otrobanda, are connected by the iconic Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge. Walking across this floating bridge as it swings open for passing ships is a quintessential Willemstad experience. Punda is home to the famous Handelskade, the waterfront row of brightly colored, 18th-century Dutch colonial buildings that form the island's signature image. Its gridded streets are filled with shops, galleries, and cafes, along with the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest continuously operating synagogue in the Americas. Across the bay, Otrobanda (“the other side”) offers a more residential feel with a maze of winding alleys. It is also the location of the Kura Hulanda Museum, a powerful and essential institution that chronicles the transatlantic slave trade and its profound impact on the region. While the city itself is the main attraction, Curacao’s renowned beaches require transportation. A taxi or pre-arranged tour is necessary to reach them. For a full-service beach club atmosphere, Mambo Beach is a popular choice. For more natural beauty, the island's west coast (Westpunt) features stunning coves like Kenepa Grandi and Cas Abao, known for their turquoise water and dramatic cliffs. A visit to the Curacao Liqueur Distillery offers a brief, flavorful diversion for a taste of the island's famous spirit.

Kralendijk (Bonaire), Antilles - Bonaire's identity is inextricably linked to the sea. The entire coastline is a protected national marine park, a pioneering effort in conservation that has preserved one of the Caribbean's most vibrant underwater ecosystems. This makes world-class snorkeling and diving remarkably accessible, often just steps from the shore. The main town, Kralendijk, is a clean, quiet, and walkable port. Its main street, Kaya Grandi, is lined with colorful Dutch-Caribbean architecture housing boutiques and galleries, while waterfront cafes offer a tranquil spot to watch sailboats in the bay. While the town is pleasant, the island's true allure lies in its natural state. A short taxi ride can take you to a nearby beach for an easy snorkel, or to the southern tip to see the striking contrast of white salt pans, blue water, and the iconic pink flamingos of the Pekelmeer Sanctuary. Bonaire is not a destination for high-energy thrills or extensive historical sites; it is a place to slow down and immerse yourself in a pristine natural environment. It offers a genuine, low-key Caribbean experience for those who appreciate the beauty of the world beneath the waves.