About us

A+ World Academy was founded in 2015 to redefine education by blending academic excellence with the transformative lessons that only the rigorous and life-changing experience of sailing the world aboard Sørlandet can offer — turning the world’s oldest full-rigged ship into the most extraordinary learning campus.

Rooted in nearly a century of maritime tradition, our school offers students not just a classroom, but the world itself — fostering resilience, growth mindset, leadership, and cultural understanding through experiential learning. Since our first voyage, we’ve welcomed students from over 25 countries, creating a diverse community driven by curiosity, challenge, and growth. With more than 500 graduates, A+ World Academy continues to shape true global citizens — young leaders who navigate both oceans and life with confidence, purpose, and a understanding of the world around them.

Our Leadership

Jeff Joyce
Head of School

BA in American History; Master of Arts in Teaching Social Studies; Executive Leadership Associates Degree and Coaching Certification. 30 years in education and 3 with A Plus World Academy.

Country:

United States

City:

Charlotte, North Carolina

Gabriela Delgado
Assistant Head of School

Bachelor in World Languages, 8 years in education, 7 years with A+.

Country:

Venezuela

City:

Margarita Island

Emily Waugh
Assistant Head of School

Degree: Bachelor of Science in English from USNA Years in Education: 11 years Years w/ A+: 8 years

Country:

USA

City:

Potsdam, NY

Dr. Dani Gonzales Chellini
Doctor Onboard
Academic Crew

Bachelors General Medicine & Surgery, MSc International Health & Tropical Medicine, MSc Public Health & Maritime Transport Years w/ A+: 4 years

Country:

Venezuela

City:

Margarita Island

Beto Sauri Brown
Dean & S3
Academic Crew

Degree in Industrial Engineering, with a Project Manager certification. Years working in manufacturing: 3 years Years with A+: 3.5 years

Country:

Mérida, Yucatán

City:

México

Paulina Mendez
Dean & S3
Academic Crew

Bachelor’s Degree Literature and Philosophy Master’s Degree Leadership and Management of Educational Centers Experience 8 years in education Years w/ A+: 3 years

Country:

Guatemala City

City:

Guatemala

Adam Rule
Director of Admissions & Business Development
Admission Crew

Country:

-

City:

-

Dani Regual
Senior Media & Marketing Specialist
Admission Crew

Country:

-

City:

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Meet our Crew

Our Maritime Crew
Our Academic Crew

Partners and Affiliations