Program Reviews

Semester at Sea is the experience of a lifetime and is something that SASers will most likely credit as being the best part of their college experience. Not only do you get to travel the world while taking classes, but you will also meet students and staff from all over the world!

This program was a spectacular way to get a taste test of countries all around the world. We didn't stay in one place long enough to really get know it, but it was definitely enough to get a feel for it and to leave with a knowledge of what areas in the world you would want to return to.
Anyone with an adventurous spirit and a curious demeanor about the world and the cultures that make it up will love this.
You will quickly learn if you have stronger land legs or sea legs. I had the former, which meant I had to readjust when hopping back on the ship but was totally fine stepping off of it. I knew I had a history of motion sickness (even on trains, and I can't read in the car), but that didn't stop me from going on this - it shouldn't to anyone hesitant because of that. And the ship's size helps so it's not too intense.
My roommate was a perfectionist and didn't enjoy herself as freely as most people I encountered, and it was sad to see her complain constantly - if you go on this trip, see the beauty around you and the incredible opportunities that you have just by being able to literally sail around the world. Be grateful and don't cut yourself short of this experience.
The community that naturally happens on this ship is amazing, simply by looking at the vast range in age you get. Also, having your professors bring their families is comforting as well, and bridges the gap between professor and student - I loved hanging out with my professor's son and daughter, and running into them in different countries. The youngest voyager on my trip was 4 years old and the oldest was in her mid 80's.
So it is what you make of it, but you start with a spectacular blank canvas, a ship that circumnavigates the globe. The possibilities!

Semester at Sea was the best decision I ever made. I travelled on the Summer 2013 Voyage which included Europe and North Africa. The staff is so supporting, and always available. I also met some of my lifelong friends. The environment created on the ship is one of community which helps each student open up and create memorable experiences and friends. At the same time, the academics are challenging and directly related to the countries you visit. I found everything I learned to me applicable to my surroundings. I have already, and will continue to recommend people for Semester at Sea.

While my experience with SAS was almost 40 years ago, my daughter recently did a semester so I know the quality I had back then is still present. There is nothing like the SAS community to support a look at up to 12 cultures in a relatively small period of time, one semester. The faculty tailor classes to the experiences you may have and sights you will see. But unlike tours, you can make your own way once in port. Nothing in my life, short of motherhood, has had such a profound impact. NOTHING comes close to what I learned or how I grew as a human to my experiences with SAS.

Semester at Sea was by far the most amazing experience of my life. People are scared by the fact that you have to live with upwards of 500 other students in such close proximity, but that's what makes it so great. You become such good friends with everyone and get to embark on so many amazing experiences with so many different people. What really lured me in was the fact that you get to travel to so many destinations. My voyage started in London then went on throughout Europe, Africa, and South America. We were lucky enough to be the first group of SAS students able to go to Cuba (FA13 represent) which was amazing. The experiences you have, the people you meet, and the places you see make this program one of the best out there. It couldn't be done without the hard work of all of the Semester at Sea employees on the ship and in the states that work so hard to make it this way.

Semester at Sea (SAS) is the single most beneficial and positive life changing experience I have ever had. If you have major trouble with motion sickness it probably wouldn't be the best program for you. SAS is a sampler platter of the world. Whether you are in port exploring a new culture or sailing on the ship to the next destination you will never be bored. This program is a catalyst for springing people into a world they didn't know existed. SAS has a unique edge over all other study abroad programs. Day to day life on the ship can range from attending class, working out in the gym, sun bathing on the deck, having a prime ocean view while doing yoga, participating in groups/discussions that promote civic engagement and positive change to relaxing all day getting to know friends. I can't stress enough the impact this program will leave on your life!!!

Amazing opportunity to learn about a wide variety of cultures as you visit twelve (or so) different countries around the world. The classes adjust their learning to incorporate the countries visited and include fun field trips which provide unique experiences. The freedom granted to students to travel within each country is phenomenal and the experiences unforgettable. The onboard community is tight-nit, inspiring, and diverse. You will never make closer friends faster, and they will become travel companions for the rest of your life. The post SAS community is also amazing, and the alumni bond will be strong no matter what year you sailed. SAS for life!

Semester at Sea takes you on a voyage to a dozen or more world ports over the course of a semester - where normal study abroad programs place you in one country, on SAS your ship is your country! You'll live on the beautiful MV Explorer with 500-700 other students from around the country and around the world; I've sailed twice and now have friends in India, Morocco, Singapore, Turkey, and all across the US. The ship has everything you'd expect of a college campus - classrooms, study areas, cafeteria, and even a pool! Classes are challenging but also rewarding, as you'll get to learn about the countries you'll visit, and go on field trips for hands-on experience. For example, I took a marine biology class where we got to visit the world-famous Lisbon Oceanarium, including a behind-the-scenes tour. And don't be deterred too much by the price tag, which is understandably high; many schools will let you use your financial aid, and SAS also offers a number of scholarships and work study opportunities to help you pay your way (I know they helped me tremendously!).

On Semester at Sea you have the opportunity to travel the world. Before visiting each city you're informed through lectures on history, culture and more enabling each student to be maximize their time in port. This understanding of life within the country enables to students to absorb more of their surroundings. They can plan out trips and make conscious decisions of how they would like to spend their time on land. A greater understanding of why people are different around the world creates a sense of excitement and compassion towards citizens around the globe. Semester at Sea makes students realize we live in a diverse world full of beauty. While going through this life changing experience you have the ability to reflect on what it means to you with fellow classmates on the ship. With limited drinking, no internet/ cell phones, and being stuck on a ship together it creates a unique atmosphere for bonding.

Can't decide on one place for study abroad? Want the greatest experience ever? Go on SAS; you will not regret it. Time is spent lounging on the ship and exploring in ports. Very high energy & always fun.