Semester at Sea

Program Reviews

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Semester at Sea was by far the most amazing experience I have had in college. I studied on a cruise ship with 600 other college students, and every few days we arrived in a new country, where we explored!

I have been fortunate enough to sail with two Semester at Sea voyages. Each of the voyages were absolutely phenomenal experiences leaving my with a changed perspective and broadened mind. While I have had the pleasure of traveling to over 40 countries (with more trips currently in the works), I can honestly say that no adventure has impacted me in the intimate and incredible ways that Semester at Sea has. The academic environment and students only compliment this incredible program. I am a proud alumnus of the program and would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone!

What would you improve about this program?

The program is fairly expensive for participants, which can certainly be a limiting factor. Additionally, the Semester at Sea program is a large financial burden and this can lead to complex issues such as internal finances and academic affiliation/sponsorship.

Semester at Sea was the best semester, and experience, of my life. It allowed me to do what I love, travel, on a way that met my specific needs and interests. Any major can be incorporated into the program because there are so many lectures, guests, clubs, or trips that incorporate every interest available. In addition, it was an endless learning experience because everything I learned in class, I was able to apply in the places we visited, and vice versa.

What would you improve about this program?

I cannot think of something I would really like to improve. If I had to pick something, maybe a variety in the food selections. Although the food is based on the ports of call and what's available there, try to switch up some recipes more.

semester at sea was a once in a lifetime, life changing experience. By traveling to so many countries you really develop a world view and appreciation for others and their cultures. It was a fun, difficult, and exciting challenge to try to communicate with the locals in each new country and new language. Ship life was equally as amazing. The community of students, staff, crew, families, and lifelong learners was one I have never experienced before. Everyone is so kind and caring and you are never afraid of being who you truly are.

What would you improve about this program?

This program could only be improved by more students signing up for it and the program then receiving some more of the needed funding to run it.

Great way to see so many different places. Ship life wasn't my favorite, but there are fun aspects to it if you make the most of it. There is definitely no better way to travel to three different continents in less than four months, but the trip is not cheap. My biggest complaint was the food. Overall, there are pros and cons - some people loved it and some really struggled.

If you're looking for a different abroad experience and want to really open your eyes to the world around you, than this program is for you. You will have the chance to gain a cross cultural lens and experience first hand a large variety of cultures.

What would you improve about this program?

It would be nice to have a longer amount of time in some ports.

Choosing to go on SAS was one of the best decisions of my life. I have met lifelong friends, learned more things than I did in all my years at schools, and I met the love of my life. What more can you ask for? The vibe on the ship is like camp, but even better. You are surrounded by amazing people and staff who are adventurous, smart, and passionate about the beautiful world we live in. I am thankful every day for going on Semester at Sea!

What would you improve about this program?

This is a really hard question! I would say maybe to be able to stay at ports longer. Oh, and taco day to be more often ;)

Traveling is something that I've always loved to do, visiting many different countries and even living abroad for a year and a half with my family. So imagine my excitement when I realized that I could study abroad with a program that visited 15 different countries on four continents! I saw and experienced people and places that I will never forget, but also built a community unlike any other on the ship itself. The MV Explorer became my home, my safe haven, my sanctuary. Semester At Sea allowed me to open my eyes, and my heart, to the world.

What would you improve about this program?

I would add one more port in Africa and one more port in South America.

Semester at Sea is the single most influential experience of my life. I've never learned so much in one summer. If I could wish something for everyone, it's to sail a voyage with this program!

What would you improve about this program?

More students to participate! When I sailed we were at capacity, recently it's been a hundred or so less.

Semester at Sea is the time of your life. You will become closer with a group of people than you ever could have imagined. The adventure of being in a new place with new friends every single day is the best part. Do it.