Testimonials

What makes Semester at Sea the leader in shipboard study abroad education? 

45 years of experience. Studying abroad while sailing the globe is the unique invention of Semester at Sea and its predecessor programs. Since 1963, we've stayed true to our original mission: the development of global under­standing through life-changing international experiences. We have safely sailed on more than 90 voyages, educated more than 45,000 students from 1,500 institutions, and traveled to more than 60 countries. Others may try to emulate us, but Semester at Sea is the original shipboard program for study abroad. 

 "Not only was my principal very interested in what my experiences abroad could bring to the school, but I think that the confidence that I gained through my experiences on the voyage along with a greater global perspective have really been priceless assets."

—Sarah Cantrell, 1st Grade Teacher, Summer 2005

"Interacting with Japanese students was the first step in creating a network for my own future ethnographic fieldwork in Japan. I owe thanks to Semester at Sea for aiding me with the initial connection that has served to establish a network via the student exchange."

—Preston Price, Fall 2006

"Semester at Sea was the best decision I could have ever made. It was the single most impacting, eye-opening, and thrilling event in my life. I would have never in my wildest dreams imagined that I would have seen any of the places I saw. It was more than a dream come true. I found a sense of contentment that I never knew I could find."

—Jenna Finch, Fall 2006

What makes Semester at Sea the best?

• Semester at Sea, administered by a non-profit, has 45 years of experience. Since 1963 more than 45,000 graduates have benefited from the premier global program for shipboard education.
• Our college-level study abroad program is affiliated with the prestigious University of Virginia. Our classroom and field programs are lead by some of the nation's best instructors and we offer a full semester's transferable credit.
• Our campus is a modern, technologically advanced ship built in 2002 and outfitted as a traveling university. It's been described as one of the safest ships afloat.
• We go beyond the textbook to provide hands-on intercultural educational programming such as service work, home stays, and visits to historic, cultural wonders.
• We cultivate a unique and diverse learning environment that includes undergraduates from hundreds of universities, lifelong learners, faculty & staff, international scholars, international students, interport lecturers, world leaders, and an international crew.
• We're affordable on any budget. More than one-third of our participants receive grants and scholarships from the Institute for Shipboard Education, and nearly half receive some form of assistance, including grants, external scholarships, loans, or work-study funds.