On the SP25 Voyage, the Powell family is making history as four generations come together to share a Semester at Sea experience. At the helm of this unique family gathering is Vashti “Nikey” Key, a seasoned Semester at Sea voyager who will celebrate her 92nd birthday on the ship.
Nikey, who has sailed 11 times before, is joined by her sons, Thomas and Peter; Peter’s partner, Brett; her grandson Connor and his wife, Farah; and their three children. While Connor and Farah’s family are aboard for the full voyage, the rest of the family will sail for the first spotlight voyage segment. Together, the Powells are taking full advantage of the multi-generational learning environment Semester at Sea offers.
A Family Tradition
For Nikey, Semester at Sea is more than a travel program—it’s a family tradition rooted in global education. Over the years, she has introduced nearly all her grandchildren to the world through Semester at Sea, ensuring each had the opportunity to experience life from a global perspective.
“Global education, global awareness, global knowledge,” Nikey said when asked about the impact she hopes these voyages have on her family. Her son Peter echoed this, noting how she has made travel and learning a shared family value: “She’s given her grandkids a truly great world experience. Now, that’s being passed on to her great-grandchildren.”
Connections Across Generations
Nikey’s presence onboard has always extended beyond her immediate family. On past voyages, she’s participated in Semester at Sea’s extended family program, forming meaningful connections with students. “On one trip, I started with seven ‘grandchildren,’ and by the end, I had 20,” she recalled with a smile.
Those relationships didn’t end at disembarkation. Over the years, Nikey has stayed in touch with many of her “ship grandchildren,” attending their weddings and keeping up with their lives. It’s a testament to the unique bonds that form aboard Semester at Sea and Nikey’s ability to make everyone feel like family.
This voyage is especially notable for the Powells, as they will be featured in a video highlighting the multi-generational Semester at Sea experience. The video will offer a glimpse into daily life aboard the ship, from intergenerational conversations over meals to shared learning experiences in classrooms and ports.
Connor, who is sailing for the second time, emphasized the importance of these moments. “It’s not just about the destinations—it’s about the time in between. The ship becomes your community, your classroom, and your home.”
Looking Ahead
This won’t be the last Semester at Sea journey for the Powell family. “There are family members at home who wish they were here,” said Peter, “and we hope we can make this an even bigger family experience in the future.”
For Nikey, these voyages continue to be a way to foster connection, learning, and shared memories. Her legacy—both within her family and among the broader Semester at Sea community—demonstrates the power of exploration and education to bridge generations.
As the Powells sail together, their story serves as an inspiring reminder of what makes Semester at Sea special: the ability to connect people, spark curiosity, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Interested in starting your own Semester at Sea journey?
Whether you’re sailing solo or with family, there’s no better time to join this global learning community.
As a Lifelong Learner, you’ll have the unique opportunity to engage in meaningful cultural exchange, expand your perspectives through interactive learning, and develop lasting connections with people from all walks of life.
Participate in onboard seminars, connect with faculty and students during mealtimes, or explore fascinating destinations alongside fellow voyagers who share your curiosity and passion for discovery.
This transformative experience is more than just an adventure—it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the world as your classroom, enriching both your personal and intellectual growth.
