Semester at Sea - SAS Traditions

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SAS Traditions

Students of Service Auction - Philanthropy is an important part of community activities aboard ship; the auction typically raises upwards of $20,000 which is donated to various organizations around the world (i.e., children's hospitals, orphanages, Habitat for Humanity). Each shipboard community decides which organizations they wish to support.
Talent Night Performances - Voyages culminate with a formal talent show that showcases shipboard talent. Surprise performances by crew members leave a lasting mark.
Cultural Demonstrations - Shipboard diversity and contributions from interport lecturers and interport students allow for varied itinerary-related presentations.

Sea Olympics - A shipboard staple 45 years in the making, teams (organized by residence "seas") in the Semester at Sea Olympiad compete in a series of shipboard events ranging from the traditional to the unique. Along with the pride of title comes a handsome reward decided by the residence life team.
Neptune Day - Dating back to 1926, the transition from pollywog to shellback forms one of Semester at Sea's most memorable traditions. Each time the MV Explorer crosses the equator for the first time during a voyage, festivities ensue in which pay homage to King Neptune by kissing a fish, showering in "guts," and shaving their heads.

Ambassador's Ball - As each voyage nears its conclusion, Students of Service (in conjunction with voyage staff) coordinate the Ambassador's Ball. This semi-formal and often themed event brings the community together and gives proper forum for much necessary reflection.
Alma Mater - As a tribute to Max Brandt, respected ethnomusicologist and Chief Academic Officer Emeritus, the composition of our alma mater is Semester at Sea's newest tradition. Listen to "Off to Sea-The World" while viewing the History and Timeline or simply read the lyrics.