Graduation is a monumental milestone for any student, but for a select group, the ceremony took place not in a stadium, but on the open ocean.
On December 20, 2025, 19 students on the Fall 2025 Voyage – 136th voyage of Semester at Sea – finished their college careers on board while sailing toward Bangkok, Thailand – the voyage’s disembarkation port. The ceremony was held in the MV World Odyssey’s Anderson Union.
Executive Dean Lisa Bardill Moscaritolo and Academic Dean Kelly Long, Emerita Vice Provost of Undergraduate Affairs at Colorado State University, presided over the ceremony. Dean Long spoke to the unique nature of finishing a degree while circumnavigating the globe, noting the distinct perspective these students have gained compared to their peers back home.
“Today we gather to honor those students who would otherwise be attending commencement ceremonies on their home campuses,” Dean Long said in her address. “Because you are walking across the stage here on the MV World Odyssey as we sail toward our final port to disembark, we believe that you are better prepared than many to consider meaningfully the privilege and opportunity that education affords us in life.”
She challenged the graduates to look outward as they move forward: “I know that you will use this privilege of education and a degree well as you move forward in your lives.”
Around 500 students from nearly 200 universities sail on each Semester at Sea voyage. While the largest share of students sail as sophomores or juniors, several each semester choose to spend their last college semester on Semester at Sea.
Voices of the Graduates
During the ceremony, a Staculty member (Semester at Sea’s faculty and staff community) read a personal statement crafted by each graduate. From thanking parents and professors to acknowledging the “endless strays” petted along the way, the messages were filled with gratitude and the spirit of adventure.
Gratitude to family and friends at home for their constant support, and to USF for the foundation of her education. “This experience has shaped me in ways I’ll carry forward forever.”
Brooke (University of South Florida)
Thanks to those who supported her throughout the voyage, as well as family, friends, and professors back home.
Brooke (Iowa State University)
A heartfelt thank you to his parents—”the best people I’ve ever met”—and to the entire Voyage 136 community for helping him grow as a person.
Caleb
Thanks to her grandma for sparking her love of travel, her parents for instilling kindness, and the CY Tung Foundation for the opportunity to attend SAS.
Dahlia (Hawai’i Pacific University)
Deep appreciation for her mother’s unconditional support in chasing dreams, and to her brother and friends for cheering her on through every chapter.
Isabella
Thanks to family and mentors for unwavering support. “Semester at Sea gave me a world of perspective, and I’ll carry it with me always.”
Kate
Sharing my final semester with all of you on Semester at Sea has meant more than words can say. Thank you for the support, the laughter, and the moments that turned this journey into something I’ll carry with me forever.”
Ella
Gratitude to the friends and people she shared moments with on this journey for shaping her experience.
Lilla
A shoutout to family, friends, pets, and her universities—including the upcoming University of Sydney—for their love and educational support.
Madison (University of Hawai’i at Manoa)
Grateful to culminate her undergraduate years with such an exceptional experience. She thanks her mentors at UWF (Go Argos!) and her parents for making this opportunity possible.
Michaela (University of West Florida)
Thanks to parents, friends back home, the new family made on the voyage, and “my dogs and the endless strays I have pet along the way.”
Quinn
While we all started as friends, each and every one of you here is now undoubtedly my family. Thank you all for bringing an eternal smile to my face.”
Milo
Appreciation for the family who dealt with time zone changes to keep in touch, and the shipboard friends who stayed up for late-night talks and homework help.
Ryan
A special thank you to her grandparents and parents for their love and support.
Shana
Gratitude for the education received on the ship and at home. Go Zips!
Skylar (University of Akron)
Thanks to his parents, and his older brother (a fellow SAS alum!) for showing him what an amazing opportunity this is. “It has truly been the best 4 months of my life.”
Ted
