We typically have 40 participants (parents and their voyagers), but we may occasionally have a slightly larger group. Two Semester at Sea home office staff members travel with the group as well.

While Semester at Sea Parent and Family Trips are designed primarily for parents and family members of voyagers, we welcome extended family and friends who wish to experience educational travel.

We welcome trip participants over 10 years of age to join us. While there is no maximum age, all participants must be physically fit, active, and in good health. Certain itineraries are better suited for families, and we encourage you to reach out to a Semester at Sea staff member to inquire about your own personal needs. Please refer to the program brochure for trip-specific requirements.
Any condition that requires special medical attention or assistance must be reported at the time a reservation is made. The individual trip brochures will provide specific details on the rigors of individual trips. If you have concerns about your ability to participate, please feel free to call us.

We do not offer payment plans for the Parent and Family Trips at this time. Full payment is required upon registering for the trip. You may use a credit card or mail a check (specific payment details are listed in each trip).

We typically arrive two days before the ship arrives in port, and stay one day after the ship leaves. Trips are usually 7-10 days.

Trip prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and do not include airfare. For single travelers, a single supplement may apply. All group meals, tours, and excursions are included in the price of the trip. Specifics about pricing may be found for each trip.

Each trip varies in regard to theme, content, and pace. We do carefully outline each itinerary to give you a better sense of what to expect, and we ensure that there is sufficient free time for personal exploration. Just like on the ship, we encourage independent travel as a part of your experience. Feel free to make it your own while having the comfort and structure of a group program.

We require all reservations about 70 days prior to each trip departure date. Often times early bird pricing will be available, and we encourage you to register as soon as possible to secure your spot, as our trips always sell out.

Each trip cancellation policy will vary, but typically a full refund (less the initial deposit) will be provided if trips are cancelled 90 days or more out from the trip. Please note that trips may be cancelled 60 days from departure date and Semester at Sea is not responsible for any financial loss incurred by participants until trip is 100% confirmed.

Each trip will have different needs, but the golden rule of traveling is to always pack light for more freedom and less hassle. Often times we are taking an in-country flight or transferring hotels, so packing light and bringing smaller luggage is highly encouraged to make it a stress-free experience. It’s recommended to bring sunscreen, hat, layered clothing, sneakers, camera and chargers/converters. As always, leave expensive jewelry and flashy items at home – safety first.