Lifelong Learning Program

The Semester at Sea Lifelong Learning Program provides adult learners, who are 30 years of age or older, with an opportunity to see the world in an academic community.

Lifelong Learners add a valuable generational element to the shipboard community. They are retirees, professionals on leave, or simply adventurous travelers who desire to study with bright, enthusiastic undergraduate students from around the world.

• Sail for a full 100+ day voyage or sail as a partial “Spotlight” voyager for 25-45 days
• Travel to 10+ countries around the world via a floating university
• Option to participate in university courses
• Explore destinations with in-country experiences led by local experts
• Connect with shipmates via pre-port sessions, Interport Scholar lectures, and post-port reflections
• Cabin options for single travelers and family travel
• Loyalty Program for Semester at Sea alumni

Audit University Courses

Lifelong Learners can informally sign up to participate in courses on the ship taught by world-renowned faculty. Course availability depends on the amount of open seats left in the class after student registration is complete. 

Extended Family Program

Lifelong Learners, faculty, staff and students have the unique opportunity to join the “Extended Family Program” on each voyage. The program allows Lifelong Learners to “adopt” a group of students, with the intent of serving as mentors, providing support and establishing an extended family on the ship. The Extended Family “parents” create, organize and initiate “family activities,” such as game nights, family meals, or other activities and celebrations.