Voyages

Fall 2024:
European, African, and Asian Adventure

Exploring countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia, this voyage gives participants a truly impactful study abroad adventure on our floating college!

  • Overview:

    • 105 Days

    • 10 Countries

    • 10 Cities

    • 3 Continents

  • Embark:

    September 9, 2024, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  • Disembark:

    December 22, 2024, Bangkok, Thailand

  • Itinerary:

    Morocco, Croatia, Suez Canal Transit, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Hong Kong

  • Helpful Documents:

Explore, Learn, and Grow

Join Semester at Sea as we sail to countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia. You’ll experience a wide range of cultures and histories, setting sail from Amsterdam, Netherlands and exploring Morocco, Jordan, transit the Suez Canal and more before disembarking in Laem Chabang, Thailand. You’ll have this adventure all while living and learning aboard a ship you’ll call home with a community that’s designed to build friendships for life.

Make the Voyage Your Own

With guided Field Programs and plenty of opportunities for in-country travel on your own or with fellow SAS voyagers, you’ll explore your interests and deepen your understanding of the world. Bring a sense of adventure and a willingness to discover the unknown.

Voyage Map

Itinerary
Itinerary
  1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
  2. Casablanca, Morocco
  3. Dubrovnik, Croatia
  4. Suez Canal Transit, Egypt
  5. Aqaba, Jordan
  6. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
  7. Mumbai, India
  8. Penang, Malaysia
  9. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  10. Hong Kong, HK Special Administrative Region
  11. Bangkok, Thailand
  1. 1

    Amsterdam, Netherlands

    Sep 09

    With a rich artistic heritage, progressive attitudes, and picturesque countrysides, the Netherlands is a must-see destination in Europe. Amsterdam offers unconventional restaurants, a bike culture, charming canals, and world-class museums that make this city a vibrant and exciting place to explore. Highlights include visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, along with many other museums. You can bike along the canals or explore the waterways via boat. Or if it is tulip season, visit Keukenhof, which claims to be the world’s largest flower park and boasts an endless land of multicolored tulips.

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    • capitol Amsterdam
    • language Dutch
    • religions Roman Catholicism, Protestantism
    • government Unitary state, constitutional monarchy, monarchy, hereditary monarchy, parliamentary system, federacy, representative democracy
    • currency Euro
    • population 17.44 million (2020)
  2. 2

    Casablanca, Morocco

    Sep 16 – Sep 21

    The Kingdom of Morocco is an immensely rich cultural center point of north-western Africa. The port of Casablanca, established in the 20th century, is a busy metropolis and home to the Hassan II Mosque, the second largest in the world after Mecca. This enormous structure, resting at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, was built by 30,000 workers over a period of five years, officially opening in 1993. Semester at Sea ports of call in Morocco include Casablanca. Field Program options include multi-day trips to the Sahara Desert, where students can ride camels to their campsite and sleep under the stars. Highlights include visiting Chefchaouen, otherwise known as the blue city, eating popular Moroccan dishes such as couscous and tagine, and drinking mint tea.

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    • capitol Rabat
    • language Arabic, Tamazight, Tachelhit, Tarifit, French
    • religions Islam
    • government Monarchy, unitary state, parliamentary system, constitutional monarchy
    • currency Moroccan dirham
    • population 36.91 million (2020)
  3. 3

    Dubrovnik, Croatia

    Sep 28 – Oct 03

    Along the Adriatic Sea runs miles of Croatia’s strikingly beautiful landscape. This, along with 1,200 islands and 2,500 hours of sun a year, makes Croatia a perfect destination for exploring stunning nature. Many medieval towns are also to be found in abundance, making this nation a hallmark of the Mediterranean. Dubrovnik itself is an enchanting pedestrian city known for its intact city walls and towers, historic churches, and museums. Semester at Sea ports of call in Croatia include Dubrovnik. Field Program options include exploring ancient cities and joining a countryside cooking class. Highlights include swimming in clear waters and observing the abundant marine life, which makes snorkeling a popular activity.

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    • capitol Zagreb
    • language Croatian
    • religions Roman Catholicism, Orthodox Christianity
    • government Parliamentary republic
    • currency Kuna
    • population 4.047 million (2020)
  4. 4

    Suez Canal Transit, Egypt

    Oct 08 – Oct 08

    The Suez Canal is one of the most important waterways in the world, separating the African continent from Asia. This artificial sea-level waterway provides the shortest maritime route between the east and the west due to its unique geographical location. This transit canal runs north-south across the Isthmus of Suez in Egypt and connects the Mediterranean and the Red seas, extending 193 km (120 miles) between Port Said (Būr Saʿīd) in the north and Suez in the south.

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    • capitol
    • language
    • religions
    • government
    • currency
    • population
  5. 5

    Aqaba, Jordan

    Oct 10 – Oct 15

    Jordan, centered in the heart of the Middle East, is a peaceful and stable country that warmly welcomes visitors. With countless treasures — from Petra to the Dead Sea to ancient Roman ruins — there are many places to explore. Jordan is a young state that occupies an ancient land, one that bears the traces of many civilizations. Jordan is an integral part of the Arab world and thus shares a cultural tradition common to the region. Semester at Sea ports of call in Jordan include Aqaba. Highlights include visiting one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Red Rose City, otherwise known as Petra. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is well known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system.

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    • capitol Amman
    • language Arabic
    • religions Sunni Islam
    • government Parliamentary system, unitary state, constitutional monarchy
    • currency Jordanian dinar
    • population 10.2 Million (2020)
  6. 6

    Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Oct 24 – Oct 29

    Dubai is the most populous country in the United Arab Emirates, and it is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai. Known for its mixture of cosmopolitan and local culture, Dubai boasts the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. Located in the eastern region of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai is a safe and stable country and a popular destination for tourists and business travelers from around the world.

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    • capitol Dubai
    • language Arabic, English
    • religions Islam
    • government Constitutional monarchy
    • currency UAE dirham
    • population 9.89 million (2020)
  7. 7

    Mumbai, India

    Nov 05 – Nov 10

    As one of the most populous nations in the world, India is bustling with a vibrant culture influenced by a variety of religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. Semester at Sea ports of call in India include Cochin and Mumbai. Field Program options include multi-day trips to Mumbai, the Taj Mahal, New Delhi, and more. Highlights include exploring the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s seven wonders, or traveling to the holy city of Varanasi on the Ganges River. Get a taste of how 70% of Indians live by visiting the rural, traditional Chendamangalam village.

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    • capitol New Delhi
    • language Hindi, English
    • religions Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism
    • government Parliamentary system, federal republic, parliamentary republic, constitutional republic
    • currency Indian rupee
    • population 1.38 billion (2020)
  8. 8

    Penang, Malaysia

    Nov 20 – Nov 25

    What makes Malaysia worth visiting is the country’s diversity. Within this one country, you get to explore thriving, modern cities while exploring colonial architecture. At the same time, you have the option to relax on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and trek in lush green jungles home to orangutans, leopards, tigers, elephants, and more. Semester at Sea ports of call in Malaysia include Penang. Field Program options include visiting Kuala Lumpur and taking Malaysian cooking classes. Highlights include a multi-night trip to Malaysia’s Peninsula, exploring rainforests and cities, and staying with a local family.

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    • capitol Kuala Lumpur
    • language Malay
    • religions Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism
    • government Democracy, parliamentary system, constitutional monarchy, elective monarchy
    • currency Malaysian ringgit
    • population 32.37 million (2020)
  9. 9

    Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

    Nov 30 – Dec 05

    Vietnam is known for its lush, emerald green mountains, outstanding cuisine, and welcoming citizens. Here you can explore the Cu Chi Tunnels where Viet Cong soldiers lived and fought, travel by boat through the Mekong Delta, sample world-class pho, or bike through small villages. Students often enjoy a three-day trip to Cambodia from Vietnam to interact with an NGO that educates and trains disadvantaged locals in rural areas for employment in the hospitality industry. Semester at Sea ports of call in Vietnam include Ho Chi Minh City. Field Program options include cruising down the Mekong Delta or having a homestay with a local family. Highlights include a multi-day trip to Ha Noi and Ha Long Bay.

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    • capitol Hanoi
    • language Vietnamese
    • religions Atheism, Daoism, Buddhism, Confucianism
    • government Unitary state, communist state, socialist state
    • currency Vietnamese đồng
    • population 97.34 million (2020)
  10. 10

    Hong Kong, HK Special Administrative Region

    Dec 10 – Dec 15

    Hong Kong was governed by Great Britain for decades but retained many traditional Chinese features. Semester at Sea ports of call in Hong Kong include Hong Kong. Highlights include visiting some of the monuments, heritage buildings, and historical sites that help give Hong Kong its unique atmosphere. Explore the famous local markets, including the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, Flower Market, and Jade Market. The Man Mo Temple dates back to 1847 and is the oldest temple in the city. Visit Aberdeen, home to hundreds of people living on fishing junks juxtaposed against a modern high-rise community. Ride the tram up to Victoria Peak for a bird’s eye view of the city before taking the funicular tram downhill.

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    • capitol City of Victoria
    • language Chinese, English
    • religions Chinese Folk Religions, Buddhism, Taoism, Protestantism, Catholicism
    • government Hong Kong Government or HKSAR Government
    • currency Hong Kong dollar
    • population 7.482 million (2020)
  11. 11

    Bangkok, Thailand

    Dec 22

    Thailand has emerged as one of the most visited travel destinations in the world. Travelers flock to this warm destination for the tranquil beaches, delicious cuisine, magnificent temples and scenery, colorful history, and archaeological sites. Affectionately nicknamed as “a land of smiles”, Thai locals are known for being warm and welcoming, and their hospitality is considered to be world class.

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    • capitol Bangkok
    • language Thai
    • religions Theravada Buddhist
    • government Constitutional Monarchy
    • currency Thai baht
    • population 71.6 million (2021)
  1. 1
    Amsterdam
    Netherlands
  2. 2
    Casablanca
    Morocco
  3. 3
    Dubrovnik
    Croatia
  4. 4
    Suez Canal Transit
    Egypt
  5. 5
    Aqaba
    Jordan
  6. 6
    Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
  7. 7
    Mumbai
    India
  8. 8
    Penang
    Malaysia
  9. 9
    Ho Chi Minh City
    Vietnam
  10. 10
    Hong Kong
    HK Special Administrative Region
  11. 11
    Bangkok
    Thailand

Diversion Ports

As we have been operating shipboard voyages since 1963, we’ve learned that itineraries are subject to adjustment. More than half of our voyages have required some deviation from the planned itinerary. The need to change an itinerary prior to and/or during a voyage can arise due to a number of factors: weather, political unrest, and other health and safety considerations. Should there be a need to adjust our published plans, we have identified potential diversion ports in each region of our expected travel. These ports are selected based on a number of factors including safety, educational value, and accessibility. These diversion ports simply serve as a backup should anything prevent us from traveling to our planned itinerary.

Other ports may be added as required. Just as our world is dynamic, this list of potential ports is also subject to change. Every destination must pass a comprehensive health and safety assessment, regardless of being a planned or diversion port.

Fall 2024 Diversion Ports

  • Cadiz, Spain
  • Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
  • Valletta, Malta
  • Piraeus, Greece
  • Limassol, Cyprus
  • Muscat, Oman
  • Victoria, Seychelles
  • Male, Maldives
  • Singapore

Voyage Curriculum

The Perfect Mix of Classroom and Field Education

Semester at Sea’s global comparative study abroad program is enhanced by a robust academic program led by a team of academic experts from renowned institutions around the world. During the 100+ day voyage, students can earn 12-15 credits from Colorado State University, while taking major or elective courses, drawn for 20-25 fields of study. Each class also includes academically required Field Work courses, which are developed by faculty and allow for experiential in-country learning throughout the voyage.

Field Programs

Semester at Sea Field Programs 

When Semester at Sea arrives in each country, voyagers will either explore via required Field Work for their classes (for voyagers enrolled in academic courses), participate in optional Semester at Sea-designed Field Programs, or they can plan their own travel experiences.

Looking to Sail as a Lifelong Learner?

Semester at Sea’s Lifelong Learning program provides adult educational travel to people at least 30 years of age who are seeking an opportunity to travel and learn as part of the Semester at Sea community. There are opportunities to sail on a full or partial (Spotlight) voyage.

Program Fees Overview

A Study Abroad Experience Is a Significant Investment, and Also One of the Best Investments for a Student’s Future.

In addition to earning 12-15 transferable college credits from Colorado State University, student program fees include many amenities and benefits to support students before and during their study abroad experience.

A look into what’s included:
  • Semester’s tuition and travel
  • Housing, meals, and amenities
  • Academic Field Classes
  • Email account
  • Starter Internet package
  • Comprehensive travel health insurance
  • Pre-voyage advisement and on-site residential student services staff
  • Fuel fee — subject to change depending on global cost fluctuations

Hear From Past Voyagers

Before embarking on my SAS journey I had no idea just how intense college courses would be. I am so grateful that I decided to do this program before entering my first year of college. It really provided me with an idea of what to expect in the fall.

My experiences prepared me for life, not just for college. After SAS, I was academically, socially and emotionally more than ready for college…I realized several aspects of my personality, and during SAS, my true personality showed up, and I was exposed to a whole new spectrum of myself…I loved it so much that I came back for another voyage, and I’m positive that I will sail again in future, not just once, but multiple times. MV Explorer is home for me.

One of the most valuable things I took away from my experience was the relationships I made aboard the MV Explorer, some of which I continue to connect with. They were all current college students, and offered me great advice when I began my freshman orientation during the fall after my summer voyage.

We learned a lot [about] how to live with others who are completely different [from each other] and still have respect and a lot of fun together and still hold our friendship until this day.

On SAS, I had the opportunity to feel a bond and closeness with people with whom I wouldn’t have otherwise had a connection. I learned about their lives, their children’s lives, their daily struggles, their most significant times of joy and began to really care. As I traveled, I became more connected not only to the people I met, but all people everywhere. We are all the same and every human life is important.

Admissions

Semester at Sea welcomes curious, engaged students of any sex, gender identity, race, disability status, veteran status, nationality, or ethnicity to apply to travel the world as part of our living and learning community.

Gap Year Students

Recent high school graduates who are interested in sailing before enrolling full-time at an undergraduate institution

Undergraduate Students

Students who are enrolled full-time in a degree-granting program at an accredited 2- or 4-year college or university

Recent College Graduates

Students who have recently completed their undergraduate studies and wish to extend their learning

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about joining a Semester at Sea voyage.

How long will it take to hear about my admission?

Once the Office of Admission has received your completed application, you will receive a reply in about 7-10 business days. It is advisable to follow up and verify that all components of your application have been received.

I am a first semester Freshman. How do I submit my academic record?

You should follow the Traditional Undergraduate application process for admission to your voyage. You will need to upload your current course enrollment on the application, under transcript, and email your high school transcript to your Admissions Advisor.

Is the program open to students in all majors?

Yes, students from all majors regularly enroll in Semester at Sea. More than 40 majors are typically represented on any given voyage.

When do voyages fill?

It varies. Voyages typically fill one to four months prior to sailing. We encourage you to submit your application early but please contact our office if you have a last-minute opportunity to join our program for the semester.

When should I apply?

Semester at Sea operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning there are no application deadlines for specific semesters. However, it is recommended that you begin the application process 12 months before the semester in which you would like to participate. Applications will continue to be accepted until approximately one month before the start of the voyage.

Ready to Set Sail?

Take the first step on the journey of a lifetime.