Semester at Sea has officially launched its latest global voyage, welcoming 484 students aboard the MV World Odyssey for a new semester of academic study at sea.
The voyage marks the start of another multi-country journey that blends university-level coursework with port-based learning across several continents. Students representing a wide range of academic disciplines are set to complete classes onboard while visiting destinations tied directly to their studies.
Sailing aboard the World Odyssey, participants will attend accredited courses taught by a traveling faculty while the ship is at sea. When in port, students take part in field programs, cultural immersion activities, and academic excursions designed to complement classroom learning.
According to the program, this semester’s cohort reflects continued demand for experiential education, particularly programs that combine global travel with structured academic credit. The ship also carries faculty, staff, and lifelong learners, creating a multi-generational onboard community.
The World Odyssey has been purpose-adapted for academic use, featuring lecture halls, classrooms, a library, and study spaces alongside traditional passenger amenities. The ship’s schedule allows for extended port stays, giving students time to engage with local communities and institutions.
Semester at Sea has operated for decades, offering students an alternative to traditional campus-based study abroad. Each voyage is designed around global themes, encouraging participants to examine international issues through direct exposure rather than theory alone.
As the ship departs on its latest journey, organizers say the focus remains on academic rigor, cultural exchange, and responsible global travel values that continue to define the program’s approach to education at sea.
