SCHOOL ON A TALL SHIP: INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CREW SETS SAIL FOR 9-MONTH JOURNEY AT SEA
Sept 25, 2018
On September 7th, an international crew of 60 students from 15 countries boarded the majestic Dutch tall ship, Gulden Leeuw, and set sail from Amsterdam as part of Canada’s own experiential learning opportunity, Class Afloat.
Students enrolled in the program will spend one semester or a full academic year at sea, earning grade 11 or 12 academic credits from Class Afloat – West Island College International or 1st year university courses, administered and accredited by Acadia University. The Class Afloat experience combines a rigorous academic program with the opportunity to visit 22+ ports on 3 continents.
At port, students will participate in volunteer service projects and port programs, including cultural, historic and outdoor excursions that stress points of interest at each stop along the 2018-2019 route. Highlights from this year’s itinerary include a journey through the Mediterranean; home stays in Dakar, Senegal and Samana, Dominican Republic; two Atlantic crossings; an overnight in the Moroccan desert; a visit to the beautiful island of Fernando Da Noronha, Brazil; and an exciting stopover in St. Petersburg, Russia.
The international student crew sail their home and classroom for the next 9 months. There is a student at the helm at all times and while on watch, students will learn how to set sails, navigate and steer their three-mast topsail schooner, building self-confidence and leadership skills while learning the meaning of responsibility, accountability and teamwork.
For more information on Class Afloat please visit: www.classafloat.com.
