The Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Programme (SSEAYP) is an annual programme sponsored by the Japanese Government and supported by the member-countries of ASEAN. The programme brings together about 300 youth from ASEAN countries and Japan, providing them with the unique opportunity to interact on board the ship Nippon Maru for 50 days. 

First SSEAYP started on 7 October 1974 based on Joint Statements issued between Japan and the five ASEAN countries, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.  Brunei Darussalam joined in 1985. Vietnam participated in the programme in 1996 while Laos and Myanmar participated in 1998.  Cambodia joined the programme in 2000.   There are more then 8000 participants from ASEAN and Japan since 1974.
The aim of SSEAYP is to foster friendship and greater understanding among youths from Japan and ASEAN.  It also seeks to broaden their international outlook.

A series of activities are lined up for the selected participants.  The programme during voyages includes discussions on social and youth matters, cultural introductions, sports, recreation and club activities.  Activities at each port-of-call include interaction with the local youths, courtesy calls on dignitaries and institutional visits, as well as community service and home-stay experience.

SSEAYP 2006 is scheduled to be held from 30 October to 12 December 2006.