Living on a cruise ship for an extended period has become an alternative lifestyle for some retirees who prefer travel, housekeeping services and ready access to restaurants and entertainment over traditional retirement arrangements.
Cruise fares can sometimes bundle accommodation, meals, cleaning and activities into one payment, making the overall cost worth comparing with the expenses of maintaining a home or living in a care facility.
However, the financial appeal depends heavily on the cruise line, cabin type, itinerary, healthcare needs and length of stay.
Additional costs can include medical treatment, insurance, gratuities, internet access, laundry and transport between ships.
The story became widely known in 2023, when Australian couple Marty and Jess Ansen revealed that they had booked 51 consecutive cruises with Princess Cruises.
They began their journey aboard the Coral Princess on June 16, 2022, and spent more than 450 days at sea.
Their decision was not simply about saving money.
The couple had enjoyed cruising for decades and preferred the lifestyle, which included entertainment, social activities, prepared meals and daily cabin cleaning.