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Retired couple chooses life on the sea over a retirement home

Funny - Jun 20, 2024
Retired couple chooses life on the sea over a retirement home

A retired couple has discovered a cost-effective alternative for their golden years. They have opted to book back-to-back cruises for 18 months instead of moving into a retirement home, believing it to be a cheaper expense. 

They have chosen to enjoy their golden years by spending 18 months on consecutive cruises rather than opting for a retirement home.

Well, it's not a bad idea, right?"

OAPs choose 18 months of back-to-back cruises to save money compared to a retirement home. Image Credits: A Current Affair
OAPs choose 18 months of back-to-back cruises to save money compared to a retirement home. Image Credits: A Current Affair

Their unique approach allows them to enjoy extended holidays while avoiding the high costs associated with traditional housing.

In the interview with A Current Affair, a retirement couple booked back-to-back cruises for 18 months instead of paying for retirement. 

The retirement couple, Marty and Jess, embarked on their adventure by living on the Coral Princess ship.

Since June 2022, they have spent the majority of their time on board.  

Marty and Jess Ansen from Australia have booked 51 consecutive cruises. Image Credits: A Current Affair
Marty and Jess Ansen from Australia have booked 51 consecutive cruises. Image Credits: A Current Affair

Their routine includes daily table tennis sessions, and they've become well-known among the crew.

The retirees chose to live onboard because they believed it would be cheaper.

Marty and Jess began their onboard living journey after realizing the all-inclusive benefits.

They not only enjoy the buffet onboard without having to pay extra, as it is included in the price of the cruise, but also avoid household chores because the ship offers housekeeping services.

Additionally, Marty humorously quips that they've forgotten how to wash dishes and make beds due to their extended cruise experience.

The couple plans another global trip followed by a year-long cruise on the Crown Princess. Image Credits: A Current Affair
The couple plans another global trip followed by a year-long cruise on the Crown Princess. Image Credits: A Current Affair

As Marty said: 'We don't know how to wash up anymore, we don't know how to make a bed, because we haven't done it for so long.'

Marty and Jess enjoyed their happy onboarding.

Marty and Jess have enjoyed their time onboard.

They admitted they have been aboard longer than anyone else. Jess said, 'We're on board longer than anybody else. The crew changes, but we stay on board.'

They not only enjoy the free services but also celebrated Jess's birthday onboard last month, welcoming different captain

With eight months remaining aboard the Coral Princess, the couple plans to embark on another round-the-world trip before disembarking. Following this adventure, they will then set sail on a year-long cruise aboard the Crown Princess just a few months later.

This is not the first time a retired couple has chosen to live onboard instead of paying for a a retirement home because it's cheaper.

Another retired couple, Angelyn Burk and Richard Burk, have chosen a similar lifestyle aboard

Similarly, Angelyn and Richard Burk from Seattle have also chosen to live aboard a cruise ship as a cost-effective option. Image Credits: Facebook
Similarly, Angelyn and Richard Burk from Seattle have also chosen to live aboard a cruise ship as a cost-effective option. Image Credits: Facebook

In May 2021, they left their jobs and packed a single suitcase each to explore the world by sea. Angelyn, a former accountant, emphasized the financial benefits, stating that living on a cruise ship could cost as little as $43.92 a day.

By analyzing costs, they found that living on a cruise ship was more financially sensible than paying a mortgage. 

Their journey has taken them to various destinations, including Italy, Canada, and the Bahamas.

Angeln said:   “I believe this is achievable for the everyday cruiser, but it does take effort.

The couple chooses a way to sustain their travel dreams in retirement, avoiding the financial burdens of land-based living. Image Credits: Getty
The couple chooses a way to sustain their travel dreams in retirement, avoiding the financial burdens of land-based living. Image Credits: Getty

“It is leisurely travel without the complications of booking hotels, restaurants and transportation while staying within our budget".

What do you think about this choice of living onboard instead of paying rent?