Retired Couple Spent Almost 500 Days On Cruise Ships As It’s Cheaper Than Retirement Home

In today’s uncertain economic climate, retirement isn’t as easy as it once seemed. Many retirees find themselves grappling with rising costs, from housing to utilities and groceries, making the idea of affording a comfortable retirement daunting. Jess and Marty Ansen, however, saw an opportunity where others saw a challenge. Instead of resigning themselves to a retirement home with ever-increasing fees, they made the bold decision to set sail on a cruise ship. The Ansens’ journey started in June 2022 aboard the Coral Princess, and they’ve been at sea for over 500 days, a lifestyle that proves to be more financially sustainable than many might think.

While the Ansen couple’s choice may seem extravagant at first glance, it’s rooted in simple economics. The rising cost of traditional retirement homes can often outpace a retiree’s savings, but cruise ship living offers an affordable alternative. By comparison, living on a cruise ship includes meals, entertainment, and even healthcare amenities, all in a bundled cost that many find more reasonable than the monthly bills of a retirement facility. As more retirees face the harsh reality of housing crises, the Ansens’ solution shows that a little creativity can go a long way in stretching retirement dollars.

But the benefits of life on a cruise ship go beyond mere cost-saving measures. For Jess and Marty, their lifestyle offers not only financial relief but also freedom and adventure. The constraints of homeownership, utility bills, and property taxes have been replaced by new destinations, luxurious accommodations, and daily adventures. In an economy where money for travel has become a rarity, the Ansens have found a way to combine both affordability and the excitement of constantly seeing the world.

Why Every Day Feels Like a Vacation at Sea

For Jess and Marty, living on a cruise ship isn’t just about saving money—it’s about living life to the fullest. With meals, activities, and accommodations all included, it takes the stress out of budgeting. It’s not something most people associate with retirement, but for them, it’s a perfect fit.

The best part? They never have to worry about chores like cooking or cleaning. Every day feels like a vacation, with delicious meals, housekeeping, and stunning ocean views right outside their window. Whether they’re enjoying a dance class, lounging by the pool, or catching a show, there’s always something exciting to do.

And then there’s the adventure. Instead of staying in one place, Jess and Marty wake up in a new destination all the time. For them, retirement means freedom, new cultures, and unforgettable experiences—all without the typical hassles of travel.

Advantages of Cruise Ship Living

Cost-effective housing: One of the key reasons many retirees, including Jess and Marty, choose cruise ship living is its affordability. Traditional retirement homes come with hefty price tags, and additional costs like groceries and utilities can quickly add up. On a cruise ship, however, meals, accommodations, and activities are all included in the overall cost, making it a more manageable and predictable expense for retirees.

Endless travel opportunities: For retirees like the Ansens, the ability to travel the world is a dream come true. Living on a cruise ship eliminates the need to book hotels or constantly pack and unpack luggage. Instead, they can wake up in a new destination each day, exploring different cultures and landscapes without the hassle of traditional travel. This constant change of scenery adds an exciting dynamic to retirement life.

Access to luxurious amenities: Cruise ships provide a wealth of amenities that make life comfortable and enjoyable. From daily housekeeping services to gourmet meals and evening entertainment, retirees can live in luxury without the burden of home maintenance. Activities like swimming, dancing, and games keep them active, while onboard medical care ensures their health needs are met. It’s a lifestyle that offers both relaxation and adventure in equal measure.

A Thriving Social Life at Sea

Retirement can sometimes be isolating, but for Jess and Marty Ansen, living aboard a cruise ship has led to a thriving social life. Unlike the solitude that many retirees face, the Ansens are constantly surrounded by new people, from fellow passengers to the friendly crew. This creates opportunities for meaningful interactions and lifelong friendships that keep them socially engaged. The couple has found a second family at sea, enjoying the camaraderie and warmth of their floating community.

The constant social interactions onboard also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether attending social events, participating in group activities, or simply chatting over meals, Jess and Marty are never short on company. For retirees who may fear loneliness, life at sea offers a built-in network of friends and acquaintances, creating a vibrant social environment that rivals any retirement community.

Additionally, the variety of people they meet keeps their minds active and their days interesting. From sharing stories of travels to learning about different cultures from fellow passengers, the Ansens are continually expanding their horizons. Living on a cruise ship not only offers the chance to see the world but also to connect with people from all walks of life, making their retirement rich in both experiences and relationships.

Giving Back Onboard

For Jess and Marty, life at sea isn’t just about adventure—it’s also about contributing to the cruise community. Many cruise ships offer volunteer opportunities, and the couple has embraced this as a fulfilling part of their retirement. Onboard, they often participate in activities like leading workshops, organizing social events, or lending a helping hand where it’s needed. From teaching a class to helping fellow passengers, these small acts give their days more purpose beyond relaxation.

Their contributions have made them familiar faces onboard, creating strong bonds with the crew and other passengers. Whether they’re leading a dance class or sharing their travel stories, Jess and Marty have found that being active in the ship’s community makes life at sea even more enriching.

Volunteering at Ports

But the opportunity to give back doesn’t stop when the ship docks. Many cruise lines organize volunteer projects in the ports they visit, allowing passengers like Jess and Marty to engage with local communities. The couple has taken part in various efforts, from beach cleanups to helping with educational programs for children in underprivileged areas. These moments give them the chance to connect with people from different cultures and make a real difference during their travels.

Additionally, they’ve joined faith-based missions that blend travel and service, participating in humanitarian efforts like health and wellness projects. Whether they’re helping at a local clinic or supporting community initiatives, these experiences add a layer of meaning to their retirement. For Jess and Marty, it’s not just about seeing the world—it’s about leaving a positive impact everywhere they go.

Life Lessons from the Ansens’ Journey

Jess and Marty’s story shows that retirement doesn’t have to follow the rules. Instead of settling into a routine, they chose something different—something that makes them excited to wake up each day. Their experience is a reminder that you don’t have to stick to the usual path. There are so many ways to make this stage of life your own.

One big lesson? Retirement can be an adventure. Jess and Marty didn’t slow down—they sped up! They embraced new experiences and made incredible memories along the way. It’s a reminder that stepping out of your comfort zone can open up a world of fun.

But it’s not just about the places they’ve been—it’s about the people. The friendships they’ve built aboard the ship have made their journey even more special. Whether it’s fellow travelers or the crew, these connections have become a big part of their life at sea.