Couple sell all their possessions and go on $1,200,000 cruise for 15 years
ArchiveFirst published June 10, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
Paul and Lynn Montoya sold their house, cars, and nearly all belongings to live full-time on a luxury cruise ship. Their new home is aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey, part of a 3.5-year world cruise that may stretch to 15 years. “We sold everything,” Lynn said. “Just took what we needed—and some heirlooms in our daughter’s basement.”
They paid about $179,000 for their cabin and spend around $6,000 monthly on essentials like food and laundry. While some call them “crazy,” the couple says it’s not a vacation—it’s an adventure. Their yearly costs may reach $80,000, totaling $1.2 million if they stay aboard long-term.
Though they miss their kids in Colorado, family can visit for two weeks every quarter. The couple looks forward to exploring over 100 countries—from the South Pacific to Scandinavia and beyond. “This whole ship is our home,” Lynn shared.
With 15 years secured, they might keep cruising or rent the cabin later. “We don’t even know where we want to live,” Paul said. “Maybe we’ll find it out there.”
