A retired couple from Australia has found an unusual and budget-friendly way to spend their later years. Instead of moving into a retirement home, Marty and Jess Ansen chose to live on cruise ships, booking 51 back-to-back sailings that will keep them at sea for 18 months. They say the cost of cruising is actually lower than paying for long-term accommodation on land, and the lifestyle offers far more enjoyment.

The couple had always loved being on the water, and when the pandemic halted travel, they missed the routine of cruising. Once ships began sailing again, they decided to make the Coral Princess their new home. They have been aboard since June 2022 and have no plans to slow down. Marty explained that he simply told his travel agent to book whatever cruises were available, which led to the long stretch at sea.

Life on board has become familiar and comfortable. They start each day with an hour of table tennis and enjoy meals without grocery shopping or cooking. Housekeeping is included, so chores are minimal. Marty jokes that they have been away from home for so long that they have forgotten how to wash dishes or make a bed.

The crew has come to know them well. Jess recently celebrated a birthday on board, and staff surprised her with a celebration. Even the ship’s hotel manager says seeing them feels like visiting family, since the couple has been aboard longer than many of the crew.

With eight months left on their current voyage, Marty and Jess are already planning another world cruise, followed by a year-long trip on a different ship. For them, life at sea has become the most practical and enjoyable way to spend retirement.