Living on a luxury cruise ship for 3140 euros a month: this retired couple left everything behind

Imagine swapping your apartment for an ocean-view cabin, changing countries every four days and paying less than conventional rent. That’s the crazy gamble taken by Johan and Lanette Canen, a 55-year-old American couple who have chosen to live full-time on a luxury cruise. Their testimonial, collected by the Daily Mail, overturns all preconceived ideas about retirement.

Leaving Hawaii for a nomadic life on the water

After 10 years in Hawaii, Johan and Lanette felt the need to change course. The cost of living in the American archipelago was weighing heavily on their budget. They discovered the Villa Vie Odyssey, a residential vessel offering long-term stays.

This concept of luxury cruise immediately appealed to them. The couple have now been living aboard the liner for six months. Over the next three and a half years, they will visit 147 countries around the world.

For these fifty-somethings, the adventure is just beginning. Each port of call represents a new opportunity for discovery. The ship remains docked for four days, leaving plenty of time to appreciate each destination.

“People think we’re rich, but it’s cheaper than our rent and standard of living in Hawaii. It’s for normal people.”

A controlled budget despite the luxury

Contrary to appearances, living on a luxury cruise is not a privilege reserved for the very wealthy. Johan and Lanette opted for the least expensive option offered by Villa Vie Odyssey. The monthly rate is around 3140 euros.

This sum includes a number of essential day-to-day services. WIFI, food and drinks are included in the package. A maid service is available twice a week to clean your cabin.

By acquiring their space on board, the couple benefits from a 15-year occupancy guarantee. This formula offers them a rare stability for permanent travelers. Lanette sums it up simply: “I love this lifestyle.

• Monthly rate of approx. 3140 euros all inclusive
• WIFI, meals and drinks included in the package
• Cleaning service twice a week
• Possibility of subletting your cabin during absences
• Families welcome on board free of charge for 28 consecutive days

Flexibility for families

Living on a luxury cruise doesn’t mean cutting ties with loved ones. The company has provided solutions for maintaining family ties. Residents can leave the ship temporarily without losing their cabin.

While they’re away, Villa Vie Odyssey offers to sublet the space. Johan and Lanette plan to use this option to travel to Arizona. They want to meet their one-year-old grandson.

The company also allows visitors on board. Relatives can stay free of charge for 28 consecutive days. They have their own cabin at no extra charge.

Discoveries beyond expectations

In six months of sailing, Johan and Lanette have already set foot in 25 countries. Their journey has taken them from Europe to South America. Each destination is full of surprises.

Johan is enthusiastic when he talks about his discoveries. “We’ve been lucky enough to visit such unique and incredible places we never knew existed,” he confides. Life on a luxury cruise exceeds their initial expectations.

The four-day stopovers allow a real immersion in each country visited. The couple don’t just cross oceans. They take the time to immerse themselves in each culture they encounter.

The little inconveniences of everyday life at sea

Despite the general enthusiasm, Johan admits to a few minor inconveniences. The weather remains unpredictable and can sometimes spoil a planned stopover. It’s part of the hazards of maritime life.

Another surprising effect concerns the return to dry land. “I feel nauseous when I walk on dry land. It takes a bit of getting used to,” explains Johan. This phenomenon, well known to sailors, fades quickly.

These little worries are not enough to dent their determination. Neither of them regrets their choice of life on this luxury cruise. The couple fully accept this bold decision.

Johan and Lanette remain resolutely positive about the future. “We’re old enough to be able to do it, and young enough at heart to live this adventure,” they sum up. This philosophy now guides their daily lives between sea and sky.

• luxury cruise