Nowadays, a lot of people are concerned about how to live on a cruise ship cheaply, which has caught our attention and led to the preparation of this article! Cruise ships are often associated with luxurious vacations and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, but what if you could make it your home?
In this article, we’ll explore what it’s like to live on a cruise ship, the pros and cons, whether it’s a feasible option for long-term living, and how you can do it without breaking the banks.
Sincerely speaking, the idea of living on a cruise ship may sound like its far-fetched, but for some people, it’s a reality. From retirees to digital nomads, more and more individuals are considering the option of living on a cruise ship as an alternative to traditional housing.
How to live on a Cruise Ship Cheaply
Living on a cruise ship can be a unique and exciting experience, but it can also be expensive. However, with some careful planning and budgeting, it’s possible to live on a cruise ship cheaply. Here are six tips to help you save money while living on a cruise ship:
1. Book a repositioning cruise
Repositioning cruises occur when a cruise line moves a ship from one location to another, usually to follow the seasonal demand. These cruises often have lower prices than typical itineraries since they are one-way voyages. Repositioning cruises also tend to have fewer ports of call and fewer activities on board. However, they can be an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers looking to live on a cruise ship cheaply.
2. Choose an interior cabin
As an interior cabin does not have a window, it tends to be much cheaper than cabins with a balcony or ocean view. If you don’t plan on spending much time in your room or don’t mind the lack of natural light, booking an interior cabin can save you a significant amount of money.
3. Take advantage of early booking discounts
Many cruise lines offer early booking discounts, which can save you a lot of money. These discounts are typically available six to nine months before the sailing date. Additionally, booking early will give you more time to save up money for your cruise, and you can take advantage of payment plans, so you don’t have to pay for everything upfront.
4. Bring your own beverages
Cruise ships tend to charge a premium for drinks, so bringing your own beverages can save you a lot of money. Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring non-alcoholic beverages on board, such as soda and water. If you’re a wine drinker, check with the cruise line’s policy on bringing your own bottles aboard.
5. Avoid the onboard shops
Cruise ship shops and boutiques can be expensive, so it’s best to avoid them if you’re trying to save money. If you need to buy something, wait until you’re in port to take advantage of lower prices.
6. Plan your own shore excursions
Cruise ship shore excursions can be very expensive. To save money, plan your own activities in port. Research your destination ahead of time and book your tours and activities with local companies. You’ll get a more authentic experience, and it will likely be cheaper than booking through the cruise line.
Cruise Ships You Can Live On
There are a variety of cruise ships that you can live on, depending on your budget, preferences, and needs. Here are five examples of popular cruise ships that offer long-term or permanent residence options, along with some of their destinations, routes or voyages:
1. The World
The World is a luxury residential cruise ship that travels to destinations all around the world. The ship offers vacation homes in form of private apartments for sale and rent, with the option to customize the interior to your liking. It contains sprawling one, two and three bedroom ocean residences and studios, and has a total of 165 residences.
The ships travel routes and destinations are guided by experts in ecology, culture, and adventure and every resident has a voice in choosing the destinations on each year’s voyages. The voyages include some of the most remote and fascinating waters and lands on Earth.
Residents on the ship can enjoy amenities such as multiple restaurants, a spa, fitness center, tennis court, and golf simulator. The ship’s itinerary varies from year to year, with destinations including Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. See more!
2. Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas
This cruise ship crosses over 6 continents and has destinations in over 60 countries around the world. It offers an extended-stay program that allows guests to live on board for up to six months. The ship sails to destinations such as USA, UK, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam etc. It features a range of amenities, including a rock-climbing wall, skydiving simulator, pool, and multiple restaurants. See more!
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3. Holland America Line’s Amsterdam
This cruise ship offers a “Grand World Voyage” that lasts around three to four months, allowing passengers to live on board and travel to various ports around the world. The ship’s itinerary varies from year to year, with past voyages including destinations such as the Caribbean, South America, Europe, Africa, New Zealand, and Asia. Check major destinations here! The ship features a range of amenities, including multiple dining options, a fitness center, and a casino.
4. Crystal Serenity
This luxury cruise ship offers a “Full World Cruise” that lasts around four months, with the option to purchase a segment of the voyage. The ship travels to destinations such as the Caribbean, South America, Australia, and Asia. The ship features six-star service, gourmet dining, and a wide range of onboard activities and amenities, including a spa, fitness center, casino, and multiple restaurants. See more destinations here!
5. Oceania Cruises’ Insignia
This cruise ship offers a “World Cruise” that lasts around six months, with the option to rent a segment of the voyage. The ship travels to destinations such as the Caribbean, South America, Australia, Asia, and Europe. The ship features multiple restaurants, a spa, fitness center, and a variety of entertainment options, including live music and Broadway-style shows.
The pros and cons of living on a cruise ship
Living on a cruise ship is an exciting and unique experience that allows people to travel the world while enjoying the comforts of home. While there are many benefits to living on a cruise ship, there are also some potential downsides to consider. Here are some pros and cons of living on a cruise ship:
Living on a Cruise Ship Pros
(a) Enjoying Multiple Travel Destinations
One of the biggest benefits of living on a cruise ship is the ability to travel to a variety of destinations without having to worry about packing and unpacking, navigating airports, or booking hotels. With a cruise ship, your home travels with you, and you can wake up in a new location each day.
(b) Extensive Amenities
Cruise ships offer a wide range of amenities, from swimming pools and fitness centers to restaurants and entertainment venues. Living on a cruise ship allows you to enjoy these amenities without having to pay extra for them or leave the ship.
(c) Close Community
Living on a cruise ship can be a great way to meet people from all over the world and develop long-lasting friendships. With so many people on board, there are always events, activities, and clubs to join, and you can be as social or as private as you like.
(d) Huge Flexibility
Living on a cruise ship can provide a lot of flexibility in terms of your schedule and lifestyle. You can choose to participate in as many or as few activities as you like, and you can easily adjust your plans to fit your mood or interests.
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Living on a Cruise Ship Cons
(a) Limited Space
While cruise ships offer a lot of amenities, living space can be limited. Cabins are usually smaller than traditional apartments, and storage space may be limited, which can make it difficult to bring all of your belongings with you.
(b) Can be Costly
Living on a cruise ship can be expensive, with costs for food, drinks, and activities adding up quickly. Additionally, long-term stays on a cruise ship may require a significant upfront investment, such as buying a permanent residence or paying for an extended-stay program.
(c) Crowds
Cruise ships can be crowded, especially during peak travel seasons or on popular itineraries. This can make it difficult to find space to relax or participate in activities without feeling overcrowded.
(d) Limited Privacy
Living on a cruise ship can mean sacrificing some privacy. With so many people on board, it can be difficult to find a quiet, secluded space, and you may be sharing your living space with strangers if you are on a shared cabin or smaller ship.
