Do you prefer?
photo of princess coral princess cruise lines
It was a no-brainer for this couple. Traveling the world or sitting in a retirement home? This Australian couple Jess and Marty Ansen think they made the right choice as they set off on the high seas after booking 51 consecutive cruises.
These great-grandparents have now spent more than 500 days at sea and plan to spend another 500 days at sea. Ansen, who chose the Coral Princess as his means of transportation, surpassed both his crew and captain in terms of time on board the ship.
Cruises are on the rise once again.
According to Statista, the number of cruise passengers is steadily increasing. Since the world emerged from the pandemic, people are eager to resume traveling.
Passenger numbers totaled about 20 million in 2022, but are expected to reach 31.5 million in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Joining passengers eager to travel, Ansen departed for the cruise on June 16, 2022 and reported: They have been living a “wonderful life” ever since.
Check out the interview here: A Current Affair
Mart and Jess Ansen
Advantages of cruise travel instead of drowsiness
Retirement homes and cruise ships both meet the needs of older adults, but the experiences, environments, and benefits vary greatly. Exploring the advantages of cruise ship living compared to retirement homes reveals a unique perspective on retiree comfort, social engagement, healthcare, amenities, and overall quality of life.
Marty Ansen at his home by the sea Dexerto
There is never a dull moment on a cruise
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a cruise ship over a retirement home is the ever-changing backdrop and sense of adventure. Cruise ships offer the opportunity to awaken to new destinations on a regular basis, providing a constant change of scenery and cultural experiences.
For retirees with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore different parts of the world without the hassle of constant planning or packing and unpacking, cruises offer an ideal solution.
The ability to visit countless destinations without having to organize travel plans offers a level of convenience unmatched by traditional retirement homes.
High level of social interaction
Moreover, the social environment on cruise ships is incredibly lively. These floating communities offer a wide range of social activities, creating a vibrant atmosphere that encourages social interaction among passengers.
Through organized events, classes, entertainment, and communal dining experiences, cruise ships provide ample opportunities for seniors to build friendships with like-minded people and form lasting bonds.
Unlike many retirement homes where social circles are limited, the cruise ship environment allows for a broader and more diverse social network, promoting a sense of community and reducing the potential for isolation.
Meet a variety of people
Ansen feels a very strong sense of community on board. They meet a variety of people from all over the world and from all walks of life. They have formed strong bonds with their fellow passengers and enjoy this aspect of cruise travel immensely.
They can also stay in touch with their children and grandchildren through phone and email. They also see them at several port stops along the way, so they never feel isolated or missing out on family life. On the plane, Ansen became a bit like a celebrity, as other passengers recognized him.
In an interview with A Current Affair, Marty said he wants to cruise for the rest of his life.
The amenities are attractive to retirees.
Cruise ships also boast a variety of amenities not typically available in retirement homes. With fitness centers, spas, pools, theaters, libraries, and a variety of dining options, these floating resorts offer a high level of luxury and entertainment to enhance your retirement experience.
The wide range of activities on board caters to a variety of interests and hobbies, so there's always something for everyone.
Medical care on board is a plus
Medical facilities and services on cruise ships have improved significantly in recent years. Most modern cruise ships are equipped with medical centers staffed by qualified medical professionals to meet the health needs of passengers.
While retirement homes can offer more personalized medical care, cruise ships offer the advantage of on-site medical assistance in the event of an emergency, ensuring a level of security and prompt treatment that is very important for seniors with health issues. .
Benefits May Outweigh Costs
Financially, living on a cruise ship can provide a more predictable budget compared to some luxury retirement homes. With a clear understanding of costs and a comprehensive approach to living expenses including lodging, meals, entertainment and transportation, cruise ship life can provide a simpler and more predictable financial model.
Additionally, the overall atmosphere and service of cruise ships tend to focus more on leisure and luxury. Constant attention to service and hospitality creates an environment that feels more like an extended vacation rather than a traditional retirement environment.
Service levels and overall customer experience can greatly improve the quality of life of seniors.
Things to consider
However, living on a cruise ship is not without its drawbacks. There may be restrictions in terms of space and personal belongings. Cabins are typically smaller than typical retirement homes, which may be difficult for individuals who prefer more space or have specific requirements. Moreover, the lack of continuity and familiar surroundings can be unsettling for some older adults who prefer a more stable and predictable living environment.
final thoughts
Living on a cruise ship offers a unique and adventurous alternative to traditional retirement homes. Ever-changing landscapes, vibrant social environments, extensive amenities, and improved medical services provide attractive options for seniors seeking an unconventional and vibrant retirement lifestyle.
Although there are certain limitations, the advantages of cruise ship life suit a specific demographic looking for a dynamic and socially engaging way to spend their retirement years. Ultimately, the decision whether to live on a cruise ship or in a retirement home will depend on your personal preferences, health considerations, and the lifestyle you want during the golden years of your life.
This page contains affiliate links where we may receive financial compensation if a purchase is made through one of our affiliate partners.
About Jonathan Haizek
Jonathon is a technical representative at CruiseportAdvisor.com. When he's not stuck in front of his computer, Jonathon enjoys traveling and cruising. (Even after boarding the cruise ship on fire, more on that later!)