Retirement is a time to savor freedom and embrace life’s pleasures. For Marty and Jess Ansen, a retired couple from Australia, their retirement has taken them on an extraordinary adventure: 51 consecutive cruises! This unconventional choice brings them endless excitement and discovery and proves to be a cost-effective alternative to traditional retirement homes.
Setting Sail: The Ansen’s Remarkable Journey Marty and Jess have always been enthusiastic about cruise holidays, but the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their plans. Finally, in June 2022, they seized the opportunity to make up for lost time and set sail on the Coral Princess.
Little did they know this would turn into a 500-day odyssey. They decided to extend their vacation and book 51 back-to-back cruises—a unique dedication to their love for the sea.
A Home Away from Home Onboard the Coral Princess, Marty and Jess have become legendary passengers, forming close bonds with the ship’s staff and making themselves feel at home. The hotel manager affectionately refers to them as his “second mum and dad onboard.” With all-inclusive meals and daily housekeeping, they enjoy the comforts and conveniences of retirement living while exploring exciting destinations.
The Economics of Retirement at Sea Marty and Jess have discovered something truly eye-opening through their adventurous lifestyle: living on cruise ships is more cost-effective than residing in a retirement home. Their onboard expenses cover all their daily needs, allowing them to enjoy an affordable and fulfilling retirement experience. This challenges the traditional notion of retirement planning and proves that alternative paths are worth considering.
Embracing Adventure and Wellness Far from growing weary of the sea, Marty and Jess have developed a daily routine that keeps them active and entertained. They start each day with an hour of table tennis, combining fun and fitness. These games set the tone for the rest of their day, filled with exploration and indulging in the ship’s delectable buffets. It’s a daily adventure that keeps them young at heart.
Living Their Dreams Having spent over 450 days continuously cruising, Marty and Jess Ansen have no intention of stopping anytime soon. If given the opportunity, they would continue their voyages for the rest of their lives. Their story serves as an inspiration, proving that retirement can be an opportunity to chase your dreams and live life to the fullest.
Marty and Jess have found an unconventional yet rewarding path to retirement in the twilight years of their lives. Their journey is a testament to the endless possibilities awaiting those who dare to break from tradition and pursue their dreams. For them, retirement means endless horizons and the vast expanse of the open sea. So why not set sail on new adventures and make retirement truly remarkable?
