A year ago, Sharon Lane embarked on a unique journey, one that many would consider a dream come true. She stepped onto the Villa Vie Odyssey, a residential cruise ship, and made it her permanent home. This is not your typical cruise experience; it's a lifestyle choice, a way to live and travel simultaneously.
A Home Afloat
For Lane, the decision to live on a cruise ship was a calculated one. She saw it as a more affordable and exciting alternative to retirement in California. With a love for travel and a desire to explore, Lane found her perfect match in the Villa Vie Odyssey.
"This is a home," Lane emphasizes. "I'm living on and loving the ship."
The Odyssey, operated by Villa Vie Residences, offers a unique concept. Passengers can purchase cabins and live on the ship full-time, creating a sense of community and a built-in social network. Lane, in her late 70s, stays connected with her family and enjoys the company of fellow residents, many of whom are solo travelers like herself.
The Cost of a Dream
While the idea of living on a cruise ship may seem extravagant, the prices are surprisingly accessible compared to other residential cruise ship experiences. Villa Vie offers various ownership and occupancy plans, with five-year cabin ownership starting at approximately NZ$106,000. Full ownership prices begin at NZ$177,000, and monthly fees cover a range of amenities, including food, soft drinks, alcohol at dinner, Wi-Fi, and medical visits.
"I don't spend a lot of time in my room," Lane says, highlighting the value of the communal spaces and the sense of community on board.
Life on the Odyssey
In between port calls, residents enjoy a range of activities and amenities. From official entertainment to passenger-organized events, there's always something to do. Lane, although opting out of many organized activities, finds joy in chatting with her fellow residents and exploring the ship's nooks and crannies.
"Dinner is a social time," she explains. "We sit, eat, and chat for hours."
Lane's daily routine includes a treadmill session with ocean views, an evening Spanish lesson, and a favorite lounging spot in one of the ship's hallways. She's made her cabin her own, upgrading to a windowed space after finding a better deal, and has settled into a comfortable routine.
The Appeal of a Slower Pace
For Lane, the appeal of living on a cruise ship goes beyond the sea views and port excursions. It's about the sense of community, the lack of chores, and the slower pace of life.
"Not worrying about chores is heaven," she says. "I feel removed from the real world, and I like it."
While Lane keeps up with world news and the impact of global events on the Odyssey's route, she finds solace in the community and the flexibility of her new lifestyle.
A Year On
As Lane celebrated her first anniversary on the Odyssey, she reflected on her decision. Despite a few glitches, such as fuel shortages and route adjustments, Lane remains committed to her choice.
"This is for people who want a slower pace, a way to see the world but live with fewer responsibilities," she says.
Lane's dream life is a testament to the unique appeal of residential cruising, offering a blend of adventure, community, and a sense of freedom.
