Forever Cruises: New & Improved Expat Escape or Trouble at Sea?

A forever cruise is a cruise ship journey that lasts for an extended period, sometimes, as the name suggests, even permanently. The trend has gained popularity of late, particularly among retirees, digital nomads, and adventure seekers looking to explore the world while avoiding some of the everyday hassles of traditional travel.

Forever cruises can range from year-long world cruises, to purchasing permanent residence on specialized ships designed for long-term living. The concept allows residents to continuously travel to various destinations, enjoying amenities including meals, entertainment, and housekeeping, all while living aboard a luxury vessel.

Some ships, like the MV Narrative by Storylines, even offer fully furnished apartments, complete with kitchens and living spaces, catering to those who want a home-like experience at sea.

Alternatively, some people prefer to back-to-back cruises, where they hop from one ship to another by booking consecutive trips. This can be more affordable and flexible, allowing travelers to choose different cruise lines and more curated itineraries.

For those of you who think this sounds exciting and adventurous—and you’re not alone—here are some of the pros we’ve discovered.

Read More on Meeting locals and travelers makes for a better expat experience

Some Pros of Forever Cruises

1. All-Inclusive Living: One of the most appealing aspects of cruise living is the fact that typically, accommodation, meals, entertainment, and even housekeeping are included in one price. This makes budgeting and day-to-day existence much easier and worry-free so you can focus on the fun.
2. Hassle-Free Travel: Living on a cruise ship allows you to explore multiple countries and cities without the hassle of constant packing, unpacking, and arranging travel logistics.
3. Economic Benefits: One traveler, Angelyn Burk, noted that her daily cost of living on a cruise was about $44 USD, covering meals and drinks, making it both economical and convenient for her and her husband to adopt this lifestyle full-time. “This year, we have secured 86 cruise days with an average all-in cost of $89/day for both of us,” Burke told CNN. “Which includes room, food, entertainment, transportation, gratuity, port fees and taxes.”
4. Luxe Life at Sea: Cruise ships typically offer amenities like gyms, pools, spas, and fine dining. Some ships, like The World, go a step further, providing luxury services and facilities like theaters, art galleries, and wellness centers, making long-term living even more attractive, enjoyable, and comfortable.
5. Socialize, Learn, Enjoy: Cruises provide a unique social environment where passengers can meet people from around the world and enjoy regular concerts and cultural experiences. Additionally, many ships offer lectures, cooking classes, and workshops, giving residents the chance to learn while they travel.
6. Maintenance-Free: Remember mowing the lawn and taking out the garbage? Cruise ship living eliminates many mundane every-day tasks associated with homeownership. Residents can embrace a more minimalist lifestyle without worrying about the upkeep of a traditional home.

If you’ve already started packing your bags and preparing for a life at sea, , you should be aware that there are some potential concerns.

A Few Cons of Forever Cruises

1. It’s Pricey: The cost of living on a cruise ship can vary significantly, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 per month for standard long-term cruises, with luxury options reaching much higher. Purchasing a residence on a ship like the Narrative can cost upwards of $1 million, with annual fees between $60,000 and $300,000.
2. A Bit Cramped: Cruise cabins tend to be smaller than traditional homes, with limited storage. Downsizing is often necessary, and residents may need to rent storage space on land for items they can’t bring on board. Additionally, most (but not all) forever cruise ships prohibit guests from bringing their pets on board. So say goodbye to walks in the park with Fido.
3. Limited Healthcare: While all cruise ships have onboard medical facilities, they may not be equipped for serious medical issues. This is a significant concern for older residents or those with chronic conditions, who may need frequent medical care. Securing appropriate long-term health insurance is essential for anyone considering permanent cruise living.
4. You’re On Your Own: Being at sea for extended periods can mean long stretches of time away from family and friends. While modern ships offer internet access, keeping in touch can still be challenging, and many residents may feel isolated from their land-based social circles. There’s also the flip side of being trapped at sea with the same potentially annoying shipmates and having no where to go to avoid them. In fact, as Popular Mechanics reported earlier this year, “maritime experts say long months aboard a cruise ship can lead to real physical and emotional challenges, from contagious illnesses to claustrophobia. Even on a pleasure cruise, smooth sailing is not guaranteed
5. Visa and Legal Issues: Living internationally on a cruise ship also presents a number of logistical challenges. Visa requirements for various countries and tax implications need to be carefully managed. So be sure to do your research and understand the legal obligations related to long-term residency in international waters and the countries visited during the cruise.

Cruise ship life offers an intriguing blend of adventure and convenience, but the lifestyle does come with financial, logistical, and even psychological challenges. Yet  those able to navigate these hurdles will likely be rewarded with a uniquely enriching way to see the world.

Aaron Kenedi