An adventurous retired couple chooses 51 cruises over traditional retirement. Join their incredible journey at sea!
This married couple, who believe that living at sea is more cost-effective than living in a retirement community, takes an unusual approach to retirement by taking 51 consecutive cruises.
Last June, Marty and Jess Ansen set out on their incredible adventure aboard the Coral Princess. They have embraced a life of dancing, great dining, creating lifelong friendships, and traveling the world during the last 18 months.
A Current Affair
In a playful change of phrase, they joke that rather than following the customary procedure, they “extend a hearty welcome to the captains.” According to manager Ren van Rooyen, Marty and Jess, who are from Australia, have gained some notoriety among other guests.
A Current Affair
Despite their years of cruising experience, they leaped full-time cruising during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frustrated by the strict Australian lockdown and the feeling of missing out on years of enjoyment, they hatched a plan to live their days in perpetual holiday mode.
“Eventually, I said to my agent: ‘Look, whatever comes, book it,’ and that’s how it turned into such a lengthy cruise,” said Marty.
A Current Affair
The ticket price covers all their meals, and daily tasks are no longer a concern, thanks to a dedicated onboard staff responsible for room upkeep.
The couple believes that this way of life is more economical than transitioning to a retirement facility. Just this year, the ship’s crew, who have grown close to Marty and Jess, went the extra mile to make the great-grandmother’s birthday special.
Marty and Jess begin each day with an energetic game of ping pong, setting the stage for a leisurely enjoyment of cold beer on the deck and savoring the ship’s buffet.
Their next destination is Hawaii, but their journey aboard the Coral Princess continues for eight more months before a brief land stop. Their love for cruising is unending, as they’re already plotting a year-long voyage aboard the Crown Princess.
