cruise ship cheaper than nursing home

Is Living on a Cruise Ship Really Cheaper Than a Retirement Home?

A retired couple from Australia recently made headlines because of their unique retirement living situation. Instead of opting for a condo in a 55-and-over community, a room in a senior living community, or any other traditional option, they have chosen to spend their retirement at sea -- or at least, more than two years of it.

Marty and Jess Ansen booked 51 back-to-back Princess Cruises, all on the same ship, starting in June 2022. The cruises add up to 795 days at sea, which translates to just under two years and two months. When asked why they chose to do this, the Ansens cited the ease of life and the affordability of cruising compared to living in a nursing home.

Is living on a cruise ship truly cheaper than investing for the future and planning to live in a retirement community or nursing home? Let's take a closer look.

Cruise lines are embracing the life-at-sea retirement

While booking back-to-back cruises for an extended period of time like the Ansens did is certainly an option, several cruise lines have started offering longer cruises to accommodate people who would rather spend their golden years at sea.

For example, the longest cruise ever offered by Royal Caribbean is about to set sail in December. The Ultimate World Cruise will take passengers to ports on all seven continents over a 274-night journey, and it includes airfare to and from the ship, the deluxe beverage package for the duration, seven shore excursions, complimentary laundry service, and internet service to keep in touch with loved ones. And like all cruises, meals and daily housekeeping are included as well. Cruise fares start at $58,499 and $74,654 per person for ocean view and balcony staterooms, respectively.

There are more economical options as well. A company called Life at Sea Cruises offers a three-year voyage that visits 375 ports in 135 countries with rooms starting at $29,999 per year, per person.

How much does a retirement home cost?

The costs of retirement living varies considerably by the type of living situation, as well as the geographic location.

For starters, the median cost of a room in an assisted living facility is $4,774 per month ($57,288 per year) in the United States. But in some states, the cost can easily exceed $80,000.

Additionally, assisted living assumes a reasonable level of independence. For those who might need closer medical attention, a private room in a nursing home costs a little over $9,000 per month on average, and can exceed $15,000 per month in areas with high costs of living.

Is living on a cruise ship really cheaper?

The short answer is "it depends." As you can see from just the two examples discussed earlier, cruise prices can vary considerably, and that's especially true if you're booking many shorter back-to-back cruises. There are big differences in cost between cruise lines, types of staterooms, and other services, and it's certainly possible to spend quite a bit of money on board as anyone who has cruised can tell you. Plus, there are big differences in the costs of retirement homes, depending on the level of assisted living needed, geographic location, and other factors. Run the numbers for your area and see if they make sense for you.

In many cases, it is entirely possible for budget-conscious retirees to save money by living at sea.

Caveats to keep in mind

The bottom line is that in some cases, spending an extended amount of time on a cruise ship can be more cost effective -- as well as more enjoyable -- than a nursing home or retirement community. But it isn't for everyone.

For one thing, spending an extended period of time on a cruise ship is likely only practical if you're in reasonably good health. Typically, by the time you need a full-service nursing home, you're not healthy enough to travel for months (or years) at a time -- plus the cost of medical care can be astronomically high on a cruise ship or in foreign ports in the event of an emergency.

Having said that, cruising for long periods of time has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional retirement living for many people who have enough in savings to make it happen.

Alert: highest cash back card we've seen now has 0% intro APR until nearly 2025

If you're using the wrong credit or debit card, it could be costing you serious money. Our experts love this top pick , which features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, an insane cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee. 

In fact, this card is so good that our experts even use it personally. Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. 

Read our free review

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .

Home » Retirement Home Vs Life At Sea On A Cruise Ship

Retirement Home Vs Life At Sea On A Cruise Ship

Last updated on January 22nd, 2024 at 06:06 pm

Would You Prefer?

Photo of Coral Princess from Princess Cruise Line

For this couple, it was a no-brainer. Cruise the world or sit in a retirement home? This Australian couple, Jess and Marty Ansen, feel that they made the right choice when they set forth on the high seas after booking 51 consecutive cruises.

These great-grandparents have, at this point, spent over 500 days at sea and hope to spend 500 more on the open waters. Choosing the Coral Princess as their means of transportation, the Ansen’s have surpassed both the crew and the captain in terms of time on board the ship.

Cruises Are Once Again On The Rise

The number of cruise passengers is on a steady increase according to Statista . Ever since the world has emerged from a pandemic, people are eager to resume their travels.

Passengers in 2022 totaled about 20 million, but 2023 is forecasted to reach 31.5 million and will surpass the pre-pandamic levels in 2019. Joining those passengers eager to travel, the Ansen’s left on their cruise on June 16, 2022, and have reported that they have been living a “wonderful life” ever since.

Check out their interview here: A Current Affair

Mart and Jess Ansen

Advantages Of Cruising Instead of Snoozing

While both retirement homes and cruise ships cater to the needs of older adults, the experience, environment, and benefits differ significantly. Exploring the advantages of living on a cruise ship compared to a retirement home reveals a unique perspective on comfort, social engagement, healthcare, amenities, and the overall quality of life for retirees.

Marty Ansen in his home at sea courtesy of Dexerto

Never A Dull Moment On A Cruise

One of the most prominent advantages of choosing a cruise ship over a retirement home is the ever-changing backdrop and the sense of adventure. Cruise ships offer the opportunity to wake up to new destinations regularly, providing a continuous change of scenery and cultural experiences.

For retirees who have an adventurous spirit and a desire to explore different parts of the world without the hassle of planning or packing and unpacking constantly, a cruise ship offers an ideal solution.

The ability to visit numerous destinations without the need to organize travel logistics provides a level of convenience that traditional retirement homes can’t match.

High Level Of Social Interaction

Moreover, the social environment on a cruise ship is incredibly vibrant. These floating communities offer an extensive range of social activities, fostering a lively atmosphere that encourages social interaction among passengers.

From organized events, classes, entertainment, and communal dining experiences, cruise ships provide ample opportunities for seniors to build friendships and create lasting bonds with like-minded individuals.

Unlike many retirement homes, which might have a more limited social circle, the cruise ship environment allows for a broader and more diverse social network, promoting a sense of community and reducing the likelihood of isolation.

Meeting A Wide Variety Of Different People

The Ansen’s feel a very strong sense of community on the ship. They meet a wide variety of people from all walks of life and areas of the world. They have formed strong bonds with their fellow passengers and enjoy this aspect of cruising immensely.

They are also able to keep in touch with their children and grandchildren via phone and email. They also meet up with them at the various port stops along the way, so they have never had a sense of isolation or of missing out on their families life. On board, the Ansen’s have become a little bit like celebrities as other passengers recognize them.

In the interview with A Current Affair, Marty has said that he would like to cruise for the rest of his life.

The Amenitites Are Attractive To Retirees

Cruise ships also boast an array of amenities that are not typically available in retirement homes. From fitness centers, spas, pools, theaters, libraries, and various dining options, these floating resorts offer a level of luxury and entertainment that can enhance the retirement experience.

The variety of activities available onboard caters to a wide range of interests and hobbies, ensuring there is always something for everyone.

Healthcare On A Ship Is A Plus

Healthcare 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 attend to passengers’ health needs.

While retirement homes might provide more personalized healthcare, cruise ships offer the advantage of having medical assistance available on-site in case of emergencies, ensuring a level of security and immediate care that could be crucial for seniors with health concerns.

The Benefits Can Outweigh The Cost

Financially, living on a cruise ship might present a more predictable budget compared to some high-end retirement homes. With a clear understanding of the costs and a largely all-inclusive approach to living expenses, including accommodation, meals, entertainment, and transportation, cruise ship living can offer a more straightforward and predictable financial model.

Additionally, the overall ambiance and service on a cruise ship tend to be more focused on leisure and luxury. The constant attention to service and hospitality creates an environment that feels more like a prolonged vacation rather than a traditional retirement setting.

The level of service and the overall experience of being pampered can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors.

Things To Consider

However, living on a cruise ship is not without its drawbacks. There might be limitations in terms of space and personal belongings. The cabins are generally smaller compared to typical retirement homes, which might pose a challenge for individuals who prefer more space or have specific needs. Moreover, the lack of continuity and familiar surroundings might be unsettling for some seniors 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. The ever-changing scenery, vibrant social environment, extensive amenities, and improved healthcare services create an attractive option for seniors seeking an unconventional and lively retirement lifestyle.

While there are certain limitations, the advantages of cruise ship living cater to a specific demographic looking for a dynamic and socially engaging way to spend their retirement years. Ultimately, the decision between living on a cruise ship or in a retirement home depends on individual preferences, health considerations, and the lifestyle desired during the golden years of life.

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

About Jonathon Hyjek

Jonathon is the tech guy behind CruiseportAdvisor.com. When he's not stuck in front of his computer, Jonathon enjoys travel & cruising (even after being on a cruise ship that caught fire - a story for another day!)

RECENT POSTS

Cruise news this week, what does it take to keep cruise passengers fed, royal caribbean cruise line loyalty programs: sailing to rewarding adventures, do i need travel insurance for a cruise, the pros and cons of cruising on a smaller cruise ship, grab your tour with cruise port advisor now, a short description introducing your business and the services to visitors..

© 2023 cruiseportadvisor All Rights Reserved.

• Book Excursions
• Anchorage, AK
• Baltimore, MD
• Cape Liberty, NJ
• Charleston, SC
• Ft Lauderdale, FL
• Galveston, TX
• Honolulu, HI
• Jacksonville, FL
• L.A. (San Pedro), CA
• Long Beach, CA
• Montreal, QC
• New Orleans, LA
• Norfolk, VA
• NYC – Brooklyn
• NYC – Manhattan
• Port Canaveral, FL
• Quebec City, QC
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• San Juan, PR
• Seattle, WA
• Vancouver, BC
• Whittier, AK
• Alaska & Pacific Northwest
• Central & South America
• Cruise Ports in Bermuda
• Dominican Republic
• Mexico & Mexican Riviera
• Eastern Canada & Quebec
• New England
• Los Angeles (San Pedro), CA
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Cruise Blog
• Cruise FAQ’s

• 877 - LIWORTH (877 - 549 - 6784)
• Contact@life-settlements

Cruise Ship Living Vs. Nursing Homes: A Senior’s Guide

New Florida Law Enhances Life Settlement Options

Turn Underperforming ILIT Policies into Cash

Unlock Hidden Value in Life Insurance Policies

Financing Your Long-Term Healthcare Needs

• May 13, 2024

As we age, the reality of needing extra support becomes both inevitable and challenging. Many envision their later years in traditional retirement settings like nursing homes. However, an unconventional option is gaining traction: cruise ship living. This concept juxtaposes the conventional nursing home experience with the dynamic, carefree lifestyle aboard a cruise ship.

The financial aspect of elder care cannot be ignored. Costs for nursing homes or assisted living facilities generally start around $3,500 monthly. These expenses only climb higher for quality care. Meanwhile, cruise ships present an all-inclusive alternative. From meals and entertainment to medical care, cruise living offers a comprehensive package. What sets cruise living apart is not just the cost but the quality of life and the breadth of services provided.

In 2004, research highlighted cruise ships as a feasible alternative for seniors needing assistance. It showed that cruise ships could match the care level of assisted living centers while offering a more engaging and vibrant environment. Meals on board cater to all tastes and diets, social events are daily occurrences, and medical staff are always at hand. This environment fosters a more active, socially enriched lifestyle, contrasting with the more isolated and routine-bound life in a nursing home.

The appeal of cruise ship living extends beyond the tangible services. It offers an opportunity for seniors to continuously engage with new faces, cultures, and experiences, enriching their golden years with diversity and activity. The attention to customer service ensures that any issues are quickly addressed, adding a layer of personalized care that can be lacking in more traditional settings.

Funding this lifestyle often brings up concerns about affordability. Seniors who find the cost prohibitive might look into alternative financial solutions. One such avenue is through a life insurance settlement. This process involves selling your life insurance policy for a sum that exceeds its cash value but is less than its death benefit. This influx of cash can significantly contribute to affording cruise ship living without financial strain.

Choosing between cruise ship living and a nursing home is a decision that encompasses lifestyle preferences, financial capabilities, and care needs. While nursing homes offer stability and specialized care, cruise ships promise an adventurous and socially rich life all year round. It’s about deciding the kind of life one wants to lead in their later years.

We can provide a timely cash offer for your policy that is backed by over a decade in the Life Settlement business. Let us see what we can do for you.

• We're Hiring
• Getting Started
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy

Stay Up To Date with All the Latest Life Settlement Information.

Including Investment Offerings and Quotes for Your Policy

Cruise Ship Retirement: Is It Really Worth It?

12/17/2021 | By Seniors Guide Staff

Most people who vacation on a cruise ship thoroughly enjoy the experience. What’s not to like? They get to travel, have new experiences, enjoy plenty of dining options, be entertained, receive personal service, and meet new people. It’s a wonderful way to spend a week or two. However, a small minority of these people have chosen to take things one step further and remain on the ship full-time. Yes, they are choosing cruise ship retirement. And while it sounds at first blush like an ideal way to spend those “golden years,” is it a feasible option for retirement living?

Retirement can be a constant voyage

According to the Cruise Lines International Association , 28.5 million people took a cruise in 2018, and about a third of them were 60 or older. While there are no statistics from the association on how many full-time retiree cruisers exist, only a few have been verified to have settled into a permanent retirement aboard a cruise ship.

Although the major cruise lines might have relatively few long-term residents, one line bills itself as “the largest privately-owned residential yacht on earth.” The World: Residences at Sea has 165 units and an average resident age of 66. And other lines are making plans to follow suit by providing communities for full-time residents.

How much does cruise ship retirement cost?

Here’s the rub: retiring on The World costs $600,000 for a studio, $2 to $3 million for a two-bedroom apartment, and up to $13 million for a suite. You could opt for a short-term rental that could range from $550 per person per night for a studio up to $20,000 per month for a suite. Annual ownership costs are additional. Based on the apartment’s square footage, the fees include operations, crew compensation, and food and beverages.

Oceania Cruises recently introduced a Snowbirds in Residence program targeting “residents of northern climes looking to escape the cold and snow for warm tropical breezes and swaying palm trees.” Rather than being permanently retired on one of their cruise ships, residents sign up for either a 58- or 72-day stay. Prices started at $16,000 for the shorter trip and $20,000 for the longer.

Cruzely.com , a site dedicated to everything cruising, projected the costs of living on a cruise ship for one year . The estimates below are for two people aboard the Carnival Horizon:

Should you consider retiring on a cruise ship?

The idea of retiring on a cruise ship can be tempting. The constant entertainment, opportunity for travel, social aspect, and service would entice most people. It could even be less expensive than a nursing home in some cases. But before you sell your home and pack your bags for good, here are some points to ponder:

• You won’t get the same level of care as you would in an assisted living facility or nursing home.
• Since most passengers are there for the short term, you won’t develop long-term friendships.
• It can be quite a bit more expensive when compared to the average assisted living cost of $51,600 annually.
• Cruise ship retirement only works if you are healthy.
• Not all health insurance providers will cover cruise ship medical care.
• You are likely to gain weight with all the readily available food on the ship.
• Visiting the same parts of the world could lose its appeal.
• You might have to adhere to a dress code.

If none of these potential disadvantages deters you from retiring on the sea, it’s probably a good idea to try it out with a few shorter stays before fully committing. Sample a few different cruise lines to get a feel for what a floating retirement would feel like. That way, you can quit if it doesn’t suit you.

Related: Should I retire in a Blue Zone?

Seniors Guide Staff

Seniors Guide has been addressing traditional topics and upcoming trends in the senior living industry since 1999. We strive to educate seniors and their loved ones in an approachable manner, and aim to provide them with the right information to make the best decisions possible.

Related Resources

A new chapter at a retirement community.

12/17/2021 | By Terri L. Jones

A Day in the Life: Independent Living Community

12/17/2021 | By Kari Smith

Retirement Living on Cruise Ships

Some people have eschewed retirement homes in favor of living on cruise ships., barbara mikkelson, published march 15, 2005.

About this rating

About 2 years ago my wife and I were on a cruise through the western Mediterranean aboard a Princess liner. At dinner we noticed an elderly lady sitting alone along the rail of the grand stairway in the main dining room. I also noticed that all the staff, ships officers, waiters, busboys, etc., all seemed very familiar with this lady. I asked our waiter who the lady was, expecting to be told she owned the line, but he said he only knew that she had been on board for the last four cruises, back to back. As we left the dining room one evening I caught her eye and stopped to say hello. We chatted and I said, "I understand you've been on this ship for the last four cruises." She replied, "Yes, that's true." I stated, "I don't understand" and she replied, without a pause, "It's cheaper than a nursing home." So, there will be no nursing home in my future. When I get old and feeble, I am going to get on a Princess Cruise Ship. The average cost for a nursing home is $200 per day. I have checked on reservations at Princess and I can get a long term discount and senior discount price of $135 per day. That leaves $65 a day for: 1. Gratuities which will only be $10 per day. 2. I will have as many as 10 meals a day (of fantastic food, not institutional food) if I can waddle to the restaurant, or I can have room service (which means I can have breakfast in bed every day of the week). 3. Princess has as many as three swimming pools, a workout room, free washers and dryers, and shows every night. 4. They have free toothpaste and razors, and free soap and shampoo. 5. They will even treat you like a customer, not a patient. An extra $5 worth of tips will have the entire staff scrambling to help you. 6. I will get to meet new people every 7 or 14 days! 7. TV broken? Light bulb need changing? Need to have the mattress replaced? No problem! They will fix everything and apologize for your inconvenience. 8. Clean sheets and towels every day, and you don't even have to ask for them. 9. If you fall in the nursing home and break a hip you are on Medicare; if you fall and break a hip on the Princess ship they will upgrade you to a suite for the rest of your life. 10. There is always a doctor on board. Now hold on for the best! Do you want to see South America, the Panama Canal, Tahiti, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, or name where you want to go? Princess will have a ship ready to go. So don't look for me in a nursing home, just call shore to ship. PS: And don't forget, when you die, they just dump you over the side at no charge. [Collected on the Internet, 2004] No nursing home for me! I'm checking into the Holiday Inn. With the average cost for a nursing home per day reaching $188.00, there is a better way when we get old and feeble. I have already checked on reservations at the Holiday Inn. For a combined long-term stay discount and senior discount, it's $49.23 per night. That leaves $138.77 a day for: 1. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in any restaurant I want, or room service. 2. Laundry, gratuities, and special TV movies. Plus, they provide a swimming pool, a workout room, a lounge, washer, dryer, etc. Most have free toothpaste and razors, and all have free shampoo and soap. They treat you like a customer, not a patient. $5.00 worth of tips a day will have the entire staff scrambling to help you. There is a city bus stop out front, and seniors ride free. The handicap bus will also pick you up (if you fake a decent limp). To meet other nice people, call a church bus on Sundays. For a change of scenery, take the airport shuttle bus and eat at one of the nice restaurants there. While you're at the airport, fly somewhere. Otherwise, the cash keeps building up. It takes months to get into decent nursing homes. Holiday Inn will take your reservation today. And you are not stuck in one place forever, you can move from Inn to Inn, or even from city to city. Want to see Hawaii? They have a Holiday Inn there, too. TV broken? Light bulbs need changing? Need a mattress replaced? No problem. They fix everything and apologize for the inconvenience. The Inn has a night security person and daily room service. The maid checks if you are OK. If not, they will call the undertaker or an ambulance. If you fall and break a hip, Medicare will pay for the hip, and Holiday Inn will upgrade you to a suite for the rest of your life. And no worries about visits from family. They will always be glad to find you, and probably check in for a few days mini-vacation. The grandkids can use the pool. What more can you ask for? So, when I reach the golden age I'll face it with a grin. Just forward all my emails to the Holiday Inn!" Upon telling this story at a dinner with friends and too much red wine, we came up with even more benefits the Holiday Inn provides to retirees: Most standard rooms have coffee makers, reclining chairs, and satellite TV — all you need to enjoy a cozy afternoon. After a movie and a good nap, you can check on your children (free local phone calls), then take a stroll to the lounge or restaurant where you meet new and exotic people every day. Many Holiday Inns even feature live entertainment on the weekends. Often they have special offers, too, like the Kids Eat Free Program. You can invite your grandkids over after school to have a free dinner with you. Just tell them not to bring more than three friends. Pick a Holiday Inn where they allow pets, and your best friend can keep you company as well. If you want to travel, but are a bit skittish about unfamiliar surroundings, at a Holiday Inn you'll always feel at home because wherever you go, the rooms all look the same. And if you're getting a little absent-minded in your old days, you never have to worry about not finding your room — your electronic key fits only one door and the helpful desk clerk is on duty 24/7. Being perma-skeptics, we called a Holiday Inn to check this story out — and are happy to report that they were positively giddy at the idea of us checking in for a year or more. They even offered to negotiate the rate (we could have easily knocked them down to $40 a night!). See you at the Inn! [Collected on the Internet, 2003] With the average cost for a Nursing Home per DAY reaching $188.00 there IS a BETTER way! I have ascertained that I can get a nice enough room at the Holiday Inn for around $65.00 & that leaves $123.00 a day for beer,or wine, food, room service, laundry, gratuities, & special TV movies. There is a swimming pool, an exercise room, a lounge, washer, dryer, etc. Most have free toothpaste & razors & all have free shampoo & soap. Super 8 is even more economical as they offer a free breakfast each morning. There may be a wait to get to that first floor room, but that's okay, it takes MONTHS to get into decent nursing homes. There is a Senior bus, the handicap bus, if you can fake a believable limp, a church bus or van, cabs & a regular bus as well. The Inn has security & if someone sees you drop over an ambulance is called for you & should you break a hip, the American way is to sue. What more can one ask for?! As a bonus they all have AARP & other senior discounts, so when I reach that point... Help me keep my grin And just check my old bones in... into the nearest.........Holiday Inn! -->

Origins:   Although the "cruise ship" recounting has become the more widespread, the earlier form taken by this piece of e-lore featured not a luxury liner but a hotel. In 2003 this waggish diatribe against the cost of nursing home care had its writer swearing to check into a Holiday Inn when the grey hairs became too many. By 2004, some of the numbered items now found in the "cruise ship" tale were in place, albeit in a version that claimed Holiday Inn rather than Princess as substitute elder care housing (e.g., "TV broken? Light bulb need changing? Need to have the mattress replaced? No problem! They will fix everything and apologize for your inconvenience"). By 2005 more numbered items had been added, including some cruise-specific ones (e.g., "There is always a doctor on board" and "And don't forget, when you die, they just dump you over the side at no charge").

Also by 2005, what had begun as one writer's claim about his or her fanciful future plans had come to be presented as the actual remarks of an old woman living that life on a cruise ship. It is at this intersection that folklore and reality: while the account of the "elderly lady" has clearly evolved from earlier pieces about pie-in-the-sky retirement plans involving Holiday Inn, some people of advanced years have indeed made their homes on cruise ships.

Bea Muller, an 86-year-old retiree, took up residence on Cunard's Queen Elizabeth 2 on 5 January 2000. Her husband had passed away while the couple was on a world cruise eleven months earlier, and rather than opt for a retirement home, Mrs. Muller sold her house and possessions and booked herself onto the ship.

Instead of submitting a monthly or yearly fee, in 2001 Muller was reported to be paying as she went, booking one cruise after another. Thanks to her frequent traveler discounts, her overall costs amounted to about $5,000 a month. (Cruise prices have increased since then, which is something those entertaining similar plans should keep in mind. Also, Muller's accommodations were small and windowless: a 10x10 foot cabin that barely fits a bed, radio, and television, with a bathroom smaller than the average closet found in a typical home.)

Its cramped quarters aside, Muller was happy with her life aboard a ship. "I've got full-time maid service, great dining rooms, doctors, medical center (where she volunteers), a spa, beauty salon, computer center, entertainment, cultural activities and, best of all, dancing and bridge." (Muller passed away in 2013, and the Queen Elizabeth 2 was retired from service in 2008.)

Bea Muller was not the first long-time cruiser: Cunard had a previous guest, Clair MacBeth, who lived aboard ship for 14 years.

As to whether living out one's golden years aboard a cruise ship is a viable alternative to spending them in a retirement home, a geriatrician at Northwestern University says such a plan is a feasible and cost-effective alternative to assisted-living facilities. Dr. Lee Lindquist, an instructor at Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, compared the costs (over a 20-year life expectancy) of moving to an assisted-living facility, a nursing home and a cruise ship, including the expense of treating acute illnesses, Medicare reimbursement and other factors. She determined that the net cost of cruise-ship living was only about $2,000 more than the alternatives ($230,000 versus $228,000) and offered a higher quality of service.

"Cruise ships offer such a range of amenities — such as three meals a day, often with escorts to meals if needed, room service, entertainment, accessible halls and cabins, housekeeping and laundry services and physicians on board — that they could actually be considered a floating assisted-living facility," says Lindquist.

Lindquist says the plan would work best for seniors who need a minimal amount of care. "Seniors who enjoy travel, have good or excellent cognitive function but require some assistance with activities of daily living are the ideal candidates for cruise-ship care. Just as with assisted living, if residents became acutely ill or got to the point that they needed a higher level of care, they would have to leave."

Although Lindquist's findings would seem to support the premise of it being cheaper to live on a luxury liner than in a retirement home, we'd want to examine her research vis-a-vis the types of care facilities she looked at and the cruise-ship costs she factored in before we'd feel comfortable about offering an opinion on her assessment. (She might have compared only very expensive retirement homes against the cheapest accommodations offered on ships that are less than well thought of, for example.)

However, whatever the validity of Lindquist's findings, cost is but one of the elements to the choice of where to reside after retirement. Golden agers who decide to make their permanent homes on cruise ships sacrifice proximity to family and friends; their nearest and dearest are no longer just a short car ride away. Those devoted to their children and grandchildren might well deem that too high a price to pay, no matter what the spreadsheet says about the relative financial costs. Likewise, those who lack progeny but who are involved in their communities or who are part of a number of strong friendships may not want to opt for the vagabond life, because it would mean abandoning that which gives them joy.

Also, life on a cruise ship means one acquaintance after another, but no permanent ongoing connections of any depth. Fellow passengers disembark to return to their regular lives at the termination of their one- or two-week holidays, which means friendships struck up with them land in the "We'll keep in touch" bin very quickly. As for staff, while serial cruisers can strike up deeply affable relationships with some of the line's employees, these rapports are inherently limited by their very nature: no matter how close such associations appear to be, ships' employees are required to be deferential to paying passengers, so the friendship-critical element of honesty can never be part of such dealings. Making a cruise ship one's permanent address, therefore, will not be for everyone. While those at ease with a steady diet of the superficial will thrive, those who require the comfort of at least a few real friendships will likely feel lonely even though they live among crowds.

Ellis Nutt, Amy.   "State and Regional News."     The Associated Press.   19 September 2001.

Vann, Korky.   "Life As an Eternal Cruise."     Hartford Courant.   2 March 2005   (p. D3).

By Barbara Mikkelson

Article tags.

Couple retires to live on cruise ships because it's 'cheaper than a nursing home'

It's actually a lot cheaper than assisted living..

A couple is spending their retirement stress-free on cruise ships.

The cost of living in the United States has gone up so much in recent years that living on a cruise ship has become a reasonable idea for some retirees. When Nancy and Robert Houchens of Charlottesville, Virginia, retired, they decided to sell almost everything they had and live out their golden years hopping from cruise ship to cruise ship.

"We had a 3,000-square-foot home full of furniture...and everything we own now would fit in the back of a pickup truck," Robert told USA Today.

“We sold all of our estates except for a little condominium we have in Florida, so when we get too old to cruise, we have somewhere to live,” Nancy added. “And we did keep two vehicles, and what we kept is in half of (Robert's mother's storage unit), which is, I don't know, 10x10 or something. We just walked away from everything.”

Life on a cruise ship is stress-free for the couple because their needs are taken care of on the ship. "It's been great. I don't cook. I don't clean," Nancy told the Miami Herald.

The couple has found that living on a cruise ship isn’t as expensive as some may assume. Even though inflation has driven up the cost of travel in the U.S., it hasn’t significantly impacted the cruise industry.

“It's much cheaper than a nursing home or assisted living. It was just a good fit for us. It's a good fit for a lot of people,” Robert told the Miami Herald.

The couple plans their trips differently than someone who is going on vacation. “We look for the best deal, not the destination,” Nancy told Cruise Passenger.

The couple initially planned to spend $4,000 a month living on the ships. “Our original budget was $4,000 a month. This included gratuities. Of course, things are more expensive now, so that budget has had to increase a little. Depending on where we go, we may or may not need the internet,” she told Cruise Passenger.

“Our phone plan covers most everywhere for 25 cents a minute to call with free internet and texting,” Nancy continued. “We have an annual travel insurance plan, and one of our credit cards also has travel insurance.”

For the Houchens, living on board a cruise ship is definitely cheaper than assisted living. According to the 2020 Genworth Cost of Care Survey , the average monthly cost per person to live in assisted living in Virginia is $5,250 a month, which would cost Houchens over $10,000 a month as a couple.

Further, the roughly $4,000 the couple spends a month includes food, and they don’t have to bother paying for a car. They also try to book their cruises consecutively so they don’t waste money paying for expensive hotels when transferring between cruise lines.

Last July, the Houchens celebrated their 1,000th day sailing with Carnival Cruise Line since the 1980s, and they look forward to countless more days at sea with each other and the new friends they’ve made on their never-ending cruise.

“We cruise Carnival because of the people,” Richard told Travel Pulse. “It isn’t the destinations for us anymore, it’s the journey—and the biggest part of the journey is the people.”

This article originally appeared on 7.19.23

• Couple says living on a floating cabin saves a ton of money and is great for their mental health ›
• 28-year-old buys cruise ship apartment because it's less than renting and he can see the world ›
• A couple in their 50s live permanently on a cruise ship because it's cheaper than a mortgage ›
• Retired couple books 51 back-to-back cruises - Upworthy ›
• Woman goes on 9 month cruise after double mastectomy - Upworthy ›
• Student flies to college bi-weekly to save on rent - Upworthy ›
• Retired couple lives on cruise ships - Upworthy ›

3 organic recipes that feed a family of 4 for under $7 a serving

O organics is the rare brand that provides high-quality food at affordable prices..

A woman cooking up a nice pot of pasta.

Over the past few years, rising supermarket prices have forced many families to make compromises on ingredient quality when shopping for meals. A recent study published by Supermarket News found that 41% of families with children were more likely to switch to lower-quality groceries to deal with inflation.

By comparison, 29% of people without children have switched to lower-quality groceries to cope with rising prices.

Despite the current rising costs of groceries, O Organics has enabled families to consistently enjoy high-quality, organic meals at affordable prices for nearly two decades. With a focus on great taste and health, O Organics offers an extensive range of options for budget-conscious consumers.

O Organics launched in 2005 with 150 USDA Certified Organic products but now offers over 1,500 items, from organic fresh fruits and vegetables to organic dairy and meats, organic cage-free certified eggs, organic snacks, organic baby food and more. This gives families the ability to make a broader range of recipes featuring organic ingredients than ever before.

“We believe every customer should have access to affordable, organic options that support healthy lifestyles and diverse shopping preferences,” shared Jennifer Saenz, EVP and Chief Merchandising Officer at Albertsons, one of many stores where you can find O Organics products. “Over the years, we have made organic foods more accessible by expanding O Organics to every aisle across our stores, making it possible for health and budget-conscious families to incorporate organic food into every meal.”

With some help from our friends at O Organics, Upworthy looked at the vast array of products available at our local store and created some tasty, affordable and healthy meals.

Here are 3 meals for a family of 4 that cost $7 and under, per serving. (Note: prices may vary by location and are calculated before sales tax.)

O Organic’s Tacos and Refried Beans ($6.41 Per Serving)

Few dishes can make a family rush to the dinner table quite like tacos. Here’s a healthy and affordable way to spice up your family’s Taco Tuesdays.

Prep time: 2 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Total time: 22 minutes

Ingredients :

1 lb of O Organics Grass Fed Ground Beef ($7.99)

1 packet O Organics Taco Seasoning ($2.29)

O Organics Mexican-Style Cheese Blend Cheese ($4.79)

O Organics Chunky Salsa ($3.99)

O Organics Taco Shells ($4.29)

1 can of O Organics Refried Beans ($2.29)

Instructions :

1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly browned; remove any excess grease.

2. Add 1 packet of taco seasoning to beef along with water [and cook as directed].

3. Add taco meat to the shell, top with cheese and salsa as desired.

4. Heat refried beans in a saucepan until cooked through, serve alongside tacos, top with cheese.

O Organics Hamburger Stew ($4.53 Per Serving)

Busy parents will love this recipe that allows them to prep in the morning and then serve a delicious, slow-cooked stew after work.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 7 hours

Total time: 7 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs O Organics Gold Potatoes ($4.49)

3 O Organics Carrots ($2.89)

1 tsp onion powder

I can O Organics Tomato Paste ($1.25)

2 cups water

1 yellow onion diced ($1.00)

1 clove garlic ($.50)

1/4 tsp pepper

2 tsp Italian seasoning or oregano

Instructions:

2. Transfer the cooked beef to a slow cooker with the potatoes, onions, carrots and garlic.

3. Mix the tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, onion powder and Italian seasoning in a separate bowl.

4. Drizzle the mixed sauce over the ingredients in the slow cooker and mix thoroughly.

5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low for 7 to 8 hours, or until the potatoes are soft. Dish out into bowls and enjoy!

O Organics Ground Beef and Pasta Skillet ($4.32 Per Serving)

This one-pan dish is for all Italian lovers who are looking for a saucy, cheesy, and full-flavored comfort dish that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.

Cook time: 25 minutes

Total time: 27 minutes

1 tbsp. olive oil

2 tsp dried basil

1 tsp garlic powder

1 can O Organics Diced Tomatoes ($2.00)

1 can O Organics Tomato Sauce ($2.29)

1 tbsp O Organics Tomato Paste ($1.25)

2 1/4 cups water

2 cups O Organics Rotini Pasta ($3.29)

1 cup O Organics Mozzarella cheese ($4.79)

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up as it cooks.

2. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and garlic powder

3. Add tomato paste, sauce and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in water and bring to a light boil.

4. Add pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Remove the lid, sprinkle with cheese and allow it to cool.

• Make a complete (and healthy) Friendsgiving dinner in less than an hour ›
• Food hacker makes two steak dinners for $10 with Dollar Tree ingredients. Why are some people mad? ›
• Viral chef makes meals under $10 to demonstrate how you can get ... ›

UPS driver shares his weekly paycheck, and now everyone wants to apply

People are shocked to find out how much delivery drivers make..

People were shocked to find out how much Skyler Stutzman earned as a UPS driver

People are seriously considering switching careers after finding out how much can be made as a UPS delivery driver .

Back in October, Skyler Stutzman , an Oregon-based UPS delivery driver went viral after sharing his weekly pay stub on TikTok.

In the clip, Stutzman showed that for 42 hours of work, and at a pay rate of $44.26 per hour, he earned $2,004 before taxes, and ultimately took home $1,300 after deductions.

This both shocked the nearly 12 million viewers who saw the video…not to mention it stirred their jealousy a bit.

Several couldn’t help but compare Stutzman’s salary to their own—especially those in professions requiring degrees and certifications.

“Not me realizing that a UPS driver makes more than I do. 20 years in my field with a degree!” one person lamented.

Another added, “$44? I’m a dang nurse only making $32 🤦♀️”

@skylerleestutzman UPS Driver Paystub Breakdown… #upspay   #upswages   #teamsters   #ups   ♬ original sound - Skyler Stutzman

Many even joked (or perhaps half -joked) about applying to become drivers themselves. But as Stutzman pointed out in multiple follow-up videos, earning his rate takes patience.

Stutzman added that, depending on the location, you would be required to work in a UPS warehouse before working as a driver. So while his paycheck might have you considering taking on the job yourself, just know that it’s not exactly taking the easy route. And we haven’t even touched on the amount of manual labor that goes into the job…rain or shine.

Stutzman also said that he shared his current paycheck in the spirit of transparency, which is a value that the teamsters upheld as they fought for increased wages and better working conditions earlier this year.

@skylerleestutzman Here are my THEORETICAL thoughts… “Why would you show your paystub like that?” #upsdriver   #ups   #upswages   #teamster   #upspay   ♬ original sound - Skyler Stutzman

After months of tense negotiations, as well as a threat to enact what would have been the largest single employer strike in U.S. history, disrupting deliveries across the country, the postal workers union reached an agreement with UPS.

The deal included air conditioning and ventilation improvements to delivery vehicles as well as full-time UPS drivers earning an average of $170,000 in annual pay, plus benefits. By the end of the contract, part-time union drivers would also make at least $25.75 per hour while receiving full health care and pension benefits,” according to UPS CEO Carol Tomé .

From Stutzman’s perspective , his earnings shouldn’t cause envy among those in other industries, but reflect a shared need for increased wages across the board to keep up with inflation.

Big takeaways here: earning good money doesn’t always require a degree, unions are powerful, don’t underestimate the value of skilled labor…and UPS drivers deserve respect.

This article originally appeared on 12.12.23

• Delivery driver's reaction to snacks left for him shows how a little kindness goes a long way ›
• People are loving this Amazon delivery driver for warning a woman that her house is 'unsafe' ›
• Texas UPS driver proudly explains why he never helps his wife do any chores ›
• 12 facts about UPS drivers - Upworthy ›

Now's your chance to help someone doing good in your community win $1000 towards the charity of their choice

Upworthy and p&g are back with the #actsofgood awards..

Three winners will be selected to receive $1000 donated to the charity of their choice.

Doing good is its own reward, but sometimes recognizing these acts of kindness helps bring even more good into the world. That’s why we’re excited to partner with P&G again on the #ActsOfGood Awards.

The #ActsOfGood Awards recognize individuals who actively support their communities. It could be a rockstar volunteer, an amazing community leader, or someone who shows up for others in special ways.

Do you know someone in your community doing #ActsOfGood? Nominate them between April 24 th -June 3 rd here . Three winners will receive $1,000 dedicated to the charity of their choice, plus their story will be highlighted on Upworthy’s social channels. And yes, it’s totally fine to nominate yourself!

We want to see the good work you’re doing and most of all, we want to help you make a difference.

While every good deed is meaningful, winners will be selected based on how well they reflect Upworthy and P&G’s commitment to do #ActsOfGood to help communities grow.

That means be on the lookout for individuals who:

Strengthen their community

Make a tangible and unique impact

Go above and beyond day-to-day work

The #ActsOfGood Awards are just one part of P&G’s larger mission to help communities around the world to grow. For generations, P&G has been a force for growth—making everyday products that people love and trust—while also being a force for good by giving back to the communities where we live, work, and serve consumers. This includes serving over 90,000 people affected by emergencies and disasters through the Tide Loads of Hope mobile laundry program and helping some of the millions of girls who miss school due to a lack of access to period products through the Always #EndPeriodPoverty initiative.

Visit upworthy.com/actsofgood and fill out the nomination form for a chance for you or someone you know to win. It takes less than ten minutes to help someone make an even bigger impact.

• 23 years ago he rescued a toddler from a burning building. Now he just met the grown man's son. ›
• Selfless Home Depot employees came together to find a man who lost $700 on aisle 22 ›
• Man returns woman's lost purse to her house and their lovely chat was caught on camera ›

Research shows that spicy foods may help you live longer

Breakthrough research is great news for buffalo wing addicts..

Chicken wings at Anchor Bar in Buffalo-Niagara Airport.

There's an arms race happening at your local wing joint. According to QSR , it's because Americans have strayed from eating traditional fare and are embracing spicier ethnic foods such as Mexican and Asian cuisine.

A 2013 Consumer Flavor Trend Report found that a majority of Americans (54 percent) prefer hot or spicy foods, including sauces, condiments, and dips, compared with 48 percent in 2011 and 46 percent in 2009. Now, a new report out of China shows that this new trend in American eating habits could prolong our life spans.

Researchers discovered the connection between spicy food and longevity after studying the results of a survey of 500,000 Chinese people taken from 2004 to 2008. The survey asked people about their dietary habits, including the amount of chili they consumed on a weekly basis. When researchers checked back in with respondents seven years later, those who consumed spicy foods once a week had a 10 percent lesser chance of death. And those who ate spicy foods three to seven times a week had a 14 percent lesser chance of death.

"We know something about the beneficial effects of spicy foods basically from animal studies and very small-sized human studies," Lu Qi, associate professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, told Time . Studies have shown that capsaicin, the active ingredient in spicy foods, is linked to a lower risk of cancer as well as heart and respiratory diseases. It also has a positive effect on metabolism, weight, and gut bacteria.

"It appears that increasing your intake moderately, just to one to two or three to five times a week, shows a very similar protective effect," Qi said. "Just increase moderately. That's maybe enough." So, if you want an extra dab of Tabasco on your tacos, go for it. But you might not want to eat a dozen fried, greasy buffalo wings every night—that will probably cancel out the positive effects of the chili.

This article originally appeared on 09.19.17

• A body temperature expert explains why some people are always ... ›
• Skipping dinner may help you live longer - Upworthy ›
• ​Heinz triggers social media over ketchup going in the fridge - Upworthy ›

6 states where the minimum wage and cost of living offer the best bang for your buck

The highest state minimum wage in the u.s. is now $16.28 per hour, but some cities are even higher..

State minimum wages range from $7.25/hr to $17.00/hr in 2024.

Public discourse about minimum wage and living wages has been ongoing for years, with people debating whether the government should mandate a minimum hourly pay for workers .

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the first federal minimum wage law in 1938 , setting the lowest wage a worker could be paid at 25 cents per hour. Nearly a century later, the federal minimum wage is $7.25/hr, holding steady since 2009, with people lobbying to raise it to at least $15/hr for over a decade. However, in addition to federal law, each state has its own laws, a handful of which establish a state minimum wage higher than $15 , a handful of which don't have a set minimum wage at all and everything in between.

Cost of living has also been a hot topic as inflation has squeezed everyone's wallets and certain cities and states have become utterly unaffordable , especially for people in low-wage jobs or who who are just starting out in their careers. So how do minimum wage and cost of living correlate state-by-state? Are there any sweet spots with a high(er) minimum wage and low(er) cost of living?

While there’s no perfect storm of super low cost of living and super high minimum wage—for instance, Washington, D.C. has the highest state minimum wage at $17/hr, but housing costs 140% more than the national average—there are some states where the ratio is far more favorable than others. According to Insider Monkey , here are the top six states where you can get the most bang for your minimum wage buck.

6. New Mexico

The Land of Enchantment offers a relatively decent living for its $12/hr minimum wage thanks to the state's below average cost of living. According to Rent Cafe , housing in New Mexico is 8% lower than the national average, monthly utilities are 9% lower, food is 4% lower, transportation is 3% lower and healthcare, goods and services are 2% lower.

According to Smart Asset, Albuquerque, New Mexico ranks as No. 10 in U.S. cities where minimum wage goes the furthest.

5. New Jersey

The Garden State's relatively higher-than-average cost of living is counteracted by relatively solid minimum wage of $14.13/hr . Most of the cost of living in New Jersey is wrapped up in housing, which is 30% higher than the national average, according to Rent Cafe, and utilities, which are 12% higher. Goods and services are 5% higher, but healthcare is 2% lower than the national average. Food and transportation are 1% and 2% higher, respectively.

4. Connecticut

With both a cost of living and minimum wage slightly higher than New Jersey, Connecticut rolls in at No. 4 with a $15/hr minimum wage. Where the Constitution State hits hardest is in utilities, which Rent Cafe places at 30% higher than the national average, and housing, which is 24% higher. Healthcare and goods and services are both 9% higher, while transportation and food are just 1% and 2% above average.

3. Missouri

The Show-Me State says, "Show me the money!" with its somewhat respectable $12/hr minimum wage, which goes pretty far with its relatively low cost of living. Housing is the biggest cost benefit Missouri offers at 18% lower than the national average . But utilities, food, healthcare, and goods and services are also all below average, with only transportation landing right at the national average.

Additionally, St. Louis clocked in at No. 5 for a minimum wage real-world value of $13.68 when adjusting for the city's lower-than-average cost of living.

2. Washington

With the highest state minimum wage in the nation (unless you count Washington, D.C.), Washington's $16.48/hr puts it in second place when accounting for cost of living. Make no mistake, Washington isn't cheap overall , with a cost of living 15% higher than the national average. Housing and transportation hit hard at 29% and 27% higher than the national average, respectively. Healthcare is pricey as well at 20% higher than average. Food costs 12% more, but utilities clock in at 7% less than the national average.

Two cities in Washington hit the top 15 for highest real minimum wage value , though, with Seattle at No. 13 and Spokane at No. 2.

These six states offer the best minimum wage to cost of living ratio.

Created with mapchart.net

1. Illinois

If you want the best bang for your minimum wage buck, head to the Prairie State with its $13/hr minimum wage and 8% lower than average cost of living. Housing in Illinois is 22% lower than average and utilities are 10% lower. The only expense that comes in higher than average for Illinois is transportation at 3% above average, which isn't enough to keep it out of the top spot.

However, there are some minimum wage sweet spots in certain U.S. cities that aren't reflected in these state rankings. According to Smart Asset, Denver, CO, is the city where minimum wage goes the farthest in the nation. Colorado comes in at a respectable 7th place in state minimum-wage-to-cost-of-living ratio, but Denver has its own mandatory minimum wage of $18.29/hr .

A citywide minimum wage is part of what puts Seattle at the No. 13 spot on that same list. Seattle is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. , but its $19.97 minimum wage for most workers changes the ratio in its favor.

Other cities in the top 10 include Buffalo, NY; Minneapolis, MN; Tucson, AZ; St. Paul, MN; Phoenix, AZ and Stockton, CA.

The minimum wage conversation may vary widely across the U.S., with different costs of living and different state laws on the books. But if you're looking to move someplace where your wage will go the furthest, these six states will likely be your best bet to check out first.

• Paycheck for a McDonald's worker is very small. - Upworthy ›
• Economist says that the U.S. minimum wage should be $26 and proves it with a simple chart ›
• Australians have some wonderfully Aussie thoughts about the American minimum wage ›

Weird jobs most people don't even know exist that can actually make good money

There's a person who's whole job is just to take care of plants on movie and tv sets..

There are people who make a living smelling and tasting things.

When people ask kids what they want to be when they grow up, some common career themes usually emerge— doctor , firefighter, teacher, artist, computer programmer, architect, pilot, journalist and the like. These jobs are familiar to everyone, and even if we don't fully know the ins and out of what each job entails, we have a solid picture of what they do and why their job is important.

There are also less obvious jobs that we might not think of as dream careers but still know exist and are important, like mortician, plumber, garbage collector, truck driver or postal delivery person.

But there's also a whole world of jobs that most people have never heard of or even imagined—and some of them even pay surprisingly well. Here's a handful of weird jobs that people do without most of the world knowing.

Escort (but not that kind of escort)

The movies make much of "escorts" in our nation's capital, but this is a different kind of escort that involves having security clearance and being physically present. That's it.

"When you work as a government employee or contractor with a top secret clearance, after you retire or get laid off, you can work as an escort within classified facilities called SCIFs. Escorts are needed when an uncleared person needs to work in the SCIF. For example, it might be a top secret data center that needs an air conditioner repair. All the escort has to do is watch the repairman and stay with them throughout the visit. They usually just drag a chair over and sit there while getting paid damn good money." – BaconReceptacle

"One of the most quietly-frustrating months of my life was doing hard labor on a government building site as a construction worker, going like ~80 hours a week, and realizing the annoying escort I had who was sitting around all day watching us was making a significant amount more than me." – Few-Metal8010

Tasters and smellers

Some people get paid just to taste or smell things. Even pet food . (How does one get this job? Genuinely curious.)

"I used to be friends with one of Heineken's official tasters. She literally drank every day for work. Don't know how the pay was but she didn't seem broke." – curiousvegetables

"My sister in law is 'the nose' for yankee candle. When a vat of scented wax is ready, she sniffs it." – Loreo1964

"My mom used to work for a sensory company that was outsourced by huge brands to do taste, smell, texture testing. Once many years ago I got in on a hot pocket panel because their target market was teens. I made $20 and got a free hot pocket. She made good money though!" – brownbostonterrier

Hanging art is an art in itself.

Photo by ConvertKit on Unsplash

Professional picture hanger

Yep, the thing all of us do in our own homes for free (with varying levels of success) is an actual paid job for people in the art world . And some of them can make a pretty decent living at it.

"An old neighbor of mine was a picture hanging specialist contracted by many museums. He made 75K a year at the time (about 150K adjusted for inflation)." – Schwarzes__Loch

"A buddy of mine does this and makes great money. Most of the clients are rich people with private collections. They also pack and transport the artwork." – frankyseven

On the other end of the food business are the magical chemists who create the yummy flavors we enjoy in candies and other treats.

"My dad was a master flavorist. He made artificial flavors for candy, beverages and lots of other things. He made a LOT of money during his career." – Whoru87

"I'm an analytical chemist for a flavor company who (among other things) reverse engineers competitive flavors to give the flavor chemists insight lol.

Indeed they make bank.

Finding out how you can make a naturally derived ie citrus flavor taste the same every time when you have to source your extracts and oils from different places in the world, at different times of the year, while the stock might be a different age due to supply issues can be a lot more complex than one might think." – die_lahn

"It is my absolute dream job to be a certified flavor chemist/flavorist. Used to work under a couple at a very niche company (could only make fruit/menthol flavors), and recently moved into food industry thinking I’d be able to gain more experience in savory applications. Unfortunately that has not been the case for me so far. Wish they had more flavor houses hiring in Norcal! Learning directly under an expert is the only way to do it." – Successful-Ad5488

Someone has to keep the plants on set thriving.

Photo by Neha Godbole on Unsplash

Greensperson on film sets

There are actually a lot of jobs on film sets that people aren't aware of, but taking care of plants on sets full time is certainly not on most people's radar.

"I’m a greensperson in the film industry. I’m responsible for building and maintaining the plants and trees on a set." – Prospector_Steve

"In general many people sleep on behind the scenes jobs in Hollywood. It’s a good way to make money and you get to meet celebrities." – Immediate_Revenue_90

"A lot of filming locations are chosen based on the tax breaks the studio can get for filming there, and not on the 'correct' climate or biome. And sometimes, an outdoor scene will be shot on an indoor stage if an appropriate location can't be found which is safe, accessible, meets the needs of the camera positioning, etc.

A film/TV production is a massive, expensive machine, and often small details have to be sacrificed in order to keep it oiled and running smoothly. This isn't just true of the greens department, but all of them, really (costumes, props, etc.)" – ethacct

Organ runner

More commonly known as a "medical courier," this job entails transporting human organs (or tissue or blood) from place to place. Time is of the essence with an organ being transplanted, so this job requires being on call and knowing how to safely transport the goods. But according to at least one person on Reddit , it's a pretty sweet gig:

"I worked as an 'Organ deliverer.' Forgot the official title for around a year.

Job was simple I was stationed in the biggest hospital in my state. If an organ donation was received that needed to go to another hospital for a transplant it was my job to move it.

I was paid $40 an hour to most nights sit on my ass in the break room and watch TV or play on my phone. I'd probably only have to deliver something once a week at most. It was an okay job except that it was boring as shit, since the hospital I was 'Stationed' at did 95% of all the organ transplants in my state. And the other major hospital that did them was around 3 hours away and you wouldn't ever have to go up to north to it.

Lots of pay to sit around but well I wasn't exactly feeling fulfilled career wise." – Larcya

Bat tracking (and other urban wildlife tracking) is an important ecological job.

Photo by Clément Falize on Unsplash

Batman (or urban bat tracker, to be precise)

This might be the most poetic job description ever written:

"You ever heard of an urban bat tracker? That's me. I'm the guy who steps into the night when the city sleeps, tracking the unseen ballet of bats against the backdrop of empty offices and starlit skies. My job is a blend of science and solitude. Armed with detectors that translate bat echolocation into something audible, I map their flight, study their behavior, and contribute to research that's vital for urban ecosystem conservation. It's not just a job it's a commitment to understanding these misunderstood creatures of the night. The experience is surreal. As the world winds down, my work begins. I walk through parks and alleyways, under bridges and alongside rivers. The citys nocturnal pulse becomes my soundtrack - a car horn here, a distant laughter there, all underlined by the constant, rhythmic clicking of my bat detector. Each night is a lesson in patience and awe. Bats, these tiny, agile creatures, dart and dive in the darkness, almost like shadows flitting at the edge of my vision. There's a poetry in their flight, a kind of silent music that fills the night air. The pay is decetn, surprisingly. It's a niche field, and expertise in urban wildlife ecology can be hard to come by. But it's not the money that keeps me here. It's the moments of connection, the feeling of being a part of something bigger and wilder, right in the heart of the city. Sometimes the most extraordinary things are hidden in plain sight, waiting to be discovered in the quiet symphony of the night." – Local_dog91

There are so many more interesting jobs, from testing medical equipment to felting mini-golf courses to taking care of rich people's cars, homes and horses. If you're looking for work, keep your eyes and ears out for unusual opportunities. You just never know what kinds of careers you might stumble into.

• Jimmy Fallon asked people to share funny, weird or embarrassing stories from their bad summer jobs ›
• Young kids meet women in traditionally 'male' jobs and their reaction speaks volumes ›
• People share some unexpected jobs that aren't nearly as romantic as you'd think ›

When these drones zoom in over elephants and rhinos, they stop horrible things from happening

A shepherd watches over sheep. watching over elephants and rhinos not so easy..

Drone footage from the Aerial Shepherd.

This is a story about something really exciting.

Before I get into it, let me set the stage by explaining the terrible problem it's solving.

That's how long it'll be until the last wild elephants and rhinoceroses are gone.

100 of them are killed every day by poachers.

Even though elephants and rhinos are legally protected, the amount of money that can be made from the ivory in their tusks is just too much for some people to resist.

So poachers go after elephants and rhinos in secret. They kill them in out-of-the-way places that are hard to patrol, and they do it at night under the cover of darkness.

Every hour, another elephant or rhino family is broken forever.

Now the lindbergh foundation has come up with an idea about how to stop poachers., they've been testing their idea for two years now, and it really works..

Air Shepherd uses drones and computers to watch over elephants and rhinos the same way a shepherd protects his sheep.

It's an amazing international, hi-tech system.

The drones in Africa are decked out with normal and infrared cameras that see where the animals — and the poachers — are. Even in the dark of night.

That imagery is sent to computers in the U.S. Using special software, they send back flight plans to the drones that predict where the animals are headed, which keeps the drones on top of the poachers.

Local rangers are notified, and they sweep in on the poachers.

During the 600 tests they've run so far, precisely zero poaching has occurred.

It's a fantastic system., seven african countries have already requested help..

The Foundation has provided the seed money. They need contributions, though, so head over to the Air Shepherd site to see how you can get involved in this amazing project.

Please let your animal-loving friends know about this breakthrough program that could keep elephants and rhinos from going extinct. It's so exciting.

(Unfortunately, the Lindbergh Foundation's video has been removed from YouTube. But here's an NBC News report about the project.)

This article originally appeared on 03.12.15

• When these drones zoom in over elephants and rhinos, they stop horrible things from happening. ›
• What type of noise does a baby rhino make? It's probably different than you think. ›
• U.S. Marine veteran started 'VETPAW' to combat animal poachers in ... ›

Woman explains why she 'never returns' her shopping cart, sparking huge debate

27-year-old who died of cancer left behind final advice that left the internet in tears, people are baffled to find out they've been burning candles wrong their whole lives, family brings home the wrong dog from daycare until their cats saved the day, 8 life hacks that are so simple and effective it's surprising more people don't use them, woman’s bikini shot and caption become a manifesto on self-acceptance.

Is It Cheaper to Live on a Cruise Ship Than a Nursing Home?

By Robert Palmer

When it comes to deciding between living on a cruise ship or in a nursing home, it’s not always easy to decide which one is the more cost-effective choice. To help you make an informed decision, let’s examine the costs associated with each option.

Living on a Cruise Ship

Living on a cruise ship can be quite an enjoyable experience for many seniors. There are many activities onboard and plenty of social opportunities, as well as the chance to explore new places.

Of course, all of this comes at a cost. Cruise fares vary depending on the length of the voyage and the type of stateroom you choose, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 – $10,000 per person for a week-long cruise.

Living in a Nursing Home

Nursing homes provide seniors with around-the-clock care and assistance with daily activities such as bathing and dressing. They also typically offer various amenities such as meals, housekeeping services, recreational activities, and transportation.

The cost of nursing home care varies widely depending on location and type of care required, but it can range from $3,000 – $8,000 per month.

When comparing costs between living on a cruise ship and living in a nursing home it is clear that living in a nursing home is typically more affordable in the long run. However, living on a cruise ship may be more appealing for those who are looking for an adventure or who don’t need intensive medical care.

9 Related Question Answers Found

Is it really cheaper to live on a cruise ship, is it cheaper to retire on a cruise ship, is it cheaper to book a cruise on the ship, is it cheaper to book cruise excursions on the ship, is it cheaper to book your next cruise on the ship, is it cheaper to get married on a cruise ship, is a cruise ship safer than a plane, is it better to buy excursions through cruise ship, does working on a cruise ship pay well, backpacking - budget travel - business travel - cruise ship - vacation - tourism - resort - cruise - road trip - destination wedding - tourist destination - best places, london - madrid - paris - prague - dubai - barcelona - rome.

© 2024 LuxuryTraveldiva

FARR LAW FIRM

Protecting Seniors and their Families by Preserving Dignity, Quality of Life, and Financial Security.

Make a Payment

• Meet the Farr Law Firm Team
• Radio Interviews
• Legal Treatises and Scholarly Articles by Evan H. Farr
• Evan Farr in the Media
• The History of the Farr Law Firm
• TV Appearances

Honors and Awards

• Join our Team
• Meet the Critter Corner Team
• Revocable Living Trusts
• Wills and Probate
• Living Trust Plus® Medicaid Asset Protection Trust and Veterans Trust
• Dynasty Trusts / Spendthrift Trusts / Beneficiary Asset Protection
• Retirement Planning
• Powers of Attorney
• The 4 Needs Advance Medical Directive®
• Rental Property Protection: LLCs vs. Asset Protection Trusts
• Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts
• Charitable Remainder Trusts and Wealth Replacement Trust
• Charitable Lead Trusts
• Limited Liability Companies (LLC)
• Estate Planning for Parents with Young Children
• Estate Planning for Parents of Disabled Children
• Share Your Legacy Story – A Free Service for Our Clients
• Grandparents Contributing to 529 Plans
• Business Transition Planning
• What is Elder Law — Four Levels of Lifetime Protection Planning
• Life Care Planning Attorney
• Medicaid Complexity
• The Ethics of Medicaid Planning
• Living Trust Plus®
• The Ethics and Complexity of Medicaid Planning
• Living Trust Plus® Medicaid Asset Protection Trust
• Asset Protection for a Later Marriage – Trusts and Prenups
• Veterans Aid & Attendance
• Alzheimer's Planning
• Long-term Care Directive®
• Reverse Mortgage Planning to Pay for In-Home Care
• Child Protection Planning
• Medicare Appeals Attorney
• LGBT Elder Law
• Preplanning Your Funeral
• High Net Worth Planning — Asset Protection and Tax Avoidance
• The Quantum Trust Asset Protection Trust (Non-Medicaid)
• The Bridge Trust Asset Protection Trust (Non-Medicaid)
• Guardianship & Conservatorship
• Supported Decision-Making
• Special Trusts for Persons with Disabilities
• The Autism Cliff: Transition Planning for Young Adults with ASD
• Disability Planning
• Is it SSI or SSDI or DAC? What’s the Difference?
• Estate Planning for Parents of Children with Disabilities

Taxation of Special Needs Trusts

• Veterans Disability Benefits
• Social Security Disability Benefits
• Fiduciary Services
• Trust Administration
• Estate Administration
• Executor and Trustee Assistance
• Elder Law FAQ
• Living Trust Plus® FAQ
• Estate Planning FAQ
• Beneficiary Asset Protection Trusts FAQ
• Guardianship & Conservatorship of Children and Disabled Adults FAQ
• What is Long-Term Care FAQ
• Medicaid Expansion FAQ
• Long-Term Care Insurance FAQs
• Medicaid: The Perils of Gifting FAQ
• SSI and SSDI FAQ
• Social Security Disability (SSD) FAQs
• Social Security FAQ
• Prepaid Funerals FAQ
• Hybrid LTC Insurance Policies FAQ
• Storing Important Documents FAQ
• Pet Trusts FAQ

Estate Planning & Incapacity Planning

Comparison of elder law firms based on the size of the firm, more problems with beneficiary designations — usually beneficiary designations take precedence over your estate planning documents, but sometimes they don’t, caring for the pet of a loved one when they can no longer do so themselves, are transfer on death deeds a good alternative to estate planning, medicaid asset protection and veterans benefits planning, why medicaid planning is 100 percent ethical, critter corner: dispelling myths about medicaid, are va nursing homes free for veterans, hospitals must tell medicare patients if care is ‘observation’ only, special needs planning and guardianship/conservatorship, 529s and able accounts get a major boost , is the term “special needs” going out of style rethinking the terminology in light of the law, how can able accounts and special needs trusts work together, probate and trust administration, 10 biggest estate planning blunders of celebrities – don’t make these mistakes, ask the expert: what does it really mean to be named as an executor, understanding probate: the two types of probate, the nightmare of probate and how to avoid it.

• Long-Term Care Report
• Veteran’s Aid and Attendance Report
• Alzheimer’s Report
• Special Needs Report
• Guardianship & Conservatorship Report
• LGBTQ Planning Report
• Tax Brackets, Strategic Tax Bracket Management, IRMAA
• Key Elder Law Dollar Amounts – Medicaid / Medicare / SS Benefits
• Lifetime Protection Plan®
• The Aging Continuum
• Recommended Reading
• Medicaid Look-Back Documentation to Keep
• Longevity Calculators – Life Expectancy v. Longevity
• Trusted Referrals of Other Senior-Serving Professionals
• DocuBank Electronic Storage
• Tools and Resources
• States with Filial Responsibility Laws
• Helpful Links
• Upcoming Public Estate Planning & Elder Law Seminars
• Professional Seminars
• Webinar – How to Protect Your Assets from the Expenses of Probate and Long-term Care
• Webinar: The Ultimate Secret to Avoid Going Broke in a Nursing Home
• Webinar – Special Needs Planning
• Request a Speaker
• What Is Elder Law?
• Medicaid Asset Protection
• High Net Worth Asset Protection
• Fiduciary Svcs.
• Veterans Aid and Attendance
• Guardianship & Conservatorship

Seniors Should Consider Cruise Ships Rather than Nursing Homes

About 2 years ago my wife and I were on a cruise through the western Mediterranean aboard a Princess liner.  At dinner we noticed a senior lady sitting alone along the rail of the grand stairway in the main dining room. I also noticed that all the staff, ships officers, waiters, busboys, etc., all seemed very familiar with this lady. I asked our waiter who the lady was, expecting to be told that she owned the line, but he said he only knew that she had been on board for the last four cruises, back to back.

As we left the dining room one evening I caught her eye and stopped to say hello. We chatted and I said, “I understand you’ve been on this ship for the last four cruises.” She replied, “Yes, that’s true.” I stated, “I don’t understand” and she replied, without a pause, “It’s cheaper than a nursing home. So, there will be no nursing home in my future. When I get old and feeble, I am going to get on a Princess Cruise Ship. The average cost for a nursing home is $300 per day. I have checked on reservations at Princess and I can get a long term discount and senior discount price of $135 per day. That leaves $65 a day for:

• Gratuities, which will only be $10 per day.
• I will have as many as 10 meals a day if I can waddle to the restaurant, or I can have room service (which means I can have breakfast in bed every day of the week).
• Princess has as many as three swimming pools, a workout room, free washers and dryers, and shows every night
• They have free toothpaste and razors, and free soap and shampoo.
• They will even treat you like a customer, not a patient.
• An extra $5 worth of tips will have the entire staff scrambling to help you.
• I will get to meet new people every 7 or 14 days.
• T.V. broken? Light bulb need changing? Need to have the mattress replaced? No Problem! They will fix everything and apologize for your inconvenience.
• Clean sheets and towels every day, and you don’t even have to ask for them.

Now hold on for the best! Do you want to see South America, the Panama Canal, Tahiti, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, or name where you want to go? Princess will have a ship ready to go. So don’t look for me in a nursing home, just call shore to ship.

PS. And don’t forget, when you die, they just dump you over the side at no charge.”

The joke above is from , in honor of April Fools Day!  However, as in many jokes, there is some truth to it.

A Cruise Ship is Cheaper than a Nursing Home

For the past 11 years, Genworth has surveyed long term care costs across the country. In their most recent survey, the 2014 Cost of Care Survey, 14,800 nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult day health facilities and home care providers in 440 regions nationwide were surveyed, providing a comprehensive report. These are some of the findings for the Northern Virginia area and the Fredericksburg/Richmond area:

• The median cost of a private nursing home room in the Northern Virginia area has increased 8% to $112,968 a year ($120,709 a year in a recent NY Life Study). In the Fredericksburg/Richmond area, the cost increased 3% to $91,250.
• The median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home in the Northern Virginia area has increased 7% to $107,128 a year.  In the Fredericksburg/Richmond area, the cost increased 3% to $79,388.
• For assisted living facilities, the median rate increase was 5% to $48,930 a year in the Northern Virginia area. In the Fredericksburg/Richmond area, the cost increased 5% to $48,030.
• The median salary for the services of a home health aide was $45,760 a year in the Northern Virginia area. In the Fredericksburg/Richmond area, the median salary increased 1% to $41,184.
• The cost of adult day care, which provides support services in a protective setting during part of the day, increased 6% to $24,960 a year in Northern Virginia. In the Fredericksburg/Richmond area, the cost decreased 1% to $41,184.

As you can tell from the survey data, long term care can have a major financial impact. And with a cruise costing $70-$200 on average per night for seniors, depending on accommodations, cruises are, in fact, a lot cheaper than nursing homes in the Metro DC area.

So why not live on a cruise ship?

• You can’t bring more much more than a suitcase worth of items on a cruise, so forget about packing your favorite possessions, such as your favorite recliner or a framed family portrait bigger than an 8 x 10, if they don’t fit in your suitcase.
• Passengers must disembark when the cruise ends, and make arrangements while the ship is at port. Keeping these temporary arrangements month after month would be difficult for most people.
• Seniors who move to assisted living facilities and nursing homes require help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, toileting, dressing, and grooming. You may be able to get breakfast in bed on a cruise ship, but the staff is most likely not prepared or able to help you dress or bathe.
• Many seniors have a high-risk of falling because of mobility concerns. A cruise ship certainly wouldn’t be the best place to live for such a person, as even the largest ships can list violently in bad weather.
• For those who might want to stay close to family and friends, a cruise ship would not be a good option, as most of your loved ones will not be able to visit on a regular basis.
• On-board medical personnel likely won’t include geriatric specialists, and they probably won’t be trained to assist in major emergencies. If an emergency does arise that they’re not ready for and you can’t wait till the ship reaches the next port, your ambulance ride is almost certainly going to be an airlift, which can be catastrophically expensive and logistically problematic.
• If a passenger or passengers have a contagious illness in a confined environment like a cruise ship – an emergency might be more of a likelihood than we care to consider.

 Planning for Long-Term Care

As you can see, cruise ships aren’t an ideal place for seniors to live, but may be nice for a vacation. Seventy percent of the population will need long-term care in the future. With an average cost of a nursing home in Metro DC is $12-$14,000 a month—an amount that can be devastating to most families—it is definitely prudent to plan ahead. The Living Trust PlusTM maintains much of the flexibility of a revocable living trust, but protects your assets from the expenses and difficulties of probate PLUS the expenses of long-term care while you’re alive, PLUS lawsuits and a multitude of other financial risks during your lifetime. Read more on our website.

Life Care Planning and Medicaid Asset Protection is the process of protecting your assets from having to be spent down in connection with entry into a nursing home, while also helping ensure that you or your loved one get the best possible care and maintain the highest possible quality of life, whether at home, in an assisted living facility, or in a nursing home. Call one of our offices to make an appointment for a consultation:

Fairfax Elder Law: 703-691-1888 Fredericksburg Elder Law: 540-479-1435 Rockville Elder Law: 301- 519-8041 DC Elder Law: 202-587-2797

Evan H. Farr is a 4-time Best-Selling author in the field of Elder Law and Estate Planning. In addition to being one of approximately 500 Certified Elder Law Attorneys in the Country, Evan is one of approximately 100 members of the Council of Advanced Practitioners of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and is a Charter Member of the Academy of Special Needs Planners.

Testimonials

We hired Evan Farr to create our entire set of estate documents. I would work with him again and can recommend him without reservation.

Evan Farr and his firm have been a godsend to my family. He was so easy to speak with about hard family topics.

My pension was not enough to cover my wife’s nursing home expenses. If it weren’t for the Medicaid [that the Farr Firm helped me qualify for] I don’t know what would have happened.

Thanks to your firm, we still have our home, a few dollars still in the bank, and most importantly, my wife is able to be in our home with the help that she needs.

You really “wowed” me with the amount of homework you had done prior to our first meeting and with every explanation and thorough and gentle guidance that you made during the entire process.

Evan Farr, is, in my view, one of Virginia’s foremost authorities on the subject of elder law… Use his website – get educated – then call him!

First class counsel; very knowledgeable and knows his area. Likeable guy.

Evan Farr is one of the foremost authorities in elder law in the State of Virginia. He has a true passion for his clients and solid competence. He is a solid choice for any individual or family seeking his services.

Evan is an extremely knowledgeable Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney. He is very approachable and down to earth.

Order Evan's Books

Free Special Reports

Get in Touch

Other elder law blogs, serving areas.

• Fairfax, VA
• Fredericksburg, VA
• Rockville, MD
• Annapolis, MD
• Washington DC
• Arlington, VA
• Alexandria, VA
• Leesburg, VA

Free Newsletter Signup

Google Reviews

We had an extensive interview over zoom with Mr Farr. We received all the papers we needed and some details needed to be changed which were done right away ... read more and resent. The attorneys we met with at the office the day we signed our wills and all the other documents were knowledgeable and explained the entire process very well. We would certainly recommend them for any senior person making a will.

Evan Farr and his law firm helped me immensely in the regaining control of my life.I now have control of my POA and, finances , my assets and my most ... read more importantly my medical care.I have a 100% disability rating through the VA.My parents were extremely upset that I was regaining my autonomy again, that was swiped away by my parents; with this disability of Multiple Sclerosis.They wanted complete and total control of my life. My money, my disability pension, my assets, my vehicle.My parents were even making me put the title of the vehicle in their name.I was under duress, living in his house, he made me sign everything over to him.I basically signed my life away.Mr. Farr helped me regain my self confidence , my self worth and my God given autonomy.Thank you Mr, Farr!

We have a couple of adult children who are on the autism spectrum. They're going to need guardianship, shelter, and money to help support them long after we're no ... read more longer here, so we saw Evan Farr for help preparing wills, a family trust, and a special needs to protect them. Mr. Farr did a really excellent job and brought several critical issues to our attention that we wouldn't even have considered without his guidance. I think our family's situation is set up to be as secure as possible thanks to his help. The rest of the staff was also friendly and helpful. Thank you! We plan to use the firm again if/when we need help and will recommend them to our friends if they need estate planning.

We chose Farr based on the special needs aspect of our trust which we were updating. Our original lawyer was unavailable, but Farr was an excellent choice to replace ... read more them. The Farr employees were extremely patient with us as I took a very long time to finally finish the actions. They provided excellent responses to our law and tax questions. We are planning to use them when we are sure we are ready to have our son's guardianship concluded.

Our experience with the Farr Law Firm was professional, informative and pleasant. Our primary contact, Sara, answered all our questions regarding estate planning and our revocable trust. The ... read more staff was courteous and professional.

Farr Law Firm headed by Evan Farr gave exemplary service on difficult, nut necessary topics. The entire process was stress-free and accommodating. The firm uses technology to assist ... read more in reviews and edits and delivers efficient quality service. They also made excellent suggestions in providing ancillary services appropriate to our age group such as funeral and burial planning. The staff from lawyers, paralegals and administrative staff was efficient, timely and responsive. They provided ample time for review and discussion and delivered a quality product that suited our needs. I would recommend them without reservation for anything related to elder care, financial planning, estates and trusts as well as wills.

I can say nothing but good things about the Farr Law Firm. Tony is outstanding. He takes the time to answer all my questions in great detail. Sara too, is ... read more a very knowledgeable attorney. I highly recommend both of them. Great team.

I found the people I dealt with to be knowledgeable and very willing to answer all questions prior to finalizing my documents. I would recommend those seeking to prepare ... read more for the challenges of later life to contact them.

I met with Mr. Evan Farr & Ms. Sara Entis and both were very informative & knowledgeable in assisting me through the complex trust process. Also, with all their ... read more booklets containing thorough explanations & examples for every category of estate planning demonstrates that their firm is one of the best around in this field.

Mr. Farr has been of great help to me through the years, providing great legal counsel in drafting and executing my will and trust, and later counsel on dealing with ... read more end-of-life issues with my (out of state) mother. Highly recommended.

Happy with their service. Knowledgeable and professional. Appreciate their straightforward approach. Thank you Sara Entis.

Knowledgeable, authoritative and responsive. Attorney Farr not only prepared the trust, but also successfully overturned a wrongful refusal of tax relief by the local municipality. By the way, ... read more I am an attorney myself.

Originally we chose Evan Farr and his law firm based on his clients' reviews. Our initial appointment with Evan only confirmed all the excellent reviews we have read. Three specific ... read more qualities set Evan apart from other attorneys practicing Elder Law: his vast knowledge, excellent listening skills and offering of continuous education for his many clients. We much appreciated Evan's help in navigating the complex and stressful process of setting up our legal documents. We also appreciate Sara Entis' efforts to finalize this colossal task and to make the important signing appointment totally flawless. In addition, we want to mention Sierra Kolasa's willingness to help every time we needed assistance. Our entire experience only proved that choosing Evan and his firm was the right decision. We highly recommend Evan and his firm to everyone.

This firm is amazing, professional and organized. They helped us create the documents we have delayed for so many years. They also created a special needs trust for our ... read more son. We are planning to continue working with them.

The attention to detail from every member of the team is impressive. The Farr Law Firm provides very practical and efficient solutions to tough problems. They are highly responsive and ... read more they show true caring and compassion for their clients.

Practice Areas

• Trusts and Estates
• Advance Medical Directives
• Irrevocable Trusts
• Asset Protection for a Later Marriage – Trusts and Prenups
• Alzheimer’s Planning
• Advance Care Planning
• Disability and Special Needs Planning
• Special Needs Trusts in Virginia, Maryland, and DC
• Guardianship & Conservatorship Attorney for Incapacitated Adults in Virginia, Maryland, and DC
• Microboards
• Life Estate Planning FAQ
• Living Trust Plus® FAQ

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Already Booked?

Tap our phone number to call us for a FREE consultation

• Email Deals
• Personal Quote

• Advanced Search

• Featured Cruise Deals

• Deals by Destination

• Deals by Cruise Line

• Deals by Departure Port

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Holiday Cruise Deals

Military Cruise Deals

• Family Cruise Deals

Popular Destinations

Australia/New Zealand

• Canada / New England

Popular Int'l Departure Ports

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Barcelona, Spain

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Reykjavik, Iceland

Southampton, England

Stockholm, Sweden

Sydney, Australia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Venice, Italy

Popular U.S. Departure Ports

Baltimore, Maryland

Boston, Massachusetts

Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Los Angeles, California

Miami, Florida

New York, New York

Port Canaveral, Florida

San Francisco, California

Seattle, Washington

Popular Lines

Luxury Lines

River Lines

AmaWaterways

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Holland America Line

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Seabourn Cruise Line

Silversea Cruises

Uniworld River Cruises

Viking Expeditions

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Land Vacations

• Cosmos Tours
• Globus Journeys
• Kensington Tours
• Tauck Tours

All-Inclusive Resorts

Cruising 101

• Free Consultation

Why Cruise?

Shore Excursions

Cruising Tips

Future Cruise Credits

Photo Galleries

Specialty Cruises

Group Cruises

Business / Incentive Cruises

Events & Meetings at Sea

Private Charters

Theme Cruises

• River Cruises

Cruise Tours

Wedding Cruises

Hosted Cruises

Family Cruises

Senior Living at Sea

News & Media

Press & News

Testimonials

Social Media

Pre-registration

Passports / Visas

Travel Protection

Why Cruise Web?

Our Approach

Low Price Guarantee

Gift Certificates

Customer Service

Not sure where to start?

Talk to a travel consultant.

Expert guidance with no booking fees!

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

  Senior Living at Sea

Spend your retirement years the way you've dreamt of spending them - traveling the world. With Senior Living at Sea, exclusively from The Cruise Web, you will spend your retirement years at sea on a permanent cruise vacation!

You deserve to LIVE your retirement!

Your retirement, your way

• Get the MOST out of your retirement - less planning , more traveling !
• Live an event-filled, globetrotting adventure or a care-free, peaceful retreat.
• Make new friends and create unforgettable experiences.
• You're free to participate in a variety of social events as much - or as little - as desired.
• Host land-locked family and friends onboard, or stay in touch via social media.
• Get a better value compared to traditional land-based retirement options .

See the world

• Explore natural wonders and discover new cultures.
• Engage all of your senses onboard and ashore in various ports of call.
• Enjoy the safety, security and convenience of cruising with a new view every day!
• Be the exciting family member that everyone wants to visit.
• Bring your bucket list to life!

Maintenance-free living

• Friendly full-service staff attend to the details while you LIVE your retirement!
• Choose your accommodations from various private stateroom configurations - featuring twice-daily housekeeping.
• Instead of mowing, vacuuming or washing dishes, enjoy a spa day at sea!
• No membership dues, maintenance costs or ownership fees.

Delicious dining

• Enjoy mouth-watering cuisine inspired by destinations visited, as well as classic American fare.
• Diverse onboard dining venues offer frequently updated menus prepared by world-class chefs.
• Take advantage of health-conscious dining options, or indulge in decadent treats!
• Attentive staff learn your preferences to accommodate requests and dietary needs.

Captivating entertainment

• Choose from daily social activities, engaging lectures, top-notch entertainment and more - do your retirement, your way!
• Catch a film in the onboard theater, or take in a live performance - no tickets required!
• Stimulate your mind with educational workshops, culinary classes and destination-themed discussions.

Let's Plan Your Most Exciting Chapter, Senior Living at Sea

Wait no longer to do everything you promised yourself you would do in retirement. Call 1-888-250-7803 today to learn more about Senior Living at Sea, or request to be contacted below:

Contact Form

Call 1-888-250-7803 to build your personal Senior Living at Sea itinerary!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Explore our most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Senior Living at Sea:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

BENEFIT COMPARISON

Compare the benefits of Senior Living at Sea versus traditional land-based senior living:

Benefit Comparison

WHAT IS SENIOR LIVING AT SEA?

Senior Living at Sea is a new retirement option available exclusively from The Cruise Web. With Senior Living at Sea, The Cruise Web's carefully curated annual itineraries transform land-bound retirees into globe-trotting explorers .

Senior Living at Sea customizes perfect cruise itineraries to meet your individual travel desires, health needs, retirement timelines and financial considerations. Call 1-888-250-7803 to discuss your options to experience Senior Living at Sea.

This is what you've worked so hard for - make every day the adventure of a lifetime!

WHY SENIOR LIVING AT SEA ?

Senior Living at Sea provides the convenience of cruising with the fulfillment of world travel - all without having to suffer through uncomfortable flights and jetlag, or repeated packing and unpacking. You also won't find a better value for retirement living than on a cruise ship, where you'll enjoy the incredible amenities and exceptional service of a carefree vacation lifestyle. Traditional land-based retirement communities or assisted living programs can't come close to providing the same benefits and value as making a cruise ship your home - compare for yourself in our Benefit Comparison . Plus, with Senior Living at Sea, your stateroom will be cleaned daily while you're out enjoying fresh cooked meals, Broadway-style shows, casino games and various social activities. Imagine never having to make your bed again!

Instead of spending retirement land-locked, why not travel the world by ship? After all, over 70% of the Earth's surface is covered by water! Experience destinations like Asia, Australia, Europe and the Caribbean. Trade away your harsh winters bundled up and shoveling snow for spacious accommodations on a state-of-the-art cruise ship following the sun in gentle, tropical climates!

WHO IS SENIOR LIVING AT SEA?

Senior Living at Sea is ideal for active and independent retirees. The Cruise Web's Senior Living at Sea residents are drawn to living a carefree, yet adventurous lifestyle, all while exploring the world one port at a time. Contact us at 1-888-250-7803 and check out our FAQ to learn more and see if Senior Living at Sea is right for you.

Check out our most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Senior Living at Sea:

Compare the advantages of Senior Living at Sea versus traditional land-based retirement options:

See what guests are saying about their Senior Living at Sea experiences:

Testimonials for Senior Living at Sea

Call our Senior Living at Sea desk at 1-888-250-7803 to discover more about Senior Living at Sea:

We Make Vacation Planning Easy

With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money.

Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Find a cruise.

• All Cruise Types
• Popular Cruises
• Luxury Cruises

Vacation Deals

Destinations & ports.

• All Destinations

Cruise Lines

• Popular Cruise Lines
• Luxury Cruise Lines
• River Cruise Lines
• All Cruise Lines
• All About Cruising
• Already Booked

Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.

• Monthly Newsletter

This Cruise Life

How to retire on a carnival cruise ship.

If I had a dollar for every time someone posted a news article featuring some octogenarian retiring on a cruise ship, I’d be half way to my goal by now! Claims that cruise ship retirement is cheaper than an assisted care facility make their rounds on Twitter and Facebook, but have you ever really wondered, “How much would it take to retire on a cruise ship today?”

The honest answer: It depends. In the past seven years sailing Carnival, my average daily rate is under $100 a day on cruise fare, taxes, and port fees for an inside cabin. We might also do an excursion or two across a week or lunch and drinks in port which adds in about $25/day in extra cost.

So, for a Carnival cruise, I spend about $125/day.

Three additional costs to factor in:

• Drinks. Now, we’re not big drinkers, so we usually just stick to the 12-pack of soda and wine we are each allowed to carry on board. Broken down daily, it adds another $5.
• Laundry service. Laundry onboard a cruise ship can get quite expensive if you have the line wash your clothes at $15 a bag. Or, you could spend $2.50 for the onboard washer and dryer (if one exists) and take care of that yourself. As a Diamond member in Carnival’s VIFP Loyalty Program, that’s one expense I never have to worry about as they take care of the laundry for me (Platinum members get 3 bags/week which we always found plenty). And, if you plan to spend that much time on a cruise ship, you’ll be at top tier status where they take care of laundry for you before you know it!
• Gratuities. The tips for your crew can add up quickly, and they very based on stateroom type you book. At $13.99/day for a standard room, you’re looking at another $97.93/week. But, you can offset that cost by simply purchasing 100 shares of Carnival stock. As a shareholder, Carnival provides you a Shareholder Benefit of $100 for every 7-day sailing ($250 for 14 days or longer). For my last 31 cruises, Carnival has picked up a large portion of my gratuities with onboard credit.

So, if you’re tracking with me, we’re up to about $130/day for transportation (including taxes and fees), lodging, meals, activities, soda and wine, laundry, and gratuities. Just doing some simple math across 365 days in a year, and you’d be looking at just about $47,450. Assuming double occupancy, that’s $94,900/year.

Of course, anyone who has booked a Christmas cruise or a New Years Eve sailing knows that the average cost/day jumps significantly during those times of the year. Additionally, the summer months (which I’ll sail for the first time in 2022), also carry a premium fare. So you’re likely to add a couple thousand dollars to that total.

What’s still not included in the above numbers – and could prove to be a deal breaker for some – is healthcare/insurance. Medicare doesn’t typically cover you when you’re outside of the US and so you’d need supplementary health and travel insurance. Depending on your factors, this could easily run in the thousands of dollars.

For fun, let’s say that the premium rate for Christmas, New Years, and summertime sailing adds an average of another $20/day to the daily rate mentioned above. And let’s plan medical/insurance at $8,000/year (or $22/day). That would bring the $130/day average to $172/day or $62,780. Multiplied by two, you’re looking at a double occupancy cost of $125,560 to sail on a Carnival ship for an entire year.

While that’s not chump change, according to Paying for Senior Care , the average daily cost of a nursing home in the United States is $245/day or $89,425/year (that’s $178,850 for two people). So, all of those claims and articles that it might be less expensive to retire on a cruise ship, could indeed be true – but that’s followed by a lot of asterisks and fine print.

Asterisks and fine print: If you’d like to move from that interior room to a balcony, your daily rate increases significantly. Similarly, if you decide you’d rather retire on Carnival Corp sister brand Princess Cruises instead of Carnival, your daily cost could easily triple!

Let’s say you’re fine with the standard interior on a Carnival cruise ship. And your expenses roughly match those listed above. The final thing you need to determine is how many years you plan to live on a ship. The below table provides you insight into what your nest egg would need to look like to make that happen (total cost for two people):

Note: Table figures do not account for inflation or other costs that may arise (e.g., a pandemic that shuts down the industry for 18 months!)

Moral of that story: Depending on how long you plan to live on a cruise ship, you’re going to need a pretty nice nest egg. Especially considering those numbers don’t take into account inflation and other costs you may have outside of the cruise ship (condo, mailing address, cell phone, etc.).

While the thought of being at sea every day is an attractive one, a more reasonable financial goal might be half-time at sea, half-time on land. This could allow you to stretch your retirement savings much further and more likely achieve your dream of living at sea.

Disclaimer: This article is purely for fun and fantasy. No claims are being made and you should consult your own financial and tax advisors as you plan for your retirement.

4 thoughts on “How to Retire on a Carnival Cruise Ship”

• Pingback: Retirement on a cruise ship; what would it actu...

Great article! I just have one question. Are you booking these cruises week by week, or cruise by cruise, and paying in advance for them, or is there away to book through, say 6 months or a year and pay monthly? I pay over a period of about 8 months for a 2 week cruise so I’m wondering how you started out. Thanks!

Thanks for the note! For the article, I used an average price across my previous bookings to come up with my calculation of $100/day. These would have all been booked on a week-by-week basis. However, in theory, you should be able to get the average price point down a little bit if you were to cruise full time and you could book longer cruises as these generally have a lower per-day price point (e.g., the Carnival Ecstasy 10-day out of Mobile this September has an $85/person/day price point). In terms of paying over time, Carnival attempts to make that easier with their EasyPay option. It’s not a financing option, but rather, a charge-your-card-monthly option to allow folks to pay over time. There are no interest charges which makes this an attractive option (I’ve not used it, so I can’t speak to it from first-hand experience).

Retiring on a Carnival Cruise Ship sounds like a dream for those who love the sea and adventure! It’s a unique way to embrace retirement with constant exploration and a vibrant community onboard. Plus, with all the amenities and entertainment options Carnival offers, it’s like living in a floating resort. However, it’s crucial to consider logistics, costs, and long-term comfort to ensure this lifestyle suits your retirement goals. Overall, it’s an intriguing concept worth exploring for those seeking a retirement filled with excitement and new experiences.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

Baggage handler issues warning to passengers who tie ribbons to...

New sexually transmitted fungal infection detected in NYC — the...

Novel test can predict dementia up to 9 years before diagnosis:...

Gen Zers aren't having children because of this scary reason

Dear Abby: I'm upset my sons want to attend their father's second...

Gen Z has turned on tattoos — here's why they're forgoing...

Remote Amazon tribe finally connects to internet — only to...

Micro bikinis that barely cover nipples and butt cracks take over...

Retired australians spent almost 500 days at sea after booking 51 straight cruises because it’s cheaper than a retirement home.

• View Author Archive
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

A retired Australian couple became the stars of the sea as they spent nearly 500 days cruising around the world after booking 51 back-to-back cruises.

Marty and Jess Ansen took off on their first cruise on June 16, 2022, after a long two years of strict COVID-19 lockdowns in Australia.

They have yet to stop, booking a total of 51 trips so far.

The great-grandparents have stayed on board Princess Cruises’ 2,000-passenger Coral Princess for more than 450 days — longer than most of the crew, including the captains — and expect to stay onboard the ship for two years.

“Eventually, I said to my [travel] agent: ‘Look, what ever comes, just book it,'” Marty told A Current Affair .

The couple claim it’s cheaper to cruise around the world for two years than pay for a retirement home.

“It’s our lifestyle,” Jess told the outlet. The couple enjoyed cruises for decades prior to making it their full-time living situation.

Among the perks of the lifestyle are that there’s always something to do, from dancing to dinner, and it comes with a maid to clean your room.

“Where else can you go where you go for dinner, you go to a show, you go dancing?” Jess said. “Through the day, you have all these activities.”

Jess particularly enjoy the ballroom and hula dancing, while Marty enjoys making “lifelong friends.”

“Now, we don’t have to wash up anymore, or make the bed,” Marty excitedly said. “We don’t know how to make a because we haven’t done it for so long, so now we have to stay on board just to stay alive,” he joked.

They start each day playing ping pong, and enjoy cracking open a couple of beers to sit on their balcony and take in the views.

The fun couple have been an on-board family with the crew, who love to see the pair every time they board for another cruise. Even those just popping on for a single cruise have heard about the well-traveled pair and want to say hi.

“Everyone knows them around the ship, they’re basically celebrities onboard,” the ship’s hotel manager, Ren van Rooyen, said.

Their celebrity status will last another eight months before the couple disembarks.

But it won’t be the end of their world travels. They plan to hop on board the cruise line’s Crown Princess, an even bigger ship, for another year.

As for their family, they see them when they stop at ports near their homes.

“It’s a wonderful life,” Marty told the outlet.

Share this article:

Advertisement

• Film and TV

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories , we're happy to send you some reminders

Click ' OK ' then ' Allow ' to enable notifications

Man bought apartment on cruise ship as it's cheaper than home and he can travel world

Living on a cruise ship sounds like a pretty sweet life for someone who works remotely and loves to travel the world.

Dylan Murray

While many enjoy living an adventurous lifestyle, few can incorporate it into their routine 24/7 as they wish they could.

Due to the nature of most jobs, social obligations, and general tasks required of people across the world not being very adventurous, few people are capable of incorporating that 'Carpe Diem' mindset into everything they do.

However, this much can’t be said for Austin Wells, who purchased an apartment on a cruise ship and lives his life very differently than the average person.

The man from San Diego, California, bought a 12-year lease for an apartment on the MV Narrative, a cruise ship that travels across the world and features several amenities.

With 20 dining establishments , three pools, a library, a movie theater, a gym, and plenty more, the cruise ship is a highly desirable vacation for many lovers of the sea. However, you must assume that living on board is a whole different animal and must be quite expensive, right?

Well, for starters, Austin did pay $300,000 for his 12-year lease, at least three of which will be spent traveling across the world.

Considering the median home price in Austin’s hometown of San Diego is well over $900,000 in 2024 (and over $400,000 countrywide), this is actually quite cost-effective.

While his living quarters are about what you’d expect for a cabin on a cruise ship, Austin’s love for traveling made the positives of living on the MV Narrative outweigh the negatives.

“I don’t have to upend my daily routine,” Austin explained to CNBC, “I’m going from this model where you want to go somewhere, you pack a bag, you get on a flight, you rent a room, to now my condo, my gym, my doctors and dentists, all of my grocery stores travel the world with me.”

Austin is able to manage this lifestyle due to being a fully remote worker for Meta, so it is not necessary for him to remain in one place to work and generate income to live off of.

“My working hours will be shifted towards evenings, nights, and very early mornings,” Austin continued, “But that does open up the ability for me to … maybe see a city midday to afternoon and then start my workday around 6pm or 7pm.”

While the MV Narrative doesn’t set sail until next year, Austin is excited about his unique opportunity to live a life at sea, adding: “This is probably the first time ever that there is even the ability to have a standard job and even consider working and living from a floating apartment complex.”

Choose your content:

Steve Jobs revealed the number one sign that means someone has high intelligence

Steve jobs made the comment just six years after apple was founded.

Restaurant divides customers with extreme age restrictions to 'avoid drama'

This missouri establishment has divided opinion with it's age restrictions.

Cybertruck driver reveals the one problem he has every time he drives

A cybertruck driver has said that there's one issue that's 'getting old' when driving the expensive car.

Dakota Fanning reveals the birthday present Tom Cruise gifts her every year

The two actors struck up a relationship while working together on war of the worlds.

• Man lives on cruise ship for 300 days a year because his bills are cheaper than renting
• Man who bought apartment on cruise ship as it's cheaper than renting shares what it's like inside
• Couple who ‘sold everything’ to live on cruise ship say it’s cheaper than living on land
• Man bought an entire cruise ship on Craigslist and now he lives there

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

5 Affordable Cruise Vacations to Book — Plus How to Find the Best Deals

Here's what you need to know to save money on your next cruise.

Best Affordable Cruise Lines

How to find the best cruise deals, tips for saving money while on board.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruising has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. This form of travel is incredibly convenient (read: no need to pack and unpack), and everything you need can be found right on board — ultimately taking the stress out of trip planning. Plus, with hundreds of ships at sea across dozens of lines, there’s a cruise out here for every type of traveler. Fortunately, cruising doesn’t have to cost a small fortune, and many budget-conscious travelers may opt to set sail for their next trip. Below, we’ve rounded up the best cruise lines offering affordable fares coupled with value-packed inclusions to stretch your dollar further. We’ve also tapped some expert cruise specialists to share their top tips and tricks to help you save money both on and off the ship.

Here's everything you need to know to book an affordable cruise vacation.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

This adults-only cruise line from Richard Branson — which also happens to be a Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award winner — offers excellent value. In fact, according to T+L A-list cruise advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder and president Rob Clabbers, Virgin Voyages fares “include more than on most mainstream large-ship cruise lines.” For example, he says, “Virgin fares include internet access, gratuities, all meals — there are no cover charges for its restaurants that on most other lines would be considered specialty restaurants.” Beverages like soft drinks, coffee, and tea are also included, as are snacks, mezze at the aft terrace, and group workout classes. Best of all, there are no pricey beverage packages. “Instead,” says Clabbers, cruisers — or, as Virgin calls them, sailors — can buy their own reasonably priced drinks (think: beers from $6, $10 cocktails, and wines by the glass under $11) a la carte. Additionally, with some promotions , the cruise line throws in a “ bar tab ” credit that can be used towards drinks.

Princess Cruises

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Another World’s Best Award winner — and WBA Hall of Fame Honoree, no less — this fan-favorite ocean line is renowned for refined ships, serene ambiance, and exceptional service. Moreover, per Clabbers, passengers can choose from “optional packages to help customize a passenger’s trip that provide savings over buying things separately.” For an extra $60 per day, consider Princess Plus, which offers perks like Wi-Fi for one device per guest, gratuities, fitness classes (two per sailing), and beverages like bottled water, specialty coffee, soft drinks, and juice. Alternatively, for $80 per day, passengers can spring on the Princess Premier package, which features the same beverages plus specialty dining (two per sailing), unlimited fitness classes, premium desserts, reserved theater seating, and Wi-Fi (four devices per guest).

Norwegian Cruise Line 

Norwegian Cruise Line is a favorite among families of all ages for its over-the-top entertainment and activities (think: go-karting, Broadway-caliber productions, and so on). “While Norwegian Cruise Line may price slightly higher than some of its competitors, you need to consider the Free at Sea package,” says travel advisor Jennifer Travis of Marvelous Mouse Travels . She goes on to describe the promotion as a “game-changer when it comes to cruising” since it includes perks like a “free open bar (up to $1,400 in savings), free specialty dining (up to $180 in savings), free Wi-Fi (up to $200 in savings), and a $50 discount on excursions.” Other Free at Sea perks include 70 percent off second guests, free third and fourth guests (on select dates), and free airfare (per the cruise line’s website: “ Pay airfare for one guest, and you'll automatically lock in roundtrip flights for two ”). Also, you can’t go wrong with the Free at Sea Plus package, which includes a wider selection of beverages, more specialty dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, and additional shore excursion credits. Before booking, be sure to check the line’s full selection of deals , which run the gamut from half-off deposits to $150 cruise credits and more.

Royal Caribbean

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Zip lines, water slides, surfing simulators, ice skating, rock climbing walls: Find all this and more aboard (most) Royal Caribbean ships — and, best of all, they’re complimentary! Ideal for fun- and adventure-loving travelers of all ages — read: kids and kids-at-heart alike — it’s pretty much impossible to be bored while cruising on this World’s Best Award-winning mega-ship line . Additionally, according to Travis, Royal Caribbean “offers some of the best short itineraries,” some of which clock in at under $200 per person for two-night sailings. Longer itineraries, including a seven-night Bahamas sailing aboard one of the line’s newest ships, Odyssey of the Seas , clock in at under $600 per person. The line also offers an abundance of deals , including up to $600 off sailings, 60 percent off second guests, and more.

Carnival Cruise Line 

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

“ Carnival Cruise Line is known for its competitive pricing without cutting back on the onboard activities or various dining options, thus making them an attractive option to budget-conscious cruisers,” explains Travis. For example, many itineraries, including a four-night Bahamas cruise from Miami , clock in at just over $150 per person. Additionally, says the travel advisor, “Carnival sails to a wide variety of destinations from so many local ports that you almost do not need to fly to your cruise ship anymore, which is another huge savings given the cost (and stress) flights can add to any vacation.” Keep an eye out for frequent flash sales for even more savings.

Booking early is an easy way to save on your next cruise vacation . “Typically,” says Travis, “the best pricing on a cruise is when the schedule is first released.” And, while you could wait for a last-minute deal, “you may not get the room category that you want.” Similarly, Clabbers says that flexibility is key when it comes to finding — and scoring — the best cruise deals . For example, he previously told T+L that if you are “very flexible and are looking for a standard room on a large ship on an itinerary that repeats week after week, you are more likely to find a promotional fare.”

Conversely, giving up some of that flexibility sometimes pays off. According to Clabbers, select cruise lines will offer lower fares to those who opt for a nonrefundable deposit instead of a refundable one. Finally, you may also consider cruising in shoulder season or even low season. Sure, the weather won’t be perfect, but the fewer crowds and cheaper fares more than make up for that, especially if you’re on a budget.

While your tab can quickly rack up once on board, there are several savvy ways to save money. For one, consider bringing your own booze. According to Travis, “Many cruise lines allow their guests to bring a specific amount of alcohol or nonalcoholic beverages onboard the ships, which can help save you money while you are on the ship.” Additionally, ​​Michele Benard , another travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels, advises packing your own necessities from home — like Advil, Tums,  motion sickness medicine, and after-sun lotion — as opposed to buying them on board at a much higher price. You’ll also want to skip the souvenirs at the onboard gift shop, which tend to be more expensive than those you’d find in port.

Benard also recommends taking advantage of “all the free activities on the cruise ships,” which can include everything from water slides to trivia game shows. Pro tip: “Stay onboard during a port day, and the lines won’t be as long.” On a similar note, spa treatments tend to be less expensive on port days, so those craving some R&R — that is, sans breaking the bank — may consider booking a service during this time.

Finally, says Clabbers, save money on your next cruise by enlisting the help of an onboard cruise consultant to select your next sailing. “You will typically receive an onboard credit or savings on your next cruise, and your own travel advisor will be alerted so they can help you plan your vacation.”

Related Articles

Time in Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia now

• Tokyo 11:56PM
• Beijing 10:56PM
• Kyiv 05:56PM
• Paris 04:56PM
• London 03:56PM
• New York 10:56AM
• Los Angeles 07:56AM

Time zone info for Elektrostal

• The time in Elektrostal is 8 hours ahead of the time in New York when New York is on standard time, and 7 hours ahead of the time in New York when New York is on daylight saving time.
• Elektrostal does not change between summer time and winter time.
• The IANA time zone identifier for Elektrostal is Europe/Moscow.

Time difference from Elektrostal

Sunrise, sunset, day length and solar time for elektrostal.

• Sunrise: 03:42AM
• Sunset: 09:08PM
• Day length: 17h 26m
• Solar noon: 12:25PM
• The current local time in Elektrostal is 25 minutes ahead of apparent solar time.

Elektrostal on the map

• Location: Moscow Oblast, Russia
• Latitude: 55.79. Longitude: 38.46
• Population: 144,000

Best restaurants in Elektrostal

• #1 Tolsty medved - Steakhouses food
• #2 Ermitazh - European and japanese food
• #3 Pechka - European and french food

Find best places to eat in Elektrostal

• Best chinese restaurants in Elektrostal
• Best pizza restaurants in Elektrostal
• Best restaurants with desserts in Elektrostal

The 50 largest cities in Russia

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Captioning Policy

Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by  Factset . Powered and implemented by  FactSet Digital Solutions .  Legal Statement .

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. FAQ - New Privacy Policy

Is Cruise Ship Living a Cheaper Option for Seniors Than Assisted Living?

During retirement, there may come a time when maintaining your current household just becomes too difficult. When the yard work and housecleaning become too much, or when you begin to struggle to get meals on the table, the obvious option many seniors consider: assisted living.

Unfortunately, assisted living can be very expensive and, for some seniors, moving to an assisted living community signals a loss of independence and the end to a retirement spent traveling and enjoying life.

But, assisted living isn't the only option for seniors who find living alone too burdensome. There's an alternative that could be less expensive while providing some of the same perks and benefits: life on the high seas.

That's right-- living on a cruise ship could be a lower-cost way for seniors to take advantage of similar amenities to those provided by assisted living facilities, like all-you-can eat meals, a swimming pool for low-impact exercise, regular companionship and entertainment, and even access to on-board doctors. How does living on a cruise ship compare with assisted living? Let's take a look.

Costs of cruise ships vs. assisted living

Cruise ship living is an attractive alternative for seniors because, in many cases, the costs of cruising are lower than costs of an assisted living facility.

Average costs for an assisted living facility, as of 2017, are around $3,750 per month, according to the Genworth Cost of Care survey .  This is around $45,000 annually. The nightly cost of a cruise, on the other hand, averages around $100 per night  or less.

A 12-night cruise of the Southern Caribbean, available for an average cost of $779 per person,   is just $65 per night.  For a senior couple traveling together, discounts of 50% for the second passenger lower combined costs dramatically. Senior discounts, points for frequent cruising, and booking with a rewards credit card keep costs down even further, especially if you opt out of pricey extras like alcoholic drinks or shore excursions .

Not all ships allow full-time residents onboard, but many cruise lines make accommodations for seniors who want to become long-term passengers and remain on the same ship for months or even years at a time .  There are also options like Oceania's Around the World Voyage, which is a 180-day cruise  happening annually from January to July.

For seniors looking for the very best prices, moving from ship-to-ship to see different areas of the world allows for extra adventure at an especially affordable cost. If you book cruises leaving from the same departure ports, you'll keep transportation costs low. While this makes it impractical to own many possessions, paying for an on-shore storage facility is an option at less than $200 monthly .  When combined with an annual cost of a generous $100 per night for cruising, combined annual costs of around $38,900 for ship accommodations and storage are more than $6,000 cheaper than the average assisted living facility.

Amenities of assisted living vs. cruise ship living

For seniors considering cruise ship life, it's important to evaluate whether a cruise ship can provide the same level of service as an assisted living facility.  The good news is, in most cases, seniors would get fairly comparable assistance.

Assisted living facilities are distinct from nursing homes because assisted living facilities provide less care and support than nursing homes. Nursing home staff helps with routine activities of daily living, such as bathing, using the restroom, and consuming food and drink. Seniors with dementia who require supervision and bedridden or wheelchair-bound seniors who rely on caregivers to tend to basic needs require nursing home care. Seniors in assisted living facilities, on the other hand, often have their own independent apartments or rooms, and the help they receive is typically limited to medication management, transportation, housekeeping services, entertainment, and some meal services .

Cruise ships offer similar amenities to paying passengers of all ages. Most cruise ships have all-inclusive food offerings available throughout the day. There are regular social activities aboard the ship, including games and shows. Cruise ships also have onboard pharmacy services as well as infirmaries with doctors and nurses. Medical staff is typically on-call 24-hours daily for emergencies, and ship healthcare facilities on most major cruise ships are largely comparable to ambulatory care centers .

While there is a cost to obtain medications or use the services of the ship's infirmary, healthcare services are typically not included at an assisted living facility, either. Medicare pays for covered services provided on cruise ships if those services are obtained within six hours of a U.S. port , although visiting a doctor covered by Medicare is easier for seniors residing at a U.S. based assisted living facility than for a seniors at sea.  Seniors could also choose to purchase travel insurance to cover both the costs of treatment aboard the ship and more costly services, such as helicopter transport to a U.S. hospital in case of a serious medical emergency.

For seniors who need a higher level of services that only a nursing home can offer, or for seniors with complicated-to-manage medical conditions who need to see a doctor regularly, cruise ship living is not the answer. But for relatively healthy seniors who can no longer handle the demands of living alone and who want a fun alternative, a cruise ship may just be the ideal retirement option.

The $16,122 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known "Social Security secrets" could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. For example: one easy trick could pay you as much as $16,122 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after.  Simply click here to discover how to learn more about these strategies .

The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .

Statue of Lenin

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Statue of Lenin - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Eastern Europe
• Moscow Oblast

Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Area, Altitude, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

Information

Find all the information of Elektrostal or click on the section of your choice in the left menu.

• Update data

Elektrostal Demography

Information on the people and the population of Elektrostal.

Elektrostal Geography

Geographic Information regarding City of Elektrostal .

Elektrostal Distance

Distance (in kilometers) between Elektrostal and the biggest cities of Russia.

Elektrostal Map

Locate simply the city of Elektrostal through the card, map and satellite image of the city.

Elektrostal Nearby cities and villages

Elektrostal weather.

Weather forecast for the next coming days and current time of Elektrostal.

Elektrostal Sunrise and sunset

Find below the times of sunrise and sunset calculated 7 days to Elektrostal.

Elektrostal Hotel

Our team has selected for you a list of hotel in Elektrostal classified by value for money. Book your hotel room at the best price.

Elektrostal Nearby

Below is a list of activities and point of interest in Elektrostal and its surroundings.

Elektrostal Page

• Information /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#info
• Demography /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#demo
• Geography /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#geo
• Distance /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#dist1
• Map /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#map
• Nearby cities and villages /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#dist2
• Weather /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#weather
• Sunrise and sunset /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#sun
• Hotel /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#hotel
• Nearby /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#around
• Page /Russian-Federation--Moscow-Oblast--Elektrostal#page
• Terms of Use
• Copyright © 2024 DB-City - All rights reserved
• Change Ad Consent Do not sell my data