Can You Retire On a Cruise Ship?

[DaveNV]

They would have to have a grocery store if they have kitchens, and Dave, with your Navy experience, you know that the biggest danger on ANY ship is fire. On cruise ships, passengers are not allowed irons, and power strips are frowned upon and some even confiscate power strips with USB ports. I couldn't see those apartments having much more sophisticated cooking facilities than a can opener. Still, for those well heeled enough and with enough wanderlust, it would be fun for a while.

I am reminded of a time on a fishing excursion in Canada's Queen Charlotte Islands. We were in a secluded cove when a beautiful, refitted crabber, all decked out in dark blue and white, with a couple of Boston Whalers in the davits, and 'THUNDER, Ketchikan' in gold leaf on the transom entered the cove. The owner asked us where the best fishing was and seemed friendly enough. We left later by helicopter back to fly home from the Sandspit airport, and there on the tarmac was a LearJet, all dark blue and white and in gold leaf under the cockpit windows, 'LIGHTNING' Ketchikan. Some people just know how to live!

Jim

I agree about fire at sea, Jim. There is nowhere to go, and who do you call? You ARE the Fire Department. The program I saw about The World showed construction in progress of some of the living units, and I recall there were kitchens, after a fashion. I'm also remembering a self-contained firefighting system was in place, (halon?), to instantly seal off the spaces in case of fire. It's been awhile since I saw the show, so don't quote me. But your larger point is well taken - if they're expecting you to cook, there would need to be a way to get groceries. Maybe the kitchens I saw were for reheating leftover filet mignon from that fancy-schmancy dining room. They probably send it home with you in a gold-lined doggy bag. LOL!

Your story of the fancy fishing boat and helicopter is just excellent. Some folks just know how to live.

Dave

 

[LannyPC]

Are there any cruise lines that might offer some sort of a bulk discount for passengers wanting to retire this way? For instance, a discount on medical services, laundry and dry cleaning services, drinks, gourmet meals, gratuities, etc.?

Discount or not, this idea would still be way out of my league.

 

[Passepartout]

Are there any cruise lines that might offer some sort of a bulk discount for passengers wanting to retire this way? For instance, a discount on medical services, laundry and dry cleaning services, drinks, gourmet meals, gratuities, etc.?

I think all the major lines offer loyalty perks after a certain number of nights with them. Cabin upgrades, laundry, wi-fi, discounts on drink packages (drinks are a major cash cow for them), meals are generally included in the fare, and the crew appreciates the gratuities- they don't make much, and work 24-7 for months at a time. I doubt that long-term guest/residents would be granted pre-paid gratuities. As to medical services, expect them to be somewhat limited- if something serious arises, you would be dropped at the next scheduled port and have to get care there or be evacuated to where you could get care. Have insurance.

Oh, and pack light.

 

[vacationhopeful]

My sister's mother-in-law suffered a stroke on a cruise ship in Europe. They did have evacation insurance .... she was MORE daffy after that. No more cruises or other trips other than their 6 month vacation home winter stay in Florida.