A 15-year journey: a woman bought a cabin on a cruise ship and left life on shore

A 77-year-old woman from California, Sharon Lane, has chosen an unusual way to spend her retirement – aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship. She invested $129,999 in a cabin and plans to travel on the boat for the next 15 years.

In addition to the one-time payment, she pays $3,000 every month, which includes food, drinks, cleaning, laundry, Internet access, and entertainment. The woman does not disclose the specific amount of total expenses but notes that she has invested most of her savings in this idea.

Sharon began her new life on June 16 after first boarding. She previously worked as a foreign language teacher, and her children and grandchildren actively support her choice.

It is worth noting that Lane is not the only one who has chosen life on a ship. Villa Vie Odyssey offers the opportunity to live long-term in cabins, which are in demand among retirees. According to Sharon, the boat has become an interesting and diverse community:

“We have people of all ages and backgrounds, from Nobel laureates to former government officials and scientists. Everyone shares their knowledge and experiences.”

Lane believes that living on the ship is cheaper than living in Southern California, as the cost includes everything one needs — food, utilities, and cleaning.

“I no longer have to worry about doing laundry or grocery shopping,” she says.

“If you make a to-do list and cross out the things that don’t bring you joy, that’s the life you have now,” Sharon adds.

The Villa Vie Odyssey will set sail on its maiden voyage in late September 2024, visiting countries from New Zealand to Japan. The ship will stop at each port for a few days for excursions.

Cabins are still available on board. Their starting price is $129,000, with monthly costs of $3,000 for a single person or $2,000 for a couple. Ocean view cabins start at $169,000, with monthly costs $500 higher.

Owners of purchased cabins can now rent them out to other travelers.

The Villa Vie Odyssey is the world’s second residential cruise ship after The World, where prices are significantly higher, starting at $2.5 million, and housing can only be purchased on a perpetual basis.