Couple books 51 cruises in a row because it's cheaper than living in a nursing home

Marty and Jessica Ansen, a retired Australian couple, have made an original life choice to say the least: swapping the retirement home for a series of permanent cruises. Their story, as unusual as it is inspiring, proves that it is never too late to realize your dreams and enjoy life to the fullest.

Passionate about cruises for over four decades, Marty and Jessica have always considered these trips their favorite escape. Even the pandemic, which forced them to take a forced two-year break, did not dampen their enthusiasm. As soon as activities resumed, they booked an impressive number of cruises, determined to make up for lost time.

This is how, in June 2022, the couple packed their bags aboard the “Coral Princess” to begin a long-distance journey. Their adventure has already taken them to Sydney and will soon take them to the paradise islands of Hawaii. A unique experience that they are not about to interrupt.

Because, for these smart retirees, life on a cruise is less expensive than a stay in a retirement home. Gone are the hassles of everyday life: meals are prepared, cleaning is done, and there is endless entertainment. A comfort that Marty and Jessica appreciate at its true value, they who admit to having forgotten how to make a bed or the dishes.

But how can you avoid boredom during these long days at sea? The couple found a solution by creating a well-established routine. Ping-pong, quizzes, bingo… Everyone goes about their business, sometimes without meeting each other all day. An independence which seems to be the key to their marital happiness.

Their constant presence on board made them real celebrities among the crew and other passengers. They are particularly close to the cruise director, Ren van Rooyen, who considers them his “second family”. A shared affection, as evidenced by the surprise organized by the staff for Jessica's birthday.

Far from planning a possible return to earthly life, Marty and Jessica prefer to enjoy the present moment. Their state of mind? Have fun without worrying about tomorrow, leaving the worries of everyday life at the dock. A philosophy that they intend to apply during their next adventure: a world tour aboard the “Crown Princess”.

Their atypical lifestyle choice appeals to other people, like Ryan Gutridge, a computer engineer ready to take the plunge by 2025. Who knows, maybe he will one day cross paths with the Ansens during a trip In the long term ?

Of course, life at sea is not without its challenges. Seasickness, confinement… So many obstacles that the couple manages to overcome thanks to an extraordinary capacity for adaptation. And, contrary to appearances, their budget is under control, thanks to rigorous financial management and in-depth knowledge of the offers and discounts offered by cruise companies.

Their message to other retirees is simple: it is never too late to dare to think outside the box and make your dreams come true. A philosophy of life that commands the admiration of those around them, family and friends in the lead. Because, beyond the originality of their approach, it is their thirst for adventure and their joy of living that leave an impression.

As their journey continues, Marty and Jessica give a more than positive assessment of their experience. Their daily life, punctuated by stopovers and meetings, meets all their expectations. And, while their ship crisscrosses the oceans, their minds are already wandering towards new horizons, new discoveries. Proof, if any were needed, that age is just a number and that adventure awaits only those who dare to seize it.