Couple Turns Dreams into Reality: Living on a Cruise Ship Becomes Affordable Alternative to Traditional Retirement

 

Retiring to a life of perpetual travel aboard luxury cruise ships might sound like the stuff of millionaires' fantasies, but for Angelyn Burk, 53, and her husband Richard, this dream has become an accessible reality. The couple, in their 50s, have chosen to make cruise ships their permanent home, trading mortgages for an ever-changing view of the world's oceans and coastlines.

Embracing a nomadic lifestyle, the Burks embarked on their cruise ship journey in May 2021 and have since found that cruising can be more cost-effective than the traditional expenses associated with home ownership. Their goal is to maintain an average spending of around $100 per night for the couple, which adds up to approximately $36,500 per year. In contrast, the annual costs of a mortgage, including home maintenance and property taxes, can exceed this figure.

Angelyn Burk's first cruise experience in 1992 planted the seed for her unconventional retirement plan. Originally, the couple envisioned spending months at a time in various countries before transitioning to a life on cruise ships in their later years. However, after conducting a financial evaluation, they discovered that they could start living their dream much earlier than anticipated.

"We love to travel and we were searching for a way to continuously travel in our retirement that made financial sense," Angelyn explained. Leveraging loyalty memberships and considering potential proceeds from selling their home, the Burks found that their aspirations were not only attainable but also sustainable.

Aside from the financial advantages, cruising provides the couple with a stress-free mode of travel. Eliminating the complexities of booking accommodations, dining reservations, and transportation, they can explore the world while adhering to a budget. Living with minimal possessions, the Burks carry just two suitcases between them and make purchases onboard or at ports as needed.

Yet, the ongoing pandemic has introduced an important consideration for such a lifestyle. Close quarters on cruise ships can facilitate the spread of diseases like COVID-19. The couple emphasizes the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, including vaccination, wearing masks, and seeking medical advice for those with compromised immune systems.

The Burks, who are not strangers to planning their next adventures, have already completed a 21-day cruise through the Panama Canal and have plans for more extensive voyages. A 50-day cruise around the Adriatic Sea and a 51-day journey from Seattle to Sydney are among their upcoming excursions.

While the Burks appreciate the beauty of many destinations, Italy, Canada, Iceland, the Bahamas, and especially Singapore, have captured their hearts. As they continue their unconventional retirement, they offer advice to others considering a similar lifestyle shift: "We have been frugal all our lives to save and invest in order to achieve our goal... We are not into materialistic things but experiences."

The Burks' journey challenges conventional notions of retirement, showcasing that with careful planning and a unique perspective, an unconventional life on the high seas can be a fulfilling and cost-effective choice for those seeking adventure and experiences over traditional comforts.