Couple who booked 53 back-to-back cruises because 'it’s cheaper' than retirement home reveal worst part of ship living
Australians Marty and Jessica Ansen racked up 800 days at sea in just over two years
Emily Brown
A retired Australian couple who decided to dedicate a good chunk of their golden years to 53 back-to-back cruises have revealed the worst part about life at sea.
Before we get too bogged down with the details, I feel like I should caveat by pointing out that the worst thing about being on a full-time vacation still isn't going to be all that bad - but I suppose every silver lining comes with a cloud.
Marty and Jessica Ansen began their epic journey on June 16, 2022, when they stepped on board the Coral Princess in Brisbane, Australia and proceeded to enjoy every itinerary the ship had to offer, including two round-the-world routes, ticking off a total of 53 cruises.
After 800 days at sea they then returned home in August 2024, but the couple weren't on dry land for long as three months later they hopped on board the Crown Princess, where they're set to live until November 13.
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Needless to say, the pair are big fans of cruise ships.
Jessica described becoming part of the cruise 'family' while on board, with many of the same crew members often appearing on their ships and passengers also becoming 'close friends'.
"Some we met on their first voyage and others we see time and time again," Jessica said in an interview with The Telegraph. "We enjoy the get-togethers and the reminiscing of past adventures and we plan for future cruises together. The time we spend with other guests – sometimes for three months or more – is truly wonderful.”
The couple said they are 'living the dream', noting they have access to 'endless' dining and 'world-class' entertainment, though they admitted there are a couple of things they miss.
Marty explained: "[I miss] being able to drive wherever you want to go whenever you like."
He also pointed to the difficulties of carrying out 'life administration' when they're away for long periods, adding: "Travelling through different time zones can also sometimes make it difficult to keep a track of the hours.”
All in all, though, the couple are very happy with their lives at sea and have already booked Princess cruises right through to September 2, 2027. After totting up the figures, they also found that they were spending less on their cruises than they would if they'd chosen to live in a retirement home.
They see their daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whenever their ship stops in Australia, and when it's out traveling the world they catch up with other family and friends they've made in different countries.
However, Jessica assured they always keep in touch with what's going on at home through the TV and internet, saying: "We never feel too far away from the news back home."