I was recently asked to weigh in on this question from a work and life perspective by Ashlee DeMartino of ABC 15 in Phoenix, Arizona.
You can check out her story with a few brief comments from yours truly here:
As this is a growing trend, I thought I would elaborate on the topic a bit for those willing to consider such an adventure.
First lets deal with the practicalities. To make this work financially, you must select a cruise line and figure out if the yearly cost can be offset with the savings, namely unleashing yourself from rent, mortgage, car payments and related insurance costs. In some cases for those in high cost of living areas, the cruise life can actually amount to savings.
Next, assuming you are not independently wealthy or already own a yacht, you must evaluate whether you can make this move while still working. Remote work would be key, and having an employer that does not require you to show up in the office occasionally. For certain roles this can be done. I recommend complete transparency on this arrangement to avoid potential awkward moments. Beyond that critical practicality is the issue of health insurance and when/where and how it might work if you are at sea. You’ll need to make sure you have residency established some where – whether that can be done without an address, at least a PO box, is something to investigate.
What about kids? Those who home school are now at such record numbers that universities are competing for them with specialized recruiting. Materials and support groups abound. The larger question for parents considering this lifestyle is whether they will have the capabilities as patient instructors to do right by their children.
How about real physical risks? Where does the ship go? How many passengers? How do you feel about occasional outbreaks of the norovirus? There are also big differences between a Margaritaville booze cruise and the Queen Mary 2 Atlantic crossing. Both have their merits. Which is for you and possibly your kids?
I know of some retiree bedouins that sold the house and went on the road with an RV for several years. This seems like a similar experience for the right people. You may have also seen those Del Webb community commercials where excited retirees talk about taking cooking lessons at 3pm followed by cocktails at the clubhouse. Certain cruise lines can definitely replicate that experience as often as those on board would like.
So. Assuming you can swing the cost and practicalities involved, are you ready, as a certain River Cruise company likes to say, to ‘spend less time getting there and more time BEING there?’ (said is a very British accent!).
Its not for this land lubber, who appreciates his yard projects too much to take this on currently, but I’ll never say never.
