Retiree Chooses Life Aboard a Cruise Ship for Retirement

News Summary

A 77-year-old retiree from Laguna Woods has decided to permanently live on the cruise ship Villa Vie, fulfilling her dream of a maritime lifestyle. Sharon Lane, after her lease expired, purchased a windowless cabin for $129,000 and pays a monthly fee of $3,000 for various amenities. While this option provides financial benefits compared to traditional housing, concerns about long-term care as she ages remain. Her choice may inspire other retirees seeking alternative living arrangements in a changing economy.

Laguna Woods, CA – A 77-year-old retiree has embarked on a remarkable journey, choosing to live permanently on a cruise ship. Sharon Lane, originally from Laguna Woods, moved onto the cruise ship named Villa Vie on June 16, fulfilling a long-held dream of a life at sea for the next 15 years.

The Villa Vie Odyssey is touted as the world’s first perpetual cruise ship, uniquely allowing residents to consider it their permanent address. Lane made this transition after her lease in Laguna Woods, a well-known retirement community in Orange County, expired. Her decision marks a significant lifestyle change as she seeks a more affordable living situation.

Lane, a retired foreign language teacher, opted for an interior, windowless cabin that she purchased for approximately $129,000, utilizing her life savings. In addition to the upfront cost, she is responsible for a monthly fee of $3,000. This fee encapsulates a wide array of amenities, including meals, soft drinks, and alcohol at dinner, internet access, medical visits, entertainment options, room service, weekly housekeeping, and bi-weekly laundry services.

For Lane, living aboard the Villa Vie signifies a retreat from the burdens of daily chores. She believes this lifestyle will enhance her overall enjoyment of life compared to her previous arrangements. This lifestyle shift potentially translates to financial savings as well, especially when considering the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Laguna Woods, which stands at $2,325, and a studio apartment in California, averaging $1,856.

While the financial aspects appear favorable, concerns have been raised about Lane’s long-term needs as she ages. There is a possibility that she might require additional assistance with daily tasks and healthcare, which the cruise ship may not be equipped to provide. However, if necessary, Lane has the option to sell her cabin on the Odyssey to explore other senior housing alternatives that might be more suitable.

The median monthly cost of assisted living facilities in California currently rests around $5,561, making Lane’s choice on the cruise ship an attractive alternative. This strategy not only saves money compared to traditional housing but also aligns with the preferences of many retirees looking for flexible living arrangements post-retirement.

For retirees who find themselves seeking alternative housing solutions, options abound. Many consider relocating to states with lower living costs or even moving abroad to countries noted for being retiree-friendly, such as Panama or Spain. These options may provide added financial relief as living expenses can vary significantly across regions.

Lane’s family, including her children and grandchildren, have voiced their support for her decision to transition into maritime living, assuring her that this choice is met with understanding and encouragement. Her experience may serve as an inspiration for retirees contemplating their own housing strategies in a changing economic landscape.

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Additional Resources

• Moneywise: Retired Teacher’s Unique Living Arrangement
• Patch: Retiree Moves Onto Cruise Ship for 15 Years
• NBC Los Angeles: Live on Cruise Ship Villa Vie
• Google Search: Retirement Housing Alternatives
• LA Times: Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy in California
• Wikipedia: Retirement