The Financial Realities of Living on a Cruise Ship: It’s Tougher Than You Think

Living aboard a cruise ship year-round may seem like a dream, providing a unique lifestyle filled with adventure. Residents enjoy breathtaking destinations, often with their housing expenses covered by the cost of the cruise package. Fraser, a YouTuber from the channel Fraser at Sea, took a year off from his tech career to experience this lifestyle, illustrating how he occasionally found budget trips for around $50 per day, inclusive of meals.

However, the apparent simplicity of this lifestyle is deceptive. Costs can quickly add up when considering the cruise package, internet fees, and additional upgrades for more comfortable accommodations. Mario Salcedo, who has resided on Royal Caribbean ships for 25 years, shared that his lifestyle demands an annual budget of $101,000. Cruise-reporting site Cruzely.com advises that a couple could expect to pay around $194,000 annually for living on the Carnival Horizon, highlighting the financial implications of this choice.

Health care is another critical point of concern. Even though cruise ships have medical professionals, they lack full-service hospitals, leading to potentially high medical expenses for anything beyond minor issues. Lynnelle, a full-time cruiser, noted that a simple visit to the ship’s doctor cost her $150, with lab tests driving costs even higher. Those with dietary restrictions may face extra charges for custom meals as well.

Tipping is a further financial consideration, with daily gratuities ranging from $16 to $27.25 per person across major cruise lines, culminating in a hefty annual expense. Space is also a limitation, as standard cabins range from 140 to 190 square feet— significantly smaller than an average living room— prompting many to consider cabin upgrades at greater costs.

Alcohol and internet access can further inflate living expenses. Cruise lines often offer beverage packages that are mandatory for all adults in a cabin if selected by one, and internet costs for remote work can exceed $400 weekly. Other expenses may include specialty meals, spa services, onshore activities, or the cost of moving between cruise lines.

To save on costs, cruise-goers can opt for "guarantee cabins," where the cruise line chooses the accommodation, or consider repositioning cruises, which are typically priced lower. Booking early, selecting less-costly internal cabins or older ships, and managing laundry wisely can also yield savings.

Ultimately, living on a cruise ship is an alluring concept filled with the thrill of travel, but it’s essential to carefully consider the hidden costs to ensure this lifestyle can be financially viable.

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