Published 16 July 2024
If you have enjoyed taking cruises and are approaching retirement age, you may have considered the possibility of living on a cruise ship instead of moving to a retirement community.
This is exactly what New York attorney and author Peter Antonucci and his wife did in 2014, purchasing a $1.6 million apartment on The World, a residential cruise ship. They spent six years traveling the globe with some of the wealthiest individuals, drawing inspiration for several bestsellers, including his latest novel, Tides of Betrayal.
Antonucci provided valuable insights for anyone interested in purchasing an apartment on a residential ship. Here are several critical factors to consider:
1. How Old is the Ship?
Many 20- to 30-year-old cargo vessels are being reconfigured as residential ships. When assessing these vessels, it’s crucial to consider engine hours, akin to miles on a car. Safety and a ship’s age are closely connected, regardless of maintenance quality.
2. Conduct In-Depth Due Diligence
Typically, individuals without legal or financial expertise may find it challenging to conduct sufficient due diligence on a ship. Antonucci emphasizes, “If I am going to spend $400,000 for an apartment on a ship, I want to know if it is a viable investment. You wouldn’t buy a house without an inspector!”
Moreover, financial reports may not always include expenses such as fuel and port fees, which can exceed $40,000 nightly. “If operational expenses are not presented, how much time will you truly have to explore a destination?” he asks.
3. The Boredom Factor
If your ship follows a repetitive itinerary — the Caribbean, Greek Islands, Western European countries — ponder how many times you would prefer to revisit the same locations.
4. Available Medical Services
A residential ship should have a doctor who is either a general practitioner or certified in emergency medicine, ensuring medical needs can be addressed adequately.
5. What Level of Quality Can You Afford? A Holiday Inn or a Ritz-Carlton?
Antonucci highlights, “You are not going to receive Ritz-Carlton service at Holiday Inn prices,” making it essential to establish expectations when considering an apartment on a ship.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Ship Living
Benefit: Enhanced Cultural Awareness
Traveling extensively fosters an appreciation of diverse cultures, leading to more thoughtful and respectful discussions about different lifestyles and worldviews.
Drawback: Missing Key Life Events
- Family emergencies.
- Weddings and graduations require considerable planning to attend.
- You may miss out on quality time with friends; while technology like Skype and Zoom exists, costs for reliable internet can be prohibitive.
Who is Unsuitable for Life on a Ship?
A residential ship serves as a tight-knit community. Antonucci notes that it can resemble high school cliques or fraternity life, necessitating good interpersonal skills. Furthermore, the limited environment means you cannot simply take a car ride or head to a store at your leisure.
Additionally, those who resist adaptability may struggle, as weather and last-minute changes to itineraries can significantly impact experiences. Individuals with chronic health issues may also face challenges if they require medical assistance beyond what is available on board.
Who is Well-Suited for Life on a Ship?
According to Antonucci, individuals in good health and possess a sense of adventure thrive in this setting: “Someone curious about the world and open to rolling with changes will enjoy life on a ship.”
Antonucci concluded with a caveat: “Living on a ship can take a real toll on your terrestrial friendships and relationships.” His novel, Tides of Betrayal, immerses readers in the lives of those aboard a fictional residential ship, offering a unique perspective into their community dynamics.
