Marty and Jess Ansen, an Australian couple living the dream of retirement, have been enjoying an epic 500-day cruise vacation instead of the typical nursing home experience.

These adventurous retirees, who bid farewell to the working world last June, have found that life on a cruise ship can be both more exciting and budget-friendly.

Their seafaring journey began on June 16, 2022, as they embarked on Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess, a ship capable of housing up to 2,000 passengers.

For them, it’s all about the perks of cruise life. As Jess puts it, “This is our lifestyle now. No more dishwashing or bed-making for us. Our cabin is tidied up daily, we savour meals from the open buffet, and we’re perpetually surrounded by the soothing sea or enjoying the pool.

“Each day brings a fresh destination, concerts, events, bars, and so much more.” And what’s the best part, according to Jess? “It’s even more cost-effective than a nursing home.”

Marty described their unique approach to retirement planning: “When I retired, I walked into the travel agency, showed them my budget, and simply said, ‘Here’s the money; get us tickets for as long as it lasts.'”

In total, they bought 51 consecutive tickets, ensuring that they would outlast every other passenger on the ship.