Living the Cruise Life: A New Way to Work and Travel
Imagine spending most of the year on a cruise ship, enjoying the open sea while working remotely. For Ryan Gutridge, a cloud solutions engineer from Florida, this dream is a reality. He spends around 300 days a year aboard Royal Caribbean ships, primarily the Freedom of the Seas. Surprisingly, this lifestyle costs about the same as living on land.
From Trial Cruises to a New Lifestyle
In 2021, Gutridge decided to test the waters. He booked two four-night cruises on Freedom of the Seas in September. His goal was to see if the onboard WiFi could support his work needs. The trial was a success. He realised he could work effectively while cruising. After doing the maths, he found that living on a cruise ship for most of the year was financially viable. With a budget of around £22,000 annually, including WiFi, drinks, and meals, his expenses were lower than living on land.
Loyalty Perks Enhance the Experience
Sticking with one cruise line has its perks. Gutridge benefits from Royal Caribbean’s loyalty programme, which offers discounts, free internet, and drinks. He advises trying different cruise lines initially. However, once you find the right fit, staying loyal can unlock valuable benefits. For Gutridge, Royal Caribbean offers the best perks, making his cruise lifestyle even more appealing.
More Than Just Financial Benefits
The cruise lifestyle offers more than just cost savings. Constant travel, entertainment, and dining are part of the package. Gutridge enjoys access to destinations that would otherwise require separate holidays. This lifestyle offers a unique blend of work and leisure, making it an attractive option for those who can work remotely.
A Growing Trend Among Remote Workers
Gutridge is not alone in his choice. A growing number of people are opting to live on cruise ships for extended periods. They sell most of their possessions and move from one sailing to another. While there are challenges, such as repetitive food and fleeting friendships, the benefits often outweigh the downsides. For many, the cruise lifestyle offers a unique and fulfilling way to live and work.
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