After years of frugal saving and a dream sparked decades ago, Angelyn and Richard Burk retired from their land-based life to live full-time on cruise ships, visiting diverse destinations while keeping expenses lower than paying a typical mortgage.
- Cruise living costs roughly $36,500 annually for the couple
- Savings come from eliminating groceries and housing expenses
- Traveling light with just two suitcases keeps life simple
What happened
Angelyn and Richard Burk have been living full-time on cruise ships since May 2021, opting for a lifestyle that allows them to travel the world affordably. By paying approximately $100 nightly, they stay aboard ships that take them to exciting destinations like Italy, Iceland, Canada, the Bahamas, and Singapore. This decision was made after analyzing the costs of traditional homeownership, such as their previous residence in Tukwila, Washington, which has an average home price exceeding $500,000.
The couple’s journey began with Angelyn’s first cruise in 1992, which shifted their long-term retirement goals. Years later, with careful financial planning and use of cruise loyalty programs, they realized that living aboard could be both cost-effective and enriching. Their method includes traveling light with only two suitcases and relying on ship amenities, eliminating the need to cook and allowing a stress-free travel routine.
Why it feels good
For Angelyn and Richard, this lifestyle is the fulfillment of a dream nurtured through decades of frugal living and careful investing. They value experiences over material possessions, and cruising offers a way to indulge this mindset while controlling costs. The couple enjoys the ease of onboard living where they don’t have to manage cooking, accommodation bookings, or transportation logistics, making travel more relaxing and accessible.
Their approach fosters a sense of freedom and ongoing adventure without the burdens typically associated with retirement planning. The ability to wake up in a new place regularly and meet different people adds excitement and richness to their daily lives. This lifestyle also underscores how thoughtful financial choices can open unconventional paths to happiness and security.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by the Burks’ approach, Angelyn offers practical advice: first, try different cruise lines to find a style of cruising that suits you, as this lifestyle is not for everyone. Enjoying time at sea is essential since it becomes your new home. Those interested should research travel health considerations, like vaccinations, especially in light of recent global health challenges.
If the idea of living on a cruise ship intrigues you, explore loyalty memberships and packages that cruise lines offer to reduce costs. Watching travel documentaries or following cruise lifestyle bloggers can also provide useful insights and inspiration. As the Burks demonstrate, with good planning and a passion for adventure, a continuous ocean voyage can be more than a dream—it can be an affordable and fulfilling way to retire.