Retired couple buy cruise ship cabin to travel the world

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(NewsNation) — A retired couple has decided to live life on a cruise ship for the next 15 years, after purchasing a cabin on board.

Johan Bodin and Lanette Canen told “Morning in America” the idea to trade life and their business on land for an adventure at sea came in their 50s. They said they were looking for opportunities to travel but weren’t sure how to pursue them.

“We were thinking of traveling three months out of the year, and then we found this thing … We looked at each other and said, ‘Let’s go for this,’” Bodin said. “We bought a cabin for, like, $100,000, and then we pay $3,500 a month for the two of us.”

The couple purchased a cabin aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey, an all-inclusive residential ship that stops in 425 ports in 147 countries over three and a half years. The monthly rent of $3,500 covers their food, internet access, laundry service and a cleaner — and locks in their room for 15 years.

“We did a lot of traveling by flights and stuff, and it was not as easy as traveling by cruise ship,” Canen said.

Since setting sail in September 2024, the couple has traveled to more than 40 countries, most recently Japan. While they can admit it was a bit of a lifestyle gamble, 10 months in, the couple say they couldn’t be happier. As for any friends or family looking to visit, Bodin said they are welcome to climb aboard.

“For every year we are on board, we get 28 days of family and friends visiting for free,” Bodin said.

Travel

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