Yes, You Can Retire on a Cruise Ship. Here’s What It Costs | Global News Avenue

Traveling the world on a cruise ship after retirement may seem like a fantasy, but it might not be as far-fetched as you think. If it appeals to you, the best way to determine if you can afford it is to understand its cost and then save up for it. Costs can vary greatly, so it’s important to know your must-haves and what you can live without.

The basic costs of retiring on a cruise ship

There are many variable costs when thinking about retirement cruise ship. The most significant expense you will encounter will be your cabin. Stateroom costs vary by location and type, with rooms near the center of the ship (midships) generally being the most expensive. Ocean views, balconies, etc. all add to the cost.

Jennifer Gardneris a travel agent and cruise expert at Southern Touch Vacations, providing Investopedia with average prices for 7-day Caribbean cruises.

She said: “All cabins are charged on a double occupancy basis unless there are singles on board, and these are currently rare and sell out quickly.”

“The average cost of (an) interior cabin on a regular cruise ship (not a new mega cruise ship) is approximately $1,500.00 per seven-day cruise, which equates to approximately $78,000.00 per year,” she added.

Other expenses

If you’re considering booking, cabin fees are just the beginning of the expenses you need to plan for cruise ship retire. Over-the-counter expenses will add up, so you’ll need to create a Budget And hold on unless you can spend your money more carefree than other travelers.

One of the more important daily expenses to consider is tips and gratuities.

“That’s how most employees on the ship are paid,” Gardner said. “Tips (on average are approximately) $18.50 per person per day for regular cabins and $21.00 per person per day for suites.”

Additionally, Gardner says you should consider other expenses that aren’t included in the cabin fee.

• Drink package: The drinks included in the package are usually lemonade, tea, water, and regular coffee. Gardner said soda packages range in price from $8.99 to $15.00 per day and alcohol packages range from $79.00 to $100.00 per day.
• WiFi package: If you want to communicate with loved ones, manage your finances online, and stay connected and informed, you’ll need a Wi-Fi plan. Gardner said the average is about $20 per day per device, and the price usually goes down the more devices you have.
• Telephone service: Gardner said some cellphone companies have offshore plans, but she recommends WiFi plans to customers.
• laundry: Most ships do not have laundry rooms for guest use. Staff can do your laundry (for an additional fee).
• short trip: Some cruise packages include specific excursions, but you may also want to Budget for more options.

Special precautions

The type and age of the vessel will also affect the fees you may encounter. Gardner said older and smaller boats are generally less expensive than new ones. If you are looking for a boat retire If you are on a boat or spending an extended period of time, you should consider that larger and newer ships (such as mega ships with family-oriented onboard activities) will be filled with the level of noise and activity that comes with families. If you like being around kids and family, this might not be a problem, but if you’re looking for a quiet boat to relax on, you might want to consider a non-family boat.

Other factors to consider are looking for cruise promotions and using travel agency Book your accommodation. Gardner said that as a travel agent, she has access to prices and other promotions not found on cruise booking pages. You can lower your overall costs by booking accommodation through an agent, she adds.

Get your funds

Travel costs money, so you need to be able to Get your funds While on a ship or in another country. exchange rate may apply, and many ships carry enough cash to exchange for a limited amount of currency.

gardner says use credit card Best when traveling by boat. “have credit card It will be converted for you and there are no foreign exchange transaction fees. I recommend you find the best credit card for you and make sure you let them know you will be traveling internationally. I don’t recommend using debit card“.

medical considerations

Medical costs are also an issue.

“Most U.S. insurance company “Medical expenses outside the U.S. are not covered,” Gardner said. “A travel insurance policy is required. These can be purchased through the cruise line for each cruise, or through a third-party insurance company for an annual policy.”

Most ships have staffed medical centers, but they are not designed to handle the chronic conditions and ongoing care that many retirees face as they age. Additionally, if you require medication, you may need to coordinate a scheduled delivery with your doctor before departure or schedule an adequate dose.

bottom line

While retiring on a cruise ship is possible, there are many costs to consider. If you’re considering living on a boat, it’s best to talk to your financial advisor first and then a travel agent to find the right hotel at the right price so you end up making money.