Rumors have long circulated that retiring on a cruise ship is less expensive than moving to an independent or assisted living community. The buzz reignites every few years when media outlets come across older adults who’ve chosen this lifestyle and feature these senior cruisers in a story. It sounds adventurous and exciting.
While cruising through retirement has some obvious benefits, such as extensive travel opportunities and the promise of delicious foods at every meal, there are also some disadvantages that aren’t often discussed—most of which can seriously impact an older adult’s budget and quality of life.
The Downside of Cruise Ship Living During Retirement
It might be hard to believe there could possibly be a downside to life on a cruise ship, but there are some very real-world issues older adults should consider before deciding whether to retire at sea, and here are just a few of them:
- True cost of cruising: If you’ve ever taken a cruise before, you probably remember just how many extra fees are involved. In addition to the upfront costs for a cruise, you’ll likely encounter many others. Those commonly include excursion fees, drink fees, internet access charges, laundry, fitness class expenses, and room delivery convenience charges. Compare all of that to the cost of an independent and assisted living community, and you will likely find the latter to be significantly less.
- Limited access to medical care:
While it’s
true that ships have a medical center and physician, most can only offer limited services. For older adults who have a chronic health condition or experience a sudden medical emergency, the ship’s doctor might not be enough. And air medical evacuations can be painfully expensive. Depending on where a person is cruising, costs can range from $20,000 to over $100,000.
- Cramped cabin space: First-time cruisers are often surprised to see just how small cabins are on cruise ships, often only about 200 square feet. Though it may be fine for a few weeks, it’s important to carefully consider the idea of living permanently in such a tight space. Even though you’ll have access to the ship’s amenities, your personal space will be limited.
- Difficulty communicating with family: Most cruise ships have internet access and wireless technology. The downside is that these services tend to be expensive and slow. Depending on where you are cruising, you might find it tough to stay in regular contact with loved ones back home. Video chats with faraway grandkids isn’t likely an option unless you are back in port.
- Problems with prescriptions: Finally, you might find one of the steepest hurdles to be getting easy access to prescription refills. Most ship clinics have a pharmacy, but they tend to offer only over-the-counter medications. Long-term cruisers may find themselves battling their insurance company to obtain a greater amount of their medications at one time or trying to navigate refilling prescriptions in a foreign land.
These are just a few of the hidden truths behind living on a cruise ship. A more substantive plan for retiring might be to make a move to a senior living community that offers both independent and assisted living. You’ll find yourself free from the daily maintenance and chores that often tie down older adults during retirement. That will give you the time you need to take a cruise or a long-dreamed-of vacation while still having a permanent place to call home. We invite you to tour an ASC community to learn more about a better option – and one that guarantees no sea sickness!
