Trading the constant grind of modern life for a 15-year journey on a residential cruise ship, Lanette and Johan have discovered a new dimension of retirement that’s as enriching as it is affordable.
At a Glance
- Lanette and Johan Canen chose to live full-time on a cruise ship for 15 years.
- Their all-inclusive stay costs $3,500 a month, offering more value than their former lifestyle in Hawaii.
- The couple’s lifestyle includes stops at 425 ports in 147 countries.
- Family visits are accommodated without any additional costs for up to 28 days.
A Radical Departure from Tradition
At age 55, Lanette and Johan Canen did what many dream of but few dare—selling their home and rental car business in Hawaii to embark on a 15-year odyssey aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey residential cruise ship. This decision transformed into a journey of a lifetime, proving that retirement can indeed be about living, not surviving. For $3,500 a month, they enjoy a package deal that includes meals, WiFi, cleaning services, and above all, experiences that would make any travel enthusiast envious.
The Canens have already set foot in over 25 countries in just eight months, reinforcing their belief that this lifestyle is supremely rewarding. As Johan candidly shared, “People think we’re ultra-rich for being able to do this, but it’s cheaper than our rent and living costs in Hawaii. This is for normal people.” This revelation reveals the hidden truth: chasing luxury doesn’t have to mean exorbitant expenses when one’s priorities and values align.
Family on Board, Literally
Their floating home doesn’t isolate them from family and friends. The ship’s policy allows guests to visit and stay for up to 28 days without additional charges. Contrast that with the prohibitive cost and logistics of hosting family in a stationary home, and one sees an innovation that overcomes barriers once put up by distance and expenditure.
“The service is outstanding, we feel like royalty—they even bow to us. There’s no regrets whatsoever, I love this lifestyle,” Lanette said.
While many look to downsize in their later years, Lanette and Johan have taken the opposite course—trading a fixed location property for limitless horizons. Indeed, their decision powerfully illustrates the possibility for near-limitless adventure coupled with community; a society devoid of the soul-sapping fatigue that static retirement can bring.
An Inspired Alternative to Conventional Retirement
The rise of remote work and technological conveniences have made the cruise lifestyle increasingly appealing. It’s a cost-effective way to travel the world while enjoying the comfort and security of home. Other retirees, seeing the Canens’ journey, are inspired to rethink their own futures, opting potentially for similar ventures.
“In the end, we sold most of our belongings to friends. The smart ones came right away.” – Grace.
Traditions may govern past practices, but the future belongs to those daring enough to innovate with their lives. As the Villa Vie Odyssey sails beyond its initial 3.5-year itinerary, the prospect of purchasing one’s cabin outright stands as a testament to the new, adventurous standard of living.
