Woman, 77, moves onto cruise ship permanently — says it’s cheaper than living in California

Last month, 77-year-old Sharon Lane moved out of her retirement village in Orange County, California, to embark on her dream adventure: A 15-year trip around the world. Lane invested in her own cabin on Villa Vie’s Odyssey, which bills itself as the first perpetual world cruise, with many of its passengers booking a “permanent home” on board.

Odyssey launched in October and is set to visit 147 countries and 425 destinations over a three-and-a-half-year cycle. The ship offers long-term living options, allowing residents to either purchase cabins outright for its entire lifespan of 15 years or opt for a pay-as-you-go plan.

Cabin prices begin at $129,000 for an interior cabin with a 15-year lease. Monthly fees are $2,000 per person for double occupancy or $3,000 for singles. For outside cabins, prices start at $169,000, with monthly fees increasing by $500 per person.

Lane joined Odyssey in June, spending her life savings on an interior cabin that would be hers for the ship’s lifetime. Over the years, the cruise will continually circle the globe.

For more information see Amber Raiken “Woman, 77, moves onto cruise ship permanently — says it’s cheaper than living in California,” MSN.com, June 30, 2025.

Special thanks to David S. Luber (Florida Probate Attorney) for bringing this article to my attention.

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