- Villa Vie Residences has launched its Endless Horizons program
- The program offers retirees the opportunity to experience a 1,301-day adventure
A cruise line has offered retirees the adventure of a lifetime to explore the world in luxury and give them a chance to beat inflation.
Villa Vie Residences has launched its Endless Horizons program, allowing passengers to set sail on the ship Villa Vie Odyssey on May 30 and embark on an adventure across seven continents.
The luxury cruise ship requires a one-time payment of $299,999 for a single room and $499,999 for a double cabin.
“One aspect that most people approaching retirement age are concerned about is ongoing living costs and the ability to outlive their savings,” said Kathy Villalba, chief operating officer of Villa Vie Residences.
“This program completely eliminates those concerns while offering the ultimate dream: exploring every corner of the world by sea.”
The once-in-a-lifetime experience lasts 1,301 days and allows passengers to visit 147 countries, 425 destinations and more than 100 islands.
According to the company’s website, some of the wonderful places the ship stops along the way include the Eiffel Tower, Rio de Janeiro, Greenland, the Caribbean, Australia, Bali and more.
Passengers can even visit some of the largest locations in the US, including New York City, Miami and Washington DC. There is also the option to “Customize Your Trip,” allowing travelers to choose where they want to go.
The ship, currently anchored in Belfast, Northern Ireland, also offers all-inclusive dining, medical consultations, excursions, high-speed internet and the ability to invite family and friends on board.
For $129 per night, friends and family members of the passengers can join the adventurous retirees on board.
The cruise offers wellness classes and fitness facilities, as well as a host of onboard activities including gourmet dining and entertainment options.
There is also a “pay as you go” option where potential passengers can rent a cabin and pay as they begin their journey.
Passengers can also opt to purchase a “Villa at Sea,” which starts at $99,999. The option to sell or rent the villa is available at any time.
Mikael Petterson, chief executive officer of Villa Vie Residence, said his goal is to “provide a seamless solution for those who want to retire on a fixed budget, never having to worry about ongoing expenses again.”
According to the cruise line’s website, Petterson has more than 18 years of experience in cruise line financing.
He has operational financial experience during his time at Royal Caribbean, Prestige Cruise and Norwegian Cruise Line.
“This is more than just a travel option; “It’s a new way of life,” he said.
“For less than the price of an average home, you can secure a lifetime of experiences.”
Residents on board also have access to an outside cabin area and can participate in 50 active interest groups, including fitness and culinary arts.
Lifelong vacationers can also enjoy pools, a gold simulator, educational and enrichment workshops, and even work in private offices and conference rooms.
News of the lifelong ticket to adventure has spread across social media and drawn reactions from commentators.
“I would definitely go on a cruise,” wrote one.
Another said: ‘Yeah! Better start saving my money!’
“Sounds dreamy. “Family members can visit for less than the cost of a hotel,” said another.
Others felt the unique experience wasn’t the best option for them.
“The ship seems like a big risk.” “You’re stuck in a small space with people who may not be pleasant,” one commenter wrote.
“Maybe for a year or so… but after that I’d want a house on land,” said another.
“I definitely would if you paid me,” another person said.
The company described the atmosphere of the experience as a “vibrant and engaged community.”
“Embark on a journey that will immerse you in the authentic beauty of the world, combining the essence of exploration with the comfort of community living.”