World Cruise vs. Residential Cruise Ship

World Cruise vs. Residential Cruise Ship

by Chris and Michael from ChartingOurCourse.com

For many, the ultimate travel dream is a life at sea. But once you start looking into it, the options can be a little overwhelming. Is a world cruise the right choice, or is a more permanent residential cruise ship a better fit? In our video on the DC Hidden Gems YouTube channel, we explored some of the big differences using the example of an Azamara World Cruise. Now, let’s take a deeper dive into the decision parameters to help you chart your own course.


What’s the Difference Between a World Cruise and a Residential Cruise?

The primary difference is simple: one is an extended vacation, and the other is a full-time home.

  • A world cruise is a singular, pre-planned journey on a traditional cruise liner that can last anywhere from 3 to 9 months, or even longer. It's a fantastic, all-in-one vacation to see the world, but it’s still on a ship designed for short-term getaways.
  • A residential cruise ship is a vessel where you own or lease a private residence. It's designed for long-term living, with residents often participating in the ship’s governance and itinerary planning. It’s your floating home, not just a floating hotel.
 

As Chris and Michael, we've had our share of adventures, and we've learned that the feeling of permanence is a huge factor. On a world cruise, you’re constantly surrounded by a changing cast of characters. On a residential ship, you're with a tight-knit community of fellow adventurers.


How Does the Itinerary and Lifestyle Compare?

World cruises follow a very strict, fast-paced itinerary. You might spend only a day or two in each port of call. This is great for getting a taste of many places, but it doesn't allow for a deep, immersive experience.

On a residential cruise, the schedule is far more flexible and slow-paced. Ships like the Villa Vie Odyssey or The World spend an average of 3-5 days in each port. This gives residents plenty of time to explore, make local connections, and really soak in the culture. The residents often help plan the itinerary, making it a true collective journey.


Is a Residential Cruise Cheaper Than a World Cruise?

This is where the biggest financial difference comes in. While a year-long world cruise can cost over $100,000 per person, it’s still in the realm of an expensive vacation. You pay for the cruise fare, but you can expect additional on-board spending for things like Wi-Fi, laundry, and drinks.

The cost of a residential cruise is more akin to purchasing a home. The upfront purchase price for a residence can range from the hundreds of thousands to even millions of dollars, as seen on ships like The World. On top of that, you have monthly fees that cover amenities, utilities, and more. According to sources like Cruzely.com, these costs may be comparable to or even cheaper than living in a major city, especially when you factor in that everything from housekeeping to groceries is taken care of.

A luxury residential cruise ship sailing into the sunset, with residents relaxing on its decks, a stark contrast to the crowds of a traditional vacation cruise.

How Do the Amenities and Services Differ?

While all cruises offer amenities, the scope and nature of them on a residential ship are designed for a more permanent, long-term life. On a world cruise, you have restaurants, pools, and entertainment. It’s all there for a temporary stay.

Residential ships, on the other hand, provide a true home-away-from-home experience. They often include:

  • Medical and Dental Clinics: For the long-term well-being of residents.
  • On-board Markets: For residents who want to do their own cooking.
  • Dedicated Workspace: For those who are still working, as noted by VillaVieResidences.com.
  • A Strong Sense of Community: The residents are your neighbors, not just temporary acquaintances.
 
 

These are all services and benefits that are crucial for creating a comfortable, safe, and sustainable lifestyle at sea, a sentiment echoed by many residents themselves, as shared on various online forums.

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Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you are seeking a life-changing, but temporary, grand adventure or a permanent, floating home that changes its backyard every few days. A world cruise is an incredible way to see the globe in a single trip. A residential cruise, however, is a full lifestyle shift, where you get to truly live a life of continuous travel and connection with a global community.

What’s your dream? A year-long adventure on a world cruise, or a lifetime of exploration on a residential ship? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

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