Opting for an unconventional retirement, Marty and Jess Ansen have traded a traditional senior living facility for a never-ending voyage at sea. Convinced that cruising is more affordable than a retirement home, the couple has embarked on an extraordinary journey, spanning 51 consecutive cruises.
Their adventure began in June of last year aboard the Coral Princess, and for the past 18 months, they have embraced a life filled with dancing, fine dining, and global exploration. Along the way, they have formed lasting friendships and become a beloved presence among fellow passengers and crew.
In a playful twist, Marty and Jess joke that they now “welcome the captains” rather than the other way around. Hailing from Australia, the couple has gained a certain level of fame on board. According to ship manager Ren van Rooyen, even short-term passengers specifically request to meet them, inspired by their remarkable journey.
Marty humorously admits that after spending so much time at sea, they’ve forgotten how to handle simple tasks like cooking or making a bed. Their decision to fully embrace cruising came during the COVID-19 pandemic when Australia’s strict lockdowns left them feeling they were missing out on life. Determined to make up for lost time, they devised a plan to turn their retirement into a permanent vacation.
“I finally told my agent, ‘Just book whatever comes next,’ and that’s how we ended up on such a long cruise,” Marty recalls.
With all meals included and daily chores taken care of by the ship’s staff, the couple finds their new lifestyle both stress-free and cost-effective. The crew, who have become like family, even went the extra mile to celebrate Jess’s birthday this year.
Their daily routine is one of pure enjoyment, starting with a lively game of ping pong, followed by cold beers on the deck and indulging in the ship’s buffet.
Next on their itinerary is Hawaii, but their voyage aboard the Coral Princess will continue for another eight months before a short land break. Yet, their love for cruising shows no signs of slowing down. They’re already planning an even longer adventure, a year-long journey aboard the Crown Princess.
For Marty and Jess, retirement isn’t about slowing down; it’s about setting sail on a lifetime of adventure.
