A US company has revealed plans for a residential cruise ship that offers permanent living at sea, turning a dream into a potential reality. Villa Vie Residences already operates a similar ship called the Odyssey, which has been on a continuous global cruise since October 2024, following a 15-year planned itinerary despite some initial delays. The ongoing cruise will circle the globe multiple times, with each journey lasting about three and a half years.
The company, known for its residential cruise ventures, has announced Project Lumina to acquire a luxury cruise ship for residents to live on either full-time or part-time. They propose that these all-inclusive cruises could be more cost-effective than living on land. Interested individuals looking for a permanent residence aboard the ship can secure an oceanview room starting at $539,999 or upgrade to a suite with a balcony for $899,999. Monthly fees will be applicable for residents.
For those not committing to a long-term sea lifestyle, more affordable options such as five-year ownerships and rentals are also available. Comparatively, the cost of a flat in London typically ranges from £530,000 to £610,000, making the cruise ship a potentially more affordable alternative. Room buyers are not obligated to reside permanently in their purchased space and can explore options like renting out the room when not in use or inviting guests onboard for a fee.
While specific details about the new ship are confidential, the company assures that it will offer ‘ultra-luxury’ experiences and will complement their existing Odyssey service. Amenities on the current residential cruise ship include gourmet dining, entertainment, a swimming pool, optional excursions, and regular housekeeping services. Residents also enjoy a bi-weekly laundry service, medical visits, a social club, and organized events to ensure a sense of community during the extended voyage.
Although the current passengers on the Odyssey primarily consist of retirees, the cruise is also targeting remote workers and digital nomads by providing a business center onboard and high-speed WiFi connectivity through Starlink for seamless communication. In a statement, the newly-appointed President, Chris Cox, expressed enthusiasm about meeting the growing demand for ocean-living experiences through finely crafted, high-value products that offer elevated and personalized living experiences.