PHOTO: By Arda Kaykısız
Boomer Buys $2.9M Home on Luxury Cruise Ship to Travel the World
As many Baby Boomers opt for traditional retirement communities, one adventurous retiree has taken a different route—purchasing a $2.9 million home aboard a luxury cruise ship that will sail the world indefinitely.
Debra Kilgore has no qualms about sailing the world by herself.
A Bold Retirement Choice
Debra Kilgore, 63, has secured a one-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom residence on the MV Narrative, a residential cruise ship set to launch in 2027. This floating city allows its residents to vote on global destinations, offering a unique alternative to conventional retirement living.
Storylines’ MV Narrative residential cruise ship will set sail in 2027. (Picture: Storylines)
“I’m really looking forward to being on the ship by myself,” Kilgore told Realtor, explaining that solo travel provides her the flexibility to explore on her own terms.
An RU-3 cabin, the unit that Kilgore bought for $1.9 million (Picture: Storylines)
A Life at Sea
Kilgore, an experienced traveler, has spent years exploring the U.S. in her motorhome with her dog, Choo Choo Bella. Now, she is ready to embark on her most ambitious journey yet—living full-time on a cruise ship that features furnished apartments ranging from 22 to 183 sqm, with prices starting at $1 million USD.
Kilgore’s unit will have a balcony like this one. (Picture: Storylines)
Her unit, located on the 12th deck, provides stunning ocean views and access to high-end amenities, including a state-of-the-art wellness center, multiple pools, and gourmet dining options. Unlike conventional cruises, MV Narrative is designed for long-term living, offering services such as 24/7 room service, fitness classes, and an onboard medical team.
The ship will have a wellness centre and pool, one of three on-board. (Picture: Storylines)
Why Choose a Residential Cruise Ship?
Kilgore was inspired by a friend who had purchased a unit on The World, the first residential cruise liner launched in 2002. Residents on such ships must typically meet stringent financial requirements, with many needing a net worth of at least $10 million to qualify. However, the MV Narrative offers more flexible ownership options, making it accessible to a broader range of affluent travelers.
“I love water, and I hate the cold,” Kilgore explains, looking forward to exploring destinations like the Mediterranean, the South Pacific, and the Greek Islands.
The ship will have a state-of-the-art wellness centre. (Picture: Storylines)
A New Trend in Luxury Living
While the idea of living on a cruise ship is not entirely new, it is gaining traction among retirees looking for adventure and convenience. With 22% of MV Narrative residents also traveling alone, Kilgore expects to build a community with like-minded adventurers.
One of the many residential lounges — this one with a library — aboard the MV Narrative. (Picture: Storylines)
Though the unit purchase comes with an annual fee of $68,000 to $245,000 USD, covering meals, laundry, activities, and ship maintenance, Kilgore sees it as an investment in a lifestyle of endless travel and luxury.
“I’ve learned that life is not promised. Make the most of each day you have,” she says.
Living on a cruise ship with thousands of residents and their guests means Kilgore won’t be truly alone. (Picture: Storyliner)
SOURCE: NEWS.COM.AU