Imagine a life where the vast expanse of the ocean is your backyard, and every sunrise brings a new slice of paradise.
This isn’t a dream for great-grandparents Jess and Marty, but their reality.
For these avid travelers, a few weeks of vacation a year simply wasn’t enough.
Their unique solution?
Book 51 back-to-back cruises and embark on a continuous journey spanning years.
Jess and Marty’s love for cruises isn’t a newfound passion.
They’ve been cruising enthusiasts for decades.
Their recent decision, however, is nothing short of extraordinary.
They chose to stay on board for two consecutive years, a choice they cheekily claim is more economical than a nursing home.
Their rationale is simple: why opt for a retirement home when the world can be your oyster, quite literally?
Their journey began from their home port of Brisbane.
Since then, they’ve been on the move, marking their days by the ports they visit and the new friends they make.
Their days are filled with activities, from hula and ballroom dancing to enjoying shows and gourmet meals.
Every day is a new adventure, and every night is a chance to dance under the stars.
Jess told A Current Affair:
“It’s a lifestyle. Where else can you go, you go for dinner, you go to a show, you go dancing. Through the day you have all these activities.”
The ship isn’t just a mode of transport for Jess and Marty; it’s their home.
The crew, having seen their familiar faces day in and day out, have become like family.
Jess even celebrated her birthday on board, with the crew organizing a surprise for her.
Their presence on the ship has made them somewhat of celebrities, with both crew and fellow passengers recognizing and greeting them.
Life on a cruise ship might seem monotonous to some, but not for this spirited couple.
They have their daily routines, starting their day early in the morning with exercises.
While they do indulge in the occasional photograph, Jess believes in storing memories in her mind, confident that if she ever misses a place, they’ll be back there soon enough.
Their journey has taken them to various ports, with each stop offering a new experience.
On one such stop, they docked in Sydney, gearing up for a round trip to Hawaii.
Their itinerary doesn’t stop there.
Following their current cruise, they have plans for another around-the-world voyage.
Marty shared with ABC News:
“For us, it’s more cost effective than a retirement village. But it might not be for everybody.”
However, every journey has its bittersweet moments.
For Jess and Marty, it’s the goodbyes.
Saying farewell to the friends they make on each trip is hard.
Yet, they find solace in the fact that the ocean always has more adventures in store for them.
Their practical challenges?
Well, they jokingly admit to forgetting how to do household chores like washing up or making a bed!
While they’re out at sea, life goes on for their family on land.
But distance hasn’t dimmed their bond.
The couple ensures they meet their loved ones whenever they sail past their ports.
When asked if they miss their family, their response is heartwarming.
They understand that their family has their lives, and they have their adventures.
Their motto is clear: live life to the fullest.
Jess and Marty are proving that age is just a number and passion knows no bounds.
Watch the video below to be inspired by this adventurous couple! Do you think you’d enjoy a lifestyle like this?
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Source: YouTube – A Current Affair, ABC News
