Couple Quit Their Jobs, Sold Everything and Now Live on Cruise Ships for Less Than You’d Think

We all have our ways of saving money—skipping the daily Starbucks, cancelling subscriptions, or delaying that next Amazon splurge. But for one couple, cutting costs meant something a little more extreme: selling nearly all their possessions and moving permanently onto cruise ships.

Monica and Jorell didn’t just extend a holiday, they left behind their jobs, their house, and their land-based lives to become full-time cruisers. Since embarking on this bold new chapter in early 2023, they’ve completed 36 cruises and visited over 45 countries, while spending less than many people do on regular living expenses.

The Moment Everything Changed

For Monica Brzoska, the shift to full-time cruising wasn’t sparked by wanderlust alone – it came during a family crisis. In 2022, her father needed a liver transplant. During one emotional conversation, her mum gave her advice that would change everything: “Don’t wait for retirement to follow your dreams. Do it now.”

She and her husband, Jorell, already had a one-week Caribbean cruise booked for March 2023. That trip suddenly became more than a vacation. As Monica recalled, her mum asked, “Instead of coming back, why not keep booking consecutive cruises for as long as you can afford to?”

So, they did. By the time they boarded their ship in Miami, the couple had quit their jobs, sold almost everything, and decided to sail into the unknown, budget in hand.

Crunching the Numbers

Living on cruise ships full-time sounds expensive, right? But according to Monica and Jorell, it actually made financial sense. When they compared their monthly costs back home in Memphis, rent, utilities, groceries, transport, and entertainment, it wasn’t far off what they’d spend cruising. In fact, it was often cheaper.

Having already taken numerous Carnival cruises, they qualified for deep loyalty discounts. By choosing the most affordable cabins and using their pandemic-era savings, they secured eight months of cruising for under $10,000. Some sailings were fully paid in advance, while others just required deposits.

They also kept their Memphis home, choosing to rent it out. That rental income helps supplement their costs at sea. No rent, no bills, no commuting—just one continuous, budget-friendly voyage.

Life on Board: The Joys of Floating Freedom

Since trading dry land for the open sea, Monica and Jorell have leaned fully into their new life. Forget cooking, cleaning, or setting early alarms—their days are filled with panoramic views, never-ending buffets, and world-class entertainment.

“All my meals are cooked by chefs, and staff change my bedding,” Monica shared. “I haven’t stepped into a kitchen or touched a washing machine in over a year.” That’s a pretty sweet exchange for giving up the daily grind.

Their typical day includes trivia games, craft workshops, comedy shows, spa visits, and the occasional dip in the hot tub. They’ve even created a ritual of weekly date nights, dressing up for dinner at the ship’s speciality restaurants. When they’re not exploring ports, Jorell can often be found making new friends at the bar or relaxing with a show.

Travel Hacks & Money-Saving Tips

Despite how it sounds, this lifestyle isn’t about splurging – it’s about being savvy. Monica and Jorell have picked up plenty of tricks to make their cruising budget go further.

They skip expensive shore excursions in favour of DIY adventures, often using local buses or simply exploring on foot. They’ve also won spa treatments, jewellery, and excursions through onboard raffles, just by showing up.

Cruising frequently with the same line also pays off. Their loyalty status unlocks exclusive deals, onboard credits, and extra perks. For Monica and Jorell, this isn’t just travel—it’s strategic living at sea.

The Downsides (Because It’s Not Always Smooth Sailing)

Of course, no lifestyle is perfect. Monica and Jorell are the first to acknowledge that life at sea comes with its challenges.

The hardest part? Being far from family. They miss milestones and everyday moments, though they take comfort in knowing they can always fly home in an emergency.

Then there are occasional lulls—quiet days, homesickness, or missing the routine of “normal” life. But as Monica says, “We don’t know how long our money will last, but in the meantime, we’re making the most of every minute.”

The Emotional Shift

Before setting sail, Monica and Jorell would talk about the little moments they called “glimmers”—those rare flashes when life felt magical. Now, Monica says, her whole life feels like a glimmer.

Without the burden of daily chores or stressful work schedules, they’ve discovered a deeper sense of peace and joy. Every day brings new scenery, new people, and a renewed sense of freedom.

It’s also done wonders for their marriage. With fewer distractions and more quality time, they’ve grown closer. Weekly date nights and shared adventures have strengthened their bond and made their lives more enjoyable.

Would You Do It?

This isn’t just a story about cruise ships. It’s about rethinking the rules. Monica and Jorell traded work stress and domestic routines for ocean views, buffet dinners, and a passport packed with stamps, and they’re not looking back.

Sure, it’s not a one-size-fits-all lifestyle. But for those who crave freedom, adventure, and simplicity, it might just be the perfect fit. It turns out you don’t need to be a millionaire to live like one – you just need a plan, a bit of courage, and maybe a few loyalty points.

So, what do you think? Would you give it all up for life at sea?

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