cruise liner you can live on

You Could Permanently Live at Sea on This Residential Cruise Ship

The vessel will navigate the globe indefinitely, and residences start at $1 million..

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The 547-room ship will set sail in 2024.

Courtesy of Storylines

After a few days of living the high (seas) life aboard a luxury cruise ship, spending time exploring exciting port towns and sampling the all-inclusive restaurants and amenities onboard, you might consider what it would be like to stay on the ship forever.

Sure, you could book a room on a round-the-world sailing , but even then, you’re not really living on a cruise ship.

One residential cruising company, however, is working toward making a permanent seafaring life a viable option. In late 2024, the Croatia-based cruise company Storylines is slated to launch a new residential ship, dubbed MV Narrative , where people can purchase an apartment onboard and sail indefinitely.

The floating community will feature 547 residences, including fully furnished studios with Murphy beds (at 237 square feet), one- to four-bedroom apartments, and two-story penthouses (that range between 1,378 and 1,970 square feet each). The outright purchase price for one of the accommodations starts just shy of $1 million and will go up to $8 million. Like any other home, the residences can be rented out or sold in whatever manner the owner chooses. A select few abodes are also listed for 24-year leases (starting at $600,000, or roughly $25,000 per year). After the initial purchase or lease price, each unit will also be charged a yearly fee, ranging from $65,000 to $200,000, to cover meals, amenities, and maintenance. But once onboard, residents would only need to open their wallets for food, experiences, and trinkets during their time ashore—most everything onboard will be covered by the fees (with the exception of things like premium alcohol, certain medical and veterinary services, childcare, and items from the onboard store).

A one-bedroom cabin aboard MV Narrative

While it’s not an entirely new idea— The World residences at sea has been sailing since 2002, and Somnio , a residential yacht liner, is expected to set sail in spring 2024—it’s currently the least expsensive option for those who wish to live at sea. ( The World and Somnio ’s smallest accommodations have an estimated starting price of $3 million and $11 million , respectively.)

Storylines was founded in 2016 and is run by Alister Punton and Shannon Lee, two men who previously worked in land-based real estate and construction projects. Per the website, MV Narrative is intended to be more a lifestyle choice and less of an extended vacation. As such, Storylines notes that it will interview potential residents to determine whether they’re a fit for the community.

The plans for the MV Narrative include 20 restaurants across 18 decks, a 10,000-book library, three pools, a garden, a bowling alley, a fitness area with a running track, and a microbrewery. The ship will also house some services not commonly found on other cruise ships due to the nature of its offering, such as a post office, hospital, school (for grades up through 12), bank, and office spaces, to make it feel more like an actual city, just at sea. There will also be outdoor pet exercise areas in case residents want to bring their four-legged friends along for the ride.

The vessel is slated to begin its 1,000-night maiden voyage in late 2024. During that initial nearly three-year-long sailing, the ship will visit six continents and will stop at various ports for one to five days at a time.

One 88-day sample itinerary shows the cruise slowly working its way around most of Italy’s coast over the course of a month, including three days in Rome, four days in Palermo (Sicily’s capital city), and single days in San Leone, Sciacca, and Marsala, among other ports. From there, the ship would spend a few days each in Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania, before doing a 24-day deep dive into Greece, and then heading to Turkey. Along the way, there would be “Residents Choice” days, where those aboard could vote on where they’d like to go by using a special phone app for residents.

The slow travel schedule, the company states on its website, is part of its sustainable travel initiative, as being in the harbor for days at a time and going shorter distances between stops burns fewer fossil fuels. Other elements include waste-to-energy tech, growing vegetables in the hydroponic garden, and committing to only using biodegradable or reusable items instead of single-use plastics.

Travel the world without leaving Home ®

With only 165 Residences aboard The World , each has its own unique story. Residences range from elegant Studios to spacious Three-Bedroom Homes – each of which may be customized to suit your specific preferences and tastes. Regardless of the layout you choose, your Home aboard The World will be unlike any other on the planet. It is your comfortable haven providing everchanging views, and your launching point for unforgettable daily adventures as you explore every corner of the globe.

Travel to your Home aboard The World is defined by unparalleled simplicity and ease.  Leave your suitcase behind as you return to your private Residence, complete with your personal art, your clothes, and even your wine collection. Once on board, you can expect the highest standards of anticipatory service, from housekeeping and personalized concierge services to tailored wellness programs and bespoke dining experiences. Welcome to the most extraordinary Home you will ever own.

• Three-Bedroom Residences

Your expansive Three-Bedroom Residence welcomes you, your Guests, and any Resident neighbors you entertain with an inviting foyer that opens into vast living spaces awash in fresh ocean air and natural light. With a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, three full bathrooms, and a vast private veranda, there is no better place to begin and end each day of your incomparable adventure.

Three-Bedroom Residences range from 1,666 – 3,242 square feet / 154.8 – 301.2 square meters.

• Two-Bedroom Residences

Your spacious Home at sea has a configuration and an interior design aesthetic all your own. The World’s Two-Bedroom Residences match and surpass the comfort and style you would expect from any landbound luxury vacation house. Enjoy a full-sized kitchen, spacious living and dining areas, en-suite full bathrooms, and ample veranda space.

Two-Bedroom Residences range from 1,106 – 1,391 square feet / 102.8 – 129.2 square meters.

– Resident

Ocean Studio Residences – One and Two Bedroom

In The World’s  One- and Two-Bedroom Ocean Studio Residences you’ll enjoy the intimacy of a studio with added space for relaxation or for Guests to join you on the Journey. Share breathtaking views from your private veranda or meals made with fresh local ingredients in your kitchenette.

Ocean Studio Residences range from 580 – 888 square feet /53.9 – 82.5 square meters.

• Ocean Studios

When you choose Ocean Studio ownership aboard The World , you enjoy elegant simplicity without compromising on the sophistication of beautiful contemporary design and sumptuous comfort. Each of these single-room Homes is a stylish sanctum at sea, defined by flawless service and boasting a stunning ocean view from a private veranda.

Ocean Studios range from 290 – 846 square feet / 26.9 – 78.6 square meters.

Ready to learn more?

Determine whether life aboard The World is the right fit for you. Talk to one of our Residential Advisors today to learn more about this unique lifestyle, details of upcoming Journeys and Expeditions, and ownership opportunities.

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Travel the World Aboard Your

Luxury Residential Community at Sea

Global Travel from the Comfort of Home

March 15, 2022 00:00:00

• 20 Restaurants & Bars
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Live on an all-inclusive

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Travel the World from the Comfort of Home

Averaging three days in each port, you have ample time and options to explore the cultures and customs beyond our ports-of-call. Or simply enjoy the most beautiful scenery on the planet from the comfort of your new home aboard Storylines exclusive around the world cruise ship .

Living an all-inclusive life aboard Storylines means exactly that. Our living fees start from just $2,152 per person per month - lower than living costs in most major cities worldwide.

Chart your day the way you want, with activities to keep you as active or relaxed as you choose to be. Yoga on deck? A deck chair and a book? Dine in or out under the stars and dance, or dream the night away. That’s the beauty of writing your own story.

Friends and Family

Friends and family of Storylines residents are welcome! Invite a friend for a month, your children for a week, or make eternal memories with your grandchildren for a whole summer. Should you wish, Storylines will even manage renting your residence for you while you are away.

Travel the World

Circumnavigating around the world every three-and-a-half years means you have time to savor the sights and sounds of UNESCO world heritage sites, off-the-beaten-path destinations and all the wonders of the world.

The Ultimate Travel Lifestyle

You can now travel the globe from the comfort of home, experiencing the ultimate travel lifestyle. Unpack once. You're home...and you're traveling around the world. You can have it all. Work onboard and discover offshore tax benefits. Learn in a truly global classroom. Enjoy the adventure - it's all part of the Storylines luxury global lifestyle.

Living on a Mega-Yacht

Living on a megayacht means never having to cook or clean again. It means exotic destinations are your afternoon strolls. When you live on a circumnavigating yacht, you wake to ever-changing views of the most beautiful places in the world and you travel the world with like-minded adventurers in an ultra-exclusive global community.

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You Can Now Buy a Vacation Home on a Cruise Ship Sailing Around the World

Your life can be an endless cruise.

For most people, sailing the world is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But for a few lucky travelers, an endless journey circumnavigating the globe could be a reality.

When Storylines' first residential cruise ship launches in 2024, it will feature 547 fully furnished residences available for purchase to globe trotters who would like to live, work, and play while exploring the world. Most of the one-to-four-bedroom homes, ranging from 237 to 1,970 square feet, feature balconies and can be customized in a coastal or contemporary style. While the onboard residences are in the $1 million to $8 million range, there are also a number of homes available for as little as $600,000 on a 24-year lease basis.

And just like with all high-end cruise ships, the 741-foot long, 98-foot wide MV Narrative will feature many amenities keeping homeowners busy and entertained.

Three pools with sundecks will ensure guests can soak up plenty of Vitamin D, while an outdoor running track, gym, yoga studio, and golf simulators will cater to sports and workout enthusiasts. Since wellness is a central part of the experience and the community's values, the onboard medical clinic will offer a list of wellness services, including weight loss, anti-aging, immune therapies, detox treatments, and nutrition planning. The ship even has a pet exercise area so four-legged passengers can stay active and healthy, too.

And with 20 dining options and bars, foodies can rest assured that their every culinary need and preference will be satisfied. The ship also has its own microbrewery and a solar-paneled, soil-less garden which will supply its eateries with fresh ingredients and craft beer. A zero-waste farmers market will also be available, offering local products. Other fun amenities aboard include a library, a marina with watercraft access, a movie theater, an art studio, and a bowling alley. The Narrative has been built with sustainability in mind. The ship runs on liquid gas, which is more eco-friendly than conventional fuels.

"Many people love global travel experiences but they don't love the logistics, planning, air travel, jet lag, and living out of a suitcase. Storylines takes the hassle out of international travel so that people can focus on exploring, adventures and cultural experiences. At the end of a long day discovering a new exotic location, they can come home to friends and familiar surroundings and sleep in their own bed," Storylines co-founder, Shannon Lee, wrote in an email.

Of course, being part of a cruise community is mainly about travel and experiencing the world. The ship's three-year voyage, beginning in 2024, includes all six continents. Residents will have several days to explore each destination and fully immerse themselves in the local culture.

"Storylines attracts people who actively get involved in local communities and enjoy world cultures. We like to say 'exotic destinations become your afternoon strolls' because the overall experience is really about exploring the world while still having all the comforts of home," added Lee.

And on this ship, the concept of exploring the world from the comfort of your home just hits different.

You can live at sea from $38,500 a year on this cruise ship that will circle the globe for three years — see inside

• Life at Sea Cruises will operate a three-year cruise around the world starting in November.
• The cruise starts at a little over $38,500 per person per year for a 145-square-foot interior stateroom.
• See what life will be like aboard the roughly 30-year-old MV Gemini.

Travelers who have dreamt of living at sea can finally do so this November.

Life at Sea Cruises will give travelers the opportunity to spend three years on a cruise ship while sailing around the world. Pricing starts at a little over $231,000 per person for the full three-year itinerary.

The vessel will begin its globetrotting affair in Istanbul on November 1, but will also pick up guests in Barcelona and Miami.

The ship has 627 cabins to accommodate up to 1,074 travelers. Throughout the three years, these seafarers will travel over 130,000 miles to 375 ports in 135 countries.

Along the way, they'll see all seven continents while visiting destinations like several of the Wonders of the World; Half Moon Island, Antarctica; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and Seoul, South Korea.

Most around-the-world cruises spend several hours or up to two nights at ports of call.

But industry veteran Mike Petterson, the managing director of Life at Sea Cruises and the brainpower behind the new brand, said this isn't enough time to explore larger destinations like Beijing, China.

So instead, the Gemini will dock for up to seven nights in one destination.

This includes one week each in Shanghai and Singapore, which will also double as wet docks. If the ship has to head into a dry dock for repairs, Life at Sea passengers will be put up in a hotel.

Petterson conceived of Life at Sea before the COVID-19 pandemic and partnered with Miray International's Miray Cruises in late 2022 to turn this concept into a reality.

The new company will use Miray's cruise ship workers and the Gemini, one of its three ships.

Throughout the three years at sea, the Gemini will spend 288 overnights at different ports, averaging about two nights per destination.

A trip to any of these locations could cost the typical globetrotter hundreds or thousands of dollars in travel and accommodation fees.

However, passage on Life at Sea's Gemini will alleviate upfront costs for travelers by giving them the option to spread payments out over the course of three years.

But don't expect a glittering new hotel at sea with all the bells and whistles of a novel mega ship.

The upper-premium, 30-year-old vessel was refurbished last year. And the team is now spending an additional $10 million renovating the interior.

Think of the Gemini as a floating city with its own security, medical center, and offices with Starlink WiFi.

Source: Life at Sea Cruises

No city would be complete without a jail and a morgue. Luckily (or unluckily) the Gemini has both.

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean have seen record-breaking demand for giant cruise ships that can accommodate thousands of travelers.

Source: Insider

But Life at Sea is taking a more scaled-down approach to the floating hotel.

Seafarers will have access to typical cruise ship amenities, which include four lounges, a golf simulator, and a sundeck with a pool.

For meals at sea, passengers can dine at one of the two primary dining rooms, the restaurant on the pool deck, or order food anywhere on the ship using its app.

But unlike the average cruise vessel, the Gemini will also have amenities like a robust business center and a hospital with a pharmacy and dentist.

Like any all-inclusive cruise, these extras — including hospital visits — won't come at an additional cost.

These around-the-world cruises are often booked by retirees.

But Petterson says Life at Sea is targeting an incrementally younger demographic: pre-retirees, generally people between 55 to 65 years of age.

To accommodate the remote workers, the business center — which will replace the ship's casino — will have meeting rooms, offices, and a library.

Days at sea with no land in sight is inevitable for transoceanic itineraries: Travelers on the Gemini will have at least 300 of these sailing days.

To stave off boredom, travelers can spend their days around the ship's lounges, attending seminars and shows, or resting in their cabins.

Source: Life at Sea

The cheapest and smallest stateroom measures 130 square feet and starts at $90,000 per person for the three-year trip.

Like any cruise ship, interior staterooms can feel dingy.

To prevent this, these cabins will come with screens that will display a live view of the ocean, creating a virtual "window."

For those looking to spend more cash, the most expensive cabin — a suite with a balcony — will run travelers nearly $330,000 in total.

Source: Life At Sea Cruises

These staterooms pale in comparison to the over 1,000-square-foot suites on several modern cruise ships.

But according to Petterson, at least they're more affordable: "It's meant more for the mass market and retirees as opposed to doctors with trophy wives."

Travelers can either pay monthly or pay the entire three years upfront with the option to finance the payment.

However, they can't book shorter legs of the trip. It's all three years or nothing.

For those with commitment issues, there's also the option to divide travel with another passenger, taking turns spending time on the ship.

Three years without seeing friends and family can be a long time. Luckily, they're welcome as well.

They can either crash on a roll-in bed in a resident's stateroom, stay in a guest cabin, or stay in a passenger's stateroom while they are off the ship.

Reservations for Life at Sea's Gemini open on March 1.

Petterson says the company already has about 20 people who are ready to book.

Launching sales seven months ahead of the journey may seem risky for an industry that often relies on bookings a year in advance.

Source: Insider  

However, Petterson, a self-described "optimist," expects the ship will sail at an over 55% occupancy rate at any given time as world cruises have skyrocketed in popularity over the last two years.

Over the last few years, around-the-world sailings have been booking well despite the long-term commitment.

For travelers like retirees and remote workers, this extended life at sea promises peaceful afternoons and the opportunity to slowly travel the world with minimal planning.

Monthslong around-the-world cruises have been selling in record time in 2021 and 2022.

Source: Insider , Insider

But for travelers who'd rather spend years vacationing at sea, there's also Storylines, Victoria Cruises Line, and now Life at Sea.

Source: Insider , Insider  

Victoria Cruises Line's Victoria Majestic, a former Holland America Line vessel, will begin sailing around the world indefinitely in May…

…while Storylines' residential cruise ship, the MV Narrative, will begin its own nonstop circumnavigation in 2025.

Some floor plans on the Narrative are already sold out, a testament to the rising success of these floating condominiums.

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How Much It Costs to Live on a Cruise Ship For a Year

Who hasn’t gone on a cruise and thought, “I could do this forever”?

The idea of retiring from the rat race and living out your days on a cruise has great appeal for some people.

There’s no cleaning, no cooking, and no lawn to mow. You don’t have to worry about doing the dishes or paying an electric bill. There’s always something going on, new people to meet, and every day you wake up to some of the most beautiful views in the world.

Add to that the fact that Internet access allows many to work remotely from anywhere, and wi-fi is widely available on any major cruise ship. That means even if you don’t want to completely retire, but instead work from the cruise ship, it’s technically possible.

Of course, not everyone can run off and live on a cruise ship, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dream.

And the first question that comes to mind when you think about escaping is how much it would cost to live aboard a cruise ship?

So how much would you have to pay? Is the total cost even realistic? We recently priced out the cost of living on a cruise ship for an entire year.

The result? Just know that you’ll definitely need to open your wallet to live full-time in paradise.

Where You’ll Spend Money on Your Cruise

Head to any cruise website and you’ll see plenty of cheap headline prices. Cruises starting at a few hundred dollars for a week are common. At first glance, it seems like living on a cruise ship would be amazingly affordable. ( One cruise line advertises the ability to live aboard for just around $33,000 per person, per year .)

After all, a cruise for $500 a week would cost only $26,000 to sail for a year. For many people, that would be cheaper than living on land! 

But anyone who has been on a cruise knows those headline prices are just the start of what you pay. In fact, in our opinion it’s a bit disingenuous of the cruise lines to advertise those prices. After all, what you’ll actually pay is much, much more.

Double Occupancy Cruise Fare: Apart from a few sailings that offer solo cabins, any headline price you find is actually only half of what you will pay for cruise fare. That’s because cabins are typically sold based on double occupancy, but prices are shown per person.

So for a fare that’s $599, it will actually cost $1,198 based on double occupancy. Even if you are sailing solo (unless in a solo cabin), you will still have to pay this “double” charge.

In other words, whenever you see a cruise price, double it right away for what you’ll really pay in fare.

Port Fees & Taxes: We all expect to pay taxes on things that we buy. It’s no different for a cruise. However, the taxes aren’t included in the headline cruise fare. As well, cruise fares will also have port fees tacked on. These are per-passenger fees paid to ports of call for the privilege of docking.

These fees vary, but in general, expect about $100-$200 per person for a seven-day cruise.

Gratuities: Sure, at the end of the day gratuities aren’t a required cost (you can adjust them as necessary), but in practice they are usually considered a charge that you’ll have to pay. They also add up quickly.

At around $16 per person, per day, a couple traveling on a week cruise will pay about $200 in gratuities. Over the course of a year on a cruise ship, that amount comes out to more than $10,000!

Onboard Spending: Anyone who has taken a cruise knows that what you pay in cruise fare is the start of what you’ll spend during your time on the ship.

From drinks to wi-fi to specialty restaurants, there are plenty of extra to spend on the ship . And even if you are a frugal sailor, you won’t go any lengthy time without having a few drinks or signing up for the Internet package to check in back on shore.

We Priced a Year’s Worth of Cruises to Get a True Cost

With all of these expenses in mind, we dove into what it would cost to live on a cruise ship for an entire year.

Of course, when it comes to cruising for twelve months, you have an amazing number of options. From different cruise lines to routes, departure ports, ships, and even cabin types, there are a number of things that will have a big impact on what you spend.

That’s why we aimed to keep everything simple. To price what it costs to live aboard the ship, we took a look at sailings aboard a single ship from Carnival, which is known for being affordable. In this case, we priced a year’s worth of sailing for Carnival Horizon in 2024.

Carnival Horizon is a newer ship from the cruise line that sails six and eight-day itineraries year-round from Miami in 2024. That means you could sail the entire year without having to change ships and always coming back to a homeport in the United States.

The routes that the Horizon sails would take you all across the Caribbean, from Cozumel to Aruba, from Curacao to Grand Cayman. Because it is a bigger and (relatively) newer ship in the Carnival fleet, you’d also have tons of amenities and activities on board, as well as a many restaurant options — including Guy’s Burger Joint .

As for the cabin, in our search we opted for a balcony cabin. Yes, you would be able to sail for cheaper in an oceanview or interior cabin, however, we assume that if you are aboard the ship for an extended period of time, having your own balcony is a must.

As well, we assume a couple is sailing with two people to the room. 

Summing up, here’s what we searched for our prices used in this estimate:

• Cruise Line: Carnival
• Ship: Carnival Horizon
• Time Period: January-December 2024
• Homeport: Miami
• Room Type: Balcony
• Number of People: 2

Here’s How Much It Costs to Live on a Cruise Ship

So how much does it cost to sail on the Carnival Horizon for a year? We estimate it to cost around $199,000 for two people , although that number can vary from person to person, depending on their spending habits .

Here’s an overview of where you’ll spend, and we breakdown each expense below:

Cruise Fare: The largest expense by far is cruise fare. Pricing a balcony room for each of the dozens of cruises the ship sails in 2024, it totaled $99,766 . Factored out, that's about $1,900 a week or $6,150 per month. Keep in mind this is for two passengers on the ship and includes the bulk of what you'll spend on a cruise, including your cabin, entertainment, and food.

Port Fees & Taxes: There's no escaping taxes, even on a cruise out at sea. Pricing out our cruises, the taxes and port fees for two people totaled up to $15,395 for the year. That comes out to a little less than $1,300 a month.

Gratuities: One of the perks of being on a cruise is that you are waited on hand and foot. But it doesn't come free. Carnival charges $16.00 per person, per day for automatic gratuities. Over the course of a year, that adds up to $11,648 in tips paid to staff.

Onboard Spending: How can you know what you'll spend on the ship over the course of a year? It's impossible to know for sure, and different people will spend different amounts. For example, do you need to have a drink package every day of the year? Or are you fine drinking water or juice? Are you a gambler? How often do you want to eat at specialty restaurants?

While you can't pinpoint exactly what you'll spend, you can get a good estimate. As a public company, Carnival Corporation (the parent of Carnival Cruise Line) publishes detailed numbers about their business. For instance, in 2022 the company took in $7 billion in ticket revenue and $5.1 billion in onboard spending.

So onboard spending across all of its lines was 73% of ticket revenue. For every $1,000 in cruise fare, the average person would spend about $730 on the ship. (Note: Onboard spending has increased since cruises returned, but bundling of offers like drink packages and wi-fi have also changed the amount. Before the pandemic, it was usually around 45% of ticket revenue.)

Using this metric, with a total cruise fare of $99,766, the average couple would spend $72,829 onboard during the course of the year. However, it's likely that the figure would be drastically lower as average spending on the ship will likely be less if staying full-time versus splurging for a short vacation.

Total Cost: Adding up tickets, port fees, taxes, gratuities, and onboard spending, the total estimated cost of living on a cruise ship for a year is $199,638 for a couple -- or about $100,000 per person. Without onboard spending, it comes out to $126,809 or $63,404 per person.

Notably, this figure is about 35-40% higher than the roughly $145,000 we calculated for the same ship when we last ran the numbers in 2023. The main difference between then and now? Cruise fares in 2024 for Carnival Horizon come out about $18,000 higher (for two people) during the course of the year and onboard spending estimates increased sharply based on the latest figures provided in financial reports.

Too Expensive? Here's How to Lower the Cost

There's no doubt that it's expensive to live on a cruise ship, but there are ways that you can trim that amount. If you're interested in cutting down the price, here are a few ideas.

Limit Onboard Spending: In our estimate, we used the average spending Carnival Corporation sees across all its cruise lines, which is 73% of the cruise fare.

You don't have to spend near that much. After all, when people cruise they are on vacation and likely willing to spend more freely than they would normally. By limiting the amount spent on board, you can cut thousands off this estimated total.

It's doubtful you can get by without spending at least some money, but our estimate comes out to about $700 per person, per week. Being able to spend less than that should be relatively easy.

Older Ships: Our estimate is aboard the Carnival Horizon. We chose this ship because it is relatively new (meaning you'll have the most amenities for a long-term stay), but it also runs a regular schedule from Miami.

That said, in general newer ships like the Horizon are more expensive to sail aboard. If you look for older ships, you should be able to cut the price down.

Be Flexible for Cheaper Trips: For this estimate, we priced out a year's worth of cruises on a single ship. This makes it easy if you're sailing long-term; you simply stay on the ship and don't have to worry about changing ships, or ports.

If you want cheaper options, however, you might find them by being more flexible with changing ships and/or cruise lines when you find a deal. That's where sailing from a port like Miami -- which offers a lot of options -- can be beneficial to your pocketbook.

Avoid Expensive Times of Year: In our search, the sailing aboard the ship varied dramatically due to the time of year. For example, the most expensive cruise aboard Horizon during the year was during the Christmas holidays and ran $1,399 per person. The least expensive 8-day cruise ran $869 per person -- or about 60% as much.

If you have the ability to take a few weeks off here and there during the expensive times of year, it can lead to big savings.

What do you think about the cost of living full-time on a cruise ship for a year? Let us know in the comments below.

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What about the VCL Victoria Cruises Majestic ship? Set to sail this fall, it’s a true long term residential ship that will circumnavigate the globe in 27 months from Fort Lauderdale. There is still space available! Price points and discounts vary based on how long you lease your cabin -ranging from 6 month’s minimum up to 37 months and beyond. About 500 cabins have been sold so far- adults only. And it’s all inclusive of internet, most drinks, laundry service, housekeeping of course, room service, etc.. All the standard things you’d find on a cruise ship. See this article that was posted today by one of the future residents! https://www.allwaystraveller.com/continents/worldwide/circumnavigating-the-globe-for-two-years-on-a-residential-cruise-ship

I would love to see the cruise lines cater to single seniors, they would be surprised how many would travel all the time….I personally would like to do three months, but the cost is just too high! Maybe there is a singles travel cruise group that I can join. Any suggestions out there?

Someone young wrote this article. Carnival is not the line most people would choose to cruise for a long period of time. On the Oceania Marina we met a couple cruising for several months and a charming older man who was cruising for 180 days. The couple had sold their house & were having a new house built, so homeless for a period of time. The older man was single &, I think, rather lonely so the ship life provided him nice social opportunities to talk to people. Here’s more info; “After record demand for its 2023 world cruise, Oceania Cruises has unveiled the itinerary for its epic global voyage for 2024. The cruise line’s 180-day journey around the world will set sail on January 14, 2024, and visit more than 96 destinations in 34 different countries.

“Incredibly, last year our 2023 world cruise sold out in just one day, so for 2024 we are providing guests more extended voyage options to deeply and meaningfully rediscover the world,” Howard Sherman, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises, said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure.

Oceania’s “Around the World in 180 Days” cruise will depart from Los Angeles and cross more than three oceans and 15 seas as it makes its way around the globe to New York. The journey, on the Oceania Insignia, stops at more than 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites with 24 overnight stays.

Passengers will journey across the Pacific, through French Polynesia and Australia before continuing onto destinations like Japan and Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay. The voyage continues along the shores of India and the Arabian Peninsula before sailing across Europe and completing its route across the Atlantic in New York.

The 2024 “Around the World” journey starts at $48,499 per person and includes roundtrip first-class airfare and amenities like prepaid gratuities, laundry, and luggage delivery. During your days at sea, you can keep yourself busy with spa appointments, art workshops, the casino, cabaret, and four open-seating restaurants — not to mention the daily afternoon tea service accompanied by a four-string quartet. There is also a fitness center and sports deck, and of course, a saltwater pool with two hot tubs.

As usual, catering mostly to people who have the means to do this without blinking. It is time for older single seniors on a fixed income to be able to be able to cruise on a non party boat. A tranquil, voyage, letting go and actually hearing the sounds of Mother Nature, not a floating amusement park. That would be amazing.

It would only be me living on the ship, cant i spilt that cost that I would have if i had a spouse? so would that be about 60k ?

I think this is not taking into consideration the rewards systems that most cruise operators have which would reduce the fare, even in a balcony cabin. I could never do it since the state of cruiseline wifi is still pathetic!

Another way to do it vs estimated$175k year is to buy in to a condo cabin on the new state of the art Narrative from Storylines.com. Sails around world in 3 1/2 years starting at $5000 a month 2 people all inclusive , starting 2024!

😂😂😂 with prices starting at $400,000 and rising to $8 million

What about when someone needs care/hospitalisation etc….. Surely you would need a private medical insurance policy, which would get progressively more expensive as you aged?

I’m sure. This article only focuses on the costs of sailing for the year. Other costs aren’t considered.

Good information but why does long term stay/full time cost is so high. you would think there be discount especially for seniors. Also price for solo why double? I think it sounds like fun how about travel for 3 months first to try out. Sea sick is that a common element to consider for most? People with restricted diet such as vegetarians do they get the meals prepared? Are some classes offered for free? classes such as dancing or crafts part of the activities? Thanks

the price for double occupancy is basic international hotel rates. The cruise ship is basically a floating/mobile resort hotel. All cruise lines came onboard with the double occupancy in 2010. before it was fare and half to cruise solo. If you get a good cruise line that you like, most have a loyalty program that after so many cruise points you will be charged fare and a half for solo travel. 3 months would be a good trial to see if you like it, sea sickness is not really a problem as these ship travel well. you can put in for restricted diet before going on a cruise so should not be a problem long term – might be you have to request every week. Main Dinning has a veggie meal every night and the buffet style cafe onboard allows you to select what you want. You can even get Kosher meals. most Classes are free as well as activities. buy the drink package that is suitable to your habits. your excursions will cost you but after a few weeks you may be done with excursions and it is all about enjoying the ship.

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Can You Really Live on a Cruise?

It's a life many people only dream of: Unlimited time aboard an ocean liner with all the amenities of a luxury hotel—gourmet restaurants, wellness center, swimming pools—traveling the world with access to desirable destinations and some of the most remote places on earth.

For some, this is a substantial part of their lifestyle as owners in so-called residential ships, a niche yet growing sector in travel 1 that includes ships with fanciful names such as The World , MV Narrative , and Somnio . These may look like typical cruise vessels, but they feature key differences: They aren't open to the public—individuals must own a unit to gain access; they offer spacious apartments, not cabins, limiting the number of people on board; and they set their own itineraries, which vary from year to year and can include typically inaccessible parts of the world.

"We offer a unique lifestyle that exists nowhere else on the planet," says Tom Wolber, CEO of The World, Residences at Sea , a ship launched in 2002 that regularly visits perennial bucket-list destinations like Antarctica, the far-flung Marquesas Islands, and the Galapagos archipelago. In addition to dining and recreational facilities, the ship's programming includes regular lectures by Nobel Prize winners such as physicist Shuji Nakamura and guided expeditions into its ports of call. "A home here is a life filled with global adventure at the pinnacle of luxury."

It's enough to make travel enthusiasts want to give up life on land. "It could be an interesting lifestyle," says Susan Hirshman, director of wealth management at Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. But what are the real-life implications of such a move? Here are some of the considerations.

Understand the financial trade-offs.

"It's easy to get lost in the dream, but like with any investment, you have to consider its impact on your finances and cash flow management," Susan says.

Unlike a vacation home, which you can make your permanent home, rent out to help defray expenses, or easily sell if necessary, a residence on a ship doesn't offer that flexibility. The World , for example, doesn't allow owners to make their ship their primary home. Nor are they allowed to rent their units—which range in price from $2.5 million to more than $15 million, plus annual dues of 8%–10% of the unit's value—to non-owners. Even sales are restricted to a private waitlist composed of existing owners or personally referred prospects. "Should your situation suddenly change, it may be difficult to quickly offload such an asset," Susan says.

Another factor is the ownership structure. On some ships like The World , owners technically gain shares of the ship's holding company proportionate to their unit's square footage, while other vessels, like the MV Narrative launching next year, offer termed lease agreements for exclusive occupancy. "If you own, does the asset appreciate?" Susan says. "And if you lease, is the experience worth enough to you to sacrifice the return those funds could generate invested elsewhere?"

How your Schwab Wealth Advisor can help

Your Schwab Wealth Advisor can walk you through the considerations of a significant investment or lifestyle change and how it fits within your financial plans, as well as connect you to estate planning and insurance specialists to help inform your decisions.

Prepare for the worst.

The seclusion of life at sea may be attractive, but it's also a drawback. No ship, no matter the size or cost, can provide comprehensive medical treatment should you have health emergency resulting from illness or injury. "You have to consider your health situation and have a plan for the worst-case scenario at sea," Susan says. Among the chief considerations are your ability to reach a hospital and whether a ship's crew and facilities can sustain you until that happens. "Everyone has different thresholds for risk, but make sure you understand the access to medical care you'll have while on board."

Regardless of your health, Susan recommends updating your estate plans and insurance policies before embarking on any extended journey. "And don't overlook your home back on land," she adds. "If you'll be away at sea for an extended period, ensure your property and casualty insurance is up to date."

How long will you enjoy it?

It's safe to say that living on a ship may not be for everyone. However, even globetrotters and adventure seekers may eventually wish for a change of scenery. The experience could lose its luster for any reason, whether its monotony, isolation, changes in management, or even the inability to develop friendships in such a small community, Susan says. "This is a unique and rewarding lifestyle, but it may be a good idea to think of it more as an extended vacation or a second home."

1 "Live at Sea with These 5 New Residential Ships," Cruise Industry News , cruiseindustrynews.com

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All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.

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24 Luxury Cruise Facts That Might Surprise You

Posted: November 7, 2023 | Last updated: December 10, 2023

Sumptuous escapes at sea

Some Oceania Cruises suites have walk-in closets and grand pianos

No expense has been spared when it comes to suite decor on luxury ships. For ultimate opulence, opt for the Owner’s suites which you’ll find on Oceania Cruises ' ships. These cover 1,991 square feet, have two walk-in closets and entrance foyers with a grand piano and a mahogany bar. A 15-day Svalbard & Arctic Passage cruise with accommodation in the Grand Owner’s suite costs from $23,044 per person.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer had a big design budget

We’re increasingly seeing bigger budgets for ships’ decor. Huge amounts of cash are being splashed on sprucing up interiors, and one example of this decadence is Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' Seven Seas Explorer, which has 473 Swedish-designed chandeliers, 45,876 square feet of marble, Versace-designed dinnerware, crystal glasses from Eastern Europe and a $12 million art collection which includes several Picassos.

Orient Express is set to launch a seriously luxurious ship

After launching the world’s most luxurious train 140 years ago, Orient Express will launch an opulent ship to match. Orient Express Silenseas, which will take to the waves in 2026, will have 54 suites (including a 15,231-square-foot Presidential Suite), two swimming pools, two restaurants and a speakeasy bar. Oh, and a recording studio. Prices are to be confirmed (but will inevitably be eye-watering).

Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend offers themed suites

Sail on Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend and you can book a suite inspired by exotic destinations and hotels. We recommend the suite inspired by the Sea Island resort in Georgia. Expect ocean-inspired colourways and plenty of sea-glass green. A Treasures of the Greek Isles cruise with Windstar starts from $3,745 per person.

Now discover amazing facts about cruise ships you might not know

There are butlers onboard with a Silversea cruise

Book a sailing with  Silversea  and you’re guaranteed your own butler. They'll be on hand to help with everything from the unpacking of luggage to the opening of the Champagne bottles. They’re not just any butlers, either – they’ve undertaken a 108-point training programme created for the cruise line by the London-based School for Butlers. An 11-day Mediterranean Cruise in 2024 costs from $8,092 per person.

You can go beneath the ocean's surface with Scenic Cruises

An abundance of onboard kit means that luxury ships don’t just help passengers get to the world’s most remote places – they help them get below the waves and into the skies too. Take Scenic Cruises – their Scenic Eclipse ship recently became the first vessel to offer both helicopter flights and submarine dives in the Canadian Arctic. An Antarctica in Depth cruise costs from $16,310 per person.

Seven Seas Grandeur has in-suite spas

Love a session in the spa but value your personal space? Book Regent Seven Seas Cruises ’ Regent Suite, which you’ll find on Seven Seas Grandeur, due to launch in November 2023. Highlights include the two enormous bedrooms and the whirlpool bath on the balcony, although the pièce de resistance is the suite’s very own spa retreat.

North America's best river cruises and steamboat journeys

You can sleep under the stars with the SeaDream Yacht Club

Set sail on one of SeaDream Yacht Club ’s yacht-style vessels and you’ll be able to spend a night under the stars. At night, staff transform the upper deck’s huge Balinese day beds by adding luxurious bed linens and fluffy pillows, allowing you to drift off to the sound of the ocean. Expect to pay around $3,700 for a seven-day cruise.

SeaDream Yacht Club has one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios at sea

Some cruise lines offer boats on boats

Zodiacs – small, fast boats carried on ships – make it easy to explore different landscapes, whether it’s the frozen tundra or the Galapagos’ wildlife-dotted islands. Special mentions go to Quark , which uses environmentally friendly four-stroke engine zodiacs; Silversea , famous for its expert-led zodiac excursions, and AE Expeditions – the line’s new expedition ship Sylvia Earle has 15 zodiacs. A seven-day Spitsbergen sailing with Quark costs from $5,547.

Aurora Expeditions and AE Expeditions ships have science laboratories onboard

If peering at distant shorelines through binoculars doesn’t cut it, sign up for a sailing with Aurora Expeditions or AE Expeditions . AE Expeditions ships have tech-filled laboratories and lecture theaters, making it easy to gain new perspectives on the destinations in question. Guests can contribute to a wide range of research projects, including ones relating to micro-plastics and sea life. A 15-day Svalbard In Depth sailing starts from $12,137 per person.

You can have your very own Dom Perignon Experience on Oceania Cruises’ Vista ship

Is spaciousness a priority? Consider Oceania Cruises . Their newest ship Vista (which set sail in May 2023) is tipped as having the largest entry-level staterooms at sea (280 square feet, if you were wondering). We’re equally excited about the Dom Perignon Experience – during this six-course extravaganza you’ll sip Dom Perignon Champagnes chosen to suit the various dishes. A 10-day Bangkok to Singapore cruise starts from $5,335 per person.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Flora has a stargazing platform

Celebrity Cruises ’ Celebrity Flora, which has space for just 100 passengers and is based permanently in the Galapagos Islands, is a pint-sized ship that can effortlessly access the areas other vessels can’t reach. But our favorite feature is the stargazing platform. Head here for stargazing sessions led by the ship’s onboard astronomer. You’ll pay from $7,796 for a Galapagos Inner Loop sailing on Celebrity Flora.

The naming ceremonies are often spectacular

Simply swinging a bottle against the side of a ship is so passé. In January 2023 Viking christened new luxury ship Viking Neptune. The ship’s godmother Nicole Stott (a retired NASA astronaut) used a traditional Viking broad ax to cut the rope, which sent a bottle of fizz smashing into the ship. A 13-day Mediterranean Odyssey cruise with Viking costs $5,911.

Your Abercrombie & Kent guide might be a famous explorer

Abercrombie & Kent Luxury Expedition Cruises – previously known as Crystal Cruises – are famous for their onboard experts. The cruise line’s expedition leaders include explorer James McClintock, recipient of the Antarctica Service Medal, and former Royal Marine Commando Russ Manning, who served as base commander in the South Orkneys and earned the Polar Medal. A 14-night Arctic Cruise Adventure with Abercrombie & Kent costs from $17,922.

You no longer have to wear a ball gown to dinner

You can ride on a magic carpet with Celebrity Cruises

Okay, not the type ridden by Aladdin. We’re talking about Celebrity Cruises’ Magic Carpet – a cantilevered platform which appears to float in thin air, and which glides up and down the side of Celebrity Edge, one of the cruise line’s most luxurious ships. Depending on what level it stops at, the Magic Carpet can become a restaurant, bar or nightclub, although the one constant is breathtaking views.

Check out Spain's most stunning seaside spots

There are luxury ships you can live on

Dread disembarkation day? Why not simply stay onboard? No, we’re not suggesting claiming squatters’ rights at the end of your cruise, but splashing out on a cabin on  The World , described by its owners as a luxury private residence at sea. There are 165 residences available for purchase and the ship sails around the planet – in 2023 it will visit South Asia, the Middle East, the Iberian Peninsula, Greenland, South America and Antarctica. Some residents live on the ship full-time, while others visit throughout the year, and residences start at around $1.2m.

Luxury cruise lines can be fully all-inclusive too

You can feast on cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chefs

You can learn firsthand about the Polar regions

Luxury cruise lines are going all out to provide fascinating insights into the explorers who first mapped these regions. In 2024, Scenic will launch several East Antarctic cruises focusing on the routes taken by explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. If you sail through the Arctic on Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot (the world’s only luxury ice breaker), a team of 23 polar experts will help you gain a whole new perspective on these remote regions.

There’s designer decor on Oceania Cruises’ Vista ship

SeaDream Yacht Club offer a ‘Champagne & Caviar Splash’

You need to book well in advance

If you’re planning on a bucket list-worthy sailing on one of the more luxurious ships, you’ll need to bag your spot early on. Take  Azamara’s World Voyage , a 155-night, 37-country sailing which takes place in 2024 and is currently sold out (there’s a waiting list of passengers hoping for cancellations). Luckily, spots on the 2025 World Voyage are still available – if you’ve got a minimum of $42,622 to spare.

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Port of Baltimore suspends ship traffic after bridge collapse: What it means for travel

Travel is being impacted by Tuesday’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse along Interstate 695 in Baltimore, Maryland. 

Drivers were immediately directed to take alternate routes through the city, following the early morning incident. What’s less clear is what the bridge collapse may mean for upcoming cruises in and out of Baltimore.

“Vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice,” the Port of Baltimore posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Live Updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship hits it; construction crew missing

Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., whose district includes the bridge and the port, called the collapse an “unthinkable horror” and said he had spoken with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the White House. 

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“They are responding with all of the assets at their disposal,” he said in a statement. “Our prayers right now are for the missing individuals and victims of this tragedy. We thank God for the effective service of our first responders.”

Here’s what we know.

Which cruises go to Baltimore?

Several major cruise lines serve Baltimore. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, published itineraries in the 2024 calendar year include a dozen ships making 115 stops in Baltimore.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Key Bridge that occurred last night and extend our support and heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” CLIA spokesperson Anne Madison said in an emailed statement. “We join everyone in extending our thanks and appreciation to the first responders and emergency workers in Baltimore, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other professionals who are working with one goal in mind—to save lives. We are closely following this situation.”

Carnival’s website shows Carnival Pride and Carnival Legend also have sailings into or out of Baltimore set for April. 

Carnival Legend will temporarily move operations to Norfolk, Virginia.

The ship's current cruise, which left for a planned round-trip sailing from Baltimore on March 24, will end in Norfolk on Sunday. Passengers will then receive free bus rides to Baltimore. The vessel's next cruise will sail round-trip from Norfolk later that day.

“Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore,” Carnival president Christine Duffy said in a statement. “We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.”

The cruise line has not yet shared plans for Carnival Pride. Carnival's parent company, Carnival Corp., said the temporary change in homeport is estimated to have an impact of up to $10 million on adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income this year, according to a news release .

Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas, which left from Baltimore on March 23 , will return to Norfolk instead on April 4. "Our guests on board will be provided compensation and complimentary shuttle transportation as well as Wi-Fi and phone calls to adjust their travel arrangements," a spokesperson said in an email.

The ship's April 4 and 12 cruises will leave from Norfolk, too. "Our guests booked to sail with us will receive compensation due to the necessary adjustments made to their vacations," the spokesperson added. "After returning from the April 12 cruise, Vision will head to the Bahamas for its previously scheduled maintenance."

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: What to do next

American Cruise Lines has roundtrip sailings from Baltimore scheduled in May, according to its website.

“We will monitor the situation and make adjustments to future cruises if needed, but at the present time our schedules remain unaffected, and our thoughts remain with those affected by the immediate situation and rescue efforts underway,” an American Cruise Lines spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t appear to have any Baltimore sailings until September on Norwegian Sky . The line will stay in contact with the port and share any changes with passengers and travel partners, according to a spokesperson.

"In the meantime, we wish the city of Baltimore strength during this very unfortunate event," they said in an email.

Alternate routes for the Baltimore bridge

Most drivers can take Interstate 95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or Interstate 895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) to avoid the collapsed bridge. However Maryland Transportation Authority notes there are some exceptions .

Vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of propane, are not allowed in the tunnels. Additionally, vehicles more than 13-feet and 6-inches high or 8-feet wide may not use the 1-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Vehicles more than 14-feet and 6-inches high or 11-feet wide may not use the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel. 

Those vehicles should use the western portion of I-695 instead.

Never bring these six prohibited items on a ship, warns cruise worker

Thomas Bywater

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Be careful what you take aboard a cruise ship, it could ruin your holiday. Photo / Getty Images

The security screening at a cruise terminal can seem far more relaxed than their angsty airport counterparts.

It makes a difference when everyone is setting sail for a tropical cruise. However, having any of these prohibited items in your luggage could be more than a holiday buzz kill.

Some objects could send you home early.

Although some are self explanatory - no weapons or fireworks for example - others could catch you out.

Royal Caribbean, for example, has a list of 14 common items that are prohibited for guests to bring onboard. Other major operators like Carnival Cruise Lines have an extensive list of over 30 contraband examples.

Rubber rings and inflatable lilos ❌

Some inflatable items and “personal floatation devices” are normally on the banned list.

Recently cruise influencer and Royal Caribbean staffer Lucy Southerton published an explainer for some of the items, to her social media channel Cruising as Crew.

It’s not because crew are worried guests might swim for shore.

“The reason you can’t bring lilos or rubber rings is because there’s limited space in the pool,” Southerton explained.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lucy (@cruisingascrew)

Although she said that they will allow guests to bring them onboard, as long as they remain uninflated.

There are plenty of situations where this makes sense.

Many of the private islands and resorts near popular cruise excursions are wise to this rule, and will charge guests to use resort inflatables.

“The other day I was in CocoCay (in the Bahamas) and they have lilos you can use but they’re $20 each!”

Baby monitors ❌

Parents hoping to sneak away to the cruise bar while baby is sleeping are in for a shock.

Baby monitors are banned as they are considered to be radio communication devices, like walkie talkies.

Last year Norwegian added “walkie talkies” or radio handsets as “prohibited item number 32″.

“The frequencies of certain walkie talkies could possibly interfere with other onboard signals, including radios used by crew members or frequencies that need to be kept clear for emergencies,” reported Cruise Hive at the time.

Southerton’s objection to baby monitors on board was a matter of good parenting.

“It’s just a bit weird if you left your baby in the cabin and the parents went down to one of the bars.

“I also don’t think either of these would work effectively on a cruise ship”.

Cremation ashes without approval ❌

This particular item of contraband is a contentious one.

While Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines do allow guests to bring the remains of loved ones onboard, there are several hoops that families must jump through to allow them to sail.

RCL has a “burial at sea” policy which allows passengers to farewell loved ones at sea. However, remains must be in “biodegradable urns” and plans must be communicated with crew ahead of time.

“Guest will need to provide the death certificate and cremation certificate,” reads RCL’s policy.

Biodegradable urns are required because of strict burial at sea conduct that states the “entire urn must be tossed”.

The reason for this was made clear in an episode described by Southerton. One family had taken the remains of a loved one to the prow of the top deck, to quietly scatter the ashes. The results were undignified.

“The wind was blowing the wrong way so the ashes flew back onto the sundeck and covered everyone.

“As you can imagine there were loads of people sunbathing in their bikini with sun cream, so the ashes stuck to their bikini.”

No kites or drones ❌

Sorry if you’ve just picked up a souvenir manu tukutuku in Sri Lanka. Most ships will not allow flying objects onboard for fear they may interrupt operations and visibility of the captain. In recent years drones have been doubled down on as a banned item, both for operational reasons and because they can be an annoyance.

While you are not allowed to fly a kite or drone above the ship at sea, some ships will allow you to sail with them as luggage. Others will threaten to confiscate the item or refuse embarkation.

It’s worth researching your ship’s policy before you turn up on the gangplank.

Fish - live or dead❌

Though fishing on the shore is a popular nautical pastime, taking a fish to sea might be a mistake. Ships will not allow you to take fish or other perishable goods for biosecurity and hygiene reasons.

Carnival cruises specify that no “fish of any kind” can be taken to sea. “If fish are caught during an excursion, they must be shipped home,” explains their contraband policy.

While you can’t bring fresh fish or game onto a cruise ship, some operators may offer to pack and ship them back home.

Don’t cancel the fishing charter just yet.

No kava or hookah pipes ❌

While some cruise lines have broad rules on “prohibited items”, which require some interpretation, others have extremely specific rules.

Especially if they call into ports where exotic souvenir items have commonly caused issues for crew before.

Some cultural items have been listed as prohibited because the liner feels they are within existing rules on drugs or weapons.

With over 35 prohibited items, Carnival Cruises has had to spell out the rules on kava roots and hookah water pipes as well as ceremonial knives or swords such sgian-dubhs (Scotland) or kirpan (Sikh/Indian).

“These items will be confiscated and not transported aboard. When an item is determined to be illegal the appropriate authorities will be informed.”

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2024 Masters live stream, watch online: TV coverage, channel, Tiger Woods in Round 1, broadcast schedule

Watch every single shot from the biggest names in golf throughout round 1 at the 2024 masters.

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- The 2024 Masters has arrived, and four days of pristine golf at the nation's best course are ahead with the best hoping to play all 72 holes at Augusta National. The action began Thursday with Round 1 setting the stage for the rest of the year's first major, though the first 18 holes did get started behind schedule.

Augusta National announced Thursday morning that Round 1 of the 2024 Masters would start at 10:30 a.m. ET, a three-hour delay due to heavy rains and thunderstorms. Nevertheless, tournament play is underway after Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson served as Honorary Starters  hitting their ceremonial tee shots .

You can follow 2024 Masters live leaderboard updates and coverage with us at CBS Sports.

The grounds are filled to capacity with patrons now that the gates are opened, and they are undoubtedly keen to see how Tiger Woods plays while taking the course for just his second professional event of 2024. Woods is just five years removed from winning his fifth green jacket, and while a sixth is certainly unlikely, counting Tiger out of anything is a foolish endeavor.

Far more likely to find the winner's circle is Scottie Scheffler, the 2022 green jacket winner seeking to win his second in three years. Scheffler enters as an overwhelming 4-1 favorite ahead of the likes of Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth. McIlroy, of course, is still one Masters title away from clinching the career grand slam.

There is so much to follow this week that it can be overwhelming at times. No worries: We have you covered. On Thursday alone, you can watch the entire first rounds from Woods, Rahm, Dustin Johnson, Viktor Hovland and Wyndham Clark, the latter of whom will be making his first appearance at Augusta National.

CBS Sports is offering live coverage of the 2024 Masters from start to finish Thursday with our myriad of Masters Live streaming options. Hit the links below to tune into the Featured Groups channel and watch complete rounds from some of the best golfers in the game, spend your day surveying Amen Corner or view all the action at Holes 15 & 16. Masters TV coverage does not begin until later in the day, so this is the absolute best place to watch the Masters live on Thursday.

All times Eastern

Round 1 -- Thursday, April 11

Round 1 start time:  10:30 a.m. [ Tee times ]

Masters Live stream Desktop and mobile:  Free on  CBSSports.com ,  CBS Sports app Connected devices*:  Available on  Paramount+ ,  CBS Sports app *Paramount+ login required

• Honorary Starters  -- 10:10-10:15 a.m. (Masters.com)
• Masters on the Range : 8:30-10:30 a.m. (CBS Sports Network,  Paramount+ )
• Featured Groups  -- 1-7:45 p.m. 1 p.m. -- Jon Rahm, Matt Fitzpatrick, Nick Dunlap 1:24 p.m. -- Wyndham Clark, Viktor Hovland, Cameron Smith 3:54 p.m. -- Tiger Woods, Jason Day, Max Homa 4:30 p.m. -- Dustin Johnson, Collin Morikawa, Tommy Fleetwood
• Amen Corner  -- 12:45-7:45 p.m.
• Holes 15 & 16  -- 2-7:45 p.m.
• Holes 4, 5 & 6  -- 11:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Masters.com)

TV coverage:  3-7:30 p.m. on ESPN TV simulcast live stream:  3-7:30 p.m. on  Masters.com Post-round highlights:  11:35-11:50 p.m. on CBS,  Paramount+

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