Woman leaves California to live on cruise ship, claiming it’s cheaper

1 Jul 2025 • 6:58 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Sharon Lane, 77, moved out of her retirement village in California to embark on a 15-year trip around the world aboard Villa Vie’s Odyssey cruise ship.
  • Lane invested her life savings to purchase a cabin on the Odyssey, which bills itself as the first perpetual world cruise, offering long-term living options.
  • The Odyssey is set to visit 147 countries and 425 destinations over a three-and-a-half-year cycle, with cabins available for purchase for its 15-year lifespan.
  • Despite initial delays and a steep cost, Lane believes the arrangement offers great value, covering meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, medical visits, and services like housekeeping and laundry.
  • Lane expressed her desire for simplicity and the fulfillment of a long-held dream, stating she doesn't plan to shorten her continuous journey.

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