Life at Sea Cruises is taking the concept of a round-the-world cruise to a whole new level. Originally planned as a three-year voyage departing in November, the company has now decided to make it "the cruise that never ends." This decision came after receiving inquiries from potential customers who were excited about the idea but couldn't make the start date.
Instead of a fixed itinerary, individuals can now join the cruise at any point and continue the journey indefinitely. The company will keep adding new destinations to appeal to customers who want to stay on. So, instead of revisiting the same locations, the cruise will always offer new and exciting experiences.
Major destinations like Easter Island, Dubai, and India are not included in the first itinerary but are expected to be added in the fourth year due to logistical reasons. For the inaugural year, there will be seven potential start locations, including Istanbul, Barcelona, the Bahamas, and Rio de Janeiro.
The decision to extend the cruise was made to accommodate prospective clients who needed more time to sell homes, make plans, and pack up their lives. Additionally, some fully signed-up clients faced health issues and wanted the opportunity to join the cruise after getting treatment. The company aims to be flexible and cater to the desires of its customers.
Life at Sea Cruises is committed to maintaining an optimal occupancy level of 85% to ensure that residents have the best experience. The ship, MV Lara, has a capacity for 1,400 passengers, but the company is intentionally avoiding selling out to create a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere. Currently, occupancy is over 50% for November boardings.
To enhance the cruising experience, the company is also launching a "Dive Around the World" program. Recognizing the interest of many guests in diving, an on-board dive shop will be set up in collaboration with Scuba Diving International (SDI). Passengers will have the opportunity to obtain scuba certification during the voyage and explore diving spots worldwide, with the assistance of SDI-vetted diving schools. Additionally, guests can participate in ocean clean-ups and coral propagation efforts.
Life at Sea Cruises has faced its fair share of challenges, including parting ways with some members of their founding team, which resulted in confusion and cancellations. Despite this, new bookings have now surpassed the original numbers, proving the high demand for this unique cruising experience.
While there are other long-term cruise options available, Life at Sea remains one of the most affordable choices. With prices starting at $3,500-$4,000 per month, individuals can explore the world without breaking the bank. The cruise is designed to be accessible to both average earners and retirees, offering an inclusive experience with on-board healthcare. Solo travelers, however, will need to pay an additional 85% for single occupancy.
Life at Sea Cruises is reshaping the world of cruising with its never-ending voyage, providing a distinctive travel experience for those who yearn to continuously explore the wonders of the world.