When most people think about retirement, they envision downsizing, moving into a senior living community, or perhaps traveling occasionally. But for 77-year-old Sharon Lane, retirement meant casting off conventional plans and moving permanently onto a cruise ship.

Last month, Lane left her retirement community in Orange County, California, and joined Villa Vie Odyssey, a cruise ship designed for long-term living. This vessel, dubbed the first “perpetual world cruise,” offers travelers the option to purchase cabins as permanent residences or opt for flexible, pay-as-you-go plans. Lane chose to invest her life savings in an interior cabin that she will call home for the next 15 years as the ship sails to 147 countries and 425 destinations in an ongoing three-and-a-half-year loop.

While it may sound like an extravagant move, Lane views it as a practical one. With monthly expenses ranging from $2,000 to $3,500, depending on cabin type and occupancy, she says living aboard the Odyssey is significantly less expensive than staying in Southern California. And that price includes food, beverages, entertainment, medical care, room service, laundry, and housekeeping.

This unique lifestyle choice highlights the growing trend of retirees seeking alternative, experience-rich living arrangements and raises important estate planning considerations. Whether you’re downsizing to an apartment, moving into a retirement community, or living full-time aboard a cruise ship, your estate plan needs to evolve with your lifestyle.

Making sure the right legal and financial structures are in place, such as powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and trusted financial representatives, can help ensure continuity in the event of an emergency or lifestyle change. For those living outside of traditional settings, this type of planning becomes even more critical.

At its core, Sharon’s decision reflects a growing desire among retirees to embrace simplicity, freedom, and ease during their later years. Estate plans should support those values by streamlining assets, maintaining flexibility, and clearly outlining how personal property and finances should be managed, no matter where life leads.

At The Estate Planning and Legacy Law Center, we know that retirement today looks very different than it did a generation ago. Whether you’re setting sail or settling down, your estate plan should reflect your goals, lifestyle, and legacy. If you’re considering a big move or unique living arrangement, we’re here to help you navigate the legal and financial implications with confidence. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!