Rosalind Evans
In a bold move that defies traditional retirement plans, Grace and Jerry Grady have sold everything they owned to embrace a life of endless adventure aboard the luxurious residential cruise ship Villa Vie Odyssey. This American-Italian couple has decided to spend their golden years traversing the globe, exploring new cultures, and living a life many only dream of. Their story is not just about travel; it’s a testament to pursuing life-changing experiences at any age.
Embarking on the Ultimate Journey
Grace and Jerry Grady began their epic journey from Belfast, setting sail on a voyage that promises to touch every corner of the world across all seven continents. Their new home, the Villa Vie Odyssey, is one of the two operational residential cruise ships worldwide and offers an itinerary that includes 425 ports in 147 countries. “It has always been a dream of mine to see the world. I want to get this thing going,” Jerry shared enthusiastically as they departed.
A Financially Viable Lifestyle
While living aboard a cruise ship might seem luxurious and costly, the Gradys have found it surprisingly economical. For an annual fee of $43,435, they enjoy amenities that rival any upscale residence—unlimited food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and even medical checks. “You don’t have bills, expenses, insurance, etc.,” Grace explains, highlighting the ease and affordability of their new lifestyle compared to traditional living in the United States.
Trading Possessions for Experiences
The decision to live on a ship came after meticulous planning, which included downsizing their lives significantly. They sold their house and most possessions, keeping only essential items that would fit into their limited wardrobe aboard the ship. “In the end, we sold most of our belongings to friends. I’ve been wearing the same clothes every day and washing them by hand each night,” Grace recounted to Euronews, emphasizing their commitment to a minimalist lifestyle for their adventure.
Future Plans and Possibilities
The Gradys are not just on a short-term holiday but are invested in completing their three-and-a-half-year itinerary. However, the structure of their cruise allows flexibility, offering them the option to disembark with six months’ notice if they choose to settle back on land. Meanwhile, the Villa Vie Odyssey is designed to continue sailing indefinitely, offering more people the opportunity to convert to full-time life at sea, with options to buy cabins outright.
Grace and Jerry Grady’s journey aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey redefines retirement, showing that it can be a time of incredible adventure and personal fulfillment. For those inspired by the Gradys, this lifestyle offers a change of scenery and a transformative experience that could last a lifetime. As the ship sails towards its next destination, the couple looks forward to each new dawn with the same excitement and anticipation they felt when they first embarked on this remarkable voyage.
