I'm exploring various facets of cruising in preparation for our ( I have a travel partner ) around the world cruise next year .  I was sent a video of this lady who thriftily lives on a cruise ship because it is cheaper than living in a nursing home. She pays $135/day, plus up to $65/day for tips and other expenses, and seems rather happy. I can't do this because I already handed over $400,000 to move into my retirement community.  If I left, I lose that sum.  My 111-day around the world cruise, which itself will probably cost more than $40,000 ( about $325/day ).  However, I still need to pay my monthly fee, which will be a bit more than $20,000 for those four months.  This will be my final major travel adventure. If you don't have my problem, then perhaps you can become a life-long cruiser and see the world, again and again, for almost free.  Read this article on How to Retire on a Cruise Ship.   Good information: The average cruise ship passenger pays around $213/day, o