Meet the Hawaii Couple Who Retired at 55 to Embark on a 15-Year World Cruise—Discover Why They Believe This Lifestyle is for Everyone!

Retirement looks different for everyone. For Lanette and Johan Canen, both 55, it meant selling their business and home in Hawaii to live aboard a cruise ship full-time. This bold move isn’t just about adventure; it’s also a smart financial decision.

Living on a cruise ship might seem extravagant, but for the Canens, it costs about $3,600 a month. This rate includes meals, drinks, internet, and even housekeeping services twice a week. Johan explained, “People think we’re rich for doing this, but it’s actually cheaper than our rent in Hawaii.” Their rented cars business funded this new lifestyle, showing that you don’t need a fortune to explore the world.

Hawaii is known for its high living costs. A recent report by Doxo found it’s the most expensive state in the U.S. for household bills. Honolulu’s living costs are 85% higher than the national average, making their cruise ship life seem appealing.

The Canens began their journey on the Villa Vie Odyssey about seven months ago. This unique ship stops at 425 ports in 147 countries over three and a half years. They’ve already visited 25 countries, sharing their experiences on YouTube, where they have over 31,000 subscribers. Unlike typical cruises, this ship allows them to stay for multiple days, giving them time to embrace local cultures.

Living aboard means they no longer deal with chores or property maintenance. Johan says it feels great to have no responsibilities. “We just want adventures and experiences,” he adds, highlighting their decision to shift from owning many items to living simply.

For those considering similar lifestyles, a recent Fidelity survey states that Americans aged 55-59 have an average of around $244,900 saved. This might seem insufficient for long-term travel, but it’s essential to focus on total assets, not just retirement accounts. Selling a home can provide cash for adventures like the Canens’ cruise.

Even if your savings are modest, a plan can help. For example, if you sell your home and reduce living costs, a journey like theirs could be within reach. Monthly Social Security income can support your travel dreams as well, with the average benefit around $2,000. Just remember to factor in health costs too.

Lastly, if long-term cruising isn’t for you, there are plenty of ways to travel on a budget in retirement. Relocating to a cheaper area can free up funds for adventures, while renting short-term can also ease financial pressures. Another adventurous option is living in an RV, allowing you to explore while minimizing monthly expenses.

Retirement should be fulfilling, and by downsizing your lifestyle, exploring the world might be more achievable than you think. Embracing this journey can bring new experiences and joy that material possessions cannot provide.

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Johan Canen, Hawaii, Hawaii, Lanette, Jeff Bezos, retirement savings, cruise ship, retirement