Hey, I’m writing from Kentucky. My folks did full-time RV living 20 years and got started in their mid-60s. They came off the road in their mid-80s due to health issues. But it kept them young, moving where they wanted when they wanted. Meeting people, seeing the sights and doing life “their way” is something many people don’t have courage to do. It’s a big change and life is bumpy whatever lifestyle we choose so ride it out and you’ll be on your way! Thank you for sharing your experiences here!
Fellow Kentuckian here & I just found this channel. I love to see ppl take adventures like your parents. I use to do nursing for a home health agency & met several travelers in RV parks. I thought it was wonderful & so much freedom these ppl had. At least this week in south central Ky the weather has cooled up so more ppl will be venturing out to lakes for camping ⛺️
Thank you so much!! We’re of course affected but not stressed like many people who are not even on the cruise. There are many other factors involved from the outside which will come to light in due time.
I’ve been following you for a few weeks now. I’m older than you both and if I could afford it I would do a trip like this. However, I was born outside Belfast, grew up and went to school there and got a lovely job at Aldergrove Airport. I was happy but my husband wanted to see Canada and here I am to this day. Sadly I was widowed quite young and had two teenagers to look after. Please remember you are in Ireland and I do think it’s a “slower way of life” than Canada or U.S.A. I think come 4.30/5.00 pm all the workers finish work and go home enjoy their evenings and the beautiful small towns a short drive from Belfast. The view alone is so beautiful out behind where you are sitting. You are living life the way you want to and happy. That’s all that counts. I wish you blessings on this amazing journey. I look forward to more videos. 🙏🍀🌠🇨🇦🛳️🌊
Thank you so much for sharing your life story. I hope your kids are doing well. Visiting Belfast has been wonderful. We have also traveled around Ireland a bit as well and found some great small towns. This is truly a beautiful place. Thanks for your well wishes and take care.
@@livinglifeonacruise How lovely to get your nice reply. Thank you. I am working today and have not had any time to look at my emails today until now!!. I do not know if you have posted anything new today. My kids, thank God, are doing well. I just looked after my 2 Granddaughters 8 and 11 1/2 this morning, took them for lunch at Wendys and then to their Gymnastic Camp for the afternoon and came to work. I work for my other son in his Office so I have flexibility when I need to help my other son and wife with the children. My son I work for has a medium sized Audio Visual Business and it has grown in leaps and bounds in the last 10 years. I look after the Office, do Payroll and Payables and whatever else I can help out with. I know the majority of his clients and meet some very interesting people along the way. I do hope that you have had a chance to go up to The Glens of Antrim and also to Co. Down to the beautiful sea side towns along the coast. I think we all have to make the very best of the situations we find ourselves in. I hope that you had a lovely day on your ship and that the "big day" will be coming soon. I am so pleased that you are enjoying Belfast and the area. Many years ago, when I was learning to type, one phrase I will always remember was "To be happy, keep busy". I think this is an appropriate saying for everyone ☺
I have my fingers.Crossed candles, lit and prayers sent out for you guys... For everyone, that's trying this adventure and for the people that are trying to fund it and make it happen. I really think this may be something of the future. You are two pioneers of sea residential traveling! I hope that all the naysayers are proved wrong and this turns out to be a wonderful, exciting experience for you. I think the concept is great, but there's so many things to consider when somebody's gonna be living full time on a ship, and I know they're trying to take all that into consideration right now. I'll keep watching and hope that you guys are able to move in soon, permanently, and that you will be out to sea and on your adventure before you know it.
You fully understand the ins and outs and positives and negatives that goes into making a decision of this magnitude. Thanks for sharing, we really appreciate it!
Given the number of setbacks, you guys are remarkably calm. That says a lot about your confidence in the organization. Fingers crossed that you set sail soon and don't miss too much of your itinerary. We love to cruise and will be following along.
We are calm and collected. Of course the delays affect all of us but we all can see the goal line and we are actually on a real ship. Not a pretend one like the scam Victoria Cruises line.
It sure isn't the dream they are selling in the brochure, is it? While not for me; I couldn't imagine not being able to get away from people except for a tiny room, I admire your sense of adventure. I really do hope this works out for you all.
Thanks for the update! Pity Iceland is not on the itinerary this round but it will be in the next one since it’s a non-stop cruise! The fun is the whole experience of living on a ship and waking up in different locations every few days, so it shouldn’t really matter which locations come first. Unlike normal cruises, you also get to spend a few days in each port so that’s really nice and not a crazy rush. I wish I could go on this adventure! ❤
Loving your videos. I was looking at the itinerary and it is fabulous. The excitement of everything is building. You both look so relaxed. Looking forward to your next video and many, many more. ❤
Greetings from New Zealand. How exciting to live on a cruise ship! Can’t wait til you are sailing. Dont lose heart it will happen in its own good time. I wonder if you have get togethers with the other residents. Maybe plan a sort of greetings party or a games day for yourselves on the ship during the day. Or start a newsletter for every one to introduce yourselves. Lots of opportunities there!
Welcome aboard! I bet you’re talking about Steve and Angela an we’re happy to share this experience with them. They are very cool, fun and kind people. My best friends and family are following them as well.
I've only been watching the last days, and the delays are heartbreaking to see. We've cruised for decades, and I know how much it costs to stay on board for extended periods on a shoestring budget. I think I would rather piece together my own world-wide travel, with an established cruise line, than put my faith in a small ship/company, that does not have a proven track record. I wish you both, and all the other folks that invested their $$ into this venture, the best of luck. Only time will tell, and kudos to you all for being so patient. Let's all hope that there is actually some smooth sailing ahead for everyone!
Fair enough, I fully understand your view point. I appreciate you taking time to share your thoughts. Follow us long to see when we sail, then join us!
@@livinglifeonacruise we are all keeping our fingers crossed for everyone!!! We travel full-time as fully retired folks who are now international petsitters, and cruise when we are not booked for a sit. We will definitely look into long term cruising, at some point in our life.
@@lucillehjort971 I took a peek at the website. The cheapest cabin started at $139k but they also have monthly fees. It was around 5-8k for two people per month. You don't have to buy a cabin though, you can have shorter stays... it's wild the ship isn't ready yet while they're collecting funds as if they were..
Congratulations on the channel growth that’s amazing! You’re almost 10! You have another neighbor on the ship somewhere that has a RUclips channel called mid life cruising. I wish you all the best on this new journey!!
Good morning guys.... new subscriber here ! Thank you for your fabulous, entertaining... and at times, hilarious videos ! I "discovered" your chanel while browsing, and ended up watching a few of them. Looking forward to binging more of your channel, lol ! Have a delightfuly day !
I thought this was a great idea until I found out you have to pay $3,500 per month for the lowest $99k cabin. After doing the math, I can do back to back cruises, experience different ships, sail all over the world, meet different people, get incredible rates and upgrades using casino deals, platinum and diamond status, and the best part, I can take breaks inbetween without paying the monthly fee while on land when I get sick and tired of being on the ship 24/7 or enjoy a place I want to stay longer. This seems more like an experiment to me and the only way to keep the ship sailing after burning through the upfront cost to renovate the old ship is to charge a monthly hoa fee which is equal to the cost of a mortgage. Wow! It better be worth it for you two. I really hope it's successful. I know money is not an issue for some people and that's most likely the community members that will make it happen.
Thank you for sharing. What you are suggesting is a great way to do it as well. But we don’t want to continuously pack and unpack so we prefer our way. Have a good one and thanks for watching!
I just watched the last 3 videos and I just wanted to say this is amazing! I didn’t know you could do this but I am so excited for the adventure you guys are going to have!! It’s going to be awesome!! Looking forward to following you!
It's a very regulated strict industry. Everyone who works on the ship has to be fully qualified also that's why they have to do all the checks and change everything because they wouldn't be allowed to sail if it was not done by the regulator why they have to do the sea tests as well
I wonder why the senior management team are choosing to work for a small tired start-up rather that being promoted within the established cruise lines they were working for.
This decision looks perfect for you two. You have both been smiling the whole way through. Good luck to you and I can also see you both have positive attitudes and are easy going. These are great attributes for lasting friendships and strong relationships, both need hard work and can see you’re putting the effort in. Greetings from Australia.
After watching some of the 9 month cruise videos I’ll be super interested to see how the ship keeps the menus fun and different since many people on the 9 month cruise have been so tired of cruise food for a while now. I think I’d miss just being able to have simple meals I can prepare myself so I’d love to see more about the food once the ship has been underway a while. Hope you set sail soon!
You’re definitely on to something that could become an issue. I can’t wait to see how that is handled. This far the food has been very good with a great variety. Thanks for sharing a very valid point.
It's not as if this was a brand new ship which has ever left port and so there is no idea whether she will leave the harbor let alone pass sea trials. Plus 'sea trials' can mean different things. A ship that has never sailed had a huge list of tests to perform to be certified for the sea while ones that have undergone repairs, had major engine over hauls or new engines, generators or renovation, repair, upgrades or replacement in steering, rudders, props and so on have to have those tested at sea as they can not be tested dockside. Ships that have been docked a long time especially if anything from water pumps to sewage pumps to kitchen equipment, electric generation and tech have not been in constant operation need to be tested as to how they function when no longer connected to the dock. That is why people hear if varying lengths of sea trials that can run for a few days to several weeks, just depending on what all needs to be recertification. I was given to understand that this ship was in dry dock as new rudders and rudder shocking wad applied and so sea trials would be mandatory as to make sure everything is water tight and remains so at different speeds and in different conditions after work like that was done is important as just because sitting at dock might not show any issues, once underway with vibration and movement there could be issues, but it's not like she has not sailed before, or passed other sea trials, and she had cruised for many years.
@rentechpad that's a very good detailed er short novel there and I'm sure accurate The very first bit gets me though Your contradictory as it was with Fred Olsen and they are top notch cruise firm So it's already been proved It will be fine All ships go through what your talking about then they sail and nearly all pass trials then go on there merry way I don't get what your actually going on about ?
This may be a millennial reference, but there was a Disney television show in the 2010's called "Suite Life on Deck", where twin characters Zack and Cody lived on a cruise ship. Your journey is like a real life version of that show!
Enjoy the journey! Just remember NAYSAYERS GONNA NAY!!! I say live the dream and lifestyle you obviously can afford! You did not blow your budget! It’s obvious your wife works and income streams are good! Best wishes and you guys will enjoy! Thankful for spaces outside of your actual room! By the way decorated wonderfully! You guys are definitely on the same positive vibe! Keep Smiling! New Subscriber also! ❤
I had to look this up. $100,000 for interior $250,000 for balcony. $3,500 a month on top of the purchase price. The sailing is for 3.5 years visiting 425 ports and 147 countries. The cabin can be leased or sold after it’s been purchased. Financially it’s a lateral move because you probably won’t lose very much short term. hope you guys have fun on your adventure.
On a typical cruise, some of your cruise fare are the port fees. countries charge lots of money to dock in their country. I’m sure there are some included luxury fees associated with cruise ship docking fees being they aren’t commercial.The rest is probably like HOA.
Travel and adventure always has a bit of risk (which can include being stranded until the boat is ready...) In the end, we only regret the adventures not taken...so, bon waiting for the voyage
I have just discovered your channel and i wish you both the very best of luck for your future! Ignore any negativity! God bless you both from wallsend england, happy vibes!! ❤
Why are there so many negative comments on here? The concept is amazing - in another 10 years time this might seem like a normal alternative to living in a retirement village. I am sure some people are just concerned and it comes from a good place. What an amazing opportunity that you have grasped - good on you!!
I feel the same way but there have been failures like Life at Sea and scams recently like Victoria Cruises Line that many are skeptical of projects like this.
Hi. Just subscribed to your channel. A Very interesting alternative way of living. I look forward to coming along on your travels . I wish you both every success. Well done for taking the plunge. Life is an adventure and sometimes you have to jump into the uncertainty to get the rewards x
My wife and I are using your experience to decide if we could do this. No Pressure HAHAHA We are so excited to join you on your journey. We would love an honest look at what it is like to live "ship sweet home" We all understand not everything will be perfect.
Are you able to eventually pick a different room, so you have a nicer view/view of the ocean? Or maybe even get a room with a deck? Or does something like that cost more money?
New Subscriber - I discovered your channel yesterday and I am so excited for you both - this is absolutely facinating to me - fingers crossed to are able to sleep in your room very soon and set sail. Looking forward to following your journey, and congratulations on all your new subscribers - they have increased rapidily overnight. Take care 😘
Hi! 👋 So your moving in video (before this one) came up on my feed. After watching it, I viewed a couple more and then _had_ to check out the Villa Vie site. *What a fantastic idea and wonderful journey you'll have!!* I've subbed and CAN'T WAIT to follow you around the world! ~ "Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen.” - Benjamin Disraeli
This is such a cool concept. Good on you guys for leaping into what may become an option to transitioning into mid-life and/or retirement housing. This could be a great option other than overcrowded and overpriced retirement communities. As this very largely populated older generation needs other options that include adventure. There is definitely something special brewing here ❤ subscribed so I can see this through with you guys. Thank you for taking us with you!
You see, that’s how we reasoned before pulling the trigger on this. It’s a good fit for us at this time in life. We are planning on staying here for the long-haul. But you never know what life throws at you so things can obviously change.
Im rooting for you and your adventure! I hope you set to sail soon! I looked up the itinerary and you will be visiting my city in Brazil! I'd love to meet you both and visit Villa Vie! Good luck!
Hello love the idea of this just a few questions. Is everyone on board a permanent guest ? Do they all own their own cabins? Also, are there cabins for tourists, ect, or is the entire ship a residential cruise ?. Definitely wabt to know more about the way it works business wise. I find it fascinating. Also what you get included as residents ect all sorts of questions lol 😂 like can you leave and come back at a port or the length of cabin ownership. Look forward to seeing more videos from you
To me this will be interesting as to how things work out from a social community point of view. There are many people that share their lives as residents on cruise ships but those residents are a a relatively small number on a ship that regularly cruises commercially from various ports, and it seems like many experience the fact that at almost every port there are exchanges of some faces as people board to start a vacation cruise and others leave. My understanding is that those on this ship, the Villa owners, are the only passengers unless they invited guests to visit and cruise a short time. So on many ways this will be very much like a self contained residence with the periods between ports of call in which residents will only have the same residents in which to interact with and whether that leads to a dhip wide community or individual groups that form communities based on interests or any numbet of things will be fun to watch.
So if there is a massive engine issue with the ship or something… could you receive a 6 figure special assessment? Seems risky to me, but wishing you the best!
I am a "Newbie" here in HOT Arizona~Find your opportunity to have residence on a cool ship, whilst selling around to see our lovely world, totally fascinating and know it will be an AMAZING adventure☆☆...Yes, full of challenges some days, yet more importantly, the two of you are on a wonderful Journey of a Lifetime, together with many other fascinating folks!! Sending BEST Wishes and Tons of FUN as We All Follow Along, Holly in the Desert of SURPRISE, AZ:)
The youtube gods are smiling at you 😋 Cool idea. I don't think people realize that there are cruise liners that have pretty much full residency. I'll be watching the updates!
Admire and respect both you you Beautiful Soul's. I'm curious why you didn't get a balcony cabin? I have watched your cabin tour and pros and cons living on a cruise ship, but when other cruisers say we have an inside cabin or just a window thinking they wouldn't spend any time in their cabin they always say next cruise cabin definitely. Kindest thoughts to you both from Australia.
Hindsight is a marvellous thing and I get budget & turnaround are tight with multi million dollar piece of infrastructure, but even f VV had given themselves 6 months turnaround it, might have been a better customer experience. Many thanks for your open and honest and very upbeat accounts. I’m not sure I could be so patient or gracious when making a large purchase and having your experience. I do hope and wish you both all the best that your future goes as you would like. I would also tho, be making gentle inroads to a back up plan, litigation options, onward plans for yourselves, possibly look at what VV financial health (no idea but I’d be curious). The hope being you never need that back up. I really do hope this venture takes off, but there is a reg flag or two, but UK maritime health & safety is very strict. Look forward to your next update being the sail away party. With all good wishes, Scott.
Thanks for all your thoughts Scott. Obviously the situation is not ideal. I know they will continuously work on improving things that are not yet up to par even after we sail. I’m just happy to onboard and hopefully we’ll get going soon.
I started watching one of the other VillaVie channels and am fascinated. People should stop looking at this as an investment, it's a holiday expense. No one expects a return on the dollars spent on vacations. The owners are making the full-time cruise lifestyle accessible to people who aren't in the million dollar beach house category. I have had a dream of exploring the world in my own explorer yacht but I don't want to hire a captain and engineer to handle the things that I don't know about. That lifestyle is a lot more expensive than VillaVie (priced marine diesel fuel and marine insurance lately?). Good luck with your adventure, hope you get a lot of good content and subs in the process.
@@livinglifeonacruise I'm sure you'll keep us updated on the new departure date. In the meantime, there is a lot to see in and around Belfast, I'm sure you've embraced the opportunity. Thank you for your channel.
I would love to know the average age of travelers on this cruise. Youngest? Oldest? This sounds like a great way to spend retirement. Do you have travel insurance for health emergencies?
I think we range from 40 to late 80s with the average being around early 60s. And yes, we have a yearly travel insurance that we paid and it’s not cheap but it’s gonna be good for us.
I just found you today and have watched several of your videos and subscribed too! I know there’s been lots of delays but it’s the same with new construction I don’t think there’s many people that have moved into their new house when the builder said they would or even with a remodel! I know my sister renovated her house and it took at least a month longer than they expected! I hope you sail soon!
I’m glad you understand. I’ve worked in construction the last 25 years and the last week always takes 4 weeks to finish. So I’m not overly concerned with the situation.
can you tell us more about the business center? Do they have printers or anything there for you to use? Is it possible to put a tower computer and 2 monitors in your cabin? I can only afford an interior and it looks a bit small but I do not do well with a lap top. I look forward to joining you!
Honestly I’m not. This is an older ship that came with some surprises. But overall they have invested so much money and increased the value incredibly. So delay possibly but sail, yes definitely.
@@livinglifeonacruise What happens after the 3 years? Your investment is gone? Wasn’t it over $100,000 initially? When the three years is up you just have no place to live? I’m so curious.
There is no room for negativity here! These are people who have long planned, well thought out their dream! God be with you in your dream realized.
Thank you!
Hey, I’m writing from Kentucky. My folks did full-time RV living 20 years and got started in their mid-60s. They came off the road in their mid-80s due to health issues. But it kept them young, moving where they wanted when they wanted. Meeting people, seeing the sights and doing life “their way” is something many people don’t have courage to do. It’s a big change and life is bumpy whatever lifestyle we choose so ride it out and you’ll be on your way! Thank you for sharing your experiences here!
Fellow Kentuckian here & I just found this channel. I love to see ppl take adventures like your parents. I use to do nursing for a home health agency & met several travelers in RV parks. I thought it was wonderful & so much freedom these ppl had. At least this week in south central Ky the weather has cooled up so more ppl will be venturing out to lakes for camping ⛺️
I’m glad they did that. Imagine all the great experiences they now have and few regrets of things they didn’t do. Thanks for sharing
Exactly 💯 %.
Greetings from Florida. I’m rooting for you guys! I’m beyond impressed at how calm you’ve been in light of all the delays. Keep smiling and cruise on!
Thank you so much!! We’re of course affected but not stressed like many people who are not even on the cruise. There are many other factors involved from the outside which will come to light in due time.
Can't wait to see more videos and accompany you on the journey 🙂 You are close to voyage #1; Enjoy the new adventure!
Thanks so much! 😊
I’ve been following you for a few weeks now. I’m older than you both and if I could afford it I would do a trip like this. However, I was born outside Belfast, grew up and went to school there and got a lovely job at Aldergrove Airport. I was happy but my husband wanted to see Canada and here I am to this day. Sadly I was widowed quite young and had two teenagers to look after. Please remember you are in Ireland and I do think it’s a “slower way of life” than Canada or U.S.A. I think come 4.30/5.00 pm all the workers finish work and go home enjoy their evenings and the beautiful small towns a short drive from Belfast. The view alone is so beautiful out behind where you are sitting. You are living life the way you want to and happy. That’s all that counts. I wish you blessings on this amazing journey. I look forward to more videos. 🙏🍀🌠🇨🇦🛳️🌊
Thank you so much for sharing your life story. I hope your kids are doing well. Visiting Belfast has been wonderful. We have also traveled around Ireland a bit as well and found some great small towns. This is truly a beautiful place. Thanks for your well wishes and take care.
@@livinglifeonacruise How lovely to get your nice reply. Thank you. I am working today and have not had any time to look at my emails today until now!!. I do not know if you have posted anything new today. My kids, thank God, are doing well. I just looked after my 2 Granddaughters 8 and 11 1/2 this morning, took them for lunch at Wendys and then to their Gymnastic Camp for the afternoon and came to work. I work for my other son in his Office so I have flexibility when I need to help my other son and wife with the children. My son I work for has a medium sized Audio Visual Business and it has grown in leaps and bounds in the last 10 years. I look after the Office, do Payroll and Payables and whatever else I can help out with. I know the majority of his clients and meet some very interesting people along the way. I do hope that you have had a chance to go up to The Glens of Antrim and also to Co. Down to the beautiful sea side towns along the coast. I think we all have to make the very best of the situations we find ourselves in. I hope that you had a lovely day on your ship and that the "big day" will be coming soon. I am so pleased that you are enjoying Belfast and the area. Many years ago, when I was learning to type, one phrase I will always remember was "To be happy, keep busy". I think this is an appropriate saying for everyone ☺
I have my fingers.Crossed candles, lit and prayers sent out for you guys... For everyone, that's trying this adventure and for the people that are trying to fund it and make it happen. I really think this may be something of the future. You are two pioneers of sea residential traveling! I hope that all the naysayers are proved wrong and this turns out to be a wonderful, exciting experience for you. I think the concept is great, but there's so many things to consider when somebody's gonna be living full time on a ship, and I know they're trying to take all that into consideration right now. I'll keep watching and hope that you guys are able to move in soon, permanently, and that you will be out to sea and on your adventure before you know it.
You fully understand the ins and outs and positives and negatives that goes into making a decision of this magnitude. Thanks for sharing, we really appreciate it!
Given the number of setbacks, you guys are remarkably calm. That says a lot about your confidence in the organization. Fingers crossed that you set sail soon and don't miss too much of your itinerary. We love to cruise and will be following along.
We are calm and collected. Of course the delays affect all of us but we all can see the goal line and we are actually on a real ship. Not a pretend one like the scam Victoria Cruises line.
It sure isn't the dream they are selling in the brochure, is it? While not for me; I couldn't imagine not being able to get away from people except for a tiny room, I admire your sense of adventure. I really do hope this works out for you all.
I agree, it’s not for everyone. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the update! Pity Iceland is not on the itinerary this round but it will be in the next one since it’s a non-stop cruise! The fun is the whole experience of living on a ship and waking up in different locations every few days, so it shouldn’t really matter which locations come first. Unlike normal cruises, you also get to spend a few days in each port so that’s really nice and not a crazy rush. I wish I could go on this adventure! ❤
I’m glad you understand how we see it. I would take any port right now but Belfast😂
I'm so excited to go on this journey with you two!!!! Bon voyage!!!!!
Welcome aboard!
Loving your videos. I was looking at the itinerary and it is fabulous. The excitement of everything is building. You both look so relaxed. Looking forward to your next video and many, many more. ❤
Thanks so much!
Greetings from New Zealand. How exciting to live on a cruise ship! Can’t wait til you are sailing. Dont lose heart it will happen in its own good time.
I wonder if you have get togethers with the other residents. Maybe plan a sort of greetings party or a games day for yourselves on the ship during the day.
Or start a newsletter for every one to introduce yourselves.
Lots of opportunities there!
We all meet and mingle constantly. Everyone is getting to know each other. It’s a great group of people.
How exciting for you both, such an adventure! Looking forward to more videos!
More to come, welcome aboard!
It’s getting exciting for you now! I’m one of those new thousands you picked up. I’ve found you and one other couple on the ship to follow. 💙
Probably Steve and Angela?
Welcome aboard! I bet you’re talking about Steve and Angela an we’re happy to share this experience with them. They are very cool, fun and kind people. My best friends and family are following them as well.
@@livinglifeonacruise yes!
So exciting...been following your journey and can't wait for more updates and see you launching and taking your first sea miles!
Welcome aboard and we’re eager to live too!
I've only been watching the last days, and the delays are heartbreaking to see. We've cruised for decades, and I know how much it costs to stay on board for extended periods on a shoestring budget. I think I would rather piece together my own world-wide travel, with an established cruise line, than put my faith in a small ship/company, that does not have a proven track record. I wish you both, and all the other folks that invested their $$ into this venture, the best of luck. Only time will tell, and kudos to you all for being so patient. Let's all hope that there is actually some smooth sailing ahead for everyone!
Fair enough, I fully understand your view point. I appreciate you taking time to share your thoughts. Follow us long to see when we sail, then join us!
@@livinglifeonacruise we are all keeping our fingers crossed for everyone!!! We travel full-time as fully retired folks who are now international petsitters, and cruise when we are not booked for a sit. We will definitely look into long term cruising, at some point in our life.
What was the initial investment?
@@lucillehjort971 I took a peek at the website. The cheapest cabin started at $139k but they also have monthly fees. It was around 5-8k for two people per month. You don't have to buy a cabin though, you can have shorter stays... it's wild the ship isn't ready yet while they're collecting funds as if they were..
Congratulations on the channel growth that’s amazing! You’re almost 10! You have another neighbor on the ship somewhere that has a RUclips channel called mid life cruising. I wish you all the best on this new journey!!
Thank you and yes they are a delightful couple.
I wondered if they were on the same ship!
Good morning guys.... new subscriber here ! Thank you for your fabulous, entertaining... and at times, hilarious videos ! I "discovered" your chanel while browsing, and ended up watching a few of them. Looking forward to binging more of your channel, lol ! Have a delightfuly day !
Awesome, we’re glad to hear that you enjoy our videos. Thanks for subscribing and welcome aboard!
I thought this was a great idea until I found out you have to pay $3,500 per month for the lowest $99k cabin. After doing the math, I can do back to back cruises, experience different ships, sail all over the world, meet different people, get incredible rates and upgrades using casino deals, platinum and diamond status, and the best part, I can take breaks inbetween without paying the monthly fee while on land when I get sick and tired of being on the ship 24/7 or enjoy a place I want to stay longer. This seems more like an experiment to me and the only way to keep the ship sailing after burning through the upfront cost to renovate the old ship is to charge a monthly hoa fee which is equal to the cost of a mortgage. Wow! It better be worth it for you two. I really hope it's successful. I know money is not an issue for some people and that's most likely the community members that will make it happen.
Thank you for sharing. What you are suggesting is a great way to do it as well. But we don’t want to continuously pack and unpack so we prefer our way. Have a good one and thanks for watching!
I just watched the last 3 videos and I just wanted to say this is amazing! I didn’t know you could do this but I am so excited for the adventure you guys are going to have!! It’s going to be awesome!! Looking forward to following you!
Thank you so much, welcome aboard!
Been following along! Can't wait to see what adventures await. Would love to do something like this when the time is right. Happy Days ahead!
Please do and welcome aboard!
All the best ! Hope the ship will set sail soon ! Once the ship leaves the port, it will be a lifetime of adventure :)
We agree, thanks for watching!
So jealous! What a wonderful way to spend your "later years" with the one you love. How romantic. God Bless! 🐢🇺🇸
You are so kind
Given how not ready the ship was for your arrival I’m a little terrified for your safety when it does indeed set sail. Best of luck
Good point but a lot of work is being done.
It's a very regulated strict industry. Everyone who works on the ship has to be fully qualified also that's why they have to do all the checks and change everything because they wouldn't be allowed to sail if it was not done by the regulator why they have to do the sea tests as well
I wonder why the senior management team are choosing to work for a small tired start-up rather that being promoted within the established cruise lines they were working for.
Greetings from Australia and thank you for being so brave. So many people are about to follow you.
Wow, thank you. I hope we will sail so we can share more. Welcome aboard!
This decision looks perfect for you two. You have both been smiling the whole way through. Good luck to you and I can also see you both have positive attitudes and are easy going. These are great attributes for lasting friendships and strong relationships, both need hard work and can see you’re putting the effort in. Greetings from Australia.
I do think we’re a good match for an adventure like this. Thank you so much Australia!
Saw this earlier in the year. I love this idea it’s something I have dreamed of. Will be watching and look forward to watching your adventures 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Hope you enjoy it!
New Subscriber. Excited to watch your adventure unfold. Stay positive.
After watching some of the 9 month cruise videos I’ll be super interested to see how the ship keeps the menus fun and different since many people on the 9 month cruise have been so tired of cruise food for a while now. I think I’d miss just being able to have simple meals I can prepare myself so I’d love to see more about the food once the ship has been underway a while. Hope you set sail soon!
You’re definitely on to something that could become an issue. I can’t wait to see how that is handled. This far the food has been very good with a great variety. Thanks for sharing a very valid point.
Congratulations on 10k subscribers…that is awesome. Will be following along in your adventures 🇨🇦❤️
Thank you, that happened real fast from 350 to 10k in a week. We’re blown away!
What a fun and different way to spend your golden years. Have a blast!
We sure will try , thanks!
I've never heard of a cruise where the ship hasn't even undergone sea trials yet. Hope everything works out and you can get underway soon.
They repaired the rudder stocks, so that could be the reason.
They doin trials any day
After the final sea saftey checks
It's not as if this was a brand new ship which has ever left port and so there is no idea whether she will leave the harbor let alone pass sea trials. Plus 'sea trials' can mean different things. A ship that has never sailed had a huge list of tests to perform to be certified for the sea while ones that have undergone repairs, had major engine over hauls or new engines, generators or renovation, repair, upgrades or replacement in steering, rudders, props and so on have to have those tested at sea as they can not be tested dockside.
Ships that have been docked a long time especially if anything from water pumps to sewage pumps to kitchen equipment, electric generation and tech have not been in constant operation need to be tested as to how they function when no longer connected to the dock. That is why people hear if varying lengths of sea trials that can run for a few days to several weeks, just depending on what all needs to be recertification.
I was given to understand that this ship was in dry dock as new rudders and rudder shocking wad applied and so sea trials would be mandatory as to make sure everything is water tight and remains so at different speeds and in different conditions after work like that was done is important as just because sitting at dock might not show any issues, once underway with vibration and movement there could be issues, but it's not like she has not sailed before, or passed other sea trials, and she had cruised for many years.
@rentechpad that's a very good detailed er short novel there and I'm sure accurate
The very first bit gets me though
Your contradictory as it was with Fred Olsen and they are top notch cruise firm
So it's already been proved
It will be fine
All ships go through what your talking about then they sail and nearly all pass trials then go on there merry way
I don't get what your actually going on about ?
This may be a millennial reference, but there was a Disney television show in the 2010's called "Suite Life on Deck", where twin characters Zack and Cody lived on a cruise ship. Your journey is like a real life version of that show!
It kind of does, I remember that show.
Just found you guys about an hour ago, very intrigued and binge watching. Cheers!
Awesome! Thank you!
Hi! We just found your channel and plan on following your adventures. Good luck and safe travels!
Enjoy the journey! Just remember NAYSAYERS GONNA NAY!!!
I say live the dream and lifestyle you obviously can afford! You did not blow your budget! It’s obvious your wife works and income streams are good!
Best wishes and you guys will enjoy! Thankful for spaces outside of your actual room! By the way decorated wonderfully! You guys are definitely on the same positive vibe! Keep Smiling!
New Subscriber also! ❤
Thank you and thank you. We really appreciate it!
I had to look this up. $100,000 for interior $250,000 for balcony. $3,500 a month on top of the purchase price. The sailing is for 3.5 years visiting 425 ports and 147 countries. The cabin can be leased or sold after it’s been purchased. Financially it’s a lateral move because you probably won’t lose very much short term. hope you guys have fun on your adventure.
I thought it was 15 years, $5000 a month.
@@simonduftonOn the cruise RUclips it says no monthly fees?
3500 a month” HOA” fees?
On a typical cruise, some of your cruise fare are the port fees. countries charge lots of money to dock in their country. I’m sure there are some included luxury fees associated with cruise ship docking fees being they aren’t commercial.The rest is probably like HOA.
really? the have to pay $3500 / month over an above the cost of buying their cabin?
wow!!
Travel and adventure always has a bit of risk (which can include being stranded until the boat is ready...)
In the end, we only regret the adventures not taken...so, bon waiting for the voyage
I appreciate your words very much.
I have just discovered your channel and i wish you both the very best of luck for your future! Ignore any negativity! God bless you both from wallsend england, happy vibes!! ❤
You are so kind, thanks for watching!
Congratulations ❤. I hope you have many wonderful adventures 💖
Thank you so much!
Why are there so many negative comments on here? The concept is amazing - in another 10 years time this might seem like a normal alternative to living in a retirement village. I am sure some people are just concerned and it comes from a good place. What an amazing opportunity that you have grasped - good on you!!
I feel the same way but there have been failures like Life at Sea and scams recently like Victoria Cruises Line that many are skeptical of projects like this.
@@livinglifeonacruiseyou can win unless you try
I am so excited for you both.so looking forward to watching the next video.😊😊
Coming soon.
I'm so impressed with you following your dream. The delays are just part of the adventure. Looking forward to MANY more videos in the future! 🌻🍄
Thank you so much and thanks for watching!
What an exciting adventure. Praying the fire doors pass muster so that you can move in.
We sure hope so as well! Thanks for watching!
I'm really excited for you. Looking forward to the full ship tour.
Very soon!
Interesting that the carpets havent changed in the coridors
From when the ship was owned by Fred Olson.
Formally the Braemar.
They look fine. The carpet in the cabin is new though.
newbie here from last video and cant wait to see whats next for yalls adventure !!
Thank you it’s moving along slowly but surely!
Blessings on you new life and style of life. ❤️🕊❤️
Thank you very much!
Very interesting and hope it goes amazingly for you all!
Fingers crossed!
Hi. Just subscribed to your channel. A Very interesting alternative way of living. I look forward to coming along on your travels . I wish you both every success. Well done for taking the plunge. Life is an adventure and sometimes you have to jump into the uncertainty to get the rewards x
Thank you very much and welcome aboard!
Definitely looking into this…can’t wait to see when you’re on your way !!!
Welcome aboard!
I just subscribed. I’m happy for you and excited to follow your commentary. Stay blessed.
Thank you so much and welcome aboard!
My wife and I are using your experience to decide if we could do this. No Pressure HAHAHA We are so excited to join you on your journey. We would love an honest look at what it is like to live "ship sweet home" We all understand not everything will be perfect.
We don’t mind being the guinea pigs 🤣. Welcome aboard!
Don’t worry about the “what if’s” just enjoy the journey…😊
We’re trying to. Thanks for watching!
Are you able to eventually pick a different room, so you have a nicer view/view of the ocean? Or maybe even get a room with a deck? Or does something like that cost more money?
Yeah we could but it costs way more money and the monthly fees go up substantially.
@@livinglifeonacruise There are monthly fees on top of the annual/monthly cost?
New Subscriber - I discovered your channel yesterday and I am so excited for you both - this is absolutely facinating to me - fingers crossed to are able to sleep in your room very soon and set sail. Looking forward to following your journey, and congratulations on all your new subscribers - they have increased rapidily overnight. Take care 😘
Yes it has grown rapidly, Welcome aboard!
Hi! 👋 So your moving in video (before this one) came up on my feed. After watching it, I viewed a couple more and then _had_ to check out the Villa Vie site. *What a fantastic idea and wonderful journey you'll have!!* I've subbed and CAN'T WAIT to follow you around the world!
~ "Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen.” - Benjamin Disraeli
Thanks for sharing, welcome aboard!
I wish you all the best! I’m very interested to watch your adventures!
More to come!
👍👍
Thanks for watching!
Looking forward to your adventures 🇨🇦
Thanks for watching !
Hello from Boston, Massachusetts wishing you both safe and happy travels and will be following your journey.
Welcome aboard!
Best of luck to you! I look forward to following your journey!
Thank you so much!!
thanks for the update! Hoping that you get to set sail soon!!!
We sure hope so as well. Thanks for watching!
Positive breeds Positive 👍😎 Bravo 👏 🙌 👍
Subscribed and looking forward to coming along with you
Thanks and welcome aboard!
Nice that they're paying for the hotel and still letting you eat on the ship.
Indeed
This is such a cool concept. Good on you guys for leaping into what may become an option to transitioning into mid-life and/or retirement housing. This could be a great option other than overcrowded and overpriced retirement communities. As this very largely populated older generation needs other options that include adventure. There is definitely something special brewing here ❤ subscribed so I can see this through with you guys. Thank you for taking us with you!
You see, that’s how we reasoned before pulling the trigger on this. It’s a good fit for us at this time in life. We are planning on staying here for the long-haul. But you never know what life throws at you so things can obviously change.
Good luck to the both of you.
Thank you!
Im rooting for you and your adventure! I hope you set to sail soon! I looked up the itinerary and you will be visiting my city in Brazil! I'd love to meet you both and visit Villa Vie! Good luck!
That would be great! Keep in touch.
@@livinglifeonacruise I sure will! All the best for you!
Love Oslo. Hope you are on your way soon.
I hope so too!
A tour would be super cool. Fingers crossed you get under way soon!
That’s the next video coming soon.
Hello love the idea of this just a few questions. Is everyone on board a permanent guest ? Do they all own their own cabins? Also, are there cabins for tourists, ect, or is the entire ship a residential cruise ?. Definitely wabt to know more about the way it works business wise. I find it fascinating. Also what you get included as residents ect all sorts of questions lol 😂 like can you leave and come back at a port or the length of cabin ownership. Look forward to seeing more videos from you
See Rebecca’s comment. Thanks for watching!
To me this will be interesting as to how things work out from a social community point of view. There are many people that share their lives as residents on cruise ships but those residents are a a relatively small number on a ship that regularly cruises commercially from various ports, and it seems like many experience the fact that at almost every port there are exchanges of some faces as people board to start a vacation cruise and others leave. My understanding is that those on this ship, the Villa owners, are the only passengers unless they invited guests to visit and cruise a short time.
So on many ways this will be very much like a self contained residence with the periods between ports of call in which residents will only have the same residents in which to interact with and whether that leads to a dhip wide community or individual groups that form communities based on interests or any numbet of things will be fun to watch.
I see you got some good answers in the comments.
So if there is a massive engine issue with the ship or something… could you receive a 6 figure special assessment? Seems risky to me, but wishing you the best!
Don’t think so. The ship has four engines but only need two for regular cruising speed, and we’re obviously not in a hurry anywhere 😂.
Thanks for the great update, looking forward to the trip ahead.
You bet! You are the man coach!!
Excited for follow your journey! I think this sounds like a great opportunity and adventure!
Yes! Thank you!
I love your spirit of adventure, I cant wait til you can set sail. 🛳❤⚓️
Can't wait!
I am a "Newbie" here in HOT Arizona~Find your opportunity to have residence on a cool ship, whilst selling around to see our lovely world, totally fascinating and know it will be an AMAZING adventure☆☆...Yes, full of challenges some days, yet more importantly, the two of you are on a wonderful Journey of a Lifetime, together with many other fascinating folks!!
Sending BEST Wishes and Tons of FUN as We All Follow Along, Holly in the Desert of SURPRISE, AZ:)
Thank you for all the well wishes. Thank you Surprise, AZ!
Glad to hear you are both doing ok. ✅
Thanks
I hope this all works out perfectly for you two.
Thanks for your support!
ignore the negative people on here guys, they are only jealous! it will be fabulous and all the best to you both x
Thank you very much!
The youtube gods are smiling at you 😋 Cool idea. I don't think people realize that there are cruise liners that have pretty much full residency. I'll be watching the updates!
Welcome aboard our adventure!
Admire and respect both you you Beautiful Soul's. I'm curious why you didn't get a balcony cabin? I have watched your cabin tour and pros and cons living on a cruise ship, but when other cruisers say we have an inside cabin or just a window thinking they wouldn't spend any time in their cabin they always say next cruise cabin definitely. Kindest thoughts to you both from Australia.
Thank you for your advice. We’re happy with it but the jump in price to get a balcony is just not something we can afford right now.
Your optimism is remarkable!
Thanks, we’re pretty positive people but also realistic. We were fully expecting a lot of issues trying to pull off a project of this magnitude.
It’s Wednesday! Were you able to move in today?
Wish you the best with this. Looks like fun.
Thanks
how exciting i think it’s great to get out there and make all ur memories .
That’s all we want to do
You guys have a positive attitude.
That’s the only way we know. Thanks for watching!
Hindsight is a marvellous thing and I get budget & turnaround are tight with multi million dollar piece of infrastructure, but even f VV had given themselves 6 months turnaround it, might have been a better customer experience. Many thanks for your open and honest and very upbeat accounts. I’m not sure I could be so patient or gracious when making a large purchase and having your experience. I do hope and wish you both all the best that your future goes as you would like. I would also tho, be making gentle inroads to a back up plan, litigation options, onward plans for yourselves, possibly look at what VV financial health (no idea but I’d be curious). The hope being you never need that back up. I really do hope this venture takes off, but there is a reg flag or two, but UK maritime health & safety is very strict. Look forward to your next update being the sail away party. With all good wishes, Scott.
Thanks for all your thoughts Scott. Obviously the situation is not ideal. I know they will continuously work on improving things that are not yet up to par even after we sail. I’m just happy to onboard and hopefully we’ll get going soon.
What is your other job you are doing from the ship?
Lanette has an auto glass business.
New subscriber ,i really hope you sail off on your adventures soon .
Welcome aboard!
How exciting!
Indeed
I started watching one of the other VillaVie channels and am fascinated. People should stop looking at this as an investment, it's a holiday expense. No one expects a return on the dollars spent on vacations. The owners are making the full-time cruise lifestyle accessible to people who aren't in the million dollar beach house category. I have had a dream of exploring the world in my own explorer yacht but I don't want to hire a captain and engineer to handle the things that I don't know about. That lifestyle is a lot more expensive than VillaVie (priced marine diesel fuel and marine insurance lately?). Good luck with your adventure, hope you get a lot of good content and subs in the process.
I fully agree with all you’re saying. Are you sure you’re not my brother from another mother. Can you please write my future responses to comments.
@@livinglifeonacruise I'm sure you'll keep us updated on the new departure date. In the meantime, there is a lot to see in and around Belfast, I'm sure you've embraced the opportunity. Thank you for your channel.
Wow very exciting for ye both 👏
Thanks, welcome aboard!
I love to live via other's adventures. I'm hopeful the short term delays will make for even better adventures.
I hope so too!
Hi. Can you help me understand. You purchase your room, but do you also have to pay for each cruise destination? Or as they call them segments?
We pay $3500/month for the both of us and that covers pretty much everything.
I would love to know the average age of travelers on this cruise. Youngest? Oldest? This sounds like a great way to spend retirement. Do you have travel insurance for health emergencies?
I think we range from 40 to late 80s with the average being around early 60s. And yes, we have a yearly travel insurance that we paid and it’s not cheap but it’s gonna be good for us.
Will this be your permanent home?
Good for you. Terrific idea.
Thank you! Cheers!
I just found you today and have watched several of your videos and subscribed too! I know there’s been lots of delays but it’s the same with new construction I don’t think there’s many people that have moved into their new house when the builder said they would or even with a remodel! I know my sister renovated her house and it took at least a month longer than they expected! I hope you sail soon!
I’m glad you understand. I’ve worked in construction the last 25 years and the last week always takes 4 weeks to finish. So I’m not overly concerned with the situation.
can you tell us more about the business center? Do they have printers or anything there for you to use? Is it possible to put a tower computer and 2 monitors in your cabin? I can only afford an interior and it looks a bit small but I do not do well with a lap top. I look forward to joining you!
They have printers available at the business center. I think your suggested set up in the cabin would be a bit tight but doable.
@@livinglifeonacruise Thanks and I agree it will be tight, but can't afford a bigger cabin.
New subscriber - optimistic and cheering you on!!
Thank you and welcome aboard!
All worth the wait I am sure. Let us know when you decide to set a live video we will have questions which will be great to intereact with you both
Possibly, we’ve never done that.
Greetings. From. Leeds. West Yorkshire.
Greetings good people!
Are you worried at all that this still won’t happen?
@@cz8024 I am, and I’m not even involved in it.
Honestly I’m not. This is an older ship that came with some surprises. But overall they have invested so much money and increased the value incredibly. So delay possibly but sail, yes definitely.
@@livinglifeonacruise I am definitely pulling for you all! Looking forward to your updates as well. 🙏🤞
@@livinglifeonacruise What happens after the 3 years? Your investment is gone? Wasn’t it over $100,000 initially? When the three years is up you just have no place to live? I’m so curious.
@@cz8024 He says they are guaranteed 15 years.