We save £2,000 a month after swapping our home for cruise ships
We save £2,000 a month after swapping our home for cruise ships
Katrina Middleton and her husband Kevin had always dreamed of leaving Scotland behind and exploring the globe, but they never imagined their travels could cut their monthly expenses by nearly £2,000. By trading their £200,000 Arbroath home for life at sea, the couple now live aboard a cruise ship full-time, embracing a nomadic lifestyle that’s redefining their financial and personal priorities.
Having sold their home in February, after residing on cruise ships since September of the previous year, the pair are embracing the idea of “letting life take them wherever it leads.” Their decision to abandon traditional living has allowed them to experience the world without the constraints of fixed locations, all while enjoying the perks of a luxurious onboard environment.
“This has been the most rewarding move we’ve made, and we’re genuinely more content,” Katrina, 29, shares. “My passion for cruising began years ago, but what we love now is the convenience of unpacking once and discovering new destinations every day.”
Despite initial hesitations, the couple has grown to cherish the unpredictability of their current setup. “At first, it felt overwhelming, but now we’re eager to explore,” Katrina admits. The shift from a stationary life to a maritime one has unlocked a sense of freedom they hadn’t anticipated.
Since departing Scotland five months ago, the pair have visited the Caribbean, Mauritius, and Miami, all while working remotely from their upscale cabin. Their new routine has not only reduced costs but also transformed how they view spending. “We didn’t realize just how much we were consuming daily before,” Katrina explains. “Now, with no need for groceries or car fuel, our expenses are drastically lower.”
Cost Breakdown: A New Financial Reality
Previously, their monthly expenses in the UK totaled £6,510, covering a £1,300 pcm mortgage, £2,500 pcm for two vehicles, and £600 for energy bills. Additional recreational spending only added to the total. On the cruise ship, however, their costs have dropped to around £4,500 a month, including the voyage itself, meals, internet access, and excursions.
While the lifestyle has its perks, it’s not without challenges. The couple must adhere to UK working hours, which can mean rising at odd times depending on their time zone. To manage this, Katrina creates spreadsheets each month to track their location and schedule, ensuring productivity aligns with their commitments.
“People assume you’re just lounging by the pool, but we’re actually working hard,” Katrina says. “It’s about where you choose to focus on the ship. There are plenty of distractions, but you find a quiet space. We’ve found our workflow is more efficient, and after a day’s work, we unwind better than ever before.”
Katrina also highlights the flexibility of their schedule. “Before, I felt limited by annual leave, but now we can plan trips whenever we want. A port stop in Mauritius or another dream destination is now within reach, something I never thought possible living on land.”
Looking Ahead: No Return to Land in Sight
With no intentions of reverting to traditional living, the couple are already planning their 2027 cruises. “There’s a common belief that cruising is for older people or that it’s monotonous, but that’s not the case at all,” Katrina clarifies. “It’s been a game-changer for us, offering a dynamic way to travel while saving money.”
Yet, nostalgia for their old life lingers. “I miss my family and the little comforts of home, like a home-cooked meal or a good cup of tea,” Katrina reflects. “Still, the savings and experiences we’ve gained make it all worthwhile.”
As they continue their journey, the couple remain optimistic about the benefits of their decision. “It takes some adjustment, but the savings and the freedom are worth it,” Katrina concludes, encouraging others to consider the lifestyle shift. Their story is a testament to how reimagining living arrangements can lead to unexpected rewards.
