While most people save money by skipping lattes or cancelling subscriptions, one couple took cost-cutting to a whole new level: they sold nearly everything they owned and made cruise ships their permanent home.
Monica and Jorell decided to leave behind their traditional lifestyle – jobs, house, and all – to become full-time cruisers.
Since setting sail in early 2023, they’ve completed 36 cruises, visited over 45 countries, and you won’t believe what they say about the cost of the lifestyle…
It Started With A Crisis
For Monica Brzoska, the decision to leave land wasn’t just driven by a desire to travel – it was sparked by a personal turning point.
In 2022, during her father’s serious health battle that required a liver transplant, a heartfelt conversation with her mother left a lasting impact. Her mum told her, “Don’t wait for retirement to follow your dreams. Do it now.”
That advice stuck. The couple already had a weeklong Caribbean cruise planned for March 2023, but what began as a getaway quickly evolved into a complete lifestyle transformation.
Monica recalled her mum suggesting, “Instead of coming back, why not keep booking consecutive cruises for as long as you can afford to?”
By the time they boarded that first ship from Miami, Monica and Jorell had resigned from their jobs, sold off most of their belongings, and committed to a life at sea – with a carefully planned budget in hand.
More Than Just Vacation
Cruising full-time isn’t just about exotic ports and sunset views. For Monica and Jorell, it’s also about freedom from everyday responsibilities.
“All my meals are cooked by chefs, and staff change my bedding,” Monica said. “I haven’t stepped into a kitchen or touched a washing machine in over a year.” That’s a pretty sweet exchange for giving up the daily grind.
Their days are filled with activities like trivia, live shows, crafts and spa time. Evenings often mean dressing up for dinner and enjoying their ritual date nights.
Jorell can usually be found chatting to new people or catching live performances on board.
It’s Surprisingly Affordable!
At first glance, cruising full-time might sound like a luxury only the ultra-wealthy can afford. But Monica and Jorell say it’s more affordable than many assume.
Back in Memphis, their monthly costs – rent, groceries, utilities, commuting – added up quickly.
By contrast, cruise living offered them lodging, meals, entertainment, and travel, often for less. Thanks to their status with Carnival from past cruises, they scored significant loyalty discounts.
Their strategy? Book the most economical cabins and take advantage of their pandemic-era savings.
The result: they managed to line up eight months of cruising for under $10,000. Some cruises were fully paid upfront; others required only small deposits.
To supplement their lifestyle, they kept ownership of their Memphis home and began renting it out – providing a steady stream of income while they sailed.
How They Stretch Their Budget
While their lifestyle may sound extravagant, Monica and Jorell insist it’s rooted in smart planning and frugal choices.
They often skip pricey excursions, opting instead to explore cities on foot or by public transport. Onboard raffles have even won them spa treatments, jewellery, and shore activities – just for participating.
Their loyalty status with Carnival Cruise Line has also paid dividends, offering perks like onboard credits and exclusive discounts that help them save even more.
To them, this is more than travel – it’s a sustainable, intentional way to live.
It’s Not Always Smooth Sailing
Life on a cruise ship isn’t without its downsides. Monica and Jorell are candid about the challenges.
Being away from family is the toughest part. They miss birthdays, holidays, and ordinary moments. Still, knowing they can catch a flight home in an emergency offers some comfort.
There are also occasional stretches of boredom or feelings of homesickness. But as Monica puts it, “We don’t know how long our money will last, but in the meantime, we’re making the most of every minute.”
A Life Filled With “Glimmers”
Before they set sail, Monica and Jorell would talk about catching “glimmers” – those fleeting moments when life feels truly magical.
Now, Monica says, their life is full of them.
With no daily chores or deadlines, they’ve found a deeper sense of peace.
Each day brings new places, new faces, and more opportunities to simply enjoy each other’s company. Their marriage has also grown stronger thanks to uninterrupted time together and shared adventures.
Is Life at Sea for You?
Monica and Jorell’s journey isn’t just about travel – it’s about rethinking what life can look like. They traded a conventional routine for a floating lifestyle filled with spontaneity, simplicity, and joy.
It’s not a path for everyone. But for those dreaming of more freedom, fewer possessions, and richer experiences, it just might be worth considering.
After all, you don’t need to be rich to live richly – you just need a plan, some flexibility, and a willingness to step outside the norm.
So, would you trade it all for life on the ocean?
Make sure you follow Monica and Jorell on their Instagram channel, life_by_any_means.
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