LIVING at sea

Life at sea is no longer reserved for retirees. Solo adventurists, empty-nesters and families are choosing to live a life of endless wanderlust, writes Kirstie Bedford.

Post-pandemic has resulted in many people re-evaluating what they find important in life,” says Tommy McGinn, Director of Clydebuilt, builders of residential cruise ship Dark Island.

“Living at sea allows work to continue from stunning parts of the world, and at the end of the day, switch off and explore your newfound surroundings.”

Dark Island is one of multiple new residential cruise ships launching in the next few years to meet an increasing market of travellers seeking a nomadic life. And while the privilege comes at a price (the most luxurious suites on

Dark Island are £110 million), onboard is everything you’d find in a small village – restaurants, pools and health facilities. Even hobbies are catered for with classes in art, photography and cooking. There’s also a jogging track and state-of-the-art fitness centre, while education specialists ensure schoolwork stays on track.

The nomadic evolution

Co-founder of Blue World, Fredy Dellis, says because of the last few years health has become a priority for many people, and it’s seeing demand from a younger audience looking for a better lifestyle.

“So far, we have more than 700 people interested in buying our first 40 residences, and the average age is 45 years old. We choose destinations based on where we can find the best hiking, cycling, running, golf, tennis and watersports, and our programs are coordinated to attract two types of passengers – those who are already fit and healthy, and those who would like to follow in that direction.”

For Storylines founders Shannon Lee and Alister Punton, its ship MV Narrative offers an affordable option “while giving global travellers the ability to live out their passion for exploration while still maintaining work, family and home life”.

Suites on its ship start at US$1 million, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice facilities. It has 20 eateries and bars, a microbrewery, three pools, a 10,000-book library, theatre, art studio and garden, as well as a health and wellness centre that includes a hospital.

Richard Davey of Ocean Residences, behind Njord, billed as ‘the world’s largest private residence yacht’, says for many people it’s about life balance.

“You can establish a second home with your cherished mementos and photographs of loved ones and it’s ready and waiting for you whenever you return … your surroundings are comfortable and familiar with one exception – your location, which changes constantly as you explore the great ports and paradises and menageries worldwide.”

Tried and tested

The first private residential ship in the world, aptly named The World, has been sailing in this sector for nearly two decades. Asia Pacific spokesman Craig Bowen says its success can be attributed to its residents, who own the ship outright and continue to invest in it to keep it in top condition. There are 150 families who own ‘homes’ on board hailing from 20 different countries.

Bowen says they are couples, families and solo travellers. “Over the years we have also seen an increase in different generations of the same family purchasing apartments on board so that they can enjoy travelling together as a family.” Having visited more than 1,000 ports of call in more than 120 countries, with a continuous worldwide itinerary that spans the globe every two to three years – and a private mega yacht – it’s not hard to see the appeal.

03 01 where suites start at A$12.3 million © FM Architecture 02 Storylines yacht has all the facilities of a small village, including a youth education program. 03 The pinnacle of life at sea, is an exclusive ‘invitation-only’ affair © Luttenberger Design.