Latest news with #luxurycruise
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
We ditched our small-town life in Wyoming to travel the world on a cruise... and the cost shocked us
A couple decided to pack up their small-town life in Wyoming and go on the adventure of a lifetime - a luxury cruise around the world. Paul and Lynn Montoya were living in Laramie - a city with a population of about 31,0000 - and operating a bed and breakfast in Vedauwoo before they were hit with a sudden wake-up call following the COVID-19 pandemic to experience what the world had to offer. 'We realized we hadn't seen the world, running a business like we did in Wyoming,' Paul told Cowboy State Daily. 'We never had time to do much travel. We actually went to Europe for the first time in our lives last year, and we're in our 60s now, so we'd really like to explore the world.' And that's exactly what they did - leaving behind their home, packing up a rental car of their most prized possessions and hopping aboard the Villa Vie ship Odyssey, the first world cruise where passengers embark on a three-and-a-half year journey around the globe. Cruises are often looked at as expensive, but for the Montoyas, they soon realized their dream wouldn't cost them any more than it did living in Laramie. Now, the couple are enjoying their extended vacation for about $80,000 a year after hopping on the cruise ship in April to take them to 147 countries, 425 ports and 100 tropical islands. The breakdown of their expenses include the cost of their cabin, three meals a day, entertainment, housekeeping, laundry and internet. They hopped aboard the Villa Vie ship Odyssey (pictured), the first world cruise where passengers embark on a three-and-a-half year journey around the globe The cheapest cabin option starts at $129,000 with a $2,999 monthly maintenance fee - around $45,000 annually - for one person to stay there. For two people, the fee is $3,999 or $57,000 a year, and, according to the ship's website, the occupancy range could go up to at least 15 years if desired. Although it is unclear how much the couple were paying for their home, the average cost of a home in Laramie is estimated at $378,258, according to Zillow. 'That's one of the things the Odyssey really does is they're trying to program this for affordable living,' Lynn told the outlet. 'It's similar to maybe like a retirement community, like a 55-plus community.' She went on to compare their new lifestyle to those living in two of the most expensive locations in the US. 'If you're living in California or New York or something that, I don't think you could even live in a rented apartment for that nowadays,' she said. 'For them, this is probably an easy decision. For us, this is the same lifestyle we had in Laramie, but we're getting to see the world.' She and her husband also don't have to stay in their cabins the entire time, as they have options to leave to attend important family events like funerals or weddings. They also have the option to rent out their cabin like Airbnb does with houses. If they wanted to, they could also sell their cabin back to Ville Vie for a lower value or sell it to a new cabin owner. Their cabin is already worth approximately $20,0000 more than what they originally paid for it, the couple said. With that in mind, Paul said he and his wife have plans for the future of their cabin. 'If we die, our family can actually inherit it, too. But we're hoping the value will be there where we can actually sell (the cabin) for the amount we paid, maybe more if it's really popular,' he said. There is even flexibility with how cabins are paid for as the cruise offers a pay-as-you-go plan to those who can't afford it outright. The Montoya's even met a man who owns two cabins - one for him and another to rent out. 'Now what he's doing is renting both of those out and, with the money he's renting it for, he's paying for life on the ship,' Lynn explained. 'He's one of the ones who left in August, so he's been doing that for some time.' Although the cabins are affordable - when compared to the cost of living on land in the US - the couple warned that there is not too much space to work with. 'A typical cabin is about 200 square feet. And you normally have a bed and a desk, maybe a side chair, and a small bathroom,' they said. But, there is still an option to customize the cabins to your liking as the couple plan on having changes made to their space soon. 'We're actually having the construction crew on here tear out all of the cabinetry, and we're going to re-wallpaper it,' Paul stated 'We're also going to replace the bed with our own bed.' They will be able to retrieve their bed once the ship ports in San Diego. Though they've made sure their living space is comfortable for them, the couple said they spend most of their time at the ship's gym, business center or at ports enjoying fun and unique activities. They recently got to swim with wild dolphins in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the Montoya's detailed on their YouTube page. They also created their own website to share updates on their journey, including a checklist of all the places they've been and have yet to experience. As of Sunday, the couple have visited eight destinations in Mexico, one in El Salvador and another in Guatemala. They still have a boatload of destinations to cross off, including trips to Hawaii, Canada, Washington, California, Alaska, Japan and South Korea.
Telegraph
2 days ago
- Business
- Telegraph
Five essential things to know before boarding an Explora Journeys ship
If you think cruising means corny entertainment, greasy buffets and lengthy bridge contests, then chances are you haven't experienced Explora Journeys yet. Inspired by the sleek design of private yachts, this new kid on the block wants to inspire those who 'don't do cruises' to give holidays-at-sea a try. This ethos is reflected in the line's choice of terminology, with 'guests' rather than 'passengers', and 'hosts' instead of 'crew'. Explora Journeys, the ultra-luxury arm of the MSC Group, sees its ships more as high-end hotels that just happen to be on water, as evidenced by the Buccellati boutiques, marble bathrooms and Emilio Isgrò artwork on board. The brand has also made a deliberate decision to hire staff from a luxury hospitality background wherever possible, so don't be surprised when intuitive employees (there's an impressive ratio of 1.25:1 guest-to-crew) remember your name or your favourite drink. What's more, Explora Journeys is truly all-inclusive, so you don't have to worry about forking out extra for drinks, food, fitness classes, tips or Wi-Fi. In short, the brand has attained its goal of offering all the trappings of the world's leading luxury hotels – a sophisticated aesthetic, first-class service and superlative restaurants and bars – on the high seas. 1. Where does Explora Journeys cruise? Explora I will sail the Mediterranean until November 2025, when she will then reposition to the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula for winter 2025-2026. Sister ship, Explora II, will spend summer 2025 in the Mediterranean and winter 2025-2026 in the Eastern Caribbean. Explora III which, as the name suggests, is the third ship in the line's growing fleet, will debut in summer 2026 and offer itineraries throughout northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland before making its way to North America 's east coast. For the winter 2026/27 season, the ship will shift to Miami, where it will embark on a series of Caribbean itineraries. While the line emphasises longer itineraries that visit lesser-known ports, and then stay late/overnight, it has also introduced regular, shorter seven night journeys for those who have limited time. In addition, Explora offers what it terms 'experiences' as opposed to 'excursions'. These include a meeting with an astronaut from Nasa in Florida and a hike along the Tet Paul nature trail in St Lucia to see the island's icons – the Unesco-protected Pitons. 2. Who does Explora Journeys appeal to? New-to-cruise guests who are attracted to the brand for what it is not: blaring night clubs, blingy casinos and petty extra charges. That being said, while the line isn't looking to attract passengers from other cruise lines, it would nonetheless appeal to fans of small ship, luxury cruising offered by the likes of Seabourn, Silversea, and Crystal – as well as those who have stayed in ship-within-a-ship venues on mainstream lines and are looking to try something new. Explora Journeys – as its name alludes – is also a good choice for anyone looking for a little more from their annual leave than merely sitting by a pool all day. Itineraries blend well-known destinations, such as Athens, with lesser-travelled ports, and offer guests the opportunity to feel part of the place they are visiting. Small-group trips are led by local experts who know that the most memorable and magical experiences are often about meeting the community, rather than simply tickling off the blockbuster sights. 3. Explora Journey's fleet Explora Journeys currently has two ships in its fleet with four more – Exploras III, IV V, and VI – slated to follow over the next few years. Explora II (922 passengers) From a distance, the line's newest ship, Explora II, resembles a superyacht (perhaps not a surprise, given that its aquiline profile was crafted by veteran British yacht designer Martin Francis). Step on board, however, and it's like walking into a five-star resort. Expect a glittering white-and-gold, double-height lobby bar with a back-lit drinks wall; the open-air Sky Bar; bespoke artwork by Emilio Isgrò and Yves Dana dotted around the decks; four swimming pools – one with a retractable rooftop; numerous hot tubs; and upmarket shops in the shape of Piaget, Panerai, Cartier and Buccellati. Elsewhere, the cabins are all suites – starting at a spacious 35 square metres for an entry-level Ocean Terrace Suite. This comes equipped with a king size bed, Frette linens, Steiner binoculars, a walk-in dressing area featuring a Dyson hairdryer, marble bathroom with underfloor heating and bespoke Mandala Blue toiletries; plus a separate living area leading to a terrace with a supremely comfortable Manutti daybed. Explora I (922 passengers) The first ship from Explora Journeys is almost identical to its sibling. Four pools are complemented by numerous whirlpools, while extensive workout areas – indoor and out – have Technogym equipment. Spread over 14 decks, you'll find a spacious spa whose inviting thermal areas – including a salt cave, vitality pool and experiential showers – are free to access on port days, as well as extensive workout areas filled with swanky Technogym equipment. The ship has 12 bars and six restaurants: standouts include the pan-Asian Sakura where you can watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen, Marble & Co (a smart steakhouse) and Emporium Marketplace – Explora's upmarket take on the buffet. All dining venues are included in the fare, with the exception of Anthology – three Michelin star Italian chef Mauro Uliassi's first restaurant at sea. Entertainment is low-key with a pianist tinkling at a Steinway in the lobby bar, while West End and Broadway veterans perform songs from everyone's favourite musicals and movies in Journeys Lounge. 4. Loyalty scheme In April 2025, Explora Journeys revealed a new loyalty programme. The Explora Club has five tiers and allows guests to earn points that can then be converted into perks such as priority service and access to exclusive events, or used towards future sailings. 5. Access for guests with disabilities The line has fully-accessible suites and, in certain ports, offers accessible destination experiences. Explora Journeys asks that: 'Any guests in need of special services during their journey, or needing to travel with medical apparatus, including wheelchairs, motorised scooters or oxygen therapy [...] please notify us in writing prior to final payment becoming due.'
ABC News
2 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
The Good Retirement: Living the high life on a low budget
Retirement can be a tricky time when we wonder, "Have I got enough money to live happily ever after?" But come retirement time, many Australians find their nest egg isn't big enough to go luxury cruising or laze on a tropical island. So how can you find enjoyment and fulfilment from retirement without spending a fortune? Guests:
Travel Daily News
4 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
AmaWaterways announces new CEO
AmaWaterways appoints Catherine Powell as CEO, with co-founder Rudi Schreiner transitioning to Chairman, marking a leadership shift for future growth. CALABASAS, CA – AmaWaterways, a leading luxury river cruise line, announced that the current CEO and co-founder Rudi Schreiner is transitioning to a new role as Chairman of the Board. President Catherine Powell will step up as the company's Chief Executive Officer from July 1st with Mr. Schreiner continuing to support her in this new role. Company co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst will remain on the AmaWaterways board and Ms. Karst will continue in her role as Global Brand Ambassador. 'We are so excited about what we have been building – internationally with new markets, new passengers and, frankly, a whole new generation of river cruisers. I am delighted that we are investing in the kind of leadership Catherine brings to the company. It's a real inflection point, and I couldn't be prouder,' said Mr. Schreiner. 'Rudi and I poured our hearts into building AmaWaterways – a company shaped by passion, innovation and strong personal connections. As we take this next step forward, we're thrilled to welcome Catherine as CEO. Her global experience and leadership style reflect the values that have guided us from the beginning. I'm excited for the future and grateful to keep focusing on what I love most – nurturing the relationships with our travel partners, our guests and the local communities we visit, cultivating the shared success that comes from growing together,' said Ms. Karst 'This is a dynamic moment of both growth and transformation for AmaWaterways and for the river cruising industry writ large,' said Ms. Powell. 'Rudi is an icon in the industry, whose pioneering vision has shaped river cruising. From the design of the ships to every detail of the experience on board and on shore, Rudi has touched the lives of all the guests who have sailed with us. I am honored to be taking the mantle from Rudi and steering this incredible company into its next exciting chapter building on his legacy.' Ms. Powell was appointed President early this year, and brings an expansive view to the company, one that will continue to build on the evolution of AmaWaterways as a category pioneer and leader in this industry. AmaWaterways is widely recognized for its outstanding service both onboard and onshore. 'We extend our deepest appreciation for the remarkable vision and leadership that Rudi and Kristin have demonstrated in building AmaWaterways. Since the company's inception in 2002, they have established AmaWaterways as a beloved and highly coveted brand within the river cruising industry. Looking ahead, we foresee significant growth opportunities. The company is strategically expanding into new destinations and markets while making substantial investments in technology, digital platforms, and elevated customer experiences. These initiatives will ensure that AmaWaterways remains well-positioned for long-term success in the evolving landscape of travel,' said Jennifer Reid, Director of AmaWaterways and Partner at L Catterton. Director of AmaWaterways and Managing Partner at L Catterton, Marc Magliacano went on to say 'We are confident that Catherine's deep experience in the travel industry and track-record of growth and success from her roles at both Disney and Airbnb make her uniquely suited to guide the company forward into the next phase of its journey. She understands the changing customer landscape and shifting consumer demand regarding how people want to travel and to experience luxury in a way that will drive the company forward, and that will meet growing expectations and the market's demand for high-end travel experiences.'
South China Morning Post
18-05-2025
- South China Morning Post
A life-enriching journey awaits on the horizon
[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.] From long-awaited dreams to unforgettable destinations – luxury cruise line Oceania Cruises® turns the voyage into the destination You step onto the deck. A gentle breeze catches the hem of your linen shirt as you gaze out across the horizon. The sun is beginning to dip, gilding the sea in molten gold. Behind you, a steward offers a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Ahead of you lies Asia. Or perhaps Africa. Or a hidden coral atoll in the South Pacific you hadn't heard of until now. Wherever you're headed, you already know this isn't just a holiday. This is something else entirely. It's the journey you've dreamt of and now that day has come. It's time to reward yourself with an eye-opening voyage that's rich in culture, comfort and the kind of awe that lingers long after you return home. With the launch of its eagerly anticipated 2026–2027 Tropics and Exotics Collection, Oceania Cruises invites travellers to step beyond the guidebook and embark on voyages that illuminate, inspire and indulge.
