Forget Rent: This Man is Living on a Cruise Ship for Less
Imagine trading your traditional rent payments for a floating home that takes you around the world. That’s the reality for Austin Wells, a 31-year-old from San Diego who has decided to make a cruise ship his permanent residence.
His new home? A studio on the MV Narrative, a unique cruise ship designed as a floating community where residents live full-time, with all the perks of luxury cruising.
A Floating City with Everything You Need
MV Narrative, which is set to launch in 2027, is no ordinary cruise ship. Designed by Storylines, this ship boasts over 500 private residences, making it a true floating neighborhood.
With amenities like restaurants, bars, a cinema, a bowling alley, a microbrewery, swimming pools, and even a bank, it’s like living in a city—except the entire place moves, allowing residents to experience a new destination every few days.
For Wells, this lifestyle makes perfect sense. Not only does he get ocean views and a fully furnished home, but he also saves money. In San Diego, a one-bedroom apartment averages around $2,500 per month, while Wells’ studio on MV Narrative costs him just $2,000 monthly.
That’s a significant saving, especially when you consider that his floating home also takes him to the world’s most exotic locales without ever having to book a flight.
The Costs and Investment Behind a Floating Home
While the monthly rent is surprisingly affordable, there’s an upfront cost that comes with living on a cruise ship. Wells paid $300,000 for a 12-year lease on his 237-square-foot studio.
The ship’s other apartments can be much more expensive, with some residences priced at upwards of $10 million, depending on size and luxury.
Despite the hefty price tag, Storylines promotes the MV Narrative as a “rare investment opportunity,” highlighting the ship’s potential for high resale value. With the ship’s continuous voyage and the increasing appeal of living on the ocean, the long-term value for residents may prove to be worthwhile.
Life on Board MV Narrative
Life on MV Narrative is far from cramped. Wells’ studio comes with custom furnishings like a foldaway bed, a desk, pantry, and a shower room, perfectly suited for his remote work lifestyle.
But it’s not just about the apartment. Residents have access to a wide range of amenities that rival those of a luxury resort. From private kitchens and a farmers’ market to a 24-hour gym and room service, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you want to relax at the spa, take a dip in the pool, or even visit the onboard medical facilities, MV Narrative provides everything you’d need in a traditional home—and then some.
Ready to Set Sail in 2027
Currently under construction in Croatia, the MV Narrative is scheduled to embark on its inaugural voyage in 2027.
The ship will be powered by liquefied natural gas and will travel the world on a never-ending three-year journey, stopping at various ports along the way. For Wells, this is the ideal way to explore the globe without leaving behind the comforts of home.
“I don’t have to pack a bag, book a flight, or rent a room,” Wells told CNBC. “My condo, my gym, my doctors and dentists, all of my grocery stores—travel the world with me.” It’s a dream lifestyle for anyone who loves to travel but hates the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking.
So, could living on a cruise ship be the future of affordable, travel-friendly living? With luxury amenities, global travel, and affordable rates, the concept of permanent floating communities might just be the next big thing for those looking to live life on their own terms.
For Austin Wells, it’s an opportunity to see the world without ever leaving home. And for others who crave a life of adventure, it might just be a tempting option to explore in the years to come.
