IF the expensive London property market has you priced out, then have you ever considered a life at sea?
There’s one cruise ship that has announced it will allow people to live on board forever – and it’s cheaper than buying a flat in the city.
Villa Vie Residences has announced it is planning on launching a new luxury ship under the working name Project Lumina.
Similar to its current ship, Odyssey, it will allow people to permanently live onboard.
Prices will start from $539,999 (£405,695) for Oceanview, according to social media.
Meanwhile, the average price for a flat in London generally sits between £530,000 – £610,000.
Or you can splash out on a balcony suite for $899,999 (£676,000).
Odyssey’s sister ship will offer those who love to travel fully-owned private residences along with top amenities and services.
Villa Vie Residences said in a statement: “With the introduction of Lumina, future residents will enjoy a wide spectrum of ownership options – from attainable world-travel homes aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey to ultra-luxury villa experiences aboard the upcoming Lumina flagship.”
It’s even cheaper if you are older too – anyone aged between 75 and 79 can buy a place from $189,999 (£145,500).
The launch date of the ship is set to be announced.
The Odyssey prices are slightly cheaper, as you can own your own private villa from $129,999 (£97,640).
Currently there’s a Black Friday Sale offer (until December 15, 2025) where prices start from $109,999 (£82,614).
Details on ownership reads: ” Villa ownership offers a permanent home aboard our ships, giving you unlimited access to global exploration, personal customization, and all-inclusive living with none of the hassle.
“With long-term value, personal flexibility, and the ability to welcome friends or family onboard, your villa becomes a floating sanctuary—yours to enjoy or share as you see fit.”
Owners can decorate their own villa so your room or suite will feel more homely.
There are different cabin options from Inside, Porthole, Ocean View, Balcony, Suite, or Balcony Deluxe.
Villa Vie Odyssey has a total of eight decks and 650 residents.
There are multiple dining areas, library, networking area, club room, theatre, pub, cafe, fitness centre and a swimming pool on the top deck.
And there’s a spa which offers treatments like haircuts, time in a sauna and steam room, nail salon and massages.
Included in the residence is bi-weekly housekeeping and laundry, three meals a day, high-speed Wi-Fi, onboard activities and wellness plans.
The ship sails to 425 destinations across 147 countries every 3 and a half years, all while your homely villa stays the same.
For more more cruising, here are four of the new ships that have launched this year from Virgin Voyages to Disney.
Plus, check out the European cruise that’s the ‘ultimate girls trip’ with onboard speakeasy, prosecco walls and beach club-like pools.