Couple Sells Florida Home for $1.7 Million to Embrace Life at Sea on Luxury Cruise Ship After Over 200 Voyages

Norman and Helen D’Silva, a couple with over 200 cruises under their belt, are taking their love for the open sea to the next level. They’ve decided to sell their Florida home and make a permanent residence on Storylines’ luxury cruise ship, MV Narrative. Scheduled to set sail in 2026, this unique cruise liner will circumnavigate the globe every three years, offering continuous port stops.

The couple, married for 40 years, recently returned from an expedition in Antarctica and shared their excitement about transitioning to full-time cruisers. Norman expressed that nothing is holding them back, as they have no pets, plants, or children. With a rich history of adventurous travel spanning over 35 to 40 years, including experiences like white-water rafting in Zambia and petting tigers in Bangkok, they’re eager to explore the world every day.

The decision to live on a ship had been brewing for decades, inspired by a chance meeting 20 years ago with an 80-year-old lady living on a Holland America cruise ship. The woman’s description of a carefree life aboard the ship left a lasting impression, and the D’Silvas finally turned their dream into reality by investing $1.7 million (£1.3 million) for a spot on MV Narrative.

The hefty price tag covers all amenities, from laundry services to medical visits, making it an all-inclusive lifestyle. Although the ship is still under construction, a CGI rendering has given the couple a glimpse of their future home—a one-bedroom, two-bathroom residence with a spacious balcony.

The D’Silvas are seasoned cruise enthusiasts, having embarked on extended journeys with Royal Caribbean, Oceania, and Holland America. As they await their permanent voyage, they’re participating in the “Meet Your Neighbor” initiative to connect with future MV Narrative residents.

MV Narrative, boasting 530 fully furnished residences ranging from 237 to 1,970 square feet, is designed to accommodate 1,000 residents. The majority of these residences feature balconies, and the ship offers 20 dining and bar venues, a microbrewery, a marina with personal watercraft, three pools, a pet exercise area, a business center, a beauty salon, and a 10,000-square-foot health and wellness center.

With prices starting at $875,000 (£690,418) and reaching up to $8 million (£6.5 million) for the most luxurious apartments, the 741-foot-long ship promises a unique and luxurious floating lifestyle for those seeking adventure, flexibility, and a sense of community on the high seas.

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