We save £2,000 a month after swapping our home for cruise ships
We save £2,000 a month after swapping our home for cruise ships
Katrina Middleton and her husband Kevin, who once dreamed of escaping their Scottish roots to explore the world, never anticipated that their new lifestyle would bring such significant savings. By trading their £200,000 Arbroath home for life at sea, they’ve managed to cut their monthly expenses by nearly £1,500, allowing them to travel globally without breaking the bank.
After spending five months aboard cruise ships, the couple sold their UK home in February and embraced full-time maritime living. “We’ve decided to let life guide us in unexpected ways,” Katrina, 29, shares. “The idea of unpacking once and discovering new cultures is something we’ve always cherished, but we never imagined it would be this affordable.”
Remote work and global adventures
Katrina, a CRM marketing manager, and Kevin, an IT consultant, maintain their careers while sailing the seas. Their schedule includes visits to the Caribbean, Mauritius, and Miami, with no fixed destination in sight. “It’s not as simple as just lounging by the pool,” Katrina notes. “We’re still working hard, but the freedom to travel has transformed how we approach our jobs.”
“People often think you’re not working when you’re on a cruise, but that’s not the case. You’re just working in a different setting,” she adds.
The couple’s financial shift began when they downsized from a £310,000 property to a £200,000 home in September of last year. They’ve since sold both, with their current monthly costs standing at around £4,500—covering the cruise, food, internet, and excursions. This compares to their previous UK expenses, which totaled £6,510, including a £1,300 mortgage, £2,500 on two vehicles, and £600 for energy bills.
Katrina highlights the simplicity of life at sea. “Without the need to buy groceries, fill up a car, or worry about utilities, it’s surprisingly economical,” she explains. “You start noticing how much you spend on everyday things once you’re not tied to a home.”
Time zone challenges and productivity
Despite the perks, the couple faces a unique challenge: adapting to UK working hours while navigating different time zones. To manage this, Katrina creates a schedule each voyage, ensuring they stay aligned with their office routine. “Sometimes we wake up at 4 a.m. just to meet deadlines,” she says.
They also prioritize annual leave only when a port stop aligns with their travel goals. “We’re not just vacationing—we’re still committed to our professional responsibilities,” Kevin adds.
Katrina admits to missing home comforts, especially the warmth of a family kitchen and a freshly brewed cup of tea. “Even though the ship’s food is exceptional, nothing beats a homemade meal,” she says. However, she remains enthusiastic about the lifestyle’s benefits. “We’re more focused and relaxed, which makes us productive in a way we never were on land.”
Their plans for the future include more cruises in 2027, as they continue to embrace this unconventional way of living. “Cruising isn’t for retirees or those seeking routine,” Katrina insists. “It’s about flexibility and adventure—things we’ve always wanted.”
Exclusive deals for the adventurous
Get exclusive discounts with Metro Deals—save on getaways and spa days. Powered by Wowcher
Bannatyne Spa: Spa day for two with treatments, lunch & prosecco — save up to 57% off.
Mystery Escape: Hotel stay with return flights from as low as £92pp — save on worldwide holiday packages.
Beach Retreat (Lanzarote): 4* Lanzarote beach holiday with flights — save up to 58%.
