 |
| The sun setting on "The World" - in Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island. |
Arriving in Nanaimo, from Gabriola Island the other day, we came across the 43,524 ton, 644 foot "The World", tied up at the cruise ship dock. There are more and more such ships stopping here these days but there was something a little unusual about this one. It seemed just a little smaller than some of the other passenger vessels that overnight here, but there was something else I couldn't put my finger on.
After doing a little research on the cruise ship, "The World", I discovered that it is, indeed, a little different. Here's the thing: The passengers own the ship. Yes, you read correctly, those who are on board and circumnavigating the globe, own the vessel. It is billed as, and is, a private residential community-at-sea. The ship is operated by ResidenSea, out of Miramar, Florida.
Thinking about maybe purchasing a unit aboard the vessel? No problem. You can buy a 328 square foot studio unit for USD 600,000. Tight quarters perhaps? Well, for $2,950,000 you can have two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Joan and I both feel that this would be much more suitable for us. We don't like to feel too cramped when we're sailing around the world. And for those with slightly larger bank accounts there is a lovely unit for $13,500,000. Mmm, I'll bet it's nice!
Oh yes, and monthly "homeowner dues" are $20,000 - for the smaller units.
A different "world", indeed.
Duncan.
Very cool and very sad. It's sad that there are people out there with that kind of money who would spend it on owing a room in a huge ship instead of helping all those out there who go to bed hungry night after night.
ReplyDeleteVery strange world we live in for sure.
Think I'll stick to paddling around in your spare kayak :)
L
You make a very valid point, L. Thank you for that. The spare kayak awaits. D.
ReplyDeleteHi Duncan and Joan,
ReplyDeleteIt's an interesting (if very expensive) concept and way of living. Mind you, as someone who works on a ship for four months at a stretch, the ship does become "the world" for that period.....
Kind Regards
That's an excellent perspective, Ian, thank you for that. Indeed, our "worlds" can be defined in very clear terms by virtue of what we may do and where our interests may lie. I think of the early Apollo astronauts and those who staff the International Space Station to this very day...clearly defined "worlds" - and a world away from home, indeed.
ReplyDeleteWarm wishes, D&J