The World luxury liner offers a one-of-a-kind living experience that blurs the lines between a floating apartment complex, residential yacht, and a globe-trotting holiday home. Resident Jim Minarik aptly pointed out that referring to The World as a cruise ship is a vast oversimplification. While traditional cruise ships have thousands of passengers, The World caters to a much smaller community of only 200 to 300 residents. The ship features 167 privately owned apartments, ranging from cozy studios to spacious four-bedroom residences. What sets The World apart is not just its luxurious amenities but its sense of community and personalized experience.
Jim Minarik and his wife initially planned to spend a month or two each year on The World but found themselves extending their stays to up to half a year due to their profound love for the onboard lifestyle. The sense of community, leisurely travel, and continuous exposure to new experiences drew the couple in. In fact, they were so enamored by their experience that they invested in a second, larger apartment on the ship while keeping the first one for family and friends. The World offers a myriad of amenities typical of a luxury liner, including multiple dining options, bars, fitness facilities, pools, and round-the-clock room service. However, what truly sets it apart is the level of resident involvement in decision-making processes aboard the ship.
Unlike traditional cruise ships where passengers have limited input, The World operates as a democratic society where owners actively participate in decision-making. They have a say in shaping the ship’s itinerary, planning refurbishments, and electing members of the board of directors. Itineraries change yearly, offering diverse travel experiences that include stops in exotic destinations such as Antarctica, French Polynesia, and Easter Island. The World docks at around 100 ports annually, allowing residents to spend several days immersed in each location. This extended stay approach fosters deeper exploration and appreciation of each destination.
While some residents live on The World full-time, most choose to come and go as they please, blending travel experiences with life ashore. The resident community comprises individuals from around 20 different nationalities, with a prevalent presence of North Americans and Australians. The majority of owners have achieved financial success, reflected in the purchase prices of residences ranging from $2.4 million to $15 million. Despite the affluent demographic, residents emphasize shared passions for travel and unique experiences over wealth. Discussions onboard revolve around personal stories, travel adventures, and mutual interests rather than material possessions.
Prospective buyers undergo a thorough vetting process that includes financial and criminal background checks, along with the requirement for two letters of recommendation from existing residents. Around 10% of residences are typically available for sale each year, with an average ownership duration of seven to eight years. Owners eventually reach a point where they have explored most of the world and may transition away to prioritize family, health, or other interests. While the allure of ship life is undeniable, residents like Jim Minarik acknowledge the challenges of being away from family and pets, underscoring the necessity of balance in life.
The World remains a pioneering concept in the realm of luxury residential ships, standing out amidst attempts by other companies to replicate its success. While ventures such as the MV Narrative and Life at Sea have aimed to capture a similar market, delays, cancellations, and logistical challenges have hindered their progress. The World continues to attract discerning individuals seeking a blend of luxury living, global exploration, and vibrant community engagement. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer residents a lifestyle that transcends conventional notions of travel and residence.