Woman lives on cruise ship six months each year
An incredibly lucky woman who basically lives half a year on a cruise ship for free has given insight into a week in her life.
Christine Kesteloo, a former cruise and travel director for 12 years, said some of the biggest decisions she’s faced with are whether she should lay in the sun, do a wine tasting or teatime.
Her husband, Piet, who is a staff chief engineer, has been sailing on and off for 30 years but she was the only one affected when the pandemic hit.
Christine then joined her husband as a “wife on board” also known as WOB which is a “privilege often reserved for high-ranking officers”.
She revealed that at one point Piet was her “husband on board” when she was working 12-hour days.
When they’re not cruising, the pair call Vlissingen, Netherlands, their home.
A week in Christine’s life:
Internet
To share her experiences with fans on TikTok, Christine pays $20 a week for unlimited internet.
Tipping room service
Christine already keeps her room clean, but when the room steward comes in, he changes the bed sheets and pillow covers.
A $10 tip is given each week or up to $20 if he’s hopping off to enjoy lunch on land.
Free laundry
The room steward will pop into the room about 7.30 every morning to check if there is a washing bag ready to be taken.
The items are written on a piece of paper before they’re returned at the end of the day.
Free meals but pay for speciality restaurants and room service
Christine revealed that anything you could dream of is available on board and that she is “well fed”.
However, she and her husband go a step further and will pay for food when dining at a specialty restaurant which costs up to $20 and $50 a person. They also tip between $5 and $10.
Room service is free to order but Christine and her husband tip between $2 and $5 each time.
Overall, Christine and her husband are spending about $87 a week for living on board a cruise ship for free.
Images: TikTok and Instagram