At first glance, one might naturally assume that such a lavish lifestyle would come at a steep price, but Wells’ circumstances reveal a surprising reality. Thanks to his newfound commitment to remote work at Meta, he is poised to embark on a three-and-a-half-year journey that will take him to various countries across the globe, all from the comfort of his floating abode. The MV Narrative is set to set sail in 2025, with destinations including Rome, Naples, Venice, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, and Turkey.
What sets Wells apart is the nature of his occupation within Meta’s augmented and virtual reality division, which allows him the flexibility of remote work, thus enabling him to indulge in continuous travel without the constraints of midweek office meetings. Wells’ studio apartment on the MV Narrative, this luxurious residential cruise ship, comes at a cost of $300,000 for a 12-year lease, a figure that pales in comparison to the exorbitant real estate prices of city apartments.
In a world where post-pandemic life has underscored the importance of striking the perfect work-life balance, Wells appears to have cracked the code. “My working hours will be shifted towards evenings, nights, and very early mornings,” he revealed to CNBC. “But that does open up the ability for me to … maybe see a city midday to afternoon and then start my workday around 6 pm or 7 pm. This is probably the first time ever that there is even the ability to have a standard job and even consider working and living from a floating apartment complex.”
Should the confines of the ship leave Wells feeling a tad seasick and yearning for the company of family and friends, he has the option to rent out his apartment and make a temporary return home or extend the invitation to his loved ones, offering them the unique experience of a month-long sojourn on the high seas.
For those who might find the allure of trading their overpriced urban abode for a life on the waves appealing, there are still opportunities to seize. Most leases aboard the ship span a considerable 24 years, aligning with the lifespan of the vessel itself. Wells, having secured his spot early, holds a 12-year lease. The apartments available vary in price, starting at approximately $1 million and ascending to a staggering $8 million, depending on size and location.
Furthermore, the cruise offers a “fractional ownership” option, enabling occupants to spend up to three months a year in their floating sanctuary. For those who wish to revel in an all-inclusive experience, an extra fee of $2,100 per person grants access to a life free from cooking and cleaning for several blissful months. In the era of newfound flexibility and remote work, Wells’ decision to live aboard the MV Narrative highlights the innovative possibilities that lie ahead for those yearning for an unconventional yet remarkable lifestyle.
