A New Era for Pet-Friendly Cruising
A US-based residential cruise company, Fabled Voyages, has introduced an innovative “Pets Onboard” programme that allows residents to live with their pets on board. This initiative aims to eliminate a significant obstacle for those considering long-term travel by offering a home at sea that includes pets.
Madison Miller, the founder and CEO of Fabled Voyages, highlighted the importance of this move, stating, “Pets are family for many of our future residents.” The company’s goal is to create a programme that respects the bond between pets and their owners while ensuring comfort, safety, and harmony on the ship.
Each residence will be allowed up to two pets—either cats or dogs—subject to size, behaviour, and health requirements. The FV Horizon vessel, which can accommodate up to 2,400 residents, will feature designated open-air walking areas and pet-friendly zones in its design.
Pet owners will also have access to various services, including onboard vet support, grooming options, and enhanced sanitation measures. Miller emphasized that the company’s objective is not to create a cruise centred around pets but to remove unnecessary limitations that prevent people from embracing long-term exploration.
Fabled Voyages considers pets as residents of the ship alongside their owners. Deposits for the programme are available starting 30 March, with a one-time non-refundable fee of $1,000 (€865.40) covering onboard readiness. Additionally, there is a monthly pet fee of $130 (€86.55), which covers cleaning protocols, designated pet areas, and operational care considerations for long-term animal residency.
The company’s global voyages include Northern Europe and Baltic routes from Copenhagen to St. Petersburg and beyond, as well as Western Europe, the Mediterranean, Southern Europe, Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, East Africa, and the Indian Ocean.
Other Cruise Lines Welcoming Pets
For pet owners seeking a life at sea, Villa Vie Residences offers an alternative. Their ship, the Villa Vie Odyssey, accommodates 650 residents and allows a limited number of cats. The company’s pet policy states, “Villa Vie Odyssey offers pet-friendly accommodations and dedicated facilities to ensure your furry companions can enjoy the journey with you.”
From ownership, to rentals, and rent-to-own programmes, the US-based company provides voyages across 147 countries on all seven continents. Their Golden Passport programme, starting at $99,999 (€86,509) per person depending on age and villa type, promises lifetime access to a villa onboard.
Mikael Petterson, the founder of Villa Vie Residences, noted, “As people retire, one of their biggest fears is outliving their money.” The Golden Passport programme aims to address this concern by offering a single payment that secures a lifetime of adventure.
