Judy and James Franklin have mastered the art of navigating life’s ups and downs, celebrating 56 years of marriage with a shared love for cruising. Having embarked on approximately 100 cruises together, this retired couple from Seminole, FL, has crafted a lifestyle filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences at sea.
Their first cruise, back in 1972, was a special treat for James, then an Army private first class, and Judy, a nursing student. Over the years, their cruising habits have evolved, from utilizing installment plans in their early days to now paying off cruises upfront. With an annual budget ranging from $25,000 to $35,000, they embark on 6 to 10 cruises annually, exploring destinations like the Caribbean, South Pacific, South America, Baltics, and more.
The Franklin family’s cruising tradition extends beyond the couple themselves; they often bring along their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their 10-year-old great-granddaughter has already enjoyed 22 cruises, demonstrating a multigenerational love for the seas. To accommodate her school schedule, they plan trips during spring break, ensuring she maintains her perfect attendance record while still enjoying family adventures.
One key to the Franklins’ smooth sailing is budgeting for additional activities. As they’ve grown older, they opt for more age-appropriate excursions, favoring cultural and historical tours over strenuous activities like zip-lining. Judy finds these excursions enriching, providing insights into the places they visit that bring history to life.
Their loyalty to cruise lines like Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line comes with perks like early embarkation, courtesy of loyalty programs. They carefully plan and book cruises through these lines directly, leveraging their knowledge and connections to secure the best rates and rewards.
Onboard, they enjoy the casino experience, with Jim playing craps and Judy favoring blackjack. Their time in the casino not only provides entertainment but also rewards, sometimes earning them complimentary cruises or other perks based on their gambling activity.
While cruising brings joy, they also take precautions, choosing midship cabins with balconies for optimal views and comfort. Judy’s occasional seasickness is managed with natural remedies like ginger, preferring them over medications that can cause fatigue. They also invest in travel medical insurance and stay vigilant about hygiene to avoid illnesses while at sea.
Despite facing challenges like Judy’s battle with breast cancer, which required a break from cruising for treatment, the Franklins remain resilient and eager to return to the seas. Their love for cruising, shared adventures, and cherished moments watching sunsets over the ocean reaffirm that life is indeed good, especially when spent together at sea.
