This Isn’t a Vacation… It’s Her Life

Ep47: Belencia Wallace - Full Time Cruise Content Creator

In this episode of Deck Tales, Sammy Catling chats with Belencia — better known as Ladybug Travel — a full-time content creator who has spent the past eight months living entirely on cruise ships. Broadcasting live from various corners of a Royal Caribbean ship (including a chapel for peace and quiet), Belencia shares what it’s really like to be a “constant cruiser,” hopping between nearly 30 ships while building a social media career at sea.

From managing Wi-Fi, mail, and logistics to navigating ports independently, saving money through loyalty status, and balancing nonstop travel with content creation, Valencia offers a behind-the-scenes look at a lifestyle that sounds glamorous—but requires serious planning and stamina. Along the way, she reflects on favorite destinations, least-favorite ports, cultural lessons learned abroad, and how going all-in on herself has already paid off with viral growth and major media features.

Key Takeaways

Living full-time on cruise ships is possible—but only with extreme organization and planning

Cruise loyalty status can dramatically reduce daily living costs (Wi-Fi, laundry, drinks)

Being a digital nomad doesn’t mean slowing down—burnout is real, even in paradise

Independent travel in port offers deeper cultural experiences and major cost savings

Betting on yourself can pay off, but momentum brings new challenges and overwhelm

Cruise ships can be a powerful platform for storytelling, connection, and global reach

00:00 – She Lives on Cruise Ships

How Belencia ended up living full-time at sea

06:12 – How This Lifestyle Even Started

The moment cruising turned into a life choice

13:45 – What Full-Time Cruise Life Is Really Like

Daily routines, cabins, food, and onboard reality

20:58 – How She Affords Living at Sea

Costs, budgeting, and whether this is cheaper than rent

28:31 – The Biggest Myths About Cruise Life

What people get completely wrong about living on ships

35:44 – The Hardest Parts of Living on Cruise Ships

Loneliness, logistics, and things no one talks about

42:57 – Friendships, Dating & Social Life at Sea

What relationships look like when you never stay still

50:03 – Health, Safety & Long-Term Sustainability

Burnout, routines, and how long this lifestyle can last

56:41 – Is This Lifestyle Actually Worth It?

Trade-offs, regrets, and unexpected rewards

01:03:28 – Advice for Anyone Who Wants to Do This

What to know before trying full-time cruising

01:08:20 – Final Thoughts & What’s Next

Reflections on freedom, travel, and what comes after

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