During a shakedown cruise, a new ship is put through simulations of real life working conditions. This allows the crew the opportunity to get familiar with the ship and to ensure the vessel is fully functional. 

The term “shakedown cruise” is believed to have originated during the transition from sail to steam power. The early engines would cause so much vibration throughout the ship’s hull that, during maiden voyages, it wasn’t uncommon for fittings and fixtures to come loose and fall to the deck, or “shake down.” Before vessels were better designed and built more reliably, “shake down” crews were sent with the ship on maiden voyages to make necessary repairs.

It’s still used as a term for a new cruise ship or aircraft intended to prepare the machine and the crew for regular service by orienting them to its features and peculiarities, breaking in and adjusting machinery, etc.

The idea isn’t a bad one as you’re planning for retirement. Yes, I know it’s corny to call it a “new voyage” and all that (especially in a post with a rather nautical theme)…but it’s at least a new part of your journey.

Call it a ‘shakedown cruise’ or call it a ‘test drive’ or even a ‘gap year.’ Any way that you can practice your retirement is a way to get a real understanding of what your life will be like – beyond just the planning and visualization. Where will your daily purpose actually come from? Do you enjoy the activities that you envisioned pursuing further in retirement? How do you navigate private health insurance until Medicare is available?

Living out a period of early retirement will give you the experience to test your plans.

P.S. And if you’re around my age I’ll save you from looking it up. Shakedown Cruise was indeed a song by Jay Ferguson, released in 1979!