It's not about flying a/c or driving ships it's about what life style each will allow you. Going the CTC route you have no idea who you will eventually work for, and for how long. The company and type/route will determine the life style, and to some extent the income. If you join BA, Virgin, KLM, AF, LH then you will likely stay for a career, and they will offer quite an attractive variety off life styles. Any short-haul operator will offer the same for many years and you may move on to an as yet unknown employer.
Driving ships may well have the same possibilities & uncertainties. You will know more than us. You may prefer wind in your hair and sun on your face than just the sun with no wind.
There is no such thing as being a pilot. It might be true with being a doctor, or accountant, or solicited etc., but a pilot's life is determined by employer & type a/c.