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Discover how much it costs to live on a cruise ship for a quarter of a century.
Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean every day, having breakfast with a view of endless horizons, and never needing to pack for a trip because you’re already home—on a cruise ship. For Mario Salcedo, this isn’t just a dream; it’s his reality.
Mario, a Cuban-born businessman, has been living on Royal Caribbean cruise ships for the past 25 years, and he just celebrated his 1,000th voyage with the company. His life on the seas began after he grew tired of the typical suit-and-tie business world and long international flights. He started cruising in 1997, and after trying out different cruise lines, he found his home with Royal Caribbean.
So, how much does it cost to live on a cruise ship for a quarter-century? According to Mario, he spends around $101,000 (about £81,000) annually on his ocean-going lifestyle. For that price, he enjoys a cabin with a balcony, perfect for his work and leisure balance.
How does he afford it? Mario funds his floating lifestyle through his investment management work, which allows him to work while he’s at sea. He spends about five hours a day working and uses the rest of his time to enjoy life on board. “It’s zero stress,” Mario says. “The best lifestyle I can find.”
His cruise lifestyle is so ingrained that on some ships, crew members have set up makeshift offices for him on deck—complete with signs reading “Super Mario’s Office” and cordoned-off tables. It’s safe to say that Mario is a celebrity in the cruising world!
Though Mario spends only a few days a year on land (except during the 15 months of pause due to the pandemic), cruising is more than just a way of life—it’s an escape. “Cruising never gets old,” Mario shares. “I’m so used to being on ships that it feels more comfortable than being on land.”
Living on a cruise ship comes with some perks, like all-you-can-eat dining, entertainment, and the ability to wake up in a new exotic location each day. But it’s not all luxury. The annual cost can add up significantly, depending on the type of cabin, cruise line, and additional amenities.
If you’re considering a similar life on the sea, it’s important to note that the lifestyle isn’t for everyone. It’s a major commitment, and living on a cruise ship long-term involves specific challenges—like limited space, the need for constant adaptability, and dealing with long stretches away from family and friends.
For Mario, however, it’s all worth it. “It’s a lifestyle that has no stress, no limits, and it just feels like home,” he says.
While few of us could afford to live permanently on a cruise ship, Mario’s 25-year adventure shows us it’s possible—if you’re willing to invest in a truly unique lifestyle. So, if you’ve ever wondered how much it would cost to live on a cruise for 25 years, it’s around $101,000 a year—but for Mario, the price is well worth the life of endless adventure at sea.
