This man has been living on cruise ships for 20 years
Since Mario Salcedo stepped on board his first cruise ship 20 years ago, he has spent more than 6,000 days at sea on nearly 1,000 voyages. In fact, since that first cruise, Mario hasn’t stopped cruising – and now only spend two weeks on land each year.
“When I hit 45, I wanted to start a new chapter in my life travelling around the world—that was my vision,” Mario says, adding, “When the opportunity came, I took my first cruise. My life was changed instantaneously. I came to the conclusion that cruising was not only the perfect vacation but the perfect lifestyle.”
The Miami native, now 65, spent a few years trying out different lines and ships, but has now settled on Royal Caribbean. He estimates he spends around US$65,000 every year on his “cruisy” lifestyle.
So how does he afford it? As a member of Royal Caribbean’s highest loyalty program, Mario has unlimited internet access. This allows him to set up an “office” where he works as an investment manager.
Mario’s love of cruises will see him travel the world to join a new ship when it launches. He’s particularly fond of Navigator of the Seas and says he felt forlorn when it left Miami for good.
As of now, Mario still has no plans to come ashore for a life on solid ground.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every minute of every day on the ocean. And yet, it feels as though I’m just getting started… and I will continue on this amazing journey as long as the higher authority gives me good health and as long as I’m having fun,” he says.
Could you live on a cruise ship? Let us know in the comments below.
Related links:
5 things you MUST do to avoid seasickness on a cruise
10 things you must never do in a cruise cabin
P&O’s first cruise around New Zealand