Ever wonder what it’s like to ditch land life and make the open sea your permanent home? For Mario Salcedo, better known as “Super Mario” aboard Royal Caribbean cruises, living full-time on a cruise ship has been his chosen lifestyle for over 25 years. Yes, you read that right: this millionaire investor has spent a quarter-century cruising the world.
Why? The short answer: freedom, simplicity, and a better way to live. But the long answer is even more fascinating, and it comes with insights that might just make you rethink your own future.
This Millionaire Choose to Live Entirely on Cruise Ships
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mario Salcedo |
| Years at Sea | 25+ years living full-time aboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships |
| Profession | Independent Investment Manager |
| Annual Living Cost | ~$101,000 for a balcony cabin |
| Health Condition | Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (balance issues from long-term sea life) |
| Cruises Completed | 1,000+ (as of January 2025) |
| Source | RoyalCaribbeanBlog |
Mario Salcedo has built a lifestyle many dream about — travel, comfort, community, and financial freedom. Living on a cruise ship for 25+ years might sound wild, but for this seasoned sea traveler, it’s the perfect escape from the rat race.
From health to Wi-Fi to cost, he’s figured it all out. And maybe, just maybe, he’s sailing into a blueprint for the future of retirement living.
How It All Began
From Corporate Finance to Cruise Freedom
Salcedo was once your typical high-powered exec. For over 20 years, he worked as an international finance director. But in the late 1990s, the corporate grind wore him down. Burned out and tired of airports and boardrooms, he decided to try something different: a weeklong Caribbean cruise.
That trip changed everything. In 1997, he began cruising more often. By 2000, he had fully committed to living at sea full-time.
What It Costs to Live Full-Time on a Cruise Ship
This lifestyle isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s more affordable than you might think for someone with financial discipline.
Cost Breakdown
- Cabin (balcony stateroom): ~$275/day
- Annual total: Roughly $101,000 per year
- Inclusions: Room, board, entertainment, utilities, housekeeping, fitness centers, and meals
When you compare that to living in a U.S. city like New York or San Francisco — rent, food, electricity, healthcare, transportation — it’s surprisingly competitive.
Work-Life Balance — At Sea
Managing Money from the Middle of the Ocean
Despite the tropical setting, Salcedo hasn’t retired. He runs a successful investment management business remotely.
- Works 5 hours a day in the ship’s internet lounge
- Uses satellite internet and onboard business centers
- Has consistent clients and manages portfolios across the globe
This balance gives him enough structure to stay productive, while still enjoying the cruise lifestyle.
Health and Wellness on the Waves
The Price of Being Perpetually at Sea
Years of cruise living come with unique physical effects. Salcedo developed Mal de Débarquement Syndrome, a rare condition that causes a persistent feeling of rocking or imbalance when on land.
It’s a small price, he says, for a life he loves.
“I’ve built a life where I never feel like I need a vacation.”
The Social Side of Cruise Life
Cruise ships are floating cities, and Mario is a legend on board. He has a regular routine, familiar crew members, and plenty of social opportunities.
- Morning swim and coffee
- Daily work hours
- Evening shows, dinners, trivia nights
He’s known by name on most Royal Caribbean ships. Staff call him “Super Mario” and celebrate his milestones — like his 1,000th cruise in 2025.
Practical Guide: This Millionaire Choose to Live Entirely on Cruise Ships Live Full-Time on a Cruise Ship
1. Do Your Research
Not all cruise lines are built the same. Long-term cruisers often prefer Royal Caribbean, Holland America, or Cunard for consistency and amenities.
2. Budget Smart
You’ll need at least $75,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on cabin class, travel insurance, and cruise duration.
3. Establish a Routine
Life at sea needs structure:
- Exercise regularly
- Keep digital work hours
- Use ship time zones for scheduling
4. Stay Connected
Satellite internet is slower than land-based, but it works. Use services like:
- Starlink Maritime
- Voom (Royal Caribbean)
- Cellular at Sea
5. Get Healthcare Covered
International health insurance is key. Also, know where to disembark for the best medical services.
FAQs
Q: Who is the man who lives on cruise ships?
A: Mario Salcedo, also known as “Super Mario,” has lived full-time on Royal Caribbean ships for over 25 years.
Q: Is it cheaper to live on a cruise ship than on land?
A: In some cases, yes. Especially when comparing total living costs in high-rent U.S. cities.
Q: What health risks are associated with cruise life?
A: Conditions like Mal de Débarquement Syndrome, motion sickness, and limited land-based medical access.
Q: Can you work remotely from a cruise ship?
A: Yes, if you have reliable clients, a flexible job, and plan around connectivity challenges.
Q: How do taxes work if you live at sea?
A: You still file U.S. taxes but may qualify for foreign earned income exclusion or deductions. Consult a tax advisor.
