With housing costs soaring, some are questioning the traditional dream of homeownership, exploring alternatives like life at sea. Mario Salcedo, a former finance director from Cuba, has done just that — living on a cruise ship for over two decades.
Now, he’s breaking down the costs of his floating lifestyle, offering insights into what it really means financially and practically.
RELATED STORIES
For Salcedo, life on land no longer held appeal.
“I’m so used to being on ships that it feels more comfortable to me than being on land,” he shared in a 2021 interview. Now aged 70, he’s spent over 9,000 nights aboard Royal Caribbean ships, calling it “the best lifestyle I can find.”
Deciding on his maritime lifestyle didn’t happen overnight.
Salcedo tested the waters by taking an impressive 150 cruises across about 70 different ships.
After extensive research, he finally chose to make Royal Caribbean his permanent residence, earning the nickname “Super Mario” from the crew for his steadfast commitment.
Living on a cruise ship sounds luxurious, but Salcedo says he closely monitors his budget.
He noted that he regularly only spends about $100 a day on basic expenses. However, he admitted that additional costs can quickly add up depending on his destinations and onboard activities.
Salcedo’s choice of cabin plays a significant role in his budget.
Embed from Getty ImagesHe estimates the annual cost of an inside cabin without a window at around $72,093. But for those desiring a bit more luxury, a balcony cabin would cost $101,258, while a junior suite pushes expenses to a hefty $136,000 per year.
Despite these costs, Salcedo maintains that living aboard a cruise ship remains more affordable than traditional options, especially as he grows older.
He notes that these expenses are less than moving into an assisted living facility.
When you think about it, It’s not a bad way to choose to live, even though it might seem like an unorthodox retirement plan.
To keep his finances manageable, Salcedo strategically chooses his itineraries.
He often stays within the Caribbean region, where costs are lower and travel distances are shorter.
If he wanted to go further, he would have to part with more cash, indicating that he balances his desire to see the world with fiscal prudence.
In addition to cutting down on travel costs, Salcedo has found that his lifestyle offers priceless experiences.
Embed from Getty ImagesWith access to diverse destinations, activities, and new people, he’s constantly surrounded by what feels like an extended family, including the crew. His life at sea is, in his words, “cruising 52 weeks a year.”
After over 20 years, Salcedo proves that nontraditional living arrangements can be both financially viable and personally fulfilling.
His approach — calculated and adventurous — has allowed him to enjoy an enviable lifestyle without the typical hassles of homeownership.
He’s clear: cruising full-time “never gets old” and has given him a life he loves.
Mario Salcedo’s life on the open sea reveals an unusual yet surprisingly affordable approach to retirement living.
Though it’s not for everyone, his experience serves as inspiration for those rethinking the high costs of land-based living. “With so many friends and memories made out at sea over the years, I plan to continue cruising indefinitely so long as I’m in good health and having fun,” he says, wholeheartedly committed to his unique life afloat.
