Man Who Lives on a Cruise Ship Reveals the One Downside to Life at Sea

Most people take a cruise to relax, recharge, and return home with some good memories and a tan. But what if someone never got off the ship?

There’s a man who’s turned a simple holiday into a way of life — and he’s now one of the most recognisable faces on the high seas. He’s been sailing for decades, racking up jaw-dropping milestones that most cruisers couldn’t even dream of.

But it’s not just the numbers that make his story remarkable — it’s what’s happened to him after all that time at sea. A strange twist that even he didn’t see coming.

Ready to meet the man behind the mystery?

Meet the Man Who’s Basically a Floating Legend

Mario Salcedo isn’t just a cruise fan — he’s a full-on cruise legend.

He took his first cruise in 1997 and was instantly hooked. Not long after, he made a bold decision: instead of going back to a normal life on land, he’d live almost full-time on cruise ships. And that’s exactly what he did.

Now, over two decades later, he’s spent thousands of nights at sea. Most of his cruises have been with Royal Caribbean, and he’s so well known on their ships that many crew members call him by name. Some ships have even set up a little “office” for him on deck, with a sign that says Super Mario’s Office.

Not bad for someone who just wanted a relaxing holiday, right?

The Weird Side Effect of Being at Sea

After spending so many years at sea, Mario says he’s no longer steady on land. In fact, when he walks on solid ground, he feels like the world is still moving. “I sway so much I can’t walk in a straight line,” he explained. “I’m more comfortable on a ship than I am on land.”

This isn’t just in his head — it’s a real condition called mal de débarquement syndrome. It happens to some people after spending a long time on a boat. Their brain gets so used to the motion of the sea that it doesn’t stop even after the boat does.

While most people feel a bit wobbly after a cruise for a few hours or maybe a day, Mario’s swaying has lasted for years. He’s been on ships so long that the ocean feels like home, and dry land feels strange.

The Cruise That Stuck With Him Most

You’d think Mario’s favourite cruise would be some fancy world trip or a luxury escape to a tropical island. But nope — his most unforgettable cruise didn’t even stop anywhere.

In 2017, he was onboard Enchantment of the Seas when a hurricane hit. Royal Caribbean turned the ship into a rescue mission, using it to carry nearly 3,000 employees and their families away from the storm. It became a four-day “cruise to nowhere,” and Mario might have been the only paying guest onboard.

Instead of sightseeing, he spent time chatting and connecting with the crew and shoreside workers. It was something totally different — and it gave him a new appreciation for the people behind the cruise line he calls home.

What It Costs to Live at Sea Full-Time

Living on a cruise ship might sound like a dream, but it definitely isn’t free.

Mario spends about $101,000 a year (that’s roughly £81,000) to live at sea full-time. He prefers balcony cabins so he can enjoy the ocean view every day. And since he works remotely as an investment manager, he’s able to fund his floating lifestyle while still earning money.

Some cruise ships even go the extra mile for him. On certain Royal Caribbean ships, the crew has set up a special area just for him called “Super Mario’s Office.” It comes with chairs, tables, and a sign with his nickname — so he can work while soaking up the sea breeze.

What Life Actually Looks Like Aboard

So, what does a normal day look like when you live on a cruise ship?

For Mario, it’s a mix of work and play. He usually works for about five hours a day, then spends the rest of his time relaxing, socialising, or enjoying the ship’s entertainment. No traffic, no house chores, no stress — just the sea, good food, and endless sunsets.

He calls it “zero stress,” and it’s easy to see why. After years in the busy business world, Mario found a lifestyle that feels like a permanent holiday.

Want to Try It? Here’s How You Could Do It Too

Mario’s lifestyle might sound extreme, but there are a few ways you can try living at sea — even if just for a little while.

1. Back-to-Back Cruises

You can book several cruises in a row with the same cruise line. This gives you a lot of freedom in terms of where you go and how long you stay. But it takes planning — sometimes you’ll have to switch cabins (or even ships), which can be a bit of a faff.

2. World Cruises

These are long journeys that visit loads of places over several months. They’re usually all-inclusive and super comfy. The downside? They can be very expensive and only last for a set time.

3. Residential Cruise Ships

Some cruise ships are built for long-term living. You can actually buy or lease a cabin and live there year-round. Ships like The World and Villa Vie Odyssey are like floating communities — but with ocean views instead of traffic jams. Expect high costs and extra fees for services.

4. Working on a Cruise Ship

If you want to live at sea without paying for it, working onboard might be the answer. Crew members get free food and a place to sleep. But it’s no holiday — the hours are long and the work can be tough.

For more information read: Here’s How Much It Really Costs to Permanently Live on a Cruise Ship

Would This Lifestyle Suit You?

Cruise life sounds dreamy — no bills, no housework, endless ocean views. But is it really for everyone?

First, there’s the cost. Even if you go the budget route, living at sea isn’t cheap. Then there’s the planning, especially if you’re doing back-to-back cruises. You’ve got to be super organised to make it work smoothly.

And don’t forget about space. Cruise cabins are cosy (aka small), and you’ll be away from friends and family for long stretches. You need to enjoy your own company and be okay with a bit of motion, especially if you’re like Mario and end up swaying on land!

Final Thoughts

Mario Salcedo didn’t just go on a cruise — he built an entire life at sea. From losing his land legs to working with an ocean view, his story shows just how far cruising can take you (literally and figuratively).

Living on a cruise ship full-time might not be for everyone, but it’s a fascinating look at a totally different way of life. Whether you’re dreaming of your next cruise or wondering what it’d be like to never come home, one thing’s clear: the ocean has a strange way of pulling people in.

Would you ever live full-time on a cruise ship? Let us know in the comments.

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