Residing on a cruise ship is becoming an increasingly appealing prospect in today’s costly world. One man, who has embraced this lifestyle for over two decades, has provided insight into the expenses associated with living on a cruise ship.
The rising cost of living on land, whether it be in an apartment, house, or houseboat, has put a financial burden on many individuals. As a result, some have chosen to establish their residence on cruise ships, which can, in certain cases, prove to be a more cost-effective option.
In recent years, housing prices have skyrocketed, with the average home in the US reaching a staggering $417,700 as of late 2023. This substantial increase in living costs has prompted individuals to explore alternative living arrangements such as residing on a cruise ship.
Mario Salcedo, a 47-year-old man from Cuba, made the decision to abandon his conventional lifestyle and move onto a cruise ship over twenty years ago. Fondly known as ‘Super Mario’ by the crew of the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas, Salcedo has shared his financial management and experiences of living on a ship that travels the globe.
In an interview with All Things Cruise in 2021, Salcedo stated, “I’m so used to being on ships that it feels more comfortable to me than being on land. For 23 years. Always on Royal Caribbean. It’s the best lifestyle I can find. More than 9,000 nights cruising with Royal Caribbean, 52 weeks a year. Cruising never gets old.”
Salcedo also explained that he is proficient in adhering to a strict budget, typically only spending approximately £100 for his basic day-to-day expenses. However, he cautioned that additional costs could quickly accumulate.
To keep expenses at a minimum, Salcedo often spends his time in the Caribbean, as travelling further afield would require a higher budget. He also noted that the time of year significantly impacts the price of cruising.
In 2019, he disclosed that the annual cost for an inside cabin with no window amounted to £72,093, while a cabin with a balcony would cost £101,258. Opting for a junior suite would raise the cost to £136,000. Despite these figures, Salcedo emphasized that the yearly expense was still less than that of moving into an assisted-living facility, making it a viable and appealing lifestyle choice.
Salcedo’s story sheds light on the unconventional yet intriguing lifestyle of living on a cruise ship and the financial implications that come with it. Whether it is a practical choice for others remains to be seen, but for some, the allure of waking up to a new view every day outweighs the monetary expenses.