Mario Salcedo: The Man Who Made Royal Caribbean His Home
Mario Salcedo, affectionately known as “Super Mario,” has achieved an extraordinary milestone – his 1000th cruise with Royal Caribbean. This Cuban native, who moved to Miami in the ’60s, found his ideal lifestyle on the high seas after leaving his job as an international finance director in the late 90s.
Starting with the Majesty of the Seas, Mario has accumulated over 10,000 loyalty points, securing the top position in Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society. His dedication to cruising is evident in his annual schedule:
- Spends approximately 50 weeks per year at sea
- Only about two weeks annually on land
- Has 150 cruises booked in advance
Interestingly, Mario’s budget reveals that living at sea can be as cost-effective as living on land. During Hurricane Irma, he was aboard the Enchantment of the Seas, joining nearly 3,000 Miami-based employees on an evacuation cruise – a unique experience that allowed him to interact with shoreside staff.
Mario plans to continue cruising indefinitely, health permitting, embodying a truly adventurous life at sea.
Celebrating a Thousand Voyages
The celebration for Mario’s 1,000th cruise took place aboard the Explorer of the Seas as it departed from Miami on an 11-night voyage. The Royal Promenade became a hub of activity, with passengers and crew gathering to mark the occasion.
Highlights of the celebration included:
- Ken Rush, a prominent figure in the cruise industry, acknowledging Mario’s journey
- Royal Caribbean honoring their most dedicated cruiser with announcements and displays
- Mario wearing a custom-made jacket with captain’s epaulets, inscribed with “1000th Cruise”
- The ship’s daily newspaper encouraging everyone to join in commemorating Mario’s milestone
The festive atmosphere spread throughout the ship, from dining halls to lounges, with congratulatory banners and stories from passengers inspired by Mario’s dedication.
A Legacy of Cruising
As the highest-ranking member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, Mario represents an unparalleled level of commitment to cruising. His presence has fostered camaraderie among passengers and crew, with many recognizing him on board.
"I'm so used to being on ships that it feels more comfortable to me than being on land."
Mario’s story demonstrates the potential for making a life at sea, inspiring those considering their own cruising adventures. His commitment to the cruising lifestyle remains strong, even after challenges such as the pandemic pause.
Key facts about Mario’s cruising journey:
- Began full-time cruising in 2000
- First to surpass 10,000 points in Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program
- Spends approximately $72,000 annually for an interior cabin
- Favorite destination: Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s private destination in Haiti
Mario Salcedo’s extraordinary life at sea continues to captivate and inspire cruise enthusiasts worldwide.
- Royal Caribbean Blog. Super Mario celebrates 1,000th Royal Caribbean cruise. 2023.
- Conde Nast Traveler. Interview with Mario Salcedo. 2016.
- All Things Cruise. Interview with Mario Salcedo. 2021.
- Royal Caribbean International. Crown & Anchor Society Program Details. 2022.