At 60 years old, Filikesa Paolo Mario has established himself as a beloved figure among visitors enjoying the Whales Tale schooner cruises in the stunning Mamanuca Islands. Originally from Noa’tau village in Rotuma, Mr. Mario has dedicated 37 years to captaining the vessel, which he originally helped to rebuild before embarking on its voyage in 1984 as a deckhand.

His commitment to providing an exceptional experience for tourists is clear. “It’s the people that keep me motivated,” he shares. The Whales Tale operates under the ownership of Paul Myers, built in the 1970s by esteemed boat builder Jack Morris in Savusavu. After the vessel underwent significant renovations in 1983, Mario took on the role of captain, witnessing the crew expand from six to nine members and the ship’s routes evolve from inter-island and Pacific voyages to its current cruising destinations between Port Denarau and Schooner Island.

Mr. Mario’s educational journey began in Rotuma, leading him to Viti Levu in 1982 for further studies at the Derrick Institute, formerly known as the Fiji Institute of Technology, where he studied boat building. He eventually achieved his Master Class qualifications, passing his Master 5 in 1990 and completing Master 4 in 2007. Despite his qualifications, he chose not to pursue further titles, finding fulfillment in his current role and the joy of connecting with tourists.

Reflecting on his family life, Mr. Mario has been married for 37 years and is a father to two sons, a daughter, and three granddaughters. Although he has devoted his life to the sea, he has chosen to discourage his children from following a similar path, noting the sacrifices required of a captain, especially during challenging times such as cyclone warnings.

In a similar vein, the dedication seen in the marine tourism industry resonates with the story of Joseva Mudu, a captain with South Sea Cruises, who began his journey as a security guard and worked his way up while studying maritime operations. Both Mario and Mudu embody a profound commitment to their communities and the tourism sector in Fiji, reflecting the spirit of service that uplifts the industry as a whole.

In conclusion, Filikesa Paolo Mario’s unwavering dedication to his craft and the joy he derives from serving tourists highlight the importance of passion in the maritime industry. His story serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating how a lifetime of commitment can create lasting joy, not only for oneself but also for countless visitors who experience the beauty of the Mamanuca Islands through his guidance.