Every ship has people who become part of its character. For Costa Cruises, Executive Pastry Chef Rosario Ascione, affectionately known on board as “Zio Rosario,” is one of those familiar faces.

With 36 years at sea, Rosario has much more than pastry experience to share. His journey holds decades of memories, friendships and moments that have stayed with him through life on board.

Costa recently celebrated his career in its My Journey at Sea interview series, inviting viewers to meet the man behind the chef’s uniform. Timed around World Food Day, the feature recognizes someone who has dedicated his working life to pastry at sea.

Even his nickname brings warmth to the story. “Zio Rosario,” Italian for “Uncle Rosario,” feels fitting in a workplace where colleagues spend months living and working together, often becoming a second family.

Anyone who has worked on ships knows what 36 years at sea represents. Behind the memories are busy days, changing teams, new contracts and time away from loved ones. There are also friendships built during long shifts and small everyday moments that make shipboard life special.

Costa described Rosario’s interview as an emotional conversation, filled with stories collected throughout his long career. It is a chance to hear from a crew member whose contribution goes beyond his job title.

Congratulations, Zio Rosario, on 36 years of dedication and a lifetime of memories at sea.