If you’re considering the Margaritaville Islander, you’re about to launch on a Caribbean cruise like no other.
Get ready to trade in your worries for a margarita (or two) as you set sail on Margaritaville at Sea’s newly launched Islander ship. This beach-themed cruise line is all about embracing the island vibes, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on what to expect. From the towering 14-foot flip-flop in the atrium to the lively band performances on the pool deck, the Islander is unapologetically fun. So, grab your sunscreen, and let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
- Relaxed, Beach-Themed Fun: Margaritaville at Sea offers a unique, laid-back atmosphere with vibrant island colors, themed lounges and bars, and lively music sets that create an elevated island resort feel.
- Beautifully Updated Accommodations: The Islander features 1,105 staterooms and suites, ranging from compact inside cabins to spacious Signature Grand Suites, all beautifully refreshed with a contemporary island resort feel.
- Expansive Food and Beverage Options: With 13 bars and lounges, Margaritaville at Sea delivers top-notch cocktails and a variety of dining options, including casual eats like cheeseburgers and tacos, and fine dining experiences like JWB Prime Steakhouse.
A Floating Tropical Getaway Awaits
While you may not be able to physically escape to a tropical island, Margaritaville at Sea brings the island vibes to you. Get ready to trade in your worries for a laid-back, beachy state of mind.
The Margaritaville Ships are Similar
While the two ships are quite different, the vibe and experience aboard each of the Margaritaville at Sea ships stays on-brand and delivers a consistent level of fun with similar decor.
The Islander is Unapologetically Fun
An explosion of color and whimsy awaits you on the Islander ship. From the towering 14-foot flip-flop in the atrium to the vibrant island hues and elaborate scenic props, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. This ship is all about embracing the carefree spirit of a tropical getaway.
Immersive Themed Lounges and Bars
Tropical oases abound on the Islander, with immersive themed lounges and bars that transport you to a beachy paradise. Whether you’re sipping on a margarita at the Tiki Bar or grooving to the tunes at the pool deck, you’ll feel like you’re in the midst of a never-ending island party.
Lounges like the Tiki Bar are designed to make you feel like you’re sipping cocktails on a sun-kissed beach. With expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere, you’ll be dancing in your seat in no time. And with 13 bars and lounges to choose from, you’ll never be far from your next frozen concoction.
Entertainment Galore
Assuming you’re ready to let loose and have a good time, Margaritaville at Sea’s Islander ship has got you covered with plenty of entertainment options that will keep you grooving all day and night.
High-Octane Fun with Live Music and Shows
On every corner, you’ll find live music sets that will get you moving, from acoustic guitar sessions in the central atrium to lively bands on the pool deck, with a healthy dose of Jimmy Buffett tunes thrown in for good measure. And if that’s not enough, the ship’s two mainstage shows, Conky Tonkin’ at Sea and Caribbean Heat Remix, are high-octane fun, featuring chart-topping hits with top-notch acrobatics and dancing that will leave you breathless!
Themed Nights to Remember
On certain nights, the ship transforms into a vibrant party scene, and you’re invited! With two themed nights onboard, you can choose to get your country-cool on with “Boots and Bubbles” or rock out with “Rock the Trop,” the line’s rock ‘n’ roll-meets-tropical night.
To make these nights truly unforgettable, the ship’s crew goes all out with decorations, music, and even suggested attire (think sparkly hats and boots for “Boots and Bubbles”!). So, don’t be shy and join in on the fun – after all, you’re on a Margaritaville at Sea cruise, where the motto is “no worries, mate!”
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Accommodations Fit for a Parrothead
Despite the Islander’s age, the ship’s accommodations have been beautifully refreshed to provide a comfortable and relaxing retreat after a day of soaking up the sun and fun.
Beautifully Updated Staterooms and Suites
For a truly unforgettable island getaway, you’ll want to check out the Islander’s 1,105 staterooms and suites, ranging from compact inside cabins to spacious Signature Grand Suites. Each room has been tastefully updated with a contemporary island resort feel, complete with Margaritaville-themed decor, including Jimmy Buffett-inspired artwork and fun decorative pillows.
While the staterooms are updated, they still have features that make the ship feel a little dated like shower curtains instead of shower doors in the bathroom, as well as some of the materials used that were clearly holdovers from the previous design. But it still looks great and comes together nicely.
Contemporary Island Resort Feel
Feel like you’re escaping to a tropical paradise in the comfort of your own stateroom, where the perfect blend of relaxation and island vibes awaits. With spacious and well-lit rooms, you’ll feel right at home, whether you’re looking to unwind or get ready for a night out on the town.
A key feature of the Islander’s accommodations is the attention to detail in creating an immersive island experience. From the vibrant colors to the fun decorative elements, every aspect of your stateroom is designed to make you feel like you’re truly in a tropical paradise. And with a range of room types to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your island getaway.
Food and Beverage Heaven
Once again, Margaritaville at Sea delivers on its promise of a relaxing, beach-themed getaway with an impressive array of food and beverage options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Top-Notch Cocktails and Craft Menus
Beverage connoisseurs, rejoice! With 13 bars and lounges on board, you’ll find expertly crafted cocktails that live up to the Margaritaville name. Each location boasts its own unique craft menu, ensuring that you’ll always find something new to try. From classic margaritas to innovative creations, the bartenders on board will quench your thirst and exceed your expectations.
Delicious Dining Options for All Tastes
To satisfy your cravings, Margaritaville at Sea offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to all tastes and dietary requirements. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy cheeseburger, fresh seafood, or a tender steak, you’ll find it all on board.
Heaven awaits at Fins Dining, the main dining room, where you can indulge in fresh coastal fare that’s both delicious and visually stunning. If you’re looking for something more exotic, head to the pool deck for a flavorful taco bar experience. And for a special treat, book a table at JWB Prime Steakhouse, where the culinary team will wow you with their creativity and attention to detail. With so many options to choose from, you’ll never go hungry or bored on this ship!
A Commitment to Service
For a brand that’s all about island vibes and relaxation, Margaritaville at Sea takes its commitment to excellence very seriously. From the moment you step onboard, you’ll notice the attention to detail that goes into creating an unforgettable Caribbean cruise experience. The staff are truly amazing and have as much fun as the passengers.
Leaning on Past Learnings
For instance, the team at Margaritaville at Sea has taken valuable lessons from their inaugural ship, Paradise, and applied them to the newly refreshed Islander. This means that you can expect an even more refined and polished experience, with the crew working tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of your cruise is nothing short of exceptional.
Tremendous Hospitality and Personalized Service
For a brand that prides itself on its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Margaritaville at Sea has made tremendous hospitality and personalized service a top priority. From the bartenders who learn your drink of choice to the servers who remember your name, you’ll feel like you’re part of the Margaritaville family from the get-go.
To take it to the next level, the crew has been trained to anticipate your every need, whether it’s a refreshing cocktail by the pool or a special request for your stateroom. With a focus on building strong relationships with guests, Margaritaville at Sea is redefining what it means to provide exceptional service at sea. So sit back, relax, and let the friendly crew take care of the rest – you’re in good hands!
Something for Everyone
To cater to diverse tastes and preferences, Margaritaville at Sea offers a wide range of activities, amenities, and experiences that ensure every passenger has a blast.
Short and Sweet Itineraries for New-to-Cruisers
An excellent introduction to the world of cruising, Margaritaville at Sea’s short itineraries are perfect for those who want to dip their toes into the ocean. With two-, three-, and four-night sailings on Paradise and Islander, you can get a taste of the laid-back, beachy vibe without committing to a long voyage.
Family-Friendly Fun and Special Occasions
Special occasions call for a special celebration, and Margaritaville at Sea delivers! Whether it’s a bachelor or bachelorette party, a family reunion, or just a fun getaway with friends, the ship’s vibrant atmosphere and exciting activities make it an ideal choice.
Itineraries on Islander are designed to cater to families, with a range of four- to seven-night sailings that offer something for everyone. From kids’ clubs to family-friendly pool decks, boba tea bars, and family karaoke, there’s no shortage of fun activities to enjoy together. And, with an extensive mocktail program, even the younger ones can join in on the festive fun!
A few quick notes & Tips about the Islander:
- The ship was cold in most areas. Never felt too warm inside anywhere.
- Cheeseburger in Paradise was awesome – We had 3 burgers & fries in the 5 days. The pizza was really good too, besides the lines later at night. They definitely need to give those 1-2 pizza employees more help!
- Buffet wasn’t the best, but I’m not a huge buffet fan. I mainly ate a salad and it was good but there could be more choices.
- We had a package that included Islander and The Steakhouse. Islander for breakfast was ok one day (French toast) but the pancakes weren’t the best. The steak place for dinner was REALLY great! The filet & the banana pie was amazing!
- The shows were great. We didn’t make the adult comedy show (we missed it) but made the others and they were all good. We went to one game show and it was funny. I wished they had more of these.
- The bingo was great but expensive. (But all cruises are pricy) – 3 game sheets for $30, or 6 for $50. They played 3 games at each session. The prizes were $200, $300, $500 and a free cruise the last days bingo.
- The 2nd or 3rd day on board had a 30% military discount in the store. Great deal. I don’t think the store was super expensive overall.
- The next cruise employee said the cruise was roughly at 70% capacity. Capacity is 2680 and there were around 1900 on board.
Summing up
With these considerations, you’re ready to set sail on the ultimate island getaway with Margaritaville at Sea. From its vibrant theming to its top-notch entertainment, food, and beverage options, this cruise line is perfect for adults and families alike. With its relaxed, beach-themed vibe, you’ll feel like you’re in a tropical paradise, minus the hassle of planning every detail. So, grab your flip-flops and get ready to rock the tropics with Margaritaville at Sea!
FAQ
Q: What is the atmosphere like on Margaritaville at Sea?
A: The atmosphere on Margaritaville at Sea is unapologetically fun and relaxed, with a focus on island vibes and a casual, beach-themed experience. You’ll find vibrant colors, elaborate scenic props, and immersive themed lounges and bars throughout the ship. Live music sets and high-energy shows add to the lively atmosphere, making it perfect for adults and families looking for an island getaway.
Q: What types of accommodations are available on the Islander ship?
A: The Islander ship has 1,105 staterooms and suites, ranging from compact inside cabins (175 square feet) to the Signature Grand Suites (365 square feet). All rooms have been beautifully refreshed with a contemporary island resort feel, featuring tasteful Jimmy Buffett lyric art and fun decorative pillows. The staterooms are spacious and well-lit, with just the right amount of Margaritaville theme.
Q: Is Margaritaville at Sea suitable for families with kids?
A: Yes! Margaritaville at Sea is family-friendly. The Islander ship features four kids’ clubs, two family-friendly pool decks, and one of the most extensive arcades at sea. Other family-friendly attractions include a boba tea bar, family karaoke, and an extensive mocktail program that allows kids to enjoy festive drinks as well. The ship is an excellent option for families, multi-generational vacations, and even special occasions like bachelor and bachelorette cruises and family reunions.
Islander Photo Gallery
by Cruise Gear
