Margaritaville at Sea Islander, launched in 2024, accommodates up to 2,214 guests, offering a fun-filled journey inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s island lifestyle. Visitors can anticipate a journey that feels fun and carefree. The ship’s inclusive atmosphere and budget-friendly pricing appeal to both new and seasoned cruisers.
Reception Areas: A Festive Welcome
Guests are greeted on Deck 5 in a spacious reception area, featuring a concierge desk and a retail shop selling Margaritaville-branded apparel, accessories, and souvenirs. The space, adorned with tropical décor and nautical touches, creates a welcoming atmosphere. Staff provide prompt assistance with check-in and excursion bookings, ensuring a smooth start. Accessible facilities cater to all passengers, fostering ease and comfort from the outset.
Dining: Island-Inspired Culinary Delights
The Islander’s dining options blend casual and upscale experiences. Fins Dining Room on Decks 2 and 3, the main complimentary restaurant, serves island-inspired dishes like Jimmy’s Jambalaya and Cheeseburger in Paradise, with open seating for flexible dining. The Port of Indecision Buffet on Deck 9 offers all-day fare, from breakfast pastries to tacos, though some guests note limited selection compared to larger cruise lines. Complimentary soft drinks, coffee, and tea accompany meals, while speciality venues like JWB Prime Steakhouse and Far Side Sushi offer premium dining for a fee, featuring high-quality steaks and inventive sushi rolls.
Entertainment: Lively and Diverse
Entertainment onboard embraces a festive island spirit. The Stars on the Water Theater, spanning Decks 2 to 4, hosts high-energy shows like “Conky Tonkin’ at Sea,” with country-inspired acrobatics, and “Caribbean Heat Remix,” featuring dynamic dance performances. The Hot, Hot, Hot Nightclub on Deck 14 offers DJs and late-night dancing, while the LandShark Sports Bar provides live music and karaoke. Pools, a waterslide, and pickleball courts add daytime fun, with the daily Checklist to Chill detailing activities.
Accommodation: Comfortable and Thematic
The Islander’s 1,107 staterooms and suites, ranging from 185 to 1,100 square feet, feature beachy décor with sea and sand tones. Interior and oceanview staterooms offer queen-size beds, flat-screen TVs, and ample storage, while balcony suites include private verandas and upgraded linens. Signature Grand Suites provide wraparound balconies, separate seating areas, and concierge service, with touches like “Livin’ on Islander Time” pillows. Complimentary Wi-Fi and in-room dining ensure comfort, though some cabins show minor wear, such as balcony rust.
Hospitality: Warm and Proactive
The crew delivers friendly, attentive service, with staff assisting through guest services and excursion planning. Guests enjoy 24-hour room service and daily housekeeping with towel animals. Without a mobile app, paper schedules are provided, but staff are readily available to address needs. Complimentary soft drinks and coffee enhance the experience, with optional beverage packages for cocktails and wine. Some guests note occasional service inconsistencies, but the crew’s enthusiasm creates a welcoming vibe.
Standout Features
The Islander’s tropical design, with parrot motifs and a giant flip-flop statue, creates a unique island vibe. The three-story LandShark Bar by the pool and the adults-only Tiki Bar on Deck 9 offer lively social hubs. The watersports platform on Deck 5 enables kayaking and paddleboarding in select destinations. The St. Somewhere Spa & Salon provides massages and salon services, while the Fins Up! Fitness Center includes modern equipment. Sustainability efforts, such as low-sulfur fuel, reflect an eco-conscious approach.
