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Jimmy Buffett performs his popular track “Margaritaville” on a large movie screen located on the highest deck of the cruise ship. Travelers enthusiastically raise their glasses to him as some enthusiastically exclaim “Fins up” while placing both hands on top of their heads for the classic Parrothead greeting.
Even though the much-loved singer, composer, artist, author, and entrepreneur passed away on Sept. 1, 2023, at the age of 76 after a prolonged battle with a rare form of skin cancer, Buffett’s influence continues to expand. A modern ship under his Margaritaville at Sea cruise line set sail on June 11 in Tampa, Florida.
Dubbed Margaritaville at Sea Islander, the vessel joins its companion ship Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, which embarks from West Palm Beach, Florida. True to its name, the new Islander is adorned with Buffett’s tunes and tropical accents.
Skilled bartender Joselito whips up a Flip Flop cocktail at the Flip Flop Bar.
Upon boarding, I am met with a massive 14-foot flip-flop sculpture with a bottle cap underneath it in the main ship lobby. This sculpture pays homage to the lyrics of Margaritaville, “Stepped on a pop-top, blew out my flip-flop.” A welcoming sign reads “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes,” while another offers guests a “License to chill, and I think I shall.”
Highlighting lines from Jimmy Buffett’s ‘Margaritaville’ tune, a 14-foot flip-flop sculpture with a bottle cap underneath is a popular spot for photos.
This ship embodies a tribute to Buffett with vibrant beach hues, daring design elements, delightful Caribbean dishes, innovative cocktails, and lively entertainment. Featuring expansive windows, rapid glass elevators ascending to Deck 10, and grand staircases, the ship offers a welcoming open ambiance.
Hovering above the main lobby is a replica of Buffett’s personal seaplane, along with charming margarita-glass chandeliers, drifting fish, and countless parrots. Buffett held a commercial pilot’s license, and his plane, Hemisphere Dancer, played a central role in his best-selling book “A Pirate Looks at Fifty.”
The aircraft also evoked the poignant lyrics Buffett sang: “Way up high, I feel free on those wings you can’t see.”
A replica of Jimmy Buffett’s personal seaplane ascends above the ship with oversized parrots.
One could compile a comprehensive catalogue of all the Buffett treasures aboard the new ship. However, travelers need not be diehard fans to relish the Islander. The cruise ship offers enjoyment for individuals who may be less familiar with the man who embodied a way of life referred to as “island getaway.”
Old vessel renovated for renewed purpose
I did mention that this is a “fresh” ship. Nevertheless, this vessel is actually 24 years old. Originally constructed in 2000 as the former Costa Atlantica, the ship underwent a comprehensive $150 million makeover.
“Almost every area of this ship received significant updates. There really aren’t any parts of the ship that haven’t been extensively reimagined,” stated Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea. “I adore the layout of this ship… It’s truly distinctive, a delight to be on.”
One of three pool locations on the Islander, the Tiki Pool is exclusive for adults.
Spreading across 12 decks with 1,100 cabins, the Islander offers 12 dining venues along with 13 bars and lounges, each featuring its unique cocktail selection.
The Islander gleams with a vibrant island atmosphere.
At the heart of the Islander’s grand 14-story lobby, the Flip Flop Bar not only serves distinctive cocktails but also features a stage positioned behind the bar for entertainment. Bartender Joselito crafts frozen delights and other heavenly beverages. Among the favorites, he mentions, is the Flip Flop cocktail, blending Margaritaville Silver Rum, pineapple, agave, lime, and Blue Curacao for $13.
Additionally, Islander boasts a casino, theater, three pool areas, spa, kids’ clubs, arcades, hot tubs, fitness center, boutiques, and numerous tranquil spots to bask in the Caribbean rays. Enjoyable games and activities include cornhole, mini-golf, pickleball, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts sessions, karaoke,group dance and Latin dance classes and many more.
The glass elevators, shining and gleaming, swiftly ascend to Deck 10.
Live performances by Jimmy Buffett take place twice daily on the large screen and also on cabin TVs regularly. Various live music genres fill the ship’s atmosphere – from a solo violinist, guitar player, ship band, steelpan player, pianist, and more.
Enjoy the new country music show ‘Conky Tonkin’ at Stars on the Water Theater.
The Stars on the Water Theater showcases two fresh musical productions live onboard – Caribbean Heat Remix and Conky Tonkin’, paying homage to Buffett and Kenny Chesney’s hit song ‘License to Chill’ from 2004.
Witness exciting aerial dancers and acrobats soaring gracefully above the crowd during the ‘Conky Tonkin’ spectacle.
Acting as the godmother of the Islander is Savannah Buffett, the eldest daughter of Buffett, who spent a significant part of her youth journeying on seaplanes, sailboats, and tour buses with her father. She also collaborated on two children’s books with him, titled “Jolly Mon” and “Trouble Dolls.”
Embark on a melodious journey with ‘Conky Tonkin’ aboard the Islander, featuring entertaining Fins Up license plates.
“Let’s raise a toast to many splendid cruises,” exclaimed Savannah Buffett at the ship’s christening. “Here’s to the wind in our hair and margaritas in our shoes, may the fins stay up forever.”
Cost-effective cruise option
The Islander, accommodating 2,650 passengers, sets sail on four- and five-night voyages from Tampa with intriguing stops at Key West, Cozumel, and Progreso, Mexico. In 2025, the ship will introduce extended six- and seven-night sailings encompassing Belize.
This pocket-friendly cruise line offers exclusive rates starting at $229 per individual this summer, covering meals and live performances. Beverages are available at an additional cost, with cocktails priced around $12. An Unlimited Soda Package can be purchased for $10 per guest per night. Additionally, the Ultimate Beverage Chill package, which includes cocktails, beer, wine, and soda, can be obtained at $59.99 per person per night.
Dive into the enchanting Coral Reef Lounge, adorned with an underwater theme.
“We attract many first-time cruisers,” stated Amanda Travaglini, the chief marketing officer at Margaritaville at Sea. “A two-day cruise aboard the Paradise is uncommon and offers an excellent opportunity for individuals to dip their toes into the cruising experience.”
These short and economical cruises also entice repeat cruisers seeking a quick getaway without the hassle of expensive hotels, dining out at restaurants, and costly entertainment shows. Everything is available on Islander at an affordable rate.
According to Christopher Ivy, having a warm and welcoming crew is a vital component of any successful cruise line, and Islander undoubtedly boasts an exceptional crew. “Guests are deeply impacted by the crew. A ship may be magnificent, but hospitality is truly what animates the vessel.”
All staterooms have been completely refurbished with new furnishings, featuring Margaritaville’s distinctive bedding, pillows, linens, and toiletries. My stateroom was spacious and cozy, equipped with a queen-size bed, a lengthy sofa, an armchair, a coffee table, a mini-fridge, a well-lit desk, a large flat-screen TV, a safe, ample closets, and abundant storage space.
My stateroom aboard Margaritaville at Sea Islander with the most expansive private balcony I’ve ever had on a cruise.
The cabin’s interior design showcases soothing sea and beach tones with beautiful artwork. The bathroom was compact andwith ample workspace and a compact cylindrical shower featuring a shower drape.
The bed and cushions were incredibly cozy and the white quilt had a delightful detail – raised parrots. A young boy on my boat trip informed me that the parrots glowed in the darkness and serenaded him to sleep each night. Can’t confirm that.
Yet, what I found most appealing about my cabin was the balcony. The most expansive balcony I have ever had on a cruise liner, mine had two seats and a small table alongside two recliners and a table. The wide balcony doors and a window adjacent to my bed allowed me to doze off to the sights and sounds of the sea.
Various Dining Choices
Dining constitutes a vital aspect of any cruise, and Margaritaville at Sea Islander presents numerous delightful alternatives. The vessel boasts five complimentary dining venues – Mexican Cutie Cantina, Cheeseburger in Paradise Burger Bar, Fins Dining Room, Port of Indecision buffet (for breakfast, lunch and dinner), and Frank and Lola’s Pizzeria.
Cheeseburger in Paradise
Inspired by lyrics from Jimmy Buffett’s tune in the album “Last Mango in Paris,” Frank and Lola’s serves the most incredible pizza I’ve ever savored on any cruise vessel. The crust is crispy and flavoursome, not overly thin or thick, with delectable sauce, ample cheese, and pepperoni. Baked to perfection.
The decor in the primary dining halls features marvelous broad windows, charming chandeliers, and calming hues of blue and gold complemented by large seascapes.
For an additional fee, specialty dining options include Far Side Sushi, Island Eats, Tiki Bar, Margaritaville Coffee Shop, Islander Dining Room, and JWB Prime Steakhouse. At $55, the JWB (James William Buffett) Prime Steakhouse offers an extensive menu featuring seafood, steak, lamb, and pork. The key lime pie stood out as my preferred dessert.
The highest praise a cruise liner can achieve? When passengers book another cruise while still onboard. Judging by the passengers on my voyage, the new Islander is a success and lives up to Jimmy Buffett’s legacy.
Photos by Jackie Sheckler Finch
Cover ship photo courtesy of Margaritaville at Sea
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