Margaritaville at Sea has significantly expanded by introducing a new ship.

The new ship, Islander, embarked on its inaugural journey from Tampa on Tuesday, impressively catering to Parrotheads with vibrant tropical decor. Highlights include a massive flip-flop photo backdrop in the atrium, two dining areas featuring giant palm trees, and updated cabins that evoke the feeling of staying in a beach house rather than a ship.

Previously, this cruise line, a collaboration between Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville brand and the former Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, operated solely from the Port of Palm Beach, Florida. Since 2022, it has offered two-night cruises exclusively on its first ship, the 1,680-passenger Paradise, heading to Freeport in the Bahamas.

With the introduction of Islander, Margaritaville at Sea has boosted its capacity by 160% and will now cater to Florida's west coast cruise market with regular four- and five-night voyages to Key West and the Mexican Riviera from the Port of Tampa Bay.

Islander first launched in 2000 and operated for over 20 years with Costa Cruises under the name Costa Atlantica. The ship shares a design with Carnival Cruise Line's Spirit Class, making Islander familiar to some travelers.

Upon stepping aboard, I was instantly charmed by the delightful blend of tropical Margaritaville ambiance and the signature styles of Joe Farcus, the architect and interior designer known for over thirty years of whimsical decor on ships in the Carnival Corp. family.

Renamed under its new identity, this 24-year-old, 2,650-passenger ship has been revamped to feature the first three-deck LandShark bar by the pool, a tropical-themed atrium, renovated cabins, and an adults-only pool area with a tiki bar. These enhancements create a vibrant and lively atmosphere that embodies the Margaritaville spirit. Guests can also enjoy 12 dining options and over a dozen bars serving a wide range of cocktails.

The inaugural sailing of the line's first ship faced some challenges. Stay tuned for more TPG coverage to see how Islander's debut voyage measures up and what to expect from the new ship.