Margaritaville Islander Cruises | CruiseHuddle - CruiseHuddle

Margaritaville Islander Cruises & Sailings

Discover laid-back ocean getaways aboard this 2,680-passenger ship sailing to the Caribbean and Mexico from Tampa.

CruiseHuddle Snapshot

84

Upcoming Sailings

9

Members Planning

10

Active Listings

$329

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Margaritaville Islander

The Story

The Margaritaville Islander brings the laid-back island vibe to the high seas with a refreshing take on ocean cruising. Built in 2000 and sailing under the Margaritaville at Sea brand, this 85,861-ton vessel accommodates 2,680 passengers who are looking for a more relaxed, casual approach to their Caribbean vacation. Departing primarily from Tampa, Florida, the ship offers convenient access to tropical destinations without the formality of traditional cruise experiences.

With 97 upcoming sailings starting at just $329, the Margaritaville Islander focuses on Caribbean and Mexican itineraries that appeal to travelers seeking sun, fun, and that signature "no worries" atmosphere. The ship's Spirit-class design provides a comfortable mid-sized experience—large enough to offer variety in dining and entertainment, yet intimate enough to avoid feeling overwhelming. Onboard, you'll find the relaxed tropical aesthetic and easy-going ambiance that the Margaritaville brand is known for, making it particularly popular with couples and groups of friends looking to unwind.

The Margaritaville Islander attracts cruisers who value a more casual, beach-bar style of vacation over formal nights and structured activities. If you're the type who'd rather kick back with a cheeseburger in paradise than dress up for dinner, this ship delivers exactly that experience. The convenient Tampa departures make it especially accessible for travelers throughout the Southeast and Midwest looking for a quick tropical escape.

Ready to see where the Margaritaville Islander can take you? Browse the available sailings and connect with fellow cruisers who've experienced this unique take on ocean cruising.

Onboard Highlights

🌴

Margaritaville Signature Vibe

Laid-back Jimmy Buffett-inspired atmosphere fills the ship with island-style bars and decor.

🍹

5 O'Clock Somewhere Bar

Iconic poolside bar serving frozen margaritas and tropical cocktails all day long.

🏊

Multiple Pools & Sun Decks

Spacious pool areas with loungers offer plenty of room to soak up the sun.

🎤

Live Music & Entertainment

Nightly live bands and shows bring the island party spirit to every deck.

🍔

Land Shark Bar & Grill

Casual dining spot serving cheeseburgers in paradise and classic beach-bar favorites.

🎰

Fins Up! Casino

Vibrant casino floor with slots and table games for evening entertainment at sea.

Who's Going

CruiseHuddle Members Planning This Trip

Departures

Upcoming Sailings

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By the Numbers

Ship Specifications

📅 Year Built

2000

👥 Passengers

2,680

👨‍✈️ Crew

920

🏢 Decks

12

🛏️ Cabins

1,105

⚖️ Gross Tonnage

85861 gt

📏 Length

293 m / 961 ft

↔️ Beam

32 m / 105 ft

⚡ Speed

22 kn / 41 km/h / 25 mph

🏳️ Flag

Bahamas

🔧 Builder

Kvaerner Masa-Yards (Helsinki, STX Finland)

🏷️ Ship Class

CCL SPIRIT

🎀 Christened By

Claudia Cardinale (Costa), Savannah Buffett (Margaritaville)

⚓ Sister Ships

Costa MediterraneaCarnival LegendCarnival MiracleCarnival PrideCarnival Spirit

Questions

The Margaritaville Islander primarily departs from Tampa, Florida. This convenient Gulf Coast port offers easy access for travelers throughout Florida and the southeastern United States, with straightforward drive-up access and nearby airport connections for those flying in.
The ship focuses on Caribbean and Mexican destinations, offering tropical getaways to warm-weather ports. These itineraries typically feature beach-focused destinations that align with the laid-back, island-style experience that Margaritaville at Sea is known for.
The Margaritaville Islander accommodates 2,680 passengers at full capacity. This mid-sized capacity creates a comfortable atmosphere—large enough to offer diverse amenities and entertainment options, but not so massive that you'll feel lost in the crowd.
The Margaritaville Islander embraces a casual, relaxed dress code throughout the ship. There are no formal nights or jacket-required dining rooms, keeping with the brand's laid-back island philosophy. Think resort casual—comfortable clothing you'd wear at a beach bar.
Sailings on the Margaritaville Islander start at $329, making it an affordable option for ocean cruising. Prices vary based on cabin type, itinerary length, sailing date, and how far in advance you book, with promotional rates often available.
Beyond the fare

What Margaritaville at Sea actually costs

These rates apply fleetwide across Margaritaville at Sea.

Verified July 2026
Gratuities
$22
per person, per day
Couple, 7 nights
$308
before a single drink
Service charge
18%
bar · dining · spa
Wi-Fi from
$15
per device, per day
Drink packages run roughly $55–$80 per person, per day — and on most lines every adult in the cabin must buy one if anybody does.

Published rates, not a quote. Cruise pricing changes frequently — confirm with the cruise line before booking.

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