The Margaritaville brand and lifestyle came to fruition due to the singer Jimmy Buffet. The hit 1977 song “Margaritaville” was only the beginning of the now famous brand. The concept of Margaritaville can be summed up as a place that provides ultimate relaxation, a cultural sensation for obvious reasons. The beach bum lifestyle that the brand captures caught on globally as the brand focuses on the travel experiences of areas like the Caribbean and the Florida Keys. Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville has since flourished and established multiple iterations of the brand.
The brand has developed a recognizable retail store (with a clothing line and souvenirs), an American restaurant chain, resorts and most recently, a Margaritaville cruise line. In partnership with the former owners of the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, Margaritaville Enterprises brings travelers a new cruise experience with a unique twist. All the Margaritaville experiences aim to transport travelers to paradise. So it is no surprise that Margaritaville’s cruises have garnered interest from travelers who enjoy the brand’s other experiences. Check out the offerings and features of Margaritaville cruises that will have travelers counting down to their Bahamas trip.
Margaritaville Cruises
The Margaritaville cruises visit limited locations. The itinerary for these journeys on the sea may be too restricted for some travelers but might be ideal for others. Depending on the cruise ship selected, there are a few destination options. Travelers can choose between cruises that embark on journeys to Key West, Mexico and Bahamian islands surrounding the Gulf of Mexico. The Margaritaville cruises do not have extensive global itineraries, but these cruises offer travelers balanced port and cruising days. Cruises stop off at Grand Bahama Island, Cozumel and Progreso ports during the Margaritaville itinerary.
The Margaritaville cruises are considered microvacations. Travelers can select between two to five night cruises. These are convenient for travelers that may want to embark on short weekend trips or prefer not to be out on the water too long. The cruises depart from Florida and there are even nearby Margaritaville resorts. This means that travelers can arrive in the coastal state early before their cruise and experience some other Margaritaville attractions. Palm Beach and Tampa, Florida are the departure and return destinations for Margaritaville cruises.
Cruise Ship Options
Margaritaville has two operating cruise ships, which have unique offerings. The Margaritaville at Sea Islander is the newest ship that travelers can board for a boozy boat ride. The ship has a three story poolside bar, adult outdoor lounge, luxurious suites (up to 11 stateroom options) and 12 restaurants (six included and six specialty options). This ship offers adult-only experiences and spaces but also has some family-friendly areas. Guests can choose between exclusive beverage packages and indulge in some of the ship’s fun features. The most popular features of this ship include the Caribbean Splash and Slide or the 14-story tropical atrium.
The Margaritaville at Sea Paradise is the second ship that travelers can book. It has been cruising since 1991, so this ship is not as modern as the Islander, but it has undergone renovations. Even the name of the cruise ship exudes the laid-back vibe of this travel experience. The ship has seven dining options, six lounges, a casino, plenty of live entertainment and a full-service spa. The casino is relatively new and quite popular so travelers can thoroughly enjoy the modern and luxe entertainment area. The St. Somewhere Spa and Salon is the best place for luxury and revitalization on the ship. The spa offers massages, facials, a sauna and salon services. Travelers can choose from interior and oceanview staterooms or the more luxurious junior or grand terrace suites. Similar to the Islander, this ship offers some kid’s programming for families.
Are Margaritaville Cruises All Inclusive?
The Margaritaville cruises have plenty of perks for travelers. While many of Margaritaville’s hotels are all-inclusive, the cost of the cruise is not. Cruise costs generally include accommodations, all meals (excluding specialty dining), non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment and some kids programming. Other fees apply for travelers that book the cruises. Things like port excursions, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, phone calls, professional photographs, souvenirs and specialty dining are not included in the cruise cost. Costs vary based on itineraries but travelers should expect prices for Margaritaville cruises to range around $200 to $400 per person. The Margaritaville cruises are certainly a popular option for travelers that want to indulge in the party atmosphere. They even offer special or add-on offers for solo travelers, culinary connoisseurs, groups and photo lovers.
Margaritaville also advertises an assortment of shore excursions. These are not included in the price of the cruise but travelers can check out available offerings on Margaritaville’s website. Booking excursions ahead of time is the best way to ensure travelers get to enjoy their top choice activities during their short cruise. Some of the most popular Bahama excursions include stingray encounters, swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, guided ecological tours, relaxing beach experiences, jet skiing and swimming with pigs at Crystal Beach.