From Margaritaville at Sea–“The Margaritaville at Sea Islander is on her way to Florida! Today, Islander left the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland after an extensive reimagining and has begun her three-week journey across the Atlantic to Port Tampa Bay, finishing the final flourishes along the way.”
Islander was built for Costa Cruises in the early 2000s and sailed at the Costa Atlantica before she was acquired by Margaritaville at Sea last year. She has been undergoing extensive upgrades since January 10, 2024 in wet dock before her official dry dock refit began on March 12, 2024.
While in dry dock, Islander’s public spaces were rebranded and redesigned to match the Margaritaville theme of topical colors and favorite venues such as Fins Dining Room, Port of Indecision Buffet, Frank & Lola’s Pizzeria, and of course Cheeseburger in Paradies.
She has also been outfitted with the first three-story poolside LandShark Bar, the Flip Flop Atrium, and the Far Side of the World Arcade and Lounge. Her hull has been repainted with tropical colors, palm trees and parrots and her final interior work is being finished as she sails across the Atlantic without guests.
The late Jimmy Buffet’s eldest daughter, Savannah Buffet, has been named godmother of Margaritaville of Sea Islander and will join the christening ceremony in June. The inaugural sailing will embark on June 14, 2024 on a 4-night voyage from Port Tampa Bay with a call in Cozumel, Mexico and two sea days.
“I’m beyond excited to be named godmother of Margaritaville At Sea Islander and look forward to rendering the right concoction of love and luck so she may plow the seas amidst smooth, untroubled waters in search of that one particular harbor,” exclaimed Savannah Buffett. “As a descendent of captains and boat builders, I accept this honor in tribute to the legacy of my seafaring ancestors. Cheers to many a lovely cruise!”
Savannah spent her childhood traveling with her father on seaplanes, sailboats, and buses and brings much expertise in travel and culture. She has had a diverse career in acting, literature, music history and photography. She has also served as a creative and musical consultant, hosted her own radio show, and co-authored two children’s books with her father.
John Cohlan, CEO of Margaritaville Holdings said, “Jimmy would be thrilled that Savannah is the godmother of the Islander. With his eldest daughter holding this honor, the christening of the Islander will be a very, very special day for all of us.”
Following her inaugural cruise, Margaritaville at Sea Islander will sail four- to seven-night cruises to Key West, Cozumel and Progreso.