Is Margaritaville at Sea Islander a 'Jen’s Gem'?
The all-new Margaritaville at Sea Islander offers "changes in latitudes and changes in attitudes" on a budget. Jen Stacy took her family aboard to find out if it's a true 'Jen's Gem.'
Looking for a quick escape that won't break the bank? The all-new Margaritaville at Sea Islander might be just the ticket. This floating paradise offers "changes in latitudes and changes in attitudes," setting sail right from Tampa. With affordable pricing and even some passengers sailing for free, it's a tempting option for families. But does it live up to the hype? Should you grab your "license to chill?"Jen Stacy took her family aboard to find out if it's a true "Jen's Gem." Watch her video journal to see if this could be your next unforgettable getaway!A new way to float into an island state of mindThis isn't just another cruise; it's a new way to embrace that laid-back island vibe. Originally built over 20 years ago for Costa Cruises, the Islander has since shed its formal look thanks to a $150 million "tropical makeover." Now, she's a floating "beach babe" calling Tampa home.The Islander can host over 1,600 guests, making it more intimate than those mega-ships from pricier cruise lines. The cozy, breezy vibe offers room for adventure without the overwhelming crowds.Budget-friendly fun for allOne of the biggest perks? The price. A standard four- or five-night cruise starts around $300 to $400 per person for an interior cabin — about half the price of similar cruises. And many passengers can even sail free! We'll have all the details on that incredible deal in an upcoming "Jen's Gems."With that base price, you get unlimited buffet bites, meals in the main dining room, and even endless cheeseburgers (yes, in paradise). Want to add a little more? Specialty dining, boat drinks, and shore excursions come at an extra cost, as do spa days and casino time. But the "license to chill?" That's always free.Something for Everyone OnboardFor both Parrotheads and Parakeets, Islander offers activities for all ages, from kids' clubs and cornhole to minigolf, pickleball, and more. My family's favorite features? The waterslide and three different pools. And for adults, Islander has 13 themed bars, each serving up its own signature cocktails and, of course, margaritas.Forgot your flip-flops? No worries — Islander has a variety of shops stocked with everything you need for a tropical adventure.Entertainment that makes wavesOnboard entertainment keeps with the Jimmy Buffett-inspired vibe, offering live music, vibrant production shows, theme nights, and poolside fun. Music is a big priority, ensuring there's always something exciting happening.The Islander is one of two Margaritaville ships, with three- to seven-night itineraries to places like Mexico, the Bahamas, and Key West.So, is it the perfect affordable getaway?We'll dive deeper in the next "Jen's Gems," where we'll share how our heroes — veterans, first responders, teachers, and public workers — can sail for free with their families. This is one deal you won't want to miss!Ready to set sail? Check out this "Jen's Gems" video and see if the Islander is the perfect escape for your family.Don't miss the boat!Looking for a quick escape that won't break the bank? The all-new Margaritaville at Sea Islander might be just the ticket. This floating paradise offers "changes in latitudes and changes in attitudes," setting sail right from Tampa.
With affordable pricing and even some passengers sailing for free, it's a tempting option for families. But does it live up to the hype? Should you grab your "license to chill?"
Jen Stacy took her family aboard to find out if it's a true "Jen's Gem." Watch her video journal to see if this could be your next unforgettable getaway!
A new way to float into an island state of mindThis isn't just another cruise; it's a new way to embrace that laid-back island vibe. Originally built over 20 years ago for Costa Cruises, the Islander has since shed its formal look thanks to a $150 million "tropical makeover." Now, she's a floating "beach babe" calling Tampa home.
The Islander can host over 1,600 guests, making it more intimate than those mega-ships from pricier cruise lines. The cozy, breezy vibe offers room for adventure without the overwhelming crowds.
Budget-friendly fun for allOne of the biggest perks? The price. A standard four- or five-night cruise starts around $300 to $400 per person for an interior cabin — about half the price of similar cruises. And many passengers can even sail free! We'll have all the details on that incredible deal in an upcoming "Jen's Gems."
With that base price, you get unlimited buffet bites, meals in the main dining room, and even endless cheeseburgers (yes, in paradise). Want to add a little more? Specialty dining, boat drinks, and shore excursions come at an extra cost, as do spa days and casino time. But the "license to chill?" That's always free.
Something for Everyone Onboard
For both Parrotheads and Parakeets, Islander offers activities for all ages, from kids' clubs and cornhole to minigolf, pickleball, and more. My family's favorite features? The waterslide and three different pools. And for adults, Islander has 13 themed bars, each serving up its own signature cocktails and, of course, margaritas.
Forgot your flip-flops? No worries — Islander has a variety of shops stocked with everything you need for a tropical adventure.
Entertainment that makes wavesOnboard entertainment keeps with the Jimmy Buffett-inspired vibe, offering live music, vibrant production shows, theme nights, and poolside fun. Music is a big priority, ensuring there's always something exciting happening.
The Islander is one of two Margaritaville ships, with three- to seven-night itineraries to places like Mexico, the Bahamas, and Key West.
So, is it the perfect affordable getaway?We'll dive deeper in the next "Jen's Gems," where we'll share how our heroes — veterans, first responders, teachers, and public workers — can sail for free with their families. This is one deal you won't want to miss!
Ready to set sail? Check out this "Jen's Gems" video and see if the Islander is the perfect escape for your family.
Don't miss the boat!
