Margaritaville at Sea: A Laid-Back Cruise Adventure Worth Exploring
If you’ve ever wished you could sail away to a place where it’s always five o’clock, where the drinks are cold and the vibe is pure escapism—Margaritaville at Sea might just be your perfect next vacation.
This cruise line blends the easygoing spirit of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville brand with an all-inclusive-style getaway at sea. Whether you're a Parrothead through and through or just someone who wants an affordable cruise with a fun twist, Margaritaville at Sea offers a unique way to unwind without the fuss of a big-name cruise line.
As a travel advisor, I get a lot of questions about this newer cruise brand. Is it worth it? Who’s it for? What’s it really like onboard? So let’s dive into everything you need to know about Margaritaville at Sea—and why it might just be the breezy escape you didn’t know you needed.
What Is Margaritaville at Sea?
Margaritaville at Sea is a small cruise line built around the tropical, easy-living ethos of the Margaritaville lifestyle brand. It currently operates one ship—the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, a reimagined cruise vessel formerly part of the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line.
Sailing from Palm Beach, Florida to Freeport on Grand Bahama Island, this short cruise is designed as a quick escape for those who want a few days of sun, fun, and island vibes.
The cruise line blends live entertainment, island-style dining, and relaxed onboard amenities with Jimmy Buffett-inspired décor and a “no worries” atmosphere. It's part mini-vacation, part floating tropical party.
The Ship: Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
This isn’t your mega cruise ship with ziplines and roller coasters—but that’s kind of the point. Margaritaville at Sea Paradise is a more intimate ship with just the right mix of kitschy-fun and relaxed comfort. The ship features:
Fins Dining Room – the main sit-down restaurant with island-inspired fare
Frank & Lola’s Pizzeria – for late-night snacks and casual eats
JWB Prime Steakhouse – a specialty dining option (reservations recommended)
The 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar – live music, cocktails, and prime relaxation
Stars on the Water Theater – where you can catch Broadway-style performances with a beachy twist
The St. Somewhere Spa – massages, facials, and the chance to fully unplug
Adult and family pools, sun decks, and lounges
A casino, fitness center, and retail shops
The entire ship is themed in that signature tropical style: think palm trees, pastel colors, flip-flop decor, and playful touches like cocktail menus named after Buffett songs.
The Itinerary: Quick & Easy Getaways to the Bahamas
Most sailings are 2-night, 3-day cruises from Palm Beach, Florida to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island and back. You’ll board the ship in the early afternoon on Day 1, spend Day 2 on the island, and return to Florida by the morning of Day 3.
You can also book Cruise & Stay packages that allow you to spend extra nights on Grand Bahama at one of Margaritaville’s resort partners. This gives you the flexibility to combine the fun of cruising with a more traditional beach vacation.
It’s ideal for:
Weekend getaways
Girls’ trips or bachelor/bachelorette parties
Parents needing a break
Anyone who lives within driving distance of Florida
First-time cruisers wanting to “try before they commit” to a longer cruise
What’s Included (and What’s Not)
Your base fare includes:
Your cruise cabin
All meals in complimentary dining venues
Onboard entertainment (including shows, games, and live music)
Access to pools, lounges, and basic amenities
Not included:
Alcoholic beverages and sodas (you can purchase drink packages)
Gratuities
Specialty dining (like JWB Steakhouse)
Shore excursions and spa treatments
Wi-Fi (available for purchase)
While it’s not an all-inclusive cruise, Margaritaville at Sea is still quite affordable, with frequent deals and bundle options that help you customize your experience. Think of it like a floating island resort with add-ons you can choose based on your travel style.
Who Should Book a Margaritaville at Sea Cruise?
This isn’t the cruise for everyone—and that’s okay. Margaritaville at Sea is best suited for:
✅ Couples or friends looking for a low-stress getaway
✅ Adults who love live music, casual vibes, and tropical cocktails
✅ Parrotheads and Jimmy Buffett fans (of course!)
✅ First-time cruisers or those who want a short, drivable vacation
✅ Anyone looking for a mix of fun and affordability
Not ideal for: luxury travelers wanting 5-star cuisine and upscale service, or families looking for a cruise with lots of kid-centered activities. While kids are welcome onboard, the focus here is more adult-friendly.
Travel Advisor Tips for Booking Margaritaville at Sea
As with any cruise, a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few of my favorite insider tips:
Book early for the best rates and cabin choices. Balcony cabins and ocean views go fast.
Consider a Cruise & Stay package if you want more time in the Bahamas—it’s a great value!
Drink packages can be worth it if you plan to enjoy cocktails daily. Check current pricing before you sail.
Pre-book shore excursions if you have your heart set on something specific in Freeport.
Use a travel advisor (like me!) to help you find deals, plan transportation, and customize the experience to your needs.
Is Margaritaville at Sea Worth It?
If you’re looking for an easy, fun, budget-friendly cruise where the goal is to relax, sip a margarita, and leave your worries on shore, Margaritaville at Sea delivers exactly that. It’s not trying to be a mega cruise—it’s trying to be a vibe. And it succeeds.
Think of it as a floating beach bar where you can soak up the sun, laugh with your travel buddies, and channel your inner islander for a few days.
As a travel advisor, I love recommending Margaritaville at Sea to clients who want a short escape with personality—and the option to add a few days in paradise without breaking the bank.
Let’s Plan Your Margaritaville Escape!
Ready to sail away? I’d love to help you find the right dates, add on a stay in the Bahamas, or plan your full travel itinerary from airport to flip-flops. Whether it’s a weekend with friends or a romantic getaway, let’s build something fun, affordable, and unforgettable.
📩 Message me today to start planning your tropical cruise escape!
