Our recent 5-night cruise aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Islander was just that — a perfect blend of adventure, family connection, tropical fun, and oceanside relaxation. With three generations along — my wife, our son and daughter, and our two energetic grandkids — we set sail ready to unwind, explore, and make the most of our time together. We got all that and more.

 

 

First Impressions: Welcome Aboard the Islander
To facilitate an easy embarkation we arrived Tampa a day early. The next morning a quick uber brought us to the pier in downtown Tampa. The embarkation process itself was surprisingly expediant. With a preset boarding time we moved through the line quickly and were onboard in under ½ hour.

 

From the moment my family stepped aboard the Islander, they knew they were in for something special. My son and I had actually been on the Islander’s inaugural a year before so we knew what to expect, but my daughter and her kids, ages 5-6, were thrilled with the theme of the ship. Recently reimagined with that signature Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffet flair, the ship felt like a floating island escape — a mix of easygoing luxury, Caribbean charm, and just the right amount of Jimmy Buffet style vibe.

 

The decor was vibrant and beachy, with touches of coastal nostalgia around every corner. From flip-flop-shaped signs to steel-drum music echoing through the atrium, the mood was pure vacation. Pictures in front of the giant flip-flop in the main atrium were a must.

 

 

Staterooms
Our staterooms were cozy and well-appointed, and we appreciated the little touches: fresh linens, plenty of storage, and ocean views that made waking up an experience. Our balconies were the perfect place to stretch out the back camping hammocks I always bring on the cruise. The kids and adults alike found time for relaxing naps on these. The kids also loved exploring the ship’s decks, and we loved that it was big enough to offer something for everyone, yet still easy to navigate as a group.

 

 

Ship Highlights: Something for Everyone
The Margaritaville at Sea Islander offers a little paradise for every age. The pools, splash zones and hot tub were where the kids spent most of their time. They also made a beeline for the waterslides and the mini golf. The adults were content to enjoy excellent margartias and enjoy some down time by the pools.

 

The Parakeets Kid’s Club was full of crafts, games, and friendly staff, it gave the kids a place to play while the adults snuck off for some relaxation in the adults only area at the aft of the ship.

 

5 o’Clock Somewhere and License to Chill Bars: Whether sipping a “Who’s to Blame Margarita” or a tropical mocktail with the kids, we found ourselves returning here nightly.

 

 

Live Music & Entertainment
Every night brought something different — live Caribbean bands, comedy shows, and a high-energy musical that got everyone clapping. We particularly enjoyed the cirque de soliel style entertainment.

 

We also joined in the fun in several game shows and “how-to” sessions lead by the cruise director and his staff. These events were very well attended by a wide range of passengers ranging from 5 to 85 and everyone seemed to be having a great time.

 

 

Dining Delight: Fins Dining Room & a Crew That Cared
One of the most unexpectedly highlights of the cruise was dining at Fins. I am an old school cruiser who enjoys a set meal time at the same table each night. I find this leads to great interactions with the staff and our experience on the Islander did just that. The food was good — from perfectly grilled seafood and juicy steaks to tropical desserts and kid-friendly favorites. But what really made our mealtimes special were the waiters.

 

Not only did they remember our names and preferences, they entertained the kids with magic tricks, napkin animals, and jokes that kept them entertained. Anyone who has traveled with younger kids knows that keeping them happy is the key to a successful family trip. The wait staff turned every dinner into a little event. They made the kids feel like more than guests — they made them feel special.

 

While we loved our dinners in Fins dining room, our favorite meal was lunch at the Cheeseburger in Paradise grill. Here we enjoyed cheeseburgers grilled to perfection, served with fries and accompanied by an extensive fixings bar. It was out go to lunch spot.

 

 

Port of Call #1: Key West – Quirky & Charming
Our first stop was Key West, and it was the perfect opening act. We strolled through Old Town, soaking in the laid-back vibe and stopping for Cuban coffee, conch fritters and frozen key lime pie. The grandkids loved the pirate museum and chasing the free roaming chickens. The ship docks right at Mallory Square making for very convenient exploring all Key West has to offer.

 

We took the famous Conch Train Tour, which gave us a fun, narrated ride around the island’s best-known sights. It was educational and just the right pace for all of us. We even caught a glimpse of Ernest Hemingway’s house and picked up souvenirs on Duval Street before heading back to the ship.

 

 

Port of Call #2: Cozumel – Dolphins, Beaches, and Big Smiles
One of the highlights of the cruise was definitely our day in Cozumel, Mexico. We booked a dolphin encounter excursion at Chankanaab Park — and it was everything we hoped for.

 

Watching our grandkids swim alongside dolphins, learning the hand signals, and getting kisses from these incredible animals was a magical moment. We also had time to relax on the beach, snorkel in the clear waters, and enjoy a delicious beachside lunch of tacos and fresh fruit.

 

 

One Last Toast to the Sea
Back onboard, we spent our final sea day soaking it all in — pool time, a bit of shopping in the onboard boutiques, and just enjoying each other’s company. We had one last special dinner at Fins, complete with a farewell serenade from our favorite waiters.

 

That night’s Farewell Deck Party featured live music, dancing under the stars, and a group conga line that we all joined — including the grandkids, who were still full of energy. As we clinked glasses and looked out at the moonlit sea, it was clear that this had been more than a vacation — it had been a celebration of family.

 

 

Final Thoughts: More Than a Getaway
Our Margaritaville at Sea Islander cruise gave us more than sun and sea — it gave us shared memories, relaxed family time, and a renewed sense of connection. Whether we were swimming with dolphins, laughing at dinner, or watching the sunset from the top deck, we were exactly where we needed to be: together.

 

We came home rested, tanned, and already talking about “next time.” Because when you find a place that brings your whole family joy — you don’t just remember it. You go back. For more information please visit: www.margaritavilleatsea.com