In the competitive cruise industry, alongside giants like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line, new entrants often struggle to carve out a niche, especially in the more affordable segments. Virgin Voyages has made attempts to break into the market by targeting adults over 18 and offering slightly more upscale experiences, though with mixed results.
MSC Cruises, leveraging its substantial financial resources, has made notable strides by introducing innovative ships designed to rival the latest megaships from Royal Caribbean and Carnival.
Margaritaville at Seas, historically operating as a single-ship line and known for its association with singer Jimmy Buffett, had initially seemed like a peripheral player. Often perceived more as a themed party or casino cruise than a serious competitor to the big names, it focused on short, two-night cruises from West Palm Beach, Florida, on the smaller, older MAS Paradise. Despite its affordability, with prices around $99 per person per night, its offerings were more akin to short getaways than full vacations.
However, the introduction of the MAS Islander has significantly redefined the brand. This revamped vessel, still modest in size by contemporary standards, boasts an expanded pool deck featuring three pools and a plethora of unique bars and restaurants, making it a standout.
The MAS Islander caters to fans of Jimmy Buffett’s lifestyle, though it’s not inundated with his music. Instead, the ambiance is shaped by a broader selection of Americana and beach tunes from artists like Tom Petty and Jack Johnson. Live music is a core aspect of the onboard experience, with a diverse array of performers including Caribbean bands, steel-drum players, and an electric violinist.
Bars are a central feature on the Islander, each creatively linked to Buffett’s influence. The ship’s thematic coherence sets it apart from larger cruise lines, which often struggle to maintain a unified theme due to the sheer scale of their vessels.
On the culinary front, the Islander excels with a variety of dining options. The pool deck offers a compact buffet and some of the best complimentary pizza available at sea. The Mexican Cutie Cantina provides a solid, albeit basic, Mexican dining experience, while the Cheeseburger in Paradise burger joint competes strongly with offerings from other lines, such as Guy Fieri’s on Carnival.
Fine dining is also available with Fins and Islander restaurants offering fresh, rotating menus and special dishes for suite guests or at an additional cost.
With comprehensive renovations from floor to ceiling, the MAS Islander has embraced its Buffett-themed decor, refreshing its cabins with modern amenities. While it might not compete on scale with the largest fleets, it provides a distinctive choice for adults who value quality food and a relaxed atmosphere.
Currently, MAS Islander is operating four and five-day Caribbean itineraries out of Tampa, promising a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience that honors the essence of Jimmy Buffett’s laid-back style.
