Margaritaville at Sea to Launch Largest Ship After Costa Fortuna Redesign

Margaritaville at Sea has confirmed plans to welcome its third and largest ship in late 2026, marking a significant milestone for the Jimmy Buffett-inspired cruise line. The newly acquired vessel is Costa Fortuna, a 102,500-gross-ton ship originally operated by Costa Cruises. After an extensive redesign, the ship will reflect Margaritaville at Sea’s signature island-themed ambiance and offer capacity for approximately 3,450 guests across 13 decks, including 1,340 staterooms and a dramatic eight-story atrium.

Acquisition of Costa Fortuna and Growth Strategy

This expansion builds upon Margaritaville at Sea’s momentum since the brand’s debut in 2022. Its first vessel, Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, introduced a casual, island-inspired experience, followed by Margaritaville at Sea Islander in 2024. According to Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea, the positive reception from travelers opened the door to acquiring the new ship. “Over the last three years, we have been incredibly focused on building Margaritaville at Sea by delivering more of what our guests love, a uniquely laid-back island attitude with award-winning hospitality,” shared Ivy. “With the acquisition of our third ship in three years, we are proud to once again invite guests to step into the Margaritaville state of mind on the open ocean.”

• Gross tonnage: 102,500
• Passenger capacity: ~3,450
• Staterooms: 1,340+ across 13 decks

Revamping the Largest Ship in the Fleet

Costa Fortuna was originally launched in the early 2000s and will continue sailing for Costa Cruises until late 2026. Once the handover is complete, Margaritaville at Sea will undertake a comprehensive redesign to infuse the vessel with its laid-back island décor, popular dining concepts, and intimate entertainment experiences. Plans include replicating key venues seen on Paradise and Islander, as well as creating an expanded space for the Heroes Sail Free program, which provides complimentary trips for active and retired military, law enforcement officers, and healthcare workers.

Homeport and Itinerary Possibilities

While the specific homeport for the reimagined Costa Fortuna has not been officially announced, company officials confirm it will debut from a new location, rather than sailing out of Margaritaville at Sea’s current Florida bases. The ship’s itineraries are also under wraps but are expected to include expanded routes within the Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico, balancing short, themed getaways with longer voyages.

Stakeholder Perspectives and Future Outlook

With this new acquisition, Margaritaville at Sea positions itself in a competitive cruise market traditionally dominated by larger brands. By focusing on mid-sized ships that highlight a themed, casual vibe, the line aims to carve out a niche for travelers seeking a more personalized onboard experience. CEO John Cohlan noted, “We’re thrilled to expand the Margaritaville state of mind at sea and share our signature hospitality with even more guests.”

Repurposing older ships to target specific markets has become an increasingly prominent trend in the cruise industry, and Margaritaville at Sea’s continued investment exemplifies this strategy. As the company evolves and demand for boutique sailings grows, industry observers anticipate more unique offerings designed to showcase the brand’s relaxed island ethos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Margaritaville at Sea expanding its fleet?

The cruise line is responding to strong demand and positive feedback from guests, aiming to broaden itineraries and introduce a larger vessel with new venues and themed experiences.

What is the new ship?

The new addition is Costa Fortuna, a 102,500-gross-ton vessel purchased from Costa Cruises. It will become Margaritaville at Sea’s largest ship following a full redesign.

What new features will the ship offer?

The redesigned vessel will incorporate Margaritaville at Sea’s island décor, themed restaurants and bars, and a dedicated Heroes Sail Free space. An eight-story atrium and expansive outdoor decks will also host live entertainment and communal gatherings.

Where will the new vessel homeport?

An exact port of departure has not been announced, but company officials confirm it will differ from the existing Florida-based operations of Margaritaville at Sea Paradise and Islander.

When will the new ship begin operations?

Costa Fortuna will exit the Costa Cruises fleet by late 2026. Margaritaville at Sea then plans to start service between late 2026 and early 2027, once the extensive redesign is complete.

As the line continues to refine its signature “island escapism” and honor returning guests with familiar amenities, executives express optimism that this third ship will further elevate the Margaritaville at Sea experience, offering tropical adventures for an even wider range of travelers.