A new Horizon: margaritaville at Sea adds Third Ship

Celebrating its third anniversary, Margaritaville at Sea has announced a significant expansion of its fleet with the acquisition of the Costa fortuna, currently operated by Costa Crociere. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to delivering the unique Margaritaville experience to an ever-growing audience of cruise enthusiasts. The acquisition signals a bold step forward, building on the success of their existing voyages and promising even greater opportunities for relaxation and entertainment on the high seas.

From Costa Fortuna to Island-Inspired Escape

The Costa Fortuna, built in 2001 and delivered in 2003 by Fincantieri in Genoa, will become the largest vessel in the Margaritaville at Sea fleet. Boasting a gross tonnage of over 102,500, the ship can accommodate approximately 3,450 passengers across more then 1,340 cabins. Its 13 passenger decks, expansive outdoor areas, and a striking eight-deck central atrium provide a solid foundation for Margaritaville’s signature island-inspired conversion. The company plans to reimagine the ship’s design, infusing it with the laid-back, tropical aesthetic that has become synonymous with the Margaritaville brand.

Strategic Growth and Brand Expansion

This acquisition marks a period of rapid growth for Margaritaville at Sea. The company’s initial venture into cruising began in May 2022 with the purchase of the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise (formerly the Costa Neoclassica).This was followed by the addition of the Margaritaville at Sea Islander (formerly the Atlantic coast) in 2024. The acquisition of the Costa Fortuna further solidifies Margaritaville at Sea’s position in the competitive cruise market.

Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea, expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion:

With the acquisition of our third ship in three years, we are proud to invite guests again to immerse yourself in the spirit of Margaritaville in the open sea. The launch of Margaritaville at Sea Islander represented a significant moment for our company and the acquisition of Costa Fortuna,our largest ship so far,exciting opportunity to offer even more fun and evasion to guests from a new departure port in 2026.
Christopher ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea

John Cohlan, CEO of the Margaritaville group, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the brand’s triumphant trajectory:

Margaritaville at Sea has undertaken an remarkable trajectory since its launch, which occurred only a few years ago. We are excited to expand once again the experience of our brand at sea and to share the experiences and the exclusive services of the company with an even greater number of guests.
John Cohlan,CEO of the Margaritaville group

Looking Ahead: Deployment and Future Plans

The Costa Fortuna will continue to be managed by Costa Crociere under its current name until the end of 2026.This allows for a seamless transition and provides Margaritaville at Sea with ample time to execute its planned transformation. While specific details regarding the ship’s new itineraries and home port are yet to be revealed,the company has indicated that it will operate from a new departure port in 2026,expanding its reach and accessibility to a wider range of potential passengers. This strategic decision aligns with the broader trend of cruise lines seeking to diversify their offerings and cater to evolving consumer preferences. According to recent industry reports, regional cruise departures are gaining popularity, offering travelers more convenient and cost-effective vacation options.