ORLANDO, Fla. — Proving it's always 5 o'clock somewhere, Margaritaville at Sea was named the No. 1 cruise of 2024.
The cruise line, which has a ship that sets sail from Port Tampa Bay, was recognized by Cruise Critic as highly rated based on reviews by travelers. It won the Cruiser's Choice Cruise Line in the 16th annual competition.
Margaritaville at Sea was launched in 2022 and brings the iconic brand to the ocean for a "one-of-a-kind offshore vacation experience." The original vessel, the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, offers getaways from Palm Beach to the Bahamas. In June, the cruise line launched the Islander out of Tampa offering trips to Key West, Aruba, Curacao, Montego Bay, Mexico and New Orleans.
“There’s nothing better than being recognized as best-of-the-best by industry experts and real, experienced travelers who know and value the Margaritaville at Sea experience,” said Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea, in a statement. “Awards like these based on expert opinion and authentic, verified passenger experiences are increasingly important to consumers and the cruise industry alike.”
Critics said the cruise line features specialty restaurants centered around island-inspired cuisine and uniquely themed bars with live entertainment. There's something for every traveler with the Margaritaville Casino, the St. Somewhere Spa and Salon and kids' clubs and arcades.
“Our editors have spent months at sea this year, collectively, experiencing all the industry has to offer,” said Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, in a statement. “We’ve tried and tested ships of all shapes and sizes, in regions across every corner of the globe, and these awards are based on our collective insights to recognize which lines are standing out above the rest.”
The ship out of Tampa is a 12-passenger deck ship that houses more than 1,100 staterooms equipped to host 2,650 "adventure-seeking" passengers. The rooms are complete with all new furnishings and fixtures complete with iconic Margaritaville flair. The balconies will be spacious, and the rooms will have large walk-in showers and premium furnishings, among other amenities, according to a news release.
