ORLANDO, Fla. (Feb. 20, 2025) – Margaritaville at Sea’s recently launched Islander has been voted the “Best Cruise Ship for Families” in the 2025 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards. Nominated by a select group of panelists and contributors and voted on by avid travelers, the Islander was voted No. 1 among a list of the industry’s largest, most established cruise lines. This award is the latest in a rising tide of recent recognitions for the cruise line, which also recently won No. 1 “Cruisers’ Choice” in Cruise Critic’s 2024 “Best in Cruise” Awards, as well as No. 1 “Best Cruise Line for Solo Travelers,” No. 2 “Best Ocean Cruise Line,” and No. 3 “Best Cruise Line for Families” by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
“We’re honored to receive this recognition from readers who have taken notice of the exceptional experiences we offer for families with kids of all ages, and at a tremendous value,” said Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea. “Thanks to the hard work and commitment of our entire shipboard and shoreside team, we are bringing the Margaritaville state of mind to the young and the young at heart and we’ll continue working to be No. 1 in every category.”
The line’s new flagship vessel, the Margaritaville at Sea Islander, sails out of Port Tampa Bay on four- to 10-night adventures to Key West, Aruba, Curaçao, Jamaica, Mexico, and beyond. The cruise line’s maiden vessel, the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, offers easy-breezy getaways from Palm Beach to Key West and The Bahamas.
Specific to the Islander, everyone from adults to young travelers will find their own entertaining slice of paradise. Highlights of family-friendly offerings include:
- Dis ‘N Dat Activity Zone – The whole family can join the challenge with the first-ever cornhole-meets-mini-golf course at sea. This unique take on two fan-favorite games on the outer deck puts skills to the test for one-of-a-kind fun.
- Paradise Pickleball at Sea – Join the craze with some friendly competition on the high seas with the ultimate pickleball match.
- Caribbean Amphibian Play Pad & Slide – Designed for young adventurers, this paradise playground features a waterslide and elevated play space for fun-filled exploration.
- Defying Gravity Experience – A family experience for all ages with unbelievable circus-themed workshops, interactive game shows, and scavenger hunts.
- Far Side of the World Arcade and Lounge – Teens can sip on Boba Milk Tea, sing their favorite karaoke songs, and take the arcade by storm in this family-forward lounge area.
- Coral Reef Lounge – Dive into this aquarium-inspired lounge with mermaids and mocktails, family karaoke, hilarious comedy acts, and other surprises.
For kids and teens ages 3 to 17, Islander offers four complimentary kid’s programs organized by age group, including:
- Jolly Mon (ages 3-5) – A fun-filled day of ocean-inspired games, arts and crafts, immersive experiences, mermaid storytelling, and visits from friendly characters.
- Parakeets Kid’s Club (ages 6-9) – A full itinerary featuring magic workshops, the “Escape from Chichen Itza” game, mini-DJ academy, sports hour on deck, ship tour, and crazy hat party.
- The Hang Out (ages 10-12) – High-energy games and sports such as pickleball classes, mini golf and corn hole tournaments, along with DJ academy sessions, magic workshops, Mar-glo-ritaville glow party, pop star jam sessions, and more.
- The Far Out (ages 13-17) – This teens-only club offers a movie night, a nightclub takeover, a scavenger hunt with prizes, percussion workshops, and plenty of time in the arcade.
The Islander spans 12 passenger decks, accommodating 2,650 passengers in 1,105 staterooms. With more than 700 Breezy Balcony staterooms, Grand Terrace Suites, luxurious Corner Suites, and ultra-exclusive Islander Signature Suites, families and friends alike can chase the sunset from their spacious balconies with endless gulf breezes.
On both ships, Margaritaville at Sea guests can relax and unwind in casual-luxe comfort while enjoying endless live entertainment across numerous themed shows, dining venues, bars, and lounges. Both ships also feature the St. Somewhere Spa, Fins Up! Fitness Center, Pickleball at Sea, Fin City Arcade, kid’s clubs and play areas, Margaritaville Casino, and more.