Exploring the New Margaritaville at Sea Islander: A Legal Perspective on Passenger Safety and Cruise Ship Liability

The Margaritaville at Sea Islander is the newest addition to the Margaritaville at Sea fleet, setting sail from Port Tampa Bay with tropical itineraries designed to bring passengers an unforgettable vacation experience. Originally launched as the Costa Atlantica, this 85,619-ton vessel underwent a significant transformation to match the laid-back, tropical aesthetic of the Jimmy Buffett-inspired brand. With its all-new dining venues, entertainment, and unique Margaritaville-themed ambiance, the ship is already making waves in the cruise industry.

While the Islander offers passengers an escape to paradise, Aronfeld Trial Lawyers wants to remind guests that even in paradise, accidents and injuries can happen. Our team has extensive experience representing injured cruise passengers, and we understand the complex maritime laws that govern claims against cruise lines. Below, we explore the new Margaritaville at Sea Islander, the potential risks passengers may face, and what legal options are available if an injury occurs on board.

What to Expect on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander

Accommodations & Onboard Amenities

The Islander features 1,105 staterooms, ranging from budget-friendly interior cabins to luxurious Signature Grand Suites equipped with private balconies and in-room margarita-making stations. The ship’s design embraces the tropical lifestyle, with light blues, whites, and beach-inspired décor throughout its cabins.

Guests can enjoy 12 dining options, including:

  • JWB Prime Steakhouse – A fine dining venue offering high-end steaks and seafood.
  • Cheeseburger in Paradise – A casual eatery serving the brand’s iconic burgers.
  • Frank & Lola’s Pizzeria – Freshly baked pizzas made to order.
  • Mexican Cutie Cantina – A lively Mexican restaurant with tacos and breakfast burritos.

The ship also boasts 13 bars and lounges, with highlights such as:

  • The LandShark Bar – A three-story bar offering stunning ocean views.
  • Bubbles Up Champagne Bar – A sophisticated venue with a curated selection of sparkling wines.
  • Quietly Making Noise – A hidden speakeasy featuring storytelling sessions and handcrafted cocktails.

Entertainment & Activities

The Islander provides a variety of entertainment options, including:

  • Stars on the Water Theater, which features live performances such as:
  • Conky Tonkin’ at Sea – A country-music-inspired show.
  • Caribbean Heat Remix – A Caribbean dance and acrobatics production.
  • Caribbean Amphibian Splash and Slide Water Park, designed for families and kids.
  • Mini-golf, cornhole, and outdoor games at the Dis and Dat Activity Zone.
  • The Tiki Pool, an adults-only retreat with island music and specialty drinks.

Itineraries & Destinations

Sailing from Port Tampa Bay, the Islander currently offers four- and five-night cruises to destinations like:

  • Key West, Florida
  • Cozumel, Mexico
  • Progreso, Mexico

In 2025, the cruise line announced new itineraries to:

  • Belize
  • Jamaica
  • Grand Cayman

For more details, visit the official Margaritaville at Sea website.

Common Cruise Ship Accidents & Injuries

Despite the fun and relaxation that cruise vacations promise, passenger injuries happen more frequently than people realize. At Aronfeld Trial Lawyers, we have successfully represented passengers who suffered injuries due to the negligence of cruise lines.

  1. Slip & Fall Accidents

One of the most common injuries aboard cruise ships is slip and fall accidents. On the Islander, potential risks include:

  • Wet pool decks & common areas – Cruise ships are notorious for wet and slippery surfaces, particularly around pool decks, water parks, and outdoor bars.
  • Unmarked hazards – Failing to post “Caution: Wet Floor” signs can lead to unnecessary falls.
  • Improperly maintained flooring – Loose carpeting, broken tiles, or slick staircases pose dangers to passengers.

If you suffer a slip and fall accident on a Margaritaville at Sea cruise, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Contact us for a free case evaluation.

  1. Excursion-Related Injuries

Excursions to places like Cozumel, Progreso, and Grand Cayman are often operated by third-party vendors. However, if the cruise line books and promotes the excursion, they could still be liable for injuries. Common risks include:

  • Defective rental equipment (bikes, jet skis, ATVs)
  • Unsafe tour conditions (poorly maintained trails, faulty zip-line gear)
  • Lack of proper safety instructions

If you’ve been injured on a cruise ship excursion, our team can determine who is responsible and help you seek compensation.

  1. Food Poisoning & Contaminated Water

Cruise ships serve thousands of meals daily, making foodborne illnesses a major concern. Cases of Norovirus outbreaks and contaminated drinking water have occurred on past cruises, leading to:

  • Severe dehydration
  • Vomiting & diarrhea
  • Hospitalization upon return to port

If you or a loved one suffered food poisoning or severe illness on a Margaritaville at Sea cruise, our legal team can investigate potential claims.

  1. Assaults & Security Negligence

Cruise ships, despite their luxury, are not immune to crime. Poorly trained security personnel or lack of surveillance can lead to:

  • Physical assaults by other passengers or crew members
  • Theft or burglary of personal items
  • Inadequate response to emergencies

Cruise lines have a duty to protect passengers. If you were assaulted, harassed, or harmed aboard the Islander, legal action may be warranted.

Legal Rights of Cruise Ship Passengers

If you’re injured on a Margaritaville at Sea cruise, understanding your legal rights is crucial.

  1. Time Limit for Filing a Claim

Cruise lines strictly limit the time passengers have to file an injury claim. Most require written notice within 6 months and lawsuits to be filed within one year.

  1. Where You Must File Your Lawsuit

Most cruise lines require lawsuits to be filed in a specific jurisdiction. For Margaritaville at Sea, claims may need to be filed in Florida federal court.

  1. Cruise Ticket Contracts & Liability Waivers

Cruise lines often include liability waivers in their passenger contracts. However, these waivers do not always hold up in court. Our attorneys can challenge unfair disclaimers and help maximize your compensation.

How Aronfeld Trial Lawyers Can Help

At Aronfeld Trial Lawyers, we have over 30 years of experience representing injured cruise ship passengers. We provide:

  • Free consultations for cruise injury victims.
  • Aggressive litigation against cruise lines like Margaritaville at Sea.
  • Expert knowledge of maritime law to secure maximum compensation.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Islander, contact us today at (305) 441-0440 or visit our Cruise Ship Injury page for more information.

Your vacation should be stress-free—but if an accident occurs, we’re here to fight for your rights.