Beachcomber, the newly named third ship for Margaritaville at Sea, will become the Cruise line's largest vessel when it launches after wrapping service as Costa Fortuna in late 2026. The 3,450-passenger, 102,500-gross-ton flagship promises a vibrant, beach-themed design and 15 exclusive onboard experiences, expanding the brand's laid-back appeal beyond its current Tampa and Palm Beach departures. Key highlights include the 5 O'Clock Somewhere and Hemisphere Dancer bars, a Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurant, and the License to Chill beverage-and-perks package.
Key Points
- Why it matters: Beachcomber increases Margaritaville capacity by almost 40 percent.
- 3,450 guests and 102,500 gross tons make it the fleet's biggest ship.
- Signature bars, License to Chill package, and family-friendly focus confirmed.
- Fifteen new experiences will be announced later this summer.
- Costa Fortuna service continues until late 2026; homeport to follow.
Snapshot
Beachcomber is a former Costa Cruises vessel slated for an extensive refit that layers nostalgic surf art, breezy blues, and sunlit yellows across every deck. Once delivered, the ship will sail with 3,450 travelers and about 1,200 crew, offering relaxed, island-inspired décor throughout. Guests can expect fan favorites such as the 5 O'Clock Somewhere pool bar, Hemisphere Dancer lounge, and Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurant, plus the optional License to Chill package bundling unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi, and specialty dining. At more than 102,500 gross tons, the flagship provides expanded open-air space for new pools, family activities, and yet-to-be-revealed attractions.
Background
Margaritaville at Sea launched in 2022 with Paradise, followed by Islander in 2024. Both ships began life in the Costa fleet and were later reimagined with Jimmy Buffett-inspired décor, live music, and casual service. Costa Fortuna, built in 2003, now becomes Beachcomber. The vessel will continue Mediterranean duties through late 2026 before entering dry dock for a top-to-bottom transformation. Earlier refurbishments on Paradise and Islander added new livery, themed bars, updated cabins, and environmental upgrades. Design lead Martha Brabham says Beachcomber will push the concept further with expanded family suites, upgraded sustainability systems, and immersive venues that deepen the brand's carefree escapism.
Latest Developments
Margaritaville at Sea unveiled the Beachcomber name on July 15, 2025, underscoring its growth strategy just one year after Islander's debut. The company promises a retro-surf aesthetic, an "endless-summer" vibe, and 15 attractions created exclusively for the flagship. More information arrives later this summer.
Bigger Spaces, Breezier Design
At 102,500 gross tons, Beachcomber gives travelers extra elbow room on sun decks and in public venues. Designers plan oversized windows, expanded promenade walkways, and color palettes that mirror tropical sunsets. New lighting systems and energy-efficient HVAC upgrades will keep staterooms cool while trimming emissions, aligning with industrywide carbon goals.
Bars, Dining, and License to Chill
Confirmed venues include the 5 O'Clock Somewhere pool bar, Hemisphere Dancer cocktail lounge, and Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurant. The popular License to Chill package returns, bundling unlimited beverages, premium Wi-Fi, and one specialty-dining reservation for a single per-day price. Executives hint at additional dining concepts with regional Caribbean menus and interactive mixology classes.
Timeline and Itineraries
Costa Fortuna will sail under the Costa flag until late 2026, giving shipyard teams time to secure design permits and supply chains. Margaritaville at Sea will announce Beachcomber's homeport and inaugural itineraries later this summer. Industry watchers expect a Gulf Coast base, complementing existing sailings from Port Tampa Bay and the Port of Palm Beach.
Analysis
Beachcomber's arrival expands Margaritaville at Sea's capacity by nearly 40 percent, positioning the line to compete for longer Caribbean routes without abandoning its hallmark short getaways. The larger platform allows for additional cabin categories, including family suites that rival mainstream megaships, which should appeal to value-focused households and multigenerational groups. Travel advisors gain a fresh option for clients seeking casual, music-centric cruising without the scale of 6,000-passenger giants. The License to Chill package simplifies budgeting, a notable selling point for first-time cruisers who worry about onboard expenses. If Margaritaville secures a Gulf-based homeport, Midwestern and Southern travelers will enjoy shorter drives and lower airfare, broadening the line's geographic reach. Environmental upgrades could also attract eco-conscious travelers, provided the line publishes measurable targets and progress updates.
Final Thoughts
By pairing nostalgic beach culture with a roomier platform, Beachcomber signals that Margaritaville at Sea intends to grow while staying true to its relaxed roots. Travelers can expect familiar favorites, surprise venues, and an upbeat, family-friendly atmosphere when the ship debuts after late 2026. Stay tuned for itinerary details, presale incentives, and a deeper look at the 15 new onboard experiences that promise to elevate the Margaritaville at Sea Beachcomber journey.