Aruba welcomed the cruise ship Margaritaville at Sea Islander on its inaugural visit to Aruba on September 9, 2026. The arrival was commemorated with a traditional plaque exchange in the presence of representatives from the Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.), Aruba Ports Authority NV (APA), and port agent SEL Maduro & Sons.
A plaque exchange is a maritime tradition celebrating a ship’s first visit to a port. Commemorative plaques are exchanged between the cruise line, the destination, and the port as a symbol of partnership and friendship, serving as a permanent memento of the inaugural visit.
Margaritaville at Sea Islander brought approximately 2,650 cruise visitors to Aruba. The ship, which entered service with Margaritaville at Sea in 2024 following an extensive transformation, measures approximately 965 feet in length and features 12 passenger decks, over 1,100 staterooms, 12 restaurants and dining venues, 13 bars and lounges, three pools, a casino, spa, fitness center, and a wide variety of entertainment and recreational facilities.
Margaritaville at Sea was launched in 2022, bringing the unique Margaritaville lifestyle—inspired by the music and philosophy of the late Jimmy Buffett—to the cruise industry. Since then, the brand has continued to expand its cruise offerings and its presence in the Caribbean. Giving back to the community is an important part of Margaritaville’s philosophy. Through Margaritaville Cares, the company supports community initiatives and volunteer efforts.
The Islander has also incorporated various onboard environmental initiatives, including food waste biodigesters designed to process organic waste and reduce the amount that needs to be conventionally disposed of. Margaritaville also promotes conservation and environmental awareness through select experiences and initiatives for visitors.
The inaugural visit marked a memorable moment for both Margaritaville at Sea Islander and Aruba’s cruise industry partners. The ship is scheduled to visit Aruba again in September 2027, continuing the relationship between Margaritaville at Sea and Aruba.
Aruba looks forward with great enthusiasm to welcoming Margaritaville at Sea Islander again!
