I’ll admit it—I’ve been on more cruises than I can count, but somehow, I’ve never sailed with Margaritaville at Sea. Hard to believe, right? Me, the woman who loves a good cocktail at sunset, live music on deck, and a little escapism at sea? But after hearing what’s happening this December, I’m ready to trade my champagne flute for a margarita glass and a corner seat at the blackjack table (IYKYK).
Because this year, Margaritaville at Sea is bringing back their Very Merry Margaritaville at Sea sailings, and let me tell you, it sounds like the kind of holiday I didn’t know I needed.
Holiday Magic… Island Style
Instead of bundling up in sweaters and battling holiday stress, I’ve got a BETTER idea for you (because a white Christmas is totally overrated):
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Candy Cane Coladas in hand while lounging poolside.
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Holiday sing-alongs with a tropical twist led by the ship’s talented performers.
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Festive movies under the stars on the upper deck.
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Ugly sweater contests (but with flip-flops, naturally).
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Menus and cocktails are shaken with a seasonal flair.
And yes, the ship itself will be decked out (or should I say “decked the hulls”?) with holiday touches everywhere you turn.
Why It’s Calling My Name
This year, I’ve made it a point to travel during the holidays. My Thanksgiving cruise is all booked (we’re doing a separate Sandlersgiving at my son’s house 2 weeks before we cruise, since family is in town that week). I figure at this age, I deserve not to have to spend my holidays at home juggling guests, meals, and the never-ending to-do list. The idea of stepping onboard and letting Margaritaville handle the details feels… heavenly. No cooking, no cleaning, no stressing, just sipping, singing, sailing, and slots (I love to gamble, and when you cruise the whole you do you works well).
Plus, the itineraries are short and sweet, ranging from 2-night escapes to 4-night adventures, which, when you live as close to the port as I do, makes it easy to sneak in a getaway without giving up the entire season. And I’ve been checking the airline prices for all of you who want to fly south, and there are some MAJOR deals that you can grab right now. Imagine spending Christmas Day in The Bahamas or waking up to endless blue seas on your way to Cozumel. That beats standing in line at the mall any day.
A Frequent Cruiser’s Confession
Here’s the thing: I know cruise ships. I know which ones are glamorous, which ones are cozy, and which ones are perfect for big family gatherings. But Margaritaville at Sea? This one feels different. A little cheekier, a little more fun, and completely unapologetic about celebrating in style, with a splash of rum, of course.
And while I’ve never sailed with them before, the idea of starting a new holiday tradition—one that’s lighthearted, festive, and sun-soaked—is tempting enough that I’m already browsing dates.
Who’s With Me?
Very Merry Margaritaville at Sea will run Dec. 2-30, including these stress-free holiday sailings:
- 2-Night Grand Bahama Getaway (Paradise – Port of Palm Beach): Set sail on Christmas Eve and spend Christmas Day in The Bahamas on this short and sweet getaway
- 4-Night Key West & Grand Bahama (Paradise – Port of Palm Beach): Escape the holiday hustle with two laid-back ports, perfect for equal parts relaxation and revelry
- 4-Night Cozumel Express (Islander – Port Tampa Bay): Answer Cozumel’s call on Christmas Eve, then wake up on Christmas Day with endless blue seas for the ultimate present
WHEN: Very Merry Margaritaville at Sea is available to book now on sailings Dec. 2-30, 2025.
WHERE: Departing from Port of Palm Beach and Port Tampa Bay, Florida
- For more details on Very Merry Margaritaville at Sea, click here.
So here’s my question: who wants to swap snow boots for flip-flops this December? Because I’ve got a feeling that sipping a Mistletoe Margarita with the ocean breeze in my hair might just be the merriest way to celebrate.
