Categories: Cruise News

Margaritaville at Sea to name third ship, the former Costa Fortuna, Beachcomber

Margaritaville at Sea has revealed it will name its third and largest ship, the former Costa Fortuna, Beachcomber.

The vessel will feature a design inspired by its sister ships Islander and Paradise, but will exceed 100,000 gross tons and feature an expanded array of onboard venues and experiences. 

According to the company, the ship’s design will reflect the brand’s informal, coastal aesthetic, incorporating bright colours and beach-themed decor throughout.

“With Beachcomber, we wanted to create a design that captures the spirit of fun, warmth, and relaxed adventure,” said Martha Brabham, Head of Design at Margaritaville at Sea. “We drew inspiration from nostalgic beach scenes, vintage surf art, and the carefree escapism that defines the brand.” 

The former Costa Fortuna in her new Beachcomber colours

“The result is a design that feels joyful and instantly familiar one that builds on the award-winning aesthetic we introduced with Islander in 2024,” she added.

Beachcomber, which was aquired from Costa Cruises in May this year, will feature a mix of returning venues and new concepts. Among the familiar spaces are the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar, Hemisphere Dancer, Cheeseburger in Paradise, and License to Chill. 

Margaritaville at Sea has confirmed more than 15 new experiences are in development specifically for Beachcomber.

“Beachcomber isn’t just our largest ship; it’s a floating celebration of everything guests love about Margaritaville at Sea hospitality,” said Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea. “Building on the magic and momentum of Islander, we set out to create an experience that’s even more immersive, playful, and full of unexpected delights.”

Further details on Beachcomber’s itineraries, homeport, and inaugural season are expected later this summer. 

The ship will be the latest step in Margaritaville at Sea’s expansion strategy, following the 2024 debut of Islander, which marked the company’s move into longer voyages and a wider variety of Caribbean destinations.

The ship will continue sailing under the Costa flag until late 2026 and will then be refurbished and launched under the Margaritaville brand the same year. 

Originally delivered in 2003, the 102,500 gross ton Costa Fortuna will become the largest vessel in the Margaritaville at Sea fleet, accommodating approximately 3,450 guests across 13 passenger decks and more than 1,340 staterooms.

Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com.

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