Margaritaville at Sea has confirmed a significant investment in its fleet following the acquisition of a new ship from the Costa Cruises. The company has appointed MJM Marine and Mivan, both part of the Northern Irish Rathbane, to carry out a significant portion of the ship's refurbishment program.
The multi-million pound project will transform a ship currently in operation for Costa Cruises into the new Margaritaville at Sea Beachcomber. The refurbishment and refit will take place during a 12-week dry dock period beginning at the end of September 2026. Details of the shipyard where the refurbishment will be carried out will be announced soon.
Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea, stated:“Beachcomber represents a significant step forward for Margaritaville at Sea as we continue to expand our fleet and invest in our guest experience. We are bringing together the infrastructure, talent, and technical expertise necessary for a project of this scale, and the Rathbane Group has an exceptional reputation for outfitting and refurbishing cruise ships. We look forward to bringing Beachcomber to life with its teams and continuing to strengthen our presence in the cruise market.”
The program envisions a complete transformation of the public areas and passenger spaces. MJM Marine and Mivan will be responsible for key elements of the onboard experience, including the central atrium, spa, children's facilities, specialty restaurants, nightclub, and outdoor VIP areas.
The new facilities will also incorporate distinctive elements of the brand, such as the popular “Flip Flop Bar”.
The vessel will continue operating through the summer season before entering dry dock. The work is scheduled to be completed before its official relaunch as the Margaritaville at Sea Beachcomber in 2027.
The company has not disclosed the total amount of the investment.
