@davideidelberg just have reasonable expectations for this one, and you will be good! In the end, it is all about how you go into it, and who you are with that will make margaritaville a great experience. The ship is 30 years old... so there will be wear and tear. I go in two weeks and im on the fourth floor, interiour. I am super nervous about that poop smell at night! LOL but the rest I will be ok with.
I am happy I stumbled across this review. My husband booked this cruise for me as a birthday getaway last year and we also got the license to chill package and I keep telling ppl for the price this cruise is not bad at all! The rooms were spacious the dining room service was always on point. The food was good. We didn't go to the buffet because our package had breakfast in the steak house for both days and then we had dinner in both restaurants. The vibe was awesome, it was a lot of fun! The ship was clean and the crew was great. We made so many friends and we always suggest this cruise to people who may just want a quick get away, a couples trip or a girls getaway. Drinks were good. Ppl should really give it a chance! We did the Freeport beach excursion and the beach was beautiful, the restaurant there served really good food and drinks and getting off the ship and getting back on was smooth. Definitely give the Margaritaville. Also with our package we got a free spa package and the massages were great!
You certainly gave a very thorough review and I have to agree it is not as bad as people make it out to be. My issue on any cruise are rude and disgusting passengers. Good manners seem to be a thing of the past.
Totally agree. I also know the pandemic is not the ONLY cause, but it has really impacted so much of human interactions and attitudes, I definitely see a marked difference in the past 3 years.
Definitely! I remember cruising for the first time in 2008 and thinking how classy everyone acted. Not anymore unfortunately unless you’re sailing on really expensive brands.
I would try this cruise just to chill out, have some drinks by the pool, sleep in late, etc. You wouldn't have to feel obligated to do anything because you didn't spend big dollars on it. This cruise looks like it is for people with Margaritaville attitude only!
Sounds perfect for me... I work too many hours for maybe too little pay to care about idk water slides or virtual surfing... Hmmm a few 100 bucks for floating, sitting in the sun...a Message, drinking and sleeping for a weekend for well idk peaking out on island for a few hours. Sounds good to me ..
You did change my mind. I would consider the Margaritaville at Sea Cruise after seeing your close up review and being realistic in what to expect for $99. I also like the idea of using it as transportation to the island and back.
Puts on my best David Attenborough voice: “And here we see the very elusive Markus who is rarely ever seen. What a treat! We can only wonder what brought him out of his usual hideaway.” 😁
@@chuckspencer5296 that would be Morgan in real life, shouting at the TV screen, if it were really a documentary voiced by David Attenborough. Thank you for extending my flight of whimsy to further heights since I can now see Morgan doing just that. 💕
It's nice to see an honest review that accepts Margaritaville as what it is, a fun economy get away. If I didn't live in Tennessee, and refuse to fly any more, I would be tempted to take it.
You almost had it, the restaurant with the jousting is called Medieval Times. I did a side-to-side (Celebrity to Princess) out of Fort Lauderdale last Spring. There was a 2 day gap in between, I wish I had thought of trying this cruise line out rather than just stay in a hotel.
I haven’t gone yet but ive been paying attention to all the vlogs/reviews and Honestly Margaritaville at sea has grown on me. Lol It has improved so much over the past year and some change. It started really ugly and dull and now its become something fun. Theres still things that need to be fixed but its also very noticeable that they are always working on things. Which is great. From your review it looks like more renovations on the ship and the terminal have been done, main dining room looks nice, more activities are being offered, the sail away party is getting more fun, and the website is getting more seamless. Ive always liked the Margaritaville brand. I look forward to whatever changes is next. I think they have the potential to rock the weekend trip market niche with their cruises!
When we boarded just before Halloween, boarding started at 1130. We enjoyed Margaritaville at Sea very much. I expected a cheaper experience and was surprised at every turn with better than i expected.
We’ve been on this ship twice already and we love it. It’s even better now that you don’t pay for childcare up until midnight. I was surprised that they had a 18 and up club as the last time that space was an arcade. We did the day pass to Taino beach that gave us access to the beach and pool area which was very relaxing. You could order food from the restaurant or take the ferry into town to shop. Speaking from experience, it’s best to purchase all packages at booking or before boarding as there will be a significant difference in price.
I had assumed Margaritaville wasn't for me. And it sort of isn't, since what I want in a cruise is a lot more time. Six days, minimum, preferably 7 or more. But now I do know I'd be glad to use it as a hotel if I'm ever stuck there.
Thank you so much for your honest and complete review. We live in Port St. Lucie Florida, and we thought about trying this just to get over to the Bahamas. Sounds like it’s worth it to me!
Similar experience. We were happy we did it, and would probably do it again, just struggling with the question "who would we recommend it to?" Our biggest issue was the breakfast, but the bagels were surprisingly good. Think the important thing is managing expectations. we literally said "pre cruise hotel" (prior to your thumbnail and found it very entertaining when you posted that) and "ferry to a day in Freeport" a lot, along with "dont judge us" when talking to cruise friends. Service was excellent, salt water pools were nice (and back pool empty!), Hot tubs were HOT (probably too hot, but i liked it), and though the shows were good.
I'm so glad to see this review - I'm considering booking one of these cruises, and was terrified when I started to research and see some of the reviews. Personally, I think a cruise is generally only 'bad' if you have incorrect expectations. I was told by someone on Cunard in August that they hated Margaritaville when they tried it as it 'just wasn't Cunard' (SIGH!)...
Great video, Morgan! I agree with you that, based upon your video, the theater on the ship does look like a dinner theater stage, such as Medieval Times or the Pirate Dinner Adventure in Orlando. We live in Oregon so we would not book Margaritaville at Sea as a single destination, but it would be fun to do what you and Marcus did and make it part of a back-to-back type of vacation experience.
Good review! I watched Margaritaville at Sea Paradise sail out of Port Palm Beach from the inlet a couple of months ago. I realized then this ship was only a little bigger than the Premier Cruise Line Star/ship Oceanic that I took in 1986! Amazing how big cruise ships have gotten since then!
Thanks so much. I grew up in West Palm Beach and my first cruise was in 1963 to Nassau- metal bunks and sink in cabin I shared with my brother. We got off to stay on land a few days and then cruises home.
Excellent review! I just read today that they will start offering 3 days cruises! Also, MAS just purchased a Spirit Class Ship (used). Great for new growth!
great video :) this is the first video i have watched regarding the margaretaville that said anything positive about it, so it was really nice to watch :) if i lived overseas i would consider it after watching your video, especially at the price :) i think its a great idea staying on the islands for a few days too, i think id really enjoy the mixture of both a cruise and land based holiday :)
I love watching your videos. I’m retiring in May and looking to do some cruising solo. I’m spoiled, most of my cruises have been Disney and I want to start trying others but don’t want to be disappointed. Thank you for the info. May try this cruise soon.
I've honestly been thinking about doing this just to see what it's all about. I'm intrigued how they can operate at such low prices and I've heard such mixed reviews. It seems like the license to chill package is very worth it.
My ad was from Air B&B... Your review was great! As I mentioned before, good and entertainment have been touted but I appreciate your inclusion of the upgraded experience. That's new to me in reviews. Thank you!
Hi, Great review. We've cruised twice w/Margaritaville this year, 1 booked for next year and Royal Caribbean this week. My husband and I like the getaway since we live close to the port and it's inexpensive. We chose Faster Chill the 1st time and License to Chill the 2nd. We boarded appx 11:30am. I will say with 2 days, Faster Chill is sufficient. However, you can purchase ANYthing after the initial booking with a discounted price. We purchased L2C AND FC later, along with the premium drink pkg and our excursion at different times bc we couldn't decide immediately. We chose GRAND LUCAYAN, which IMO although beautiful, it wasn't worth the price. I look forward to going again, even though my husband is ready to book RC on our cruise this week.
Thanks for posting this honest review. The wife and I are going on the Paradise with a group of around 30 in mid-February. We aren't expecting anything flash, just a simple and quick getaway for everyone.
The review was great and right on. My wife and I have done a lot of cruises over the years, mainly high level (Crystal, Windstar, etc) We've also have been on the Mararettaville. Mainly as it is very convenient (we live less than 30 minutes from the port). As long as you go on the ship with the appropriate expectations it is a nice 2 day get away. The food is fine. Gourmet it's not but it is really OK. The staterooms are relatively small and the bathrooms are really small. But, again, they are OK. For the price you are actually getting very good value. Can't ask for anything more.
Get Your Guide tour service I just made a reservation on Margaritaville at Seas Islander...she was formerly the Costa Atlantica and I believe she was built in 2001. They were running a sale and I couldn't resist...I reserved a Grand Terrace Suite for the 5 day sailing on Dec 3rd sailing from Tampa. We'll have 2 ports of call, Cozumel and Progresso...I paid a total of 1900...that included sales tax and port taxes. I'm looking forward to Chichen Itza...I watched all your Paradise videos for a second time and was reassured about the food quality...they will start cruising in June 2024 so by Dec they will have had time to workout the bugs...literally and figuratively...lol
I’ve taken 2 cruises on Margaritaville since this summer. The first I had the license to chill and the other I just had the faster chill. The food at JWB is great and is worth the upgrade. The regular food is horrible. The only things I found outside of JWBs that I liked were the burgers and hot dogs. The shows were great and better than some I’ve seen on other cruise lines including Virgin and Royal. Definitely a party vibe on the ship and the DJs were pretty good. They have some good live entertainment all through out the ship. I also enjoyed the Pirates cove excursion and it provides a variety of things to do including zip lines, jet skis, and simply relaxing on the beach. They have some pretty good food at Pirates Cove too. Would I do it a 3rd time - if it were closer, yes but it’s too far for me to merit the drive for a 2.5 day cruise.
The absolute best review I’ve watched hands down! We’re sailing in a week and I also have the expectation that I am buying a cheeseburger and I don’t expect to receive a filet mignon!
If you can drive to the port and have zero expectations, it’s a great time. Don’t waste the money to fly and expect to spend at least $100 per person on the island.
Excellent. Such a fair and balanced review. Not sure it’s my type of vibe but I honestly don’t think that Margaritaville is bad at all for such a low price. You have to take it for what it is -not compare it to a higher end cruise line which I’ve seen some CZcamsrs do which is just ridiculous.
I am booking as we speak so you have convinced me for sure! lol And that jousting place is Medieval Times, I was just thinking I should take my grandbaby.
From other videos of this ship it sounds like if you expect luxury don't travel on this ship, but if you want/need to spend less, then this is the ship for you. For a short trip it could be something someone might want to do to try a cruise ship out. I know some people get in a panic at the thought of being at sea surrounded by a lot of water.
Thanks for the review. We're booked on the Paradise in June. This was helpful to let us know what to expect. If we love it, we're going to book a cruise on their new ship, the Islander, sailing out of Tampa. That ship will have itineraries to both Bahamas and Mexico, some including Key West!
Ben and David pay for all their cruises, they are upfront about it. some get their fare paid for showing cruises and what they offer onboard, but that doesn’t always mean they are not always positive about them.
We loved it! Spent my bf 25th birthday at margaritaville at sea! We had a blast, such a friendly crew and we had an amazing time, hoping to go again next year!
I appreciate all your details. Yes it would be at a lower end but still can be so fun if you make it that. Live the tip that it can be used to get to the island and you stay and go back on another after a few days stay at a resort.
They are having a Pickleball championship in my area this month. Because you’ve been talking about it I’m going to go over to the country club and check it out.
Nice insights on Margaritaville. We took a cruise on that ship last year, followed immediately on the MSC Seascape. To compare the two ships would be quite unfair. The Margaritaville is a great weekend getaway or transportation ship. We enjoyed our little trip and the staff was nice. We are thinking of booking it again as an add-on to a four or five night condo stay, which is what it was last time. I get to sail free as a veteran, so it makes the cruise even less expensive.
I worked 46 years with tour groups. I fully understand why the VIP representative repeated information. even if I repeated twice there was always two or three people who would request again the same information.
Having the info repeated twice would be awesome. I have ASD and sometimes find it really hard to process what people are meaning when they speak. I get the words but it’s kinda like processing it into a different language. There’s a lag and if they’ve gone onto the next bit, I’m often left with only half the info. I never admit to this btw and I usually just bumble through but it is very annoying and tiring to never get the whole at once…. …and I’m totally lying when I say it’s sometimes. It happens all the damned time 🙃
I enjoyed this video, very informative and interesting. I would not be afraid to take a Margarita ville cruise like this after watching. It is definitely basic, but the food looked good, decore a bit cafeteria like. lol. But I liked the eating outside area! Being up in Canada is expensive to get to these American ports and is the price difference on everything. This was good video.
Your assessment of MAS was very accurate. I've sailed twice and I agree. They've done a nice job with such an old, small ship. The lounges and MDR look nice, the shops and other common areas look good. The pool deck needs a total renovation - lots of wasted space there with the weird steps next to the main pool. Our cabins were nice, comfy beds, plenty of space. You could tell things were a bit worn in many areas so they have more work to do. It's such a short cruise it's hard to really enjoy everything. They are adding 3 day cruises in August so there's that. One thing that really disappointed me was you could not do anything online before your cruise, you cannot choose a specific cabin, reserve any services, buy a drink package or anything. You have to do it all when you arrive. Lines take a long time. The big cruise lines have all that much more streamlined. Perhaps when they get the new bigger ship announced, they will be able to improve the pre-cruise experience. I thought the food and service were good. I love the decor - as a member of the parrothead nation, its funky and totally spot on. Did they no longer have Jimmy's Ship Show in the theater? Your video showed different shows going on. The Tales from Margaritaville the musical was awesome (non parrotheads would not get it though).
I have always been curious about the hotel stay option. I'm always up for trying something different. I have watched a lot of videos on Margaritaville and I know it will be something I try for the experience.
I have known people like that and I understand it, but yes, it's a good thing to practice over time and it becomes less uncomfortable. There are very nice ways to communicate that something is off, and still leave the server at ease. "OH I know, it's busy..no worries, I just ordered something else." I'd also get physically up and walk over to the wine stewared if it took that long, no way I'm going without my wine at dinner or breakfast. lol. Thank you for the video.
Good point about keeping expectations low. Five of us went on this because for a quick getaway it was cheaper than a beach hotel at the time. If you and the people you're with enjoy each other, you'll have a blast on this cruise no matter what. The champagne breakfast alone you show here may make the License to Chill package worth it, because the regular breakfast buffet was the low point of the food that's included. The alcoholic drinks, the pizza, and the gelato at the coffee shop were all high points of what costs extra. I'm hoping they have fixed some of their technical issues that made embarkation and disembarkation such a hassle, for the sake of those who go on this currently.
Loved your review! I think I may try this one out soon. We have gone to Grand Bahama Island many, many times and always stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach. If you are considering taking the cruise again and staying on the island, I would highly recommend this resort. Its an older property but kept up well and is an all-inclusive. They also have a wonderful reef to snorkle. I saw that it was one of the excursions when you showed the listing!
Do not try it. It's not cheap as ot sounds (everything is upcharge) and it ia badddd. I don't know of you've been on a real cruise before but this is not good.
We’re u talking about a Coliseum perhaps? Eating dinner and jousting? (Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction in Pigeon Forge Tennessee is similar and so very well done!). Am excited that husband and I are planning on a Margaritaville cruise!! Thanks for your info! Enjoy your channel!
My wife absolutely will avoid confrontation if given the wrong order. Fortunately I am outspoken enough to request what was fairly ours in the first place. As long as you don't shame the waiter or give attitude when making the request, there usually will never be a confrontation.
Yes that's how I am but that's what partners are for, to help your weaknesses and you help there weaknesses. Whenever I'm upset and don't want to say anything my wife steps up. Yes I'm embarrassed and feeling off at first but feel awesome after it's over and I have what I ordered and want. Please tell Marcus it's hard but he gets to work on his weaknesses through you
I enjoyed your review. I think as long as you are not expecting luxury then you will be ok. I don't know if it would be my kind of cruise but I am glad you did enjoy it.
I love how they use a Black couple for the cheapest Faster to Chill package and white skin people for the more expensive packages. Seems like Margaritavie NEEDS TO CHILL!!😅
What have the real complaints been for this ship? I see plenty of clickbait thumbnails, but the videos agree that it's a good value for the price. I don't disagree that two nights in the room, meals, and entertainment are a good value for what these cruises cost. But I also think it's not worth the vacation days when so many other ships sail out of the area. For a little bit more, you can get a three day Royal or Carnival cruise with better food and port options.
Let’s see how they do when they start sailing their new Spirit Class (former Carnival Corp ship) Ex Costa Atlantica and run 3 day weekend trips next year.
Is Marcus British? His reaction (or lack of one) at getting the wrong food is how many of us brits react in similar situations. I once asked a waiter to wrap my mum's main course, to go - she loved it but it was too much for her to eat. I thought she was going to die of embarrassment at my request and left it on the table, after all that 🤣
I appreciate a review from someone who actually had reasonable expectations for the price. You might have changed our minds about giving it a shot.
And this review prompted me to subscribe.
@davideidelberg just have reasonable expectations for this one, and you will be good! In the end, it is all about how you go into it, and who you are with that will make margaritaville a great experience. The ship is 30 years old... so there will be wear and tear. I go in two weeks and im on the fourth floor, interiour. I am super nervous about that poop smell at night! LOL but the rest I will be ok with.
@@lenaapple1974how was it? Doing a balcony in 2 weeks
I am happy I stumbled across this review. My husband booked this cruise for me as a birthday getaway last year and we also got the license to chill package and I keep telling ppl for the price this cruise is not bad at all! The rooms were spacious the dining room service was always on point. The food was good. We didn't go to the buffet because our package had breakfast in the steak house for both days and then we had dinner in both restaurants. The vibe was awesome, it was a lot of fun! The ship was clean and the crew was great. We made so many friends and we always suggest this cruise to people who may just want a quick get away, a couples trip or a girls getaway. Drinks were good. Ppl should really give it a chance! We did the Freeport beach excursion and the beach was beautiful, the restaurant there served really good food and drinks and getting off the ship and getting back on was smooth. Definitely give the Margaritaville. Also with our package we got a free spa package and the massages were great!
How much did you pay in total?
I went on this cruise for a surprise birthday getaway with my nieces and sisters it was fun.
Your positivity is refreshing. I don't plan on going on this frat house at sea but the internet is full of snobs so it is nice to see.
You certainly gave a very thorough review and I have to agree it is not as bad as people make it out to be. My issue on any cruise are rude and disgusting passengers. Good manners seem to be a thing of the past.
Totally agree. I also know the pandemic is not the ONLY cause, but it has really impacted so much of human interactions and attitudes, I definitely see a marked difference in the past 3 years.
@@lw3158That is everywhere and from all walks of life .
Definitely! I remember cruising for the first time in 2008 and thinking how classy everyone acted. Not anymore unfortunately unless you’re sailing on really expensive brands.
Finally, an unbiased and informative review. Keep up the great work!
I would try this cruise just to chill out, have some drinks by the pool, sleep in late, etc. You wouldn't have to feel obligated to do anything because you didn't spend big dollars on it. This cruise looks like it is for people with Margaritaville attitude only!
Sounds perfect for me... I work too many hours for maybe too little pay to care about idk water slides or virtual surfing... Hmmm a few 100 bucks for floating, sitting in the sun...a Message, drinking and sleeping for a weekend for well idk peaking out on island for a few hours. Sounds good to me ..
Never thought about it
Like this Wow
You did change my mind. I would consider the Margaritaville at Sea Cruise after seeing your close up review and being realistic in what to expect for $99. I also like the idea of using it as transportation to the island and back.
Puts on my best David Attenborough voice: “And here we see the very elusive Markus who is rarely ever seen. What a treat! We can only wonder what brought him out of his usual hideaway.” 😁
Wine! That’s what did it.
@@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides 🤣🤣🤣🤣 yes but David would be way too polite to say that!
😂😂😂😂 I'm over here rolling at both the question, and Morgan's answer!!! 🎉
@@chuckspencer5296 that would be Morgan in real life, shouting at the TV screen, if it were really a documentary voiced by David Attenborough. Thank you for extending my flight of whimsy to further heights since I can now see Morgan doing just that. 💕
@@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides🤣🤣🤣
I'd consider using Margaritaville as transportation to and from a resort. That would be fun.
It's nice to see an honest review that accepts Margaritaville as what it is, a fun economy get away. If I didn't live in Tennessee, and refuse to fly any more, I would be tempted to take it.
take amtrak!
You can take Greyhound also
You almost had it, the restaurant with the jousting is called Medieval Times.
I did a side-to-side (Celebrity to Princess) out of Fort Lauderdale last Spring. There was a 2 day gap in between, I wish I had thought of trying this cruise line out rather than just stay in a hotel.
I haven’t gone yet but ive been paying attention to all the vlogs/reviews and Honestly Margaritaville at sea has grown on me. Lol It has improved so much over the past year and some change. It started really ugly and dull and now its become something fun. Theres still things that need to be fixed but its also very noticeable that they are always working on things. Which is great.
From your review it looks like more renovations on the ship and the terminal have been done, main dining room looks nice, more activities are being offered, the sail away party is getting more fun, and the website is getting more seamless. Ive always liked the Margaritaville brand. I look forward to whatever changes is next. I think they have the potential to rock the weekend trip market niche with their cruises!
When we boarded just before Halloween, boarding started at 1130. We enjoyed Margaritaville at Sea very much. I expected a cheaper experience and was surprised at every turn with better than i expected.
We’ve been on this ship twice already and we love it. It’s even better now that you don’t pay for childcare up until midnight. I was surprised that they had a 18 and up club as the last time that space was an arcade. We did the day pass to Taino beach that gave us access to the beach and pool area which was very relaxing. You could order food from the restaurant or take the ferry into town to shop. Speaking from experience, it’s best to purchase all packages at booking or before boarding as there will be a significant difference in price.
I had assumed Margaritaville wasn't for me. And it sort of isn't, since what I want in a cruise is a lot more time. Six days, minimum, preferably 7 or more. But now I do know I'd be glad to use it as a hotel if I'm ever stuck there.
I always think it looks like a great time. The fact you can use it as an overnight ferry for a trip to the Bahamas is also great.
Thank you so much for your honest and complete review.
We live in Port St. Lucie Florida, and we thought about trying this just to get over to the Bahamas. Sounds like it’s worth it to me!
Similar experience. We were happy we did it, and would probably do it again, just struggling with the question "who would we recommend it to?" Our biggest issue was the breakfast, but the bagels were surprisingly good. Think the important thing is managing expectations. we literally said "pre cruise hotel" (prior to your thumbnail and found it very entertaining when you posted that) and "ferry to a day in Freeport" a lot, along with "dont judge us" when talking to cruise friends. Service was excellent, salt water pools were nice (and back pool empty!), Hot tubs were HOT (probably too hot, but i liked it), and though the shows were good.
I'm so glad to see this review - I'm considering booking one of these cruises, and was terrified when I started to research and see some of the reviews. Personally, I think a cruise is generally only 'bad' if you have incorrect expectations. I was told by someone on Cunard in August that they hated Margaritaville when they tried it as it 'just wasn't Cunard' (SIGH!)...
Thank you Morgan! As a seasoned cruiser I'm so glad you did this video. I stopped watching other vloggers who bashed them all the time.
Great video, Morgan! I agree with you that, based upon your video, the theater on the ship does look like a dinner theater stage, such as Medieval Times or the Pirate Dinner Adventure in Orlando. We live in Oregon so we would not book Margaritaville at Sea as a single destination, but it would be fun to do what you and Marcus did and make it part of a back-to-back type of vacation experience.
Love your videos! Using this ship as a form of transportation is GENIUS!
Good review! I watched Margaritaville at Sea Paradise sail out of Port Palm Beach from the inlet a couple of months ago. I realized then this ship was only a little bigger than the Premier Cruise Line Star/ship Oceanic that I took in 1986! Amazing how big cruise ships have gotten since then!
An enlightening and delightful review of the Margaritaville!
Thanks so much. I grew up in West Palm Beach and my first cruise was in 1963 to Nassau- metal bunks and sink in cabin I shared with my brother. We got off to stay on land a few days and then cruises home.
Excellent review!
I just read today that they will start offering 3 days cruises! Also, MAS just purchased a Spirit Class Ship (used). Great for new growth!
I really appreciate your attitude toward life and experiences. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I personally value your thoughts
Great vid breaking things down, Morgan. Entertaining. Keep 'em coming.
great video :) this is the first video i have watched regarding the margaretaville that said anything positive about it, so it was really nice to watch :) if i lived overseas i would consider it after watching your video, especially at the price :) i think its a great idea staying on the islands for a few days too, i think id really enjoy the mixture of both a cruise and land based holiday :)
Maybe they'll let you play a few songs with your band! :-P
I love watching your videos. I’m retiring in May and looking to do some cruising solo. I’m spoiled, most of my cruises have been Disney and I want to start trying others but don’t want to be disappointed. Thank you for the info. May try this cruise soon.
I've honestly been thinking about doing this just to see what it's all about. I'm intrigued how they can operate at such low prices and I've heard such mixed reviews. It seems like the license to chill package is very worth it.
Same here! I’ve never cruised before and TBH, I don’t have a huge interest in doing so... But this actually sounds like an inexpensive way to try it!
Great information 👍! The only thing keeping me from going back to Atlantis was the air fair. It's not a problem anymore. I'm going to look into this.
Thank you for the honest review where your expectations were realistic for the price paid. My wife and I are looking forward to booking this cruise.
My ad was from Air B&B... Your review was great! As I mentioned before, good and entertainment have been touted but I appreciate your inclusion of the upgraded experience. That's new to me in reviews. Thank you!
That was a nice honest review!! Thank you!!
Hi, Great review. We've cruised twice w/Margaritaville this year, 1 booked for next year and Royal Caribbean this week. My husband and I like the getaway since we live close to the port and it's inexpensive. We chose Faster Chill the 1st time and License to Chill the 2nd. We boarded appx 11:30am. I will say with 2 days, Faster Chill is sufficient. However, you can purchase ANYthing after the initial booking with a discounted price. We purchased L2C AND FC later, along with the premium drink pkg and our excursion at different times bc we couldn't decide immediately. We chose GRAND LUCAYAN, which IMO although beautiful, it wasn't worth the price. I look forward to going again, even though my husband is ready to book RC on our cruise this week.
Thanks for posting this honest review. The wife and I are going on the Paradise with a group of around 30 in mid-February. We aren't expecting anything flash, just a simple and quick getaway for everyone.
Sounds like you are going into it with the right expectations. Have a great time!
The review was great and right on. My wife and I have done a lot of cruises over the years, mainly high level (Crystal, Windstar, etc) We've also have been on the Mararettaville. Mainly as it is very convenient (we live less than 30 minutes from the port). As long as you go on the ship with the appropriate expectations it is a nice 2 day get away. The food is fine. Gourmet it's not but it is really OK. The staterooms are relatively small and the bathrooms are really small. But, again, they are OK. For the price you are actually getting very good value. Can't ask for anything more.
Appreciate this review thank you. I would definitely try it next time I had a few days in the Palm Beach area.
Get Your Guide tour service
I just made a reservation on Margaritaville at Seas Islander...she was formerly the Costa Atlantica and I believe she was built in 2001. They were running a sale and I couldn't resist...I reserved a Grand Terrace Suite for the 5 day sailing on Dec 3rd sailing from Tampa. We'll have 2 ports of call, Cozumel and Progresso...I paid a total of 1900...that included sales tax and port taxes. I'm looking forward to Chichen Itza...I watched all your Paradise videos for a second time and was reassured about the food quality...they will start cruising in June 2024 so by Dec they will have had time to workout the bugs...literally and figuratively...lol
Thank you so much! Great review. I will definitely consider taking this cruise.
Thank you so much for your review! It was very open minded, and gave me a different prospective…
For the price less than a one night stay at Embassy Suites, I am all about this - will definitely try it next time I am in Miami.
This was a great review I had no idea it existed haha definitely will be looking into it thanks
I’ve taken 2 cruises on Margaritaville since this summer. The first I had the license to chill and the other I just had the faster chill. The food at JWB is great and is worth the upgrade. The regular food is horrible. The only things I found outside of JWBs that I liked were the burgers and hot dogs. The shows were great and better than some I’ve seen on other cruise lines including Virgin and Royal. Definitely a party vibe on the ship and the DJs were pretty good. They have some good live entertainment all through out the ship. I also enjoyed the Pirates cove excursion and it provides a variety of things to do including zip lines, jet skis, and simply relaxing on the beach. They have some pretty good food at Pirates Cove too. Would I do it a 3rd time - if it were closer, yes but it’s too far for me to merit the drive for a 2.5 day cruise.
Great review. I wish I was more like Marcus.
This is the most positive review of this ship I have. It’s refreshing.
The absolute best review I’ve watched hands down! We’re sailing in a week and I also have the expectation that I am buying a cheeseburger and I don’t expect to receive a filet mignon!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the feedback ✌🏼
If you can drive to the port and have zero expectations, it’s a great time. Don’t waste the money to fly and expect to spend at least $100 per person on the island.
Thank you so much for making this video. It really helped my daughter feel comfortable for her 1st cruise without me.
Excellent. Such a fair and balanced review. Not sure it’s my type of vibe but I honestly don’t think that Margaritaville is bad at all for such a low price. You have to take it for what it is -not compare it to a higher end cruise line which I’ve seen some CZcamsrs do which is just ridiculous.
My ad was Pluto the True crime streaming channel and P&O cruises . Omg you tube knows me so well i😂
I am booking as we speak so you have convinced me for sure! lol And that jousting place is Medieval Times, I was just thinking I should take my grandbaby.
Hi....✨️
Did u go?? How was it??? Thinking of going in August for my 62nd🎉
From other videos of this ship it sounds like if you expect luxury don't travel on this ship, but if you want/need to spend less, then this is the ship for you. For a short trip it could be something someone might want to do to try a cruise ship out. I know some people get in a panic at the thought of being at sea surrounded by a lot of water.
Thanks Morgan. Great video and really informative. ❤❤❤
Thanks for the review. We're booked on the Paradise in June. This was helpful to let us know what to expect. If we love it, we're going to book a cruise on their new ship, the Islander, sailing out of Tampa. That ship will have itineraries to both Bahamas and Mexico, some including Key West!
Glad it was helpful! I’m curious about the new ship, too.
The problem with most influencers is that they don't pay for most of their cruises, so they have no idea what value for money means aymore.
Ben and David pay for all their cruises, they are upfront about it. some get their fare paid for showing cruises and what they offer onboard, but that doesn’t always mean they are not always positive about them.
Loved seeing someone agree with my take on the cruise! 😊 Margaritaville gets a lot of crap but I think you get what you pay for. And it is enjoyable.
This was a great review, thank you ☺️
I think this is the only cruises I would go on. I'm constantly drunk and can't stand being around families.
We loved it! Spent my bf 25th birthday at margaritaville at sea! We had a blast, such a friendly crew and we had an amazing time, hoping to go again next year!
I appreciate all your details. Yes it would be at a lower end but still can be so fun if you make it that. Live the tip that it can be used to get to the island and you stay and go back on another after a few days stay at a resort.
Sick today. So it is very cool that one of your upbeat videos hit my feed. Feeling better already 👍
I hope you feel better soon!
They are having a Pickleball championship in my area this month. Because you’ve been talking about it I’m going to go over to the country club and check it out.
Nice insights on Margaritaville. We took a cruise on that ship last year, followed immediately on the MSC Seascape. To compare the two ships would be quite unfair. The Margaritaville is a great weekend getaway or transportation ship. We enjoyed our little trip and the staff was nice. We are thinking of booking it again as an add-on to a four or five night condo stay, which is what it was last time. I get to sail free as a veteran, so it makes the cruise even less expensive.
I worked 46 years with tour groups. I fully understand why the VIP representative repeated information. even if I repeated twice there was always two or three people who would request again the same information.
Having the info repeated twice would be awesome. I have ASD and sometimes find it really hard to process what people are meaning when they speak. I get the words but it’s kinda like processing it into a different language. There’s a lag and if they’ve gone onto the next bit, I’m often left with only half the info. I never admit to this btw and I usually just bumble through but it is very annoying and tiring to never get the whole at once….
…and I’m totally lying when I say it’s sometimes. It happens all the damned time 🙃
☹️
My guess with that that weird theater setup is that the floor seatong use to be an ice rink they didn't want tk pay to maintain.
oOOHH . My sunday morning brunch video is early! Awesome.
But don't be mad that there's nothing new tomorrow :-P
@@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides I'll watch exotic cruise videos for places I can't afford tomorrow
I enjoyed this video, very informative and interesting. I would not be afraid to take a Margarita ville cruise like this after watching. It is definitely basic, but the food looked good, decore a bit cafeteria like. lol. But I liked the eating outside area! Being up in Canada is expensive to get to these American ports and is the price difference on everything. This was good video.
Your assessment of MAS was very accurate. I've sailed twice and I agree. They've done a nice job with such an old, small ship. The lounges and MDR look nice, the shops and other common areas look good. The pool deck needs a total renovation - lots of wasted space there with the weird steps next to the main pool. Our cabins were nice, comfy beds, plenty of space. You could tell things were a bit worn in many areas so they have more work to do.
It's such a short cruise it's hard to really enjoy everything. They are adding 3 day cruises in August so there's that.
One thing that really disappointed me was you could not do anything online before your cruise, you cannot choose a specific cabin, reserve any services, buy a drink package or anything. You have to do it all when you arrive. Lines take a long time. The big cruise lines have all that much more streamlined. Perhaps when they get the new bigger ship announced, they will be able to improve the pre-cruise experience.
I thought the food and service were good. I love the decor - as a member of the parrothead nation, its funky and totally spot on.
Did they no longer have Jimmy's Ship Show in the theater? Your video showed different shows going on. The Tales from Margaritaville the musical was awesome (non parrotheads would not get it though).
I don't think we saw that show, no. Nothing had any kind of a story. It was a lot of singing and dancing and having fun.
Nice review. Thanks. We live just 45 minutes from the port and have been sitting on the sidelines and not booking it yet.
I have always been curious about the hotel stay option. I'm always up for trying something different. I have watched a lot of videos on Margaritaville and I know it will be something I try for the experience.
Yes you changed my mind. I will consider Margaritaville at sea for a fun little get away
I have known people like that and I understand it, but yes, it's a good thing to practice over time and it becomes less uncomfortable. There are very nice ways to communicate that something is off, and still leave the server at ease. "OH I know, it's busy..no worries, I just ordered something else."
I'd also get physically up and walk over to the wine stewared if it took that long, no way I'm going without my wine at dinner or breakfast. lol.
Thank you for the video.
Great review! thank you
Just got back and we loved it! Now, since it was my first cruise, there was not much to compare it too. But we like to have fun.
Going for our 30th wedding anniversary in February. Thanks for the info! Now I know what to expect.
Congrats on 30 years!
Good point about keeping expectations low. Five of us went on this because for a quick getaway it was cheaper than a beach hotel at the time. If you and the people you're with enjoy each other, you'll have a blast on this cruise no matter what. The champagne breakfast alone you show here may make the License to Chill package worth it, because the regular breakfast buffet was the low point of the food that's included. The alcoholic drinks, the pizza, and the gelato at the coffee shop were all high points of what costs extra. I'm hoping they have fixed some of their technical issues that made embarkation and disembarkation such a hassle, for the sake of those who go on this currently.
Loved your review! I think I may try this one out soon. We have gone to Grand Bahama Island many, many times and always stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach. If you are considering taking the cruise again and staying on the island, I would highly recommend this resort. Its an older property but kept up well and is an all-inclusive. They also have a wonderful reef to snorkle. I saw that it was one of the excursions when you showed the listing!
Do not try it. It's not cheap as ot sounds (everything is upcharge) and it ia badddd. I don't know of you've been on a real cruise before but this is not good.
Smoking in the room or on the balcony should be grounds for immediate explusion from the ship at the nearest port with no refunds.
We’re u talking about a Coliseum perhaps? Eating dinner and jousting? (Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction in Pigeon Forge Tennessee is similar and so very well done!). Am excited that husband and I are planning on a Margaritaville cruise!! Thanks for your info! Enjoy your channel!
My wife absolutely will avoid confrontation if given the wrong order. Fortunately I am outspoken enough to request what was fairly ours in the first place. As long as you don't shame the waiter or give attitude when making the request, there usually will never be a confrontation.
It was a nice, inexpensive, 3 day weekend. We had fun going to the Bahamas last year on rhr Margaritaville cruise.
The upgrade seemed to make a significant difference in your cruise experience
Yes that's how I am but that's what partners are for, to help your weaknesses and you help there weaknesses. Whenever I'm upset and don't want to say anything my wife steps up. Yes I'm embarrassed and feeling off at first but feel awesome after it's over and I have what I ordered and want. Please tell Marcus it's hard but he gets to work on his weaknesses through you
Just stumbled across this channel. very interesting.
Welcome aboard!
I'm looking forward to the Brightline Review. Nice work on the review! Very objective.
I went this last summer, and my husband loved it. I, on the contrary, didn't like it that much, especially after finding bugs in my salmon sauce.
I enjoyed your review. I think as long as you are not expecting luxury then you will be ok. I don't know if it would be my kind of cruise but I am glad you did enjoy it.
Yes my husband never lets me complain to avoid the confrontation. I constantly complain about that.😊
are you going on a resort cruise or destination cruise?
I love how they use a Black couple for the cheapest Faster to Chill package and white skin people for the more expensive packages. Seems like Margaritavie NEEDS TO CHILL!!😅
This was my first cruise ever from Miami to the Bahamas for 5 days then back on cruise . It wasn’t bad at all to me .
How do people find cheap cruises? I can never find them THIS cheap!
What have the real complaints been for this ship? I see plenty of clickbait thumbnails, but the videos agree that it's a good value for the price.
I don't disagree that two nights in the room, meals, and entertainment are a good value for what these cruises cost. But I also think it's not worth the vacation days when so many other ships sail out of the area. For a little bit more, you can get a three day Royal or Carnival cruise with better food and port options.
Let’s see how they do when they start sailing their new Spirit Class (former Carnival Corp ship) Ex Costa Atlantica and run 3 day weekend trips next year.
You have confirmed that this is a cruise I would never take ! Gracias!
Happy to help! 🤣
Did they still have the timeshare sales push? We did this line before the Margaritaville and enjoyed it.
Nope! No timeshare stuff now.
I really like your video and you as a story teller ❤😉😀
Is Marcus British? His reaction (or lack of one) at getting the wrong food is how many of us brits react in similar situations. I once asked a waiter to wrap my mum's main course, to go - she loved it but it was too much for her to eat. I thought she was going to die of embarrassment at my request and left it on the table, after all that 🤣