For the first time, the Margaritaville at Sea cruise ship Islander has arrived in Yucatecan territories, bringing with it a significant economic boost to the region. The ship docked at Puerto Progreso early this morning, carrying 2,931 passengers and crew members.
This Tampa, Florida-based vessel, operated by Margaritaville at Sea, is part of the Spirit class of cruise ships that have been in service since 2000. Previously known as Costa Atlántica, it was sold to the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line Operator in October 2023 and renamed Islander to operate in the Caribbean.
After being acquired by Margaritaville at Sea in December 2023, the ship underwent refurbishment and rebranding in Belfast, Ireland, before officially beginning commercial operations this June.
The itinerary of this cruise includes five days of travel from Tampa, Florida, with Key West as its first stop. The ship will then continue to Yucatecan territories, docking at Puerto Progreso for a day before heading to Cozumel, Quintana Roo, and eventually returning to its starting point.
This type of cruise arrival is the result of international promotion efforts by the local authorities, combined with improvements in infrastructure at the Puerto de Progreso, including the Traditional and International Malecón, as well as the construction of the Meteorite Museum “The Origin of New Life”.
Additionally, various parks in Progreso’s commissaries have been renovated, such as Chicxulub, Chuburná, and Chelem, along with the Casa de la Cultura and the creation of the Callejón del Amor, all for the enjoyment of locals and tourists alike.
