Margaritaville at Sea set to embark on first-ever dog-centred cruise
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Forget rough waters; it’ll be “ruff” waters ahead now that a cruise company is launching a dog-friendly voyage.
Cruise Tails and Expedia Cruises of West Orlando teamed up for the first-ever dog-friendly cruise.
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The Margaritaville at Sea Islander will set sail in November 2025 from Tampa, Fla.
The maiden voyage is open to 250 dogs, their owners and other human guests, and will feature activities such as dog shows, costume contests, themed parades and training workshops.
The fur-friendly experience is designed to be inclusive to its pup passengers sailing to the Caribbean.
“I consider my Yorkie, Louis, to be part of my family, and for years, I missed out on the ‘family reunion” cruise because I will not travel without him,” Steve Matzke of Cruise Tails said in a press release.
“I want to change that for myself and other dog lovers.”
To ensure smooth sailing for the animals and humans, the voyage will set protocols in place including an health certifications of pets, which must be up to date on their vaccinations.
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Once aboard the Islander, guests must follow the rules and ensure all canines are kept within designated areas.
Each pet owner will be assigned a designated “Pet Butler,” who will keep their cabin — and the rest of the ship — clean, ensuring everyone is comfortable and hygienic throughout the floating vacation.
Cabins with canine passengers will also have a “private relief station” on their balcony.
Guests can take part in activities with or without their pets, whether they leave their dogs to get groomed, massaged, or hop around dog-friendly splash zones.
The ship also boasts a casino, spa and salon, pool decks, 12 dining options and 13 lounges to enjoy.
Specific dates and other details have yet to be released but the waitlist for hopeful pet owners/travellers is set to open soon.
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