• Final Mediterranean Sailings: The ship is completing a series of classic European itineraries before its scheduled departure from the Costa fleet.
• Brand Transformation: The vessel will be extensively renovated to reflect the casual, tropical lifestyle associated with the Margaritaville brand.
• New Homeport: Upon joining Margaritaville at Sea, the Islander will transition its operations to the southeastern United States for Caribbean routes.
• Maritime Resilience: The sale and rebranding process demonstrate how the industry successfully repurposes high-quality vessels to meet changing consumer demands

The Costa Fortuna is currently embarking on a celebratory farewell season in the Mediterranean, marking a significant transition in its storied maritime history. This iconic vessel is offering travelers a final opportunity to experience its classic European charm as it navigates popular routes across Italy, Spain, and Greece. The farewell season is a festive tribute to the ship’s years of service with Costa Cruises, providing guests with an elegant and nostalgic atmosphere characterized by refined dining and traditional Italian hospitality.

Following the conclusion of its Mediterranean itineraries, the ship will undergo a vibrant transformation to join the Margaritaville at Sea fleet. Renamed the Margaritaville at Sea Islander, the vessel will shift from a classic European aesthetic to a relaxed, island-inspired theme. This evolution is part of a broader trend in the industry where cherished ships are reimagined to cater to new audiences, blending reliable maritime engineering with fresh, contemporary branding. The Islander will primarily operate out of Florida, offering short, fun-filled getaways to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

This transition represents a win-win for the cruise industry and travelers alike. It allows a well-maintained ship to find a new lease on life while providing vacationers with more diverse choices in the competitive Caribbean market. The move highlights the dynamic nature of the 2026 cruise season, where heritage and innovation intersect to create unique guest experiences. Whether you are looking for a final traditional European voyage or an upbeat tropical escape, this ship’s journey offers a positive narrative of growth and renewal in the world of maritime travel.