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Is upgrading to a suite worth it on Margaritaville at Sea Islander? Here are six reasons you might want to consider it for your next cruise!
When you think about booking a cruise, your first thought might be to save money on your stateroom and spend more on excursions, dining, or onboard activities. And that can absolutely be a great way to cruise!
But what if your stateroom could offer more than just a place to sleep?
On Margaritaville at Sea Islander, booking a suite comes with perks that go beyond extra square footage. From priority embarkation to dedicated concierge spaces and upgraded accommodations, these benefits can make the entire cruise experience feel a little more special.
After experiencing the Islander firsthand, here are six reasons I'd consider booking a suite.
1. Priority Check-In, Embarkation and Boarding
Your vacation should start with excitement, not spending more time than necessary standing in line!
Suite guests receive priority check-in and boarding benefits, with access to the suite lounge and dedicated staff to help guide them through the embarkation process. Eligible suite guests may also have access to earlier arrival windows, helping them get their cruise started sooner.
Instead of navigating the regular check-in process, you have a dedicated place to begin your vacation.
Why it matters: If you want to make the most of your first day onboard, a smoother embarkation experience is a welcome perk.
Keep in mind that arrival windows and procedures can vary, so always follow the instructions provided for your sailing.
2. More Space, Better Balcony Options and Extra Amenities
One of the biggest reasons to consider a suite is the room itself!
Suites on the Islander offer more space than standard staterooms, with layouts that vary by category. Depending on which suite you choose, you may have a separate seating area, additional storage, or a particularly spacious balcony.
And the balcony can be a big part of the experience. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee while watching the ocean or relaxing outside after a busy day exploring a port.
Suite guests also receive thoughtful extras, including:
- Complimentary bottled water delivered to your stateroom
- Bathrobes and slippers for use during your cruise
- Upgraded bedding and linens
- More room to unpack and settle in
Some of the larger suite categories offer especially impressive balcony space, so it's worth comparing the available layouts before choosing your room.
Why it matters: If you enjoy spending time in your stateroom, appreciate a little extra elbow room, or simply want a more comfortable place to relax, the upgrade may be worth considering.
3. Access to the Concierge Lounge
Sometimes the best cruise perk is having a quiet place to step away from the action.
Suite guests have access to the Islander's Concierge Lounge, which provides a dedicated space to relax during your cruise. Coffee and drinks are available during designated lounge hours, including on sea days.
It's a nice place to grab a beverage, take a break from the pool deck, or enjoy a little downtime between activities.
For travelers who appreciate quieter spaces and personalized assistance, concierge access adds another layer to the suite experience.
Why it matters: You can enjoy all the lively entertainment and tropical atmosphere the Islander offers while still having a dedicated space to retreat to when you want a slower pace.
4. Exclusive Dinner Options at Islander Dining Room
If you enjoy trying different dining experiences on a cruise, this is a perk worth knowing about!
Suite guests receive access to an additional suite-exclusive dinner menu at the Islander Dining Room. This offers another dining option beyond the ship's regular complimentary restaurants.
The opportunity to enjoy a different menu and dining atmosphere can make an evening onboard feel more special without having to plan every meal around a separate specialty restaurant reservation.
Be sure to check the dining details for your specific suite category and sailing, as availability and inclusions can vary.
Why it matters: For food lovers, having another dinner option included with the suite experience is a nice bonus to consider when comparing fares.
5. Upgraded Bathrooms and a Separate Dressing Area
Let's talk about a part of the stateroom that doesn't always get enough attention: the bathroom!
Suite layouts on the Islander offer more generous bathroom and dressing arrangements than many standard cabins. Depending on the suite category, features can include upgraded finishes, additional counter space, dual sinks, larger showers, and a separate vanity or dressing area with closet storage.
That extra room can make a difference when two or more people are getting ready for dinner, heading off the ship for an excursion, or preparing for a day by the pool.
Rather than feeling like you're constantly competing for counter space, you have a more comfortable setup for getting ready.
Why it matters: It's one of those upgrades you may appreciate every single day of your cruise, especially when traveling as a couple or sharing the cabin with family.
Note: Bathroom layouts vary by suite category, so confirm the exact features of your selected stateroom before booking.
6. Priority Disembarkation at the End of Your Cruise
Priority treatment doesn't necessarily end when the ship returns to port!
Suite guests receive priority disembarkation benefits, which can help make the process of leaving the ship more convenient.
After several days of relaxing, enjoying the entertainment, and exploring new destinations, having assistance with the disembarkation process can be a welcome final perk.
This can be especially helpful if you have transportation arrangements to coordinate or simply want to get on your way home.
As with embarkation, follow the instructions provided onboard, since the timing and procedures depend on the sailing and port operations.
Why it matters: Your last day is still part of your vacation experience, and a little extra convenience can go a long way.
Also worth noting: Suite guests receive priority debarkation at ports of call as well! This allows you to get off the ship sooner to enjoy the stops even longer.
Is a Suite on Margaritaville at Sea Islander Worth It?
That depends on your travel style and budget.
If your goal is to book the lowest possible cruise fare and you expect to spend most of your time exploring the ship, enjoying the pools, or going ashore, a standard stateroom may be all you need.
But if you appreciate extra space, enjoy relaxing on your balcony, value priority services, and would make use of the concierge lounge and upgraded dining options, a suite could be a worthwhile upgrade.
The best way to decide is to compare the total price difference with the benefits that matter most to you. Suite fares vary by sailing and category, so the upgrade may be more appealing on some dates than others.
And remember, there isn't one right way to cruise. The best stateroom is the one that fits your budget, preferences, and plans.
Ready to Find Your Islander Suite?
At Crown & Current Travel, I can help you compare the available suite categories on Margaritaville at Sea Islander, review the included perks, and determine whether the upgrade makes sense for your vacation.
Whether you're dreaming of a spacious balcony, a little extra comfort, or a more elevated cruise experience, let's find the right fit for you.
Ready to get on Islander time? Contact me to start planning your next cruise!
Don't just dream about the fairytale, travel it - because it is five o'clock somewhere.
