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Margaritaville at Sea will host its first dog-friendly cruise in 2025
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Margaritaville at Sea will host its first dog-friendly cruise in 2025

No need to paddle dogs — pups will be welcome aboard a mug-centric cruise next fall!

Monday, November 18, Cruise Tails and Expedia Cruises of West Orlando have announced that they will be teaming up to introduce what they call the “first” dog-friendly cruise. Margaritaville at Sea Islander will depart from Tampa, Florida in November 2025 on a voyage open to dogs and their owners – and a waiting list for the experience will open soon.

In total, 250 dogs will be able to board the vessel. The specialty cruise will include activities such as costume contests, parades and dog shows. The new cruise experience is designed to include its young passengers sailing in the Caribbean.

“I consider my Yorkie, Louis, part of my family, and for years I’ve missed the ‘family reunion’ cruise because I won’t travel without him,” Steve Matzke of Cruise Tails said in a communicated. “I want to change that for myself and other dog lovers.”

Margaritaville at Sea Islander.

Margaritaville by the sea


While the theme of the trip is built around dogs, that doesn’t mean it will be a free man for furry friends. Cruise Tails protocols throughout the trip will include an approval process to ensure dogs are up to date on vaccinations and ready to travel. Once on board, all canine cruisers must follow the rules and stay out of restricted areas.

According to the release, each pet owner will be assigned a “Pet Butler” while on the island, who will ensure that dog travelers’ cabins — and the ship itself — remain in “top condition.” . Each room with a canine passenger also has a “private aid station” on the balcony.

Owners can participate in activities with and without their furry friends as they can “make reservations with dog sitters, enjoy puppy massages, visit dog-friendly splash stations and more,” according to Cruise Tails.

The ship’s Margaritaville Casino, pool decks, 12 “island-inspired” dining venues, spa and 13 lounges will also allow pet owners to relax alone while their pups are cared for.

Margaritaville at Sea Islander.

Margaritaville by the sea


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While the dog-centric experience is being touted as a first for Margaritaville at Sea Islander, other cruise lines allow pets to travel with their owners. Specifically, Cunard Line allows pups — and cats — to travel on the Queen Mary 2, which has 24 kennels and a decorated owner’s lounge, according to the lines. website.

Conformable PetTravel.comQueen Mary 2 has its own pet policy, which includes a full-time “pet master” to assist with animals and various documentation requirements.