Take The Trip by Brian

After a 2 a.m. wake-up, a 4 a.m. Uber, and a 6:15 a.m. Southwest flight, we finally made it to Tampa, ready to trade alarms for ocean waves. Once we boarded the Margaritaville at Sea Islander, it was time to check out our home for the next seven days — our Breezy Balcony Cabin.

Let me paint the picture: a comfy king bed, a sofa that pulls out into a bed (in case you invite someone over for a midnight snack and they overstay their welcome), a desk with a stool, and a hairdryer tucked neatly in the drawer. The bathroom had a small shower stall with a curtain — emphasis on small, so you might have to step out of the shower to turn around. (and Water Pressure was less than desired!

The balcony, though, was a perfect escape with two chairs and a tiny table, just big enough for a drink or two (because, let’s be honest, that’s all you really need).

Was the room spacious? Not exactly. But it was cozy, comfortable (other than the Lack of cold Air) But, I brought a rechargeable fan which made it ok! and after a few hours on board, it already felt like home.

Exploring the Islander

After dropping our bags and doing the traditional “open every drawer and cabinet” routine, we set out to explore. The ship may be smaller than some of the mega-cruisers we’ve been on, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in charm.

Our favorite hangout quickly became the Flip Flop Bar — the true heartbeat of the ship. It’s where you’ll find a mix of live music, laughter, and tropical drinks that sneak up on you faster than you expect. Above the bar is a stage where everything from acoustic guitar sets to violin solos and DJ dance parties keeps the energy going. This spot also hosts themed events like the Hot Neon White Party (think glowing outfits and a lot of dancing) and a touching tribute to our military heroes on the last sea day — but I’ll save that for later.

A “Small World” Moment — Cruise Edition

Now, here’s where things get really interesting. Before the cruise, I joined a Facebook group for our sailing week to connect with fellow passengers. When I noticed no one had planned a meet-and-greet, I thought, “Why not?” So I created one — because what’s a cruise without a few new friends (and maybe a few new drink buddies)?

About 60 people signed up, which was awesome. But then I noticed something curious — one of the couples had the same last name as me: Kleinschmidt. I thought, “Cool, maybe we’re distant cousins or something.” So I messaged them, told them to look me up onboard.

Well, turns out it wasn’t just a distant connection — it was a family reunion! After a little Facebook sleuthing, the wife realized her husband and I were actually related. A few messages later, we confirmed it — we’re second cousins. Yep, my dad’s cousin was on the same ship, same week, and even coming to my meet and greet. Talk about a small world moment — Jimmy Buffett himself couldn’t have written it better.

We met that evening at the Flip Flop Bar (where else?), swapped stories, and then had dinner together — a full Kleinschmidt family reunion at sea. We finished the night with one last drink, laughing about how life has a funny way of bringing people together — sometimes, in the middle of the ocean.

We continued the conversation during dinner, and let me tell you…as a former Chef the food didn’t disappoint!! i had the Croquets, with Jerk spiced Pork loin and pina colada Lush for dessert.

After dinner we headed back to the Flip Flop for a couple drinks. and then we finally headed to bed, a little buzzed, really Tired and a lot happy, I couldn’t help but think: this cruise was already shaping up to be something special.

Stay tuned for Day Two, where we kick off our first full sea day and host the big meet and greet. You won’t want to miss it — the stories (and drinks) only get better from here.

So grab your flip-flops, your sense of adventure, and as always — Take the trip… you never know who you’ll meet!