The shipyard of Harland & Wolff, Belfast, has secured its largest cruise ship revitalisation project since becoming part of Navantia UK.
The project will see US-based operator Margaritaville at Sea's new flagship, Beachcomber, call to Belfast, following the success refurbishment of ‘Islander’ in 2024, and is expected to generate approximately £40 million for the region, as this will support the workforce and the wider maritime economy.
Margaritaville at Sea will also be supported by local contractors and suppliers: MJM, Mivan, and Madden Marine, who will perform significant works to fulfill the reimagination of the vessel. This highlights the depth of expertise across the region’s ship repair and maritime supply chain, further strengthening Belfast’s position as an internationally recognised centre for complex cruise ship revitalisation projects.
The ‘Beachcomber’ project supports Navantia UK’s broader ambition to establish Belfast as a leading centre for cruise, ferry and commercial ship repair, complementing the Group’s established capabilities across naval and offshore energy sectors while reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as a destination for major international cruise ship revitalisation projects.
The transformation of Beachcomber will commence upon its arrival this September, with the cruise ship entering service next year from the Port of Miami, where she will welcome guests from around the world.
Minas Miliaras, Chief Maritime Officer at Margaritaville at Sea, said: "Their work on Islander demonstrated the quality, craftsmanship and expertise required for a project of this scale, giving us the confidence to return as we prepare Beachcomber for its global debut in 2027".
